The Starks Team Blog
Mortgage Insights & Straight Answers
Educational guidance on loan programs, mortgage terms, and the Arizona market – from an independent broker with 24 years originating.
Reverse Mortgage
Reverse Mortgages in Arizona: A 2026 Homeowner Guide
How Arizona homeowners 62 and older can turn home equity into cash with an FHA-insured reverse mortgage (HECM) – how it works, payout options, and the rules.
What Is a Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) and How Is It Calculated?
The debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) measures whether a rental’s income covers its mortgage. Here’s the formula, worked examples, and what counts as a strong DSCR.
DSCR Loans in Arizona: A 2026 Investor Guide
How DSCR loans let Arizona investors qualify on a rental property’s cash flow instead of tax returns – what the ratio means, typical terms, and when it fits.
How Many Years of Tax Returns Do Business Owners Need for a Mortgage?
How Many Years of Tax Returns Do Business Owners Need for a Mortgage? “How many years of tax returns will I need?” It’s one of the most common questions we hear…
FHA Loans for Self-Employed Borrowers: Complete Arizona Guide
FHA Loans for Self-Employed Borrowers: Complete Arizona Guide FHA loans have long been a gateway to homeownership for borrowers who might not qualify for…
Common Mistakes Business Owners Make When Applying for Mortgages
Common Mistakes Business Owners Make When Applying for Mortgages After more than two decades helping business owners finance their homes, we’ve seen the same…
How to Calculate Income for Self-Employed Mortgage Applications
How to Calculate Income for Self-Employed Mortgage Applications One of the most frustrating moments in the mortgage process for self-employed borrowers is…
Tax Write-Offs That Hurt Your Mortgage Application (And What to Do About It)
Tax Write-Offs That Hurt Your Mortgage Application (And What to Do About It) Here’s the uncomfortable truth every self-employed borrower needs to hear: the very tax…
First-Time Homebuyer Programs for Entrepreneurs in Arizona [2026 Guide]
First-Time Homebuyer Programs for Entrepreneurs in Arizona [2026 Guide] Being a first-time homebuyer is exciting. Being a first-time homebuyer who’s also…
Business Owner Mortgage Requirements: The Complete Document Checklist
Business Owner Mortgage Requirements: The Complete Document Checklist Nothing derails a mortgage application faster than missing documentation. For business owners…
Self-Employed vs. W-2 Employee: How Mortgage Approval Really Differs
Self-Employed vs. W-2 Employee: How Mortgage Approval Really Differs If you’ve ever talked to a friend with a traditional job about their mortgage experience, you…
How to Qualify for a Mortgage When You’re Self-Employed
How to Qualify for a Mortgage When You’re Self-Employed Getting a mortgage when you’re self-employed can feel like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole…
Bank Statement Loans in Arizona: A Complete Guide for Business Owners
Bank Statement Loans in Arizona: A Complete Guide for Business Owners If you’re a business owner in Arizona, you’ve probably experienced one of the most frustrating…
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a mortgage if I'm self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed borrowers can qualify using bank statement loans, asset-based programs, or other flexible documentation instead of traditional W-2s and tax returns. The right program depends on your situation.
What is a DSCR loan?
A DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loan qualifies real estate investors on a property's rental income rather than personal income, which makes it useful for scaling a portfolio.
Does The Starks Team work in my state?
The Starks Team is an independent mortgage brokerage licensed in all 50 states, based in Gilbert, Arizona. Whether you're buying locally or out of state, we can help.
How do I get started?
Call (480) 400-5626 or start your application online. We'll talk through your goals and the loan options that may fit before you commit to anything.
Not sure which loan fits your situation?
Tell us your goal and we’ll walk you through the options – no tax returns required to start the conversation.