What documents do they require, what credit scores do they allow, how do they verify previous rental history, etc.?

The credit score is the single best indicator of how one pays their financial obligations.

Unlike banks, which offer limited loan options, brokers have access to a wide network of lenders, including niche and non-traditional financing sources.Here’s what they do:Assess your financial situation to determine your borrowing power.Compare multiple loan products to find the most favorable terms.Negotiate rates and terms with lenders on your behalf.Guide you through the application process, ensuring you meet all requirements.Example: Suppose you have a lower credit score or unconventional income sources.

More on DSCR loans in case helpful: DSCR loans won't use your income to underwrite the loan.DSCR loans are based off of down payment, credit score and either actual or market rents so it helps to supercharge an investor's real estate goals and net worth.

I have 880 credit score, decent savings, and no other debt except for 300K mortgage on my primary residence (worth $1.5 million).

Rates are hovering in the mid 7s depending on your credit score.

The short version is that you must have a  Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) to show your investors and you must decide upfront if you will only accept accredited investors or if you will allow investment from non-accredited investors.  

Here's how they break down:Fannie Mae HomestyleMinimum Down Payment: 3%-5% (Primary Residence) & 20% Down (Investment/Second Home)Credit Score: 620Minimum Loan Amount: $50,000Maximum Loan Amount: Per County Loan LimitsOccupancy Types: Primary Residence, Second Homes, and Investment PropertiesUnit Maximum: 4 UnitsAcceptable Renovations:-Structural Improvements (e.g., new roofing, foundation repairs)-Cosmetic Enhancements (e.g., new flooring, updated bathroom/kitchen fixtures)-Energy Efficiency Upgrades (e.g., solar panels)-Accessibility Modifications (e.g., ramps, widened doorways)-Luxury Items (e.g., pool)-LandscapingNot Acceptable Renovations:-Commercial Use (e.g., turning a residential property into a commercial property)-Temporary Structures-Non-Residential Buildings (e.g., barns, stables)FHA 203(k)Minimum Down Payment: 3.5%Minimum Credit Score: 620Minimum Loan Amount: $50,000Maximum Loan Amount: $524,225Occupancy Types: Primary Residence ONLYUnit Maximum: 4 UnitsAcceptable Renovations:-Structural Improvements/Reconstruction (e.g., adding rooms, bathrooms)-Cosmetic Enhancements-Eliminate Health and Safety Hazards-Energy Efficiency Improvements-Major Landscaping (e.g., grading, tree removal, adding walkways)Non-Acceptable Renovations:-Luxury Items-Commercial Use-Temporary Structures-Non-Residential BuildingsBoth of these renovation loans are similar in many ways, but the key differences are:1.

The problem with using credit card funding is it destroys your DTI and thus lowers your credit score.

Any local bank that does this kind of financing should be able to approve you as long as you have a good enough credit score and never declared BK.