I've included an example below to help illustrate this.So different lenders have different rates (which do vary even for DSCR loans) but these are factors they all consider.See example below:DSCR < 1Principal + Interest = $1,700Taxes = $350, Insurance = $100, Association Dues = $50Total PITIA = $2200Rent = $2000DSCR = Rent/PITIA = 2000/2200 = 0.91Since the DSCR is 0.91, we know the expenses are greater than the income of the property.DSCR >1Principal + Interest = $1,500Taxes = $250, Insurance = $100, Association Dues = $25Total PITIA = $1875 Rent = $2300DSCR = Rent/PITIA = 2300/1875 = 1.23If a purchase, you also generally need reserves / savings to show you have 3-6 month payments of PITIA (principal / interest (mortgage payment), property taxes and insurance and HOA (if applicable).

Quote from @Conrado Balicusto: Quote from @Chris Seveney: @Ryan DaultonWe use it for private lending - because the tax benefits are lost with real estate When lending usually it’s taxed at ordinary income rates if using your own cash so using a sdira I prefer for lending and my w2 income savings for real estate to maximize tax efficiency  Thank you for the insight on private lending and tax efficiency.

It will save you time and effort. 

It occurred to me today that I've never asked about umbrella insurance claims.I’m particularly interested in real-world examples where this type of policy came through during:Property damage (fires, storms, floods, etc.)Liability claims involving tenants or third partiesMajor unforeseen eventsIf you’ve ever had to file a claim and your umbrella policy saved your bacon, I’d love to hear:What happened?

it was an interesting process but basically, the novation allowed us to get the deal done without having to involve the banks. this was a huge motivation. that way I save on having to close twice. 

Save some of your salary and use it do pay down the loan.  

100% VA loan, which allowed me to put money saved towards renovations.How did you add value to the deal?

As others have said, the best thing your son can do is run far from this deal, buckle down, save his pennies (he probably already is doing this), house-hack, and improve a property with sweat, hard work, developing a DIY skillset, and self-managing tenants. 

Use your 9-to-5 income to save aggressively, invest in your education, and network with experienced investors.

@Nate MarroquinAny side hustles you can do to get income and savings up?