Non-QM Does Not Mean “No Requirements.” It Means Different Requirements. Many borrowers hear “Non-QM” and assume it means the lender does not look at income, credit, assets, or property condition. That is not true. Every mortgage loan still has risk layers. The difference is how the borrower’s ability to repay is evaluated. In most mortgage programs, one requirement is consistent: Collateral matters. The property still needs to be livable, with no major health or safety conce
