Major U.S. mortgage lender Newrez has announced a groundbreaking policy that will allow borrowers to use their cryptocurrency holdings to qualify for a mortgage without being forced to sell them. The program, part of Newrez's Smart Series products, is scheduled to launch in February 2026.
This initiative represents a significant shift in traditional lending practices. Historically, lenders required borrowers to liquidate crypto assets to show proof of funds, a process that could trigger capital gains taxes and cause investors to miss out on potential future growth. Newrez's new approach will enable eligible crypto holdings to be included directly in mortgage applications for income verification and asset qualification, treating digital wealth similarly to traditional assets.
While the lender has not disclosed all technical details, the plan is expected to focus on widely held and verifiable crypto assets. The program will likely involve vetting procedures to assess the stability, custody, and value of these holdings, with assets in recognized custodial wallets being prioritized to mitigate lender risk.
The move is being hailed as a major milestone for cryptocurrency adoption in mainstream finance. It signals growing institutional acceptance of digital assets as legitimate stores of wealth rather than purely speculative instruments. For the crypto-native generation, it could make homeownership more accessible by allowing them to leverage long-term investments without a taxable liquidation event.
Early public reaction on social media platform X has been largely positive, with users noting the policy transforms crypto into a more functional financial tool. Some analysts caution that lenders will need clear valuation methods and risk management frameworks. If successful, Newrez's February rollout could set a precedent, prompting other lenders to follow and further blur the lines between digital and conventional financial assets.
