W-2 income vs rental income to please lenders for mortgages

[Stefano Bello]

Hello, I'm an investor with small portfolio in Florida and have not been able to clarify this question. I have owned for many years a corporation (C-corp) and pay myself a salary via a W-2 just like any other employee of the company. However, as we all know... payroll taxes hurt. This year I finally have been able to make a more substancial rental income due to a higher number of properties on my portfolio. The question is: Can I lower my earned income to pay less payroll taxes (myself and the company) and use the rental income to "supplement" my overall income? My main concern is how valid is rental income to a lender. They always make a big deal in regards to my W-2 income when calculating my debt-to-income ratio. I'm concerned if I reduce my W-2 income while making up the diference with rental income will be detrimental to my ability in obtaining more mortgages. Am I wrong?