Finding the best mortgage lenders for self-employed borrowers can feel overwhelming, especially when your income doesn’t come with neat W-2 forms. Whether you’re a freelancer, consultant, ecommerce seller, or small business owner, you need a lender that understands 1099 income, bank statements, and tax write-offs. To make your search easier, here are the top 10 mortgage lenders for self-employed borrowers, known for flexible underwriting, alternative documentation options, and competitive rates.
1. Rocket Mortgage
Rocket Mortgage is one of the most popular online mortgage lenders for self-employed borrowers thanks to its streamlined digital application process. If you have strong credit and at least two years of self-employment history, Rocket Mortgage makes income verification relatively simple. While they typically require tax returns, their automated system helps speed up approvals. Borrowers who prefer an online-first experience with transparent rate quotes will appreciate the platform. It’s especially ideal for entrepreneurs who want a fast pre-approval and an easy document upload system without visiting a physical branch.
2. United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM)
United Wholesale Mortgage works primarily through mortgage brokers, which can be a major advantage for self-employed borrowers. Brokers can shop multiple loan options on your behalf and help structure complex income scenarios. UWM is known for competitive rates and flexible underwriting guidelines. If your income varies year to year or includes multiple revenue streams, working with a broker partnered with UWM may improve your approval odds. This lender is a strong option for entrepreneurs who want personalized service and customized mortgage solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
3. New American Funding
New American Funding stands out for its manual underwriting capabilities, which can be beneficial for self-employed applicants with unique financial situations. Unlike fully automated lenders, they evaluate applications more holistically. If your tax deductions significantly lower your reported income, their loan specialists can help explain documentation options. They also offer a wide variety of loan programs, including conventional, FHA, and VA loans. Self-employed borrowers who want direct human guidance throughout the process may find this lender especially supportive and accommodating.
4. Caliber Home Loans
Caliber Home Loans is well-known for offering non-QM (non-qualified mortgage) programs, including bank statement loans tailored for self-employed borrowers. Instead of relying solely on tax returns, Caliber may allow 12–24 months of bank statements to verify income. This can be a huge advantage if you write off significant business expenses. Their flexibility makes them appealing to small business owners, freelancers, and gig workers. If traditional lenders have declined your application, Caliber’s alternative documentation options could open the door to homeownership.
5. CrossCountry Mortgage
CrossCountry Mortgage provides personalized loan solutions and works closely with borrowers who have complex income structures. Self-employed applicants often benefit from their wide range of loan programs, including bank statement loans and asset-based lending options. Because they operate through loan officers nationwide, you can receive hands-on guidance tailored to your financial profile. If you’re a business owner with strong cash flow but unconventional tax filings, CrossCountry Mortgage could help structure a mortgage that aligns with your real income picture.
6. Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions
Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions specializes in non-QM loans designed specifically for self-employed borrowers. They offer bank statement loans, asset qualifier loans, and other flexible documentation programs. If your income doesn’t fit traditional underwriting guidelines, Angel Oak may be one of the best mortgage lenders for self-employed individuals. Their programs are ideal for entrepreneurs with fluctuating income or recent business growth. While rates can be slightly higher than conventional loans, the flexibility often makes approval possible when other lenders say no.
7. Flagstar Bank
Flagstar Bank combines traditional mortgage stability with flexible options for self-employed borrowers. They offer a variety of loan products and work with applicants who have consistent self-employment income over two years. Flagstar’s underwriting process can accommodate business owners who maintain strong credit and healthy cash reserves. If you prefer working with an established bank rather than a niche non-QM lender, Flagstar provides a balance of reliability and flexibility, making it a solid choice for entrepreneurs seeking competitive mortgage rates.
8. PNC Bank
PNC Bank is a large national bank offering conventional and government-backed mortgage programs. For self-employed borrowers with strong credit and organized financial records, PNC can be a dependable option. They typically require two years of tax returns, but their loan officers can help clarify acceptable documentation. Borrowers who already bank with PNC may benefit from relationship discounts or smoother processing. If you want a full-service banking relationship along with your mortgage, PNC Bank may provide both convenience and competitive financing.
9. LoanDepot
LoanDepot is another strong contender among mortgage lenders for self-employed borrowers. They offer both traditional and non-QM loan programs, giving flexibility to freelancers and business owners. Their digital tools simplify the application process, while loan officers provide personalized guidance when needed. If you have variable income but strong overall financials, LoanDepot may structure a loan that fits your profile. It’s a good option for borrowers seeking a blend of technology-driven convenience and human support throughout the mortgage journey.
10. Guild Mortgage
Guild Mortgage offers flexible underwriting and a variety of loan options suitable for self-employed applicants. Their loan specialists work closely with borrowers to review tax returns, bank statements, and business income documentation. Guild is known for strong customer service and in-depth consultations, which can be helpful if your financial picture is complex. If you’re self-employed and want detailed guidance rather than a purely automated process, Guild Mortgage provides a supportive experience that can improve your chances of approval.
Choosing the Best Mortgage Lender for Self-Employed Borrowers
When searching for the best mortgage lenders for self-employed borrowers, focus on flexibility, documentation requirements, and experience with non-traditional income. Many entrepreneurs benefit from bank statement loans, non-QM mortgages, or manual underwriting. Before applying, prepare:
- Two years of tax returns
- Profit and loss statements
- Business bank statements
- Strong credit history
- Cash reserves
With the right lender and proper documentation, being self-employed doesn’t have to stand in the way of buying your dream home.