Most 1099 Non-QM purchases need about 10–15% down — more when credit, occupancy, or income is thinner.
Down payment is an LTV decision — credit and occupancy move the number as much as 1099 strength.
Often 10–15% down with mid-600s+ credit and clean 1099 history. Stronger scores can unlock higher LTV on some investors.
Usually needs more equity than primary — plan for a larger borrower contribution and stronger reserves.
Commonly 20%+ down on Non-QM. DSCR may compete if the property cash-flows without personal 1099 income.
Max LTV is typically tighter than purchase or rate-and-term. Seasoning and credit drive how much equity you can unlock.
Down payment is only part of the wire — reserves and closing costs stack on top.
Credit tier
LTV shifts
Lower scores often mean more equity required
Reserves
2–6+ mo PITIA
Cash left after closing — separate from down payment
Gift funds
Often allowed
Investor rules on seasoning and borrower contribution vary
Seller credits
Cap limits
Help closing costs — rarely replace required equity
Loan size
Jumbo overlays
Larger loans can demand more down and reserves
Property type
Condo / 2–4
Warrantability and unit count can tighten max LTV
LTV and reserve overlays vary by investor and can change without notice.
Ryan & Steve quote max LTV for your credit and occupancy first — then add reserves and estimated closing costs so cash-to-close is realistic before you shop.
If 10% is tight but deposits are strong, we also compare bank statement Non-QM and conventional paths so you are not stuck in one product box.
All loans are subject to credit and property approval. Guidelines are educational, not a commitment.
Cash-to-close checklist
Related 1099 guides and Non-QM resources from Ryan & Steve.
How mid-600s+ tiers interact with LTV and pricing.
Credit, reserves, equity, and 1099 history together.
What docs matter when AGI understates cash flow.
Full program hub with guidelines and Get Pre-Approved CTAs.
2MG Daily
Recent articles on 1099 financing, Non-QM options, and down payment planning.
Sep 8, 2026 • 2MG Daily
Read article →
Sep 11, 2026 • 2MG Daily
Read article →
Many 1099 Non-QM purchase programs start around 10–15% down for primary residences with solid credit, and often require more for investment properties, lower scores, or tighter income files. Exact LTVs vary by investor.
Some products allow higher LTV with strong credit and reserves, but sub-10% is less common than on FHA or conventional 3% programs. We confirm current investor max LTV before you write an offer.
Often yes when the gift is properly sourced and seasoned per investor rules. Some programs limit gift for down payment or require borrower contribution. We match the gift letter format to the product.
Rate-and-term and cash-out 1099 refinances have their own max LTV caps — cash-out is usually tighter. Seasoning, credit, and occupancy all affect how much equity you need.
Ryan & Steve will size down payment, reserves, and closing costs for your 1099 Non-QM scenario before you shop.