Owner-Occupied
Defined by Onias Derilus, Mortgage Capital · NMLS# 1859012 · Florida licensed mortgage broker
Owner-occupied is a property classification meaning the borrower will live in the home as their primary residence.
What Owner-Occupied means
Owner-occupied loans get the best rates, lowest down payments, and widest program access because they carry the least default risk. Claiming occupancy you don't intend is mortgage fraud.
Florida example
A Florida buyer financing a home they'll live in qualifies for 3.5% down FHA pricing, while the same person buying a rental needs 15–25% down and a higher rate on an investment loan.
What it means
Owner-occupied means you live in the home as your main residence. Lenders treat these loans as lower risk than rentals.
That usually earns you a better rate and a smaller down payment.
Why it matters
How you plan to use a home shapes your loan terms. Owner-occupied loans get the best pricing in most programs.
We match your occupancy to the right loan. Reach out and we will find your best rate.
Verify the details for your own situation against these government and agency sources: CFPB Owning a Home guide and HUD homebuyer resources.