Last updated: June 17, 2026
Why we exist
If your income comes from a business, contracts, tips or assets rather than a single W-2, the usual mortgage advice doesn’t fit you — and the big comparison sites mostly aren’t written for you. Mortgage Merlin explains the loan types that do work for non-traditional income (bank-statement, DSCR, ITIN, asset-depletion and more), in plain English, with tools that let you model your own numbers.
What we are — and are not
We are a publisher. We are not a lender, mortgage broker or loan originator, we do not take loan applications, and nothing here is an offer of credit. When you choose to connect with a partner, that partner owns the application, your consent and your data. Everything on this site is educational, and all rates, charts and calculator outputs are illustrative samples — not quotes. See our disclaimer.
How we research and write
Factual claims about loan rules, eligibility and consumer protections are grounded in primary sources — the CFPB, HUD, the IRS, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and lender program guidelines. Our full standards live in the editorial policy.
Expert review
Money-affecting guides are reviewed for accuracy by a licensed mortgage professional (NMLS-licensed MLO or equivalent), who checks loan-program details, eligibility and process — not investment or tax advice. Our reviewer appears on each reviewed page and is listed below.
Note: We are finalizing the licensed professional who reviews our guides. Until their name, title and NMLS license number are confirmed, reviewed-content labels should be treated as pending. Credentials will be published here and on each reviewed guide before launch.
How we stay independent
Mortgage Merlin is free because it’s supported by affiliate partnerships and advertising — never by selling out the guidance. Partners cannot pay to rank higher or change a recommendation. The full breakdown is on how we make money and our affiliate disclosure.
Get in touch
Questions, corrections or a data request? See our contact page.