Most people assume you need a steady paycheck to qualify for a mortgage.
But what if your wealth isn’t tied to a W-2 job?
That’s where an asset depletion loan comes in.

💡 What Is an Asset Depletion Loan?
An asset depletion loan allows you to qualify for a mortgage using your liquid assets instead of traditional income.
Instead of focusing on:
- Pay stubs
- Tax returns
- Employment history
Lenders evaluate:
- Bank accounts
- Investment accounts
- Retirement funds
These assets are then “converted” into a qualifying income stream.
👤 Who Is This Best For?
Asset depletion loans are ideal for:
- Retirees living off savings or investments
- High-net-worth individuals
- Self-employed borrowers with irregular income
- Clients between jobs or transitioning careers
If you have strong assets but limited reportable income, this strategy can open the door to homeownership.
📊 How It Works (Simple Breakdown)
Here’s the basic concept:
- Total eligible assets are calculated
- A portion is used (depending on guidelines)
- That amount is divided over a set period (often 60–360 months)
- The result = qualifying monthly income
This allows borrowers to qualify without traditional employment income.
🔑 Key Advantages
- No reliance on tax returns
- No need for traditional employment income
- Can qualify for higher purchase prices
- Flexible underwriting for unique financial situations
⚠️ Important Considerations
- Not all assets count equally
- Retirement accounts may be discounted
- Higher reserves are often required
- Interest rates may differ from standard loans
Working with the right lender is critical to structuring this correctly.
🧠 The Bottom Line
Many deals don’t fall apart because the buyer isn’t qualified…
They fall apart because the loan wasn’t structured the right way.
Asset depletion loans are a perfect example of how the right strategy can turn a “no” into a closing.
📞 Let’s Run the Numbers
If you (or your client) have strong assets but limited income, let’s take a look.
There’s a very good chance we can structure a solution that works.
If you have strong assets but aren’t sure how to turn that into qualifying income, let’s take a look at your situation. Every scenario is a little different, and the right loan structure can make a big difference.
You can call or text me directly, or schedule a time here:
Schedule a quick 15-minute call
— Garry McDonald
Loan Officer | Tried & True Home Loans
📞 949-534-6686
