Illustrative Scenario: A Retiree Builds Passive Income With a Mesa Rental Property

Success Story · The DSCR Resource Center Editorial Team · Updated April 2026

Illustrative example: This is a hypothetical, composite scenario created for educational purposes. It is not a testimonial from an identified real customer and is not a guarantee of any outcome, rate, or approval. See our Advertising Disclosure.

“Linda” is a composite, hypothetical borrower profile — not a real, identified customer.

Linda retired from a corporate career and wanted to add a rental property in Mesa to supplement her retirement income. Without a current employer or W-2, she assumed mortgage financing would be difficult.

Illustrative approach

In this hypothetical scenario, because DSCR underwriting doesn't require employment verification, Linda's retirement status wasn't a barrier the way it might have been with a conventional loan.

Illustrative numbers

The Mesa single-family home was projected to rent for $2,100/month against an estimated $1,780 monthly payment — a DSCR of roughly 1.18 in this illustrative example, using a portion of her retirement savings for the down payment.

A consideration for retirees

Using retirement savings for a down payment carries real trade-offs and risk that depend on someone's full financial picture — this illustration is not a recommendation to do the same, and anyone considering this should speak with a qualified financial advisor first.

Get matched with a Mesa DSCR lender to explore your own scenario.

Educational content only — not financial, legal, or tax advice. The DSCR Resource Center is not a lender. Loan programs, rates, and eligibility are determined by independent third-party lenders and are subject to change.
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