Great business. Low taxable income.
Smart write-offs lower what's on your tax return, and that's the number most banks use.
Self-Employed?
Your write-offs shouldn't lock up your home equity.
Banks look at the income on your tax returns. We can look at your bank statements. HELOC and home equity loan options for business owners, 1099 earners, and freelancers — reviewed by a real loan officer.
Takes about 60 seconds • No Social Security number • No hard credit pull to start
Sound familiar?
Your income isn't one-size-fits-all.
Turned down by your bank.
Many traditional HELOCs are built around W-2 paychecks and tax-return income.
Equity you can't reach.
Your home has grown in value, but proving income the traditional way is getting in the way.
A different way to document income
Qualify with bank statements, not just tax returns
Certain home equity programs may use eligible deposits from 12 or 24 months of personal or business bank statements to calculate qualifying income. Income is still documented — just in a way that reflects how you actually earn.
Personal or business statements
Keep your current first mortgage in place
Primary residence options (other property types may be available depending on the program).
Two ways to access your equity
HELOC or home equity loan?
HELOC
(line of credit)
Draw what you need, when you need it, during the draw period. Good for ongoing projects or flexible access to cash.
Home equity loan
(HELOAN)
One lump sum with a set repayment schedule. Good when you know exactly how much you need.
What could your equity do?
Consolidate higher-interest debt
Remodel or repair your home
Cover a major expense
Build a cash cushion
Eligible uses vary by program.
How it works
1
Answer a few quick questions
about your home, your business, and how much you'd like to access.
2
A loan officer reviews your scenario
a licensed loan officer who works with self-employed borrowers looks at which documentation path and equity option may fit.
3
Compare your options
review payment, costs, and timing before deciding anything.
Real people. Real guidance.
Not a marketplace.
Not an algorithm.
Your request is reviewed by a licensed Watermark Home Loans loan officer — not sold to a list of competing lenders.
A little clarity
Questions?
Let's talk equity.
Can I get a HELOC if I'm self-employed?
Yes, there may be options. Certain programs are designed for self-employed borrowers and may use bank statements rather than tax returns to document income. Eligibility depends on the program and your full scenario.
Do I need tax returns?
It depends on the program. Some home equity programs may allow eligible borrowers to document income with 12 or 24 months of bank statements instead of tax returns.
Will I have to refinance my first mortgage?
Not necessarily. HELOCs and home equity loans are typically separate liens, so your existing first mortgage can stay in place.
Is this a no-income-verification loan?
No. Income is still documented — bank statement programs simply look at deposits instead of taxable income.
How much can I access?
It depends on your home's value, current mortgage balance, credit, income, occupancy, and program guidelines.
Will this affect my credit?
No hard credit pull is required to complete the questionnaire. Any credit review needed later is discussed with you first.