Do You Have to Sell Your Crypto to Get a Mortgage?
-

Usually, no — and that’s the appeal. Crypto mortgages are designed to avoid forced liquidation, which can create tax liabilities and lock in losses during market downturns. Some lenders allow borrowers to retain ownership of their crypto while still having it recognized during underwriting, especially for high-net-worth or “jumbo” loans.
However, lenders typically apply a valuation haircut to manage risk, assuming the crypto could drop significantly in price. Acceptance is often limited to major assets like Bitcoin, and holdings may need to be kept on US-regulated exchanges. Government-backed entities such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are still evaluating frameworks, so widespread adoption remains gradual.
-
Same asset class logic, very different risk profile.
-
Banks don’t trust what they can’t control.