Newrez LLC, a top five mortgage lender and servicer, has announced its intention to recognize crypto assets for mortgage qualification, becoming the first major mortgage provider among the top 25 lenders in the United States to do so. This initiative will allow consumers with crypto investments to qualify for a mortgage using digital assets for asset verification and income estimation without liquidating their holdings.
Baron Silverstein, President of Newrez, stated, “Today, an increasing number of consumers include crypto in their investment portfolios, while major financial institutions are deepening their involvement in crypto assets, supported by key regulatory developments.” He added, “We believe that now is the right time to prudently integrate eligible crypto assets into modern mortgage lending—enabling consumers to preserve investments while accessing innovative financing solutions.”
Leslie Gillin, Newrez Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the company’s commitment to customer needs, noting, “At Newrez, we’re committed to meeting consumers where they are. Today, the global crypto market has surged past $3 trillion, and an estimated 45% of Gen Z and Millennial investors—many of whom are future homebuyers—own crypto.” Gillin emphasized, “Our mission at Newrez is to do everything possible to make home happen, and this innovation marks yet another step in creating new pathways to homeownership, giving consumers flexibility and control.” The $3 trillion figure is based on CoinMarketCap data as of January 9, 2026, and the 45% investor statistic is based on Coinbase research.
The new offering is scheduled to be available in February through Newrez’s Smart Series product suite, which provides comprehensive non-agency products. Traditionally, consumers using crypto assets for mortgage approval were required to sell them, unlike those using conventional investments such as stocks and bonds. Newrez’s new approach will recognize eligible crypto holdings for income estimation and asset verification without mandating liquidation.
Newrez, a Rithm Capital Corp. (NYSE:RITM) company, was established in 2008 and is headquartered in Fort Washington, PA. It provides servicing capabilities for owned MSRs and third-party clients, alongside an origination model spanning retail, wholesale, correspondent, and consumer direct verticals.
