An investment property is generally one in which you don't live. Instead, you rent it out throughout the year. You might plan on holding the property until it appreciates enough in value to allow you to sell it for a healthy profit. Buyers can obtain a mortgage to help with the purchase of an Investment Property. Your debt to income ratio will be looked at to make sure you, as a borrower, will be able to pay for 2 (or more) mortgages. Your existing debt, along with the debt you are asking to take on by purchasing an Investment Property, will be reviewed.  As with any major purchase, your credit score, credit history and your assets will also be taken in to account during the loan approval process.