Visio Lending Overview
Visio Lending is the highest-volume DSCR lender in the United States, originating $854 million in DSCR loans in 2024 alone. Based in Austin, Texas, Visio was one of the first lenders to popularize the DSCR loan product for rental property investors, and they have maintained their market leadership through consistent execution, competitive pricing, and in-house loan servicing.
Visio exclusively focuses on DSCR loans — they do not offer fix-and-flip, bridge, or bank statement products. This specialization is a feature, not a limitation. By focusing entirely on one product, Visio has refined their underwriting process, optimized their rate sheets, and built deep expertise in rental property financing. Their in-house servicing means your loan stays with Visio after closing, providing a single point of contact for the life of the loan.
Visio is particularly well-regarded among short-term rental (STR) and Airbnb investors. They accept projected STR income for DSCR calculations, which many DSCR lenders do not. This makes them a go-to lender for investors buying vacation rentals, Airbnb properties, or furnished rentals in tourist markets.
Loan Products Offered
- DSCR 30-year fixed-rate loans — standard long-term rental property financing
- DSCR adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) — 5/1, 7/1, and 10/1 ARM options for lower initial rates
- Interest-only DSCR options — maximize cash flow in the early years of ownership
- Short-term rental (STR) DSCR loans — qualification based on projected Airbnb/VRBO income
- Cash-out refinance DSCR loans — access equity in existing rental properties
Rates and Terms
Visio Lending offers DSCR rates in the range of 6.5% to 7.5%, depending on credit score, LTV, DSCR ratio, and whether you choose a fixed or adjustable rate. Their ARM products offer lower initial rates, making them attractive for investors planning to refinance or sell within 5-7 years.
Loan amounts range from $75,000 to $2 million, with LTV maximums of 75-80%. Visio offers both 30-year fully amortizing and interest-only options. Interest-only periods are typically 5 or 10 years, after which the loan converts to a fully amortizing schedule.
Closing timelines average 28-32 business days. While not the fastest in the market, Visio compensates with consistency — their experienced underwriting team processes a high volume of DSCR loans and rarely surprises borrowers with last-minute conditions.
Requirements
- Minimum credit score: 680 for most DSCR products
- Minimum DSCR: 1.0 (property income must at least cover the mortgage payment, taxes, insurance, and HOA)
- Down payment: 20-25% depending on property type and credit score
- LTV: Up to 80% on purchases, up to 75% on cash-out refinances
- Property types: Single-family, 2-4 unit, condos, townhomes, short-term rentals
- Reserves: Typically 6-12 months of mortgage payments in liquid reserves
Pros
- Highest-volume DSCR lender in the U.S. — proven track record with $854M in 2024
- In-house loan servicing — your loan stays with Visio, no transfer to unknown servicers
- Accepts short-term rental income for DSCR qualification — ideal for Airbnb/VRBO investors
- Competitive rates starting from 6.5%
- Both fixed and ARM options for flexibility
- Interest-only options to maximize early cash flow
Cons
- DSCR loans only — no fix-and-flip, bridge, or bank statement products
- Higher minimum credit score (680) than some competitors
- Longer closing times (28-32 days) compared to tech-forward lenders
- Loan amounts capped at $2M — not suitable for ultra-high-value properties
Who Is Visio Lending Best For?
Visio Lending is the top choice for buy-and-hold rental investors who want a proven, reliable DSCR lender with the best combination of rates, terms, and servicing. If you are building a portfolio of long-term rentals and want consistent underwriting with in-house servicing, Visio should be at the top of your list.
Visio is especially valuable for short-term rental investors. Their willingness to accept projected Airbnb and VRBO income for DSCR calculations opens the door for investors in vacation markets who would be turned away by lenders that only consider long-term lease income. If you are buying in markets like Smoky Mountains, Gulf Coast Florida, or Scottsdale, Visio understands your strategy.
How to Apply
You can apply through Visio's website or work with a mortgage broker who has access to Visio's products. Their direct-to-lender application involves filling out a loan inquiry form with your property details, investment strategy, and basic financial information. A Visio loan officer will contact you to discuss rates, terms, and documentation requirements.
For the smoothest experience, have your target property address (or a refinance property), estimated rental income (or actual lease if refinancing), and entity documentation ready. Visio will order an appraisal early in the process, and most loans move through underwriting in 3-4 weeks.