How to Get a Mortgage in United States as a Foreigner
The United States offers a diverse range of property financing options for foreign buyers, making it an attractive destination for real estate investments. With

The United States offers diverse financing options for real estate investors, with a range of mortgage products tailored to different needs. Major banks provide competitive interest rates and flexible loan terms, making it accessible for both domestic and international buyers. Understanding the nuances of each mortgage type and working with reputable lenders can help investors optimize their financing strategy.
Foreign buyers in United States typically need a larger deposit compared to residents. Most banks require 25-40% down payment for non-resident mortgages. Plan your financing accordingly.
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Historical view of mortgage interest rates, inflation trends, and economic growth indicators.
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Track property affordability through price-to-income ratios and rental yield percentages over time.
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Inflation Rate
2.5%
Interest Rate
5.00%
• Strong rental yields averaging 8.1% make United States attractive for buy-to-let investors.
• With a price-to-income ratio of 4.1, United States offers relatively affordable property compared to global averages.
• High quality of life index (174/200) attracts international residents and supports long-term value.
Residential properties, first-time buyers
Contact: contact@wellsfargo.com
Luxury properties, investment properties
Contact: info@bankofamerica.com
Commercial real estate, high-net-worth individuals
Contact: support@chase.com
Urban properties, refinancing
Contact: mortgage@citibank.com
Foreign buyers, vacation properties
Contact: international@hsbc.com
Tip 1: Focus on emerging neighborhoods with growth potential.
Tip 2: Consider properties near transportation hubs.
Tip 3: Diversify your portfolio across different cities.
Tip 4: Research local market trends and economic indicators.
Tip 5: Leverage tax benefits available for real estate investors.
Tip 6: Work with local real estate experts for insights.
Tip 7: Evaluate the long-term growth potential of the area.
Tip 8: Consider the impact of interest rate changes.
Tip 9: Ensure proper property management to maximize returns.
Tip 10: Stay informed about regulatory changes in the market.
| City | Price/m² | Rental Yield | Price Growth | Popular Areas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $10,000 | 3.5% | +4.0% YoY | Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens |
| Los Angeles | $8,500 | 4.0% | +5.2% YoY | Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Hollywood |
| San Francisco | $11,000 | 3.8% | +3.7% YoY | Mission District, SoMa, Nob Hill |
| Miami | $6,500 | 5.5% | +6.0% YoY | Downtown, South Beach, Brickell |
| Chicago | $4,200 | 4.5% | +2.8% YoY | The Loop, Lincoln Park, River North |
Local banks in the United States are increasingly accommodating foreign buyers by offering tailored mortgage solutions. These institutions typically require detailed documentation, including a valid passport, proof of income, and comprehensive bank statements. Interest rates for foreign buyers tend to be slightly higher than for U.S. residents, with loan terms generally spanning 15 to 30 years. Applicants must also provide a substantial down payment, often around 30% to 40% of the property's value. Establishing a relationship with a U.S. bank or lender can facilitate the process, as they may offer personalized advice and assistance throughout the application.
Start gathering your documentation 2-3 months before applying. Non-resident mortgage applications typically require notarized translations and apostille stamps for foreign documents, which can take several weeks to process.
Use our interactive mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly payments for a property in United States.
Financing Tip
Your down payment of 20% or more typically qualifies you for the best available rates.
Many property developers in the United States offer financing options to attract foreign buyers. These typically include structured payment plans that begin with a reservation fee, usually 5% to 10% of the property price, followed by a series of staged payments. Deposits might account for an additional 20% to 30% and are often due once construction milestones are reached. Developer financing can be advantageous as it provides flexibility and sometimes includes incentives such as discounts or fixed pricing. However, it's essential to scrutinize the terms carefully to ensure they align with your investment goals.
Always verify the developer's credentials, track record, and financial stability before committing. Request to see building permits, completion guarantees, and consider using escrow accounts for staged payments.