How Can a Foreign Buyer Get a Mortgage to Buy Investment Property in the U.S.?

Did you know you do not have to be a U.S. citizen to finance an investment property in the United States?

Foreign National mortgage programs are designed for people who live and earn their income outside the United States but want to buy U.S. real estate as an investment.

And qualifying may be easier than you think.

What Makes a Foreign National Loan Different?

You may be able to qualify with:

• No U.S. credit score

• No U.S. employment or income

• No Social Security number

• No U.S. tax returns

• Down payments generally starting around 25%

• Income and assets located outside the United States

Single-family homes, condos, townhomes and some 2–4 unit investment properties may qualify.

How Do You Qualify Without U.S. Income?

Many Foreign National investment loans use DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) financing.

That sounds complicated, but the idea is actually very simple.

Instead of focusing primarily on how much money you personally earn, the lender looks at how much rental income the investment property can generate compared with its monthly expenses.

In simple terms:

The investment property's rental income can help qualify for the mortgage.

That is why these loans can work for foreign buyers who don't have traditional U.S. employment, income or tax returns.

What Will You Usually Need?

Requirements vary, but you will generally need:

• A valid passport

• Acceptable visa or residency documentation when required

• Verification of assets

• Proof of funds for the down payment and closing costs

• Required reserves after closing

• Property appraisal

• Market rent analysis or existing lease information

Some programs may also allow foreign investors to purchase through an eligible U.S. LLC.

What About Interest Rates?

Foreign National mortgage rates are generally a little higher than traditional conventional mortgage rates.

However, they may not be as high as you expect.

Putting more money down can also help improve the loan terms and interest rate.

Can a Foreign Investor Buy Property in California?

Yes. Foreign nationals can purchase real estate in California, and financing options may be available even without traditional U.S. income or credit.

If you're searching for:

How can a foreigner buy investment property in California?

Can I get a U.S. mortgage without a Social Security number?

Can a foreign national get a DSCR loan?

Can I buy U.S. rental property without U.S. income or tax returns?

The answer may be YES.

Interested in Investing in Southern California Real Estate?

If you live outside the United States and are considering buying an investment property in Santa Clarita, Los Angeles County or Southern California, I can help you understand the real estate side of the process and connect you with lenders experienced in Foreign National mortgages and DSCR investment loans.

Let's find out what's possible before you assume you can't qualify.

Mariness Chata | Broker/Realtor®
RE/MAX of Santa Clarita
661-317-3332
RealtorMariness@gmail.com

Loan programs, interest rates, down-payment requirements, visa eligibility and underwriting guidelines vary by lender and borrower. Financing information should always be confirmed with a licensed mortgage professional.