Newrez to Accept Bitcoin and Ethereum for Mortgage Approval in February 2026

Newrez LLC, a prominent U.S. mortgage lender, announced a major policy shift by recognizing eligible crypto holdings for mortgage qualification. Starting February 2026, borrowers can use assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum without liquidation under its Smart Series products.

The policy decision involves Newrez, led by Baron Silverstein and Leslie Gillin. The intent is to align with the rising crypto ownership among consumers, offering innovative financial solutions that preserve digital investments during the mortgage approval process.

The decision positions Newrez as the first major U.S. lender to integrate crypto asset consideration. This development is expected to influence housing markets by expanding credit evaluation inclusiveness and potentially attracting crypto-affluent millennial buyers seeking homeownership.

Financially, the integration provides potential mortgage applicants with greater leverage over asset inclusion and balances investment versatility. The move caters to a demographic trend of willingness to leverage crypto investments, bridging current financial tools with digital assets.

Impact on U.S. Lending Policies

U.S. lenders’ reception to classifying crypto as asset collateral could shape future policy developments in real estate lending. The industry’s regulatory framework might need adaptation as financial institutions explore this innovative eligibility criterion.

Baron Silverstein, President of Newrez, explained the decision reflects “rising crypto ownership and institutional involvement,” allowing consumers to “preserve investments while accessing innovative financing solutions.”

Insights suggest this could lead to diversified consumer options in the real estate market if regulatory clarity unfolds. Coupling blockchain reliability and crypto valuation could create new standards, setting the pace for technological integration into lending practices.