Mortgage rates have hit a 13-month high — but what happens when the rate isn’t the problem? What happens when the bank says the property simply can’t be financed? In this episode, Anton sits down with Cody, a loan officer with 26 years of experience, to break down what “non-financeable” actually means and what buyers can do when a conventional mortgage isn’t an option. They walk through the property problems that commonly kill traditional loans, including condition issues, title problems, appraisals, insurance, private roads, septic and well concerns, manufactured homes, condos, rural properties, vacant land, and homes that can’t immediately be occupied. But not every financing problem is a property problem. Cody also explains what happens when the borrower doesn’t fit the traditional lending box — including self-employed buyers, investors, borrowers with unusual income documentation, and buyers struggling with debt-to-income requirements. The conversation explores alternative financing options such as renovation loans, portfolio loans, bridge loans, seller financing, DSCR loans, bank-statement loans, private or hard-money financing, and cash purchases followed by refinancing. Anton and Cody also dig into the bigger question: Just because you can find a way to finance a difficult property, should you? They discuss how to evaluate the higher rates, fees, down payments, repair costs, reserves, and exit strategies that often come with alternative financing — and when walking away may actually be the smartest financial decision. Plus, they look at today’s Washington housing market, where buyers currently have leverage, what a real mortgage preapproval should include, and what buyers should negotiate before submitting an offer. If you’ve ever found a house you loved only to hear, “The bank won’t finance it,” this episode explains what to investigate before giving up — or moving forward. Topics covered: • Why some properties are considered non-financeable • Property problems vs. borrower problems • Alternative and non-QM mortgage options • Renovation and portfolio loans • Seller financing and private money • Financing for self-employed buyers and investors • Current mortgage rates and affordability • Washington housing market opportunities • When alternative financing makes sense • When buyers should walk away • What to check before making an offer About the Show Welcome to the Anton Stetner Podcast, where we break down real estate, economics, investing, housing policy, and the trends shaping the future of the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Whether you're a homebuyer, investor, business owner, or simply trying to make sense of today's economy, you'll find practical insights, market analysis, and conversations with industry experts designed to help you make smarter financial decisions. 🏡 Looking to buy, sell, or invest in Washington State real estate? Visit: RESG.com 📩 Subscribe to our newsletter for market updates, housing trends, and investment opportunities.
