BRRRR: Can a freelancer get a refinance on a paid-off property?

[Account Closed]

I have been reading about the BRRRR method of investing, and I am very interested in trying this in the future. However, there is one step that I need some clarification on, refinancing.

Currently, I have a W2 job, decent credit, and a low DTI ratio, so it is not too difficult to qualify for traditional bank financing. However, I do not enjoy the W2 "rat race" and I would prefer to be a freelancer instead. (Freelance website development, same as my current W2 industry)

I have read that people who do not have W2 jobs have a much more difficult time applying for mortgages, since there is less of a reliable "secure" source of income for the lender to look at.

My question is this: Do freelancers have the same troubles when trying to get refinances from banks, even if their property is 100% paid off? 

I would imagine that the difference of having a paid off property would look like good collateral to the lender, right? or at least it would make the buyer look more secure?

Does anybody have experience in this topic? This will help me determine if I should remain as a W2 employee, or if I could transition to freelancing, and still use the BRRRR method.

Thank you all,

[Wayne Brooks]

Self employment income is okay as long as.....you have at least 2 years history and Actuall show enough Net income to qualify.  As for the house being free and clear for a cash out financing....it makes no difference since if the property had a mtg, it would be paid off with the refi...the lender will have first mtg either way.