By Daniel Becerril, Executive Branch Manager, NMLS #2388968 · Updated October 21, 2026
Two different questions
DSCR answers the lender's question: does rent cover the debt payment? Cash flow answers yours: after vacancy, management, maintenance and capital repairs, what's left?
What DSCR leaves out
Most DSCR formulas don't subtract vacancy, management or maintenance. A property can show a healthy ratio and still produce thin cash flow once real operating costs are counted.
Use both calculators
On the calculators page, run the DSCR first, then plug the payment into the cash-flow calculator with your own vacancy and expense assumptions.
Make decisions on your numbers
Every market and property is different. Use conservative assumptions you can defend, and talk with your tax advisor about your situation.
Want a second set of eyes?
Send your scenario and Daniel will walk through how a lender would look at it.
General information only, not an offer, a commitment to lend, or tax or legal advice. Programs, guidelines and terms vary and change.
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