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TN Visa Mortgage: Secure Financing Without a US Credit Score

Yes, TN Visa holders can secure a mortgage in the US even without a US credit history. Your immigration status does not limit your ability to qualify for a mortgage. Follow along to know more about available programs and requirements.
TN Visa Mortgage: Secure Financing Without a US Credit Score
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Making informed real estate decisions starts with having the right knowledge. At HomeAbroad, we offer US mortgage products for foreign nationals & investors and have a network of 500+ expert HomeAbroad real estate agents to provide the expertise you need. Our content is written by licensed mortgage experts and seasoned real estate agents who share insights from their experience, helping thousands like you. Our strict editorial process ensures you receive reliable and accurate information.

The US real estate market offers strong investment potential, with an average rental yield of 6.6% and a price appreciation of 7.8%. (Source: Zillow) As a TN Visa holder, you have the opportunity to leverage these benefits and build wealth through property ownership.  

Whether you’re looking to purchase your dream home or diversify your investment portfolio, mortgage options are available to help you maximize your financial potential. 

At HomeAbroad, we offer tailored mortgage options for TN Visa holders, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free financing process. Our team of experts will help you secure the right mortgage to capitalize on the thriving US real estate market. 

Mortgages for Newcomers on TN Visas with No or Thin US Credit History

Owning a home in the US as a TN visa holder might seem challenging, especially without a long-established credit history. However, securing a mortgage is possible even without US credit history.

At HomeAbroad, we provide mortgage solutions tailored for TN visa holders, allowing them to buy a home even with little or no US credit history. These loans typically require around a 20% down payment and offer competitive terms, making homeownership a realistic and achievable goal.

Unlike traditional loans, which solely rely on a US credit score, our mortgage programs consider your international credit history and employment history. This means you can become a homeowner much sooner without waiting to build credit from scratch.

HomeAbroad’s proven track record in assisting foreign nationals with limited credit history ensures a smooth and guided path from application to closing. If you’re ready to transition from renting to owning, let HomeAbroad’s expertise and tailored mortgage solutions help you take the next step.

Documentation Required for H1B Visa Holders

  • Minimum Down payment of 20% 
  • Pay stubs, employment verification, and employment letter from US employer.
  • Bank statements to verify assets for down payment and closing costs. 
  • If no or thin US credit score – International Credit Report or alternative proof of creditworthiness from home country. 
  • Max DTI (Debt-to-Income) ratio of 43% 

HomeAbroad simplifies the mortgage process for TN visa holders by focusing on financial stability from their home country. This makes homeownership accessible in the US, even for those with no or limited US credit.

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Mortgage Options for TN Visa Holders With US Credit History

If you have an established US credit score and stable financials, you also have access to more traditional mortgage options with favorable terms: 

1. Conventional Mortgage

If you have a strong US credit score and established financial stability, conventional loans offer competitive interest rates and flexible terms. These loans are a great choice for TN Visa holders planning to settle in the US for the long term. 

2. FHA Mortgage

An FHA (Federal Housing Administration) is insured by the government and offers more lenient terms than a conventional loan. However, this also requires borrowers to submit tax stubs, proof of income, etc., which is a long and tedious process.

Feature

Conventional Mortgages

FHA Loans

Credit Score Minimum

620

500

Down Payment

3% to 20%

3.5% for credit scores of 580+; 10% for credit scores of 500 – 579

Loan Terms

8- to 30-year terms

15- or 30-year terms

Mortgage Insurance Premiums

PMI (if less than 20% down)

Upfront premium: 1.75% of loan amount; annual premium: 0.45% to 1.05%

Interest Type

Fixed-rate or adjustable-rate

Fixed-rate

Investment Property Loan (DSCR Loan) for TN Visa Holders

Many TN visa professionals move to the US with a clear career path but often overlook the potential of real estate investment. While purchasing a primary residence is a common first step, investing in rental properties can be a powerful way to generate passive income and build long-term wealth

Here’s what makes it even more accessible—TN visa holders can qualify for a DSCR loan even with limited or no US credit history. As long as the property’s rental income meets the lender’s requirements, you can secure financing without relying on your personal income.

For those who have been in the US longer and established a stronger credit profile, DSCR loans offer even better terms, allowing for greater flexibility in expanding a real estate portfolio.

Unlike conventional mortgages that focus on debt-to-income (DTI) ratios, DSCR loans prioritize the rental property’s income potential, making them a preferred choice for non-US citizens looking to invest.

DSCR Loan Requirements for TN Visa Holders

  • DSCR ratio: >= 1 for best terms, <1 eligible with higher down payment
  • Minimum down payment of 25% 
  • Amortization: 15- & 30-Year Fixed Rate and 30 Year Fixed – Interest Only
  • Market rent appraisal or 12-months documented rental income
  • 6 Months of PITIA (Principal Interest Taxes Insurance HOA) Cash Reserves 
  • 12-month rental income history for short-term rentals (e.g., Airbnb)  

Whether you want to diversify your investments or secure financial independence through rental income, a DSCR loan can help you get started. HomeAbroad makes the process seamless, providing TN visa holders with expert guidance and tailored mortgage solutions to help turn real estate investment goals into reality.

With years of experience helping visa holders secure US mortgages, I’ve seen firsthand how TN visa professionals can buy homes without a long US credit history. The key is working with lenders who understand visa-based financing. At HomeAbroad, we specialize in helping foreign nationals find the right mortgage options, ensuring a smooth path to homeownership.

Steven Glick, Director of Mortgage Sales, HomeAbroad

To better understand how HomeAbroad’s mortgage options work in practice, let’s explore a real-life example from one of our clients who successfully secured a mortgage in the US without US credit history.

Case Study: How HomeAbroad Helped a TN Visa Holder Invest in US Real Estate

Daniel, a Canadian citizen, moved to the US on a TN Visa.  While building his career, Daniel was also exploring ways to grow his wealth through real estate investment. However, he had no US credit history and was concerned that this might prevent him from securing a mortgage. 

After connecting with HomeAbroad, our expert loan officer Jason Saylor, analyzed Daniel’s investment goals and financial situation. Based on his unique needs as a TN Visa holder, we offered a tailored DSCR loan to help him secure the property he wanted. 

Property Details

Location: Jacksonville, Florida 
Property value: $389,500 
Monthly Rental Income: $2,600 

Loan Details 

Down payment: $97,375 (25%) 
Loan Amount: $292,125 
Monthly PITIA (Principal, Interest, Taxes, Insurance, and HOA): $1,940 

DSCR Calculation

DSCR = Gross Rental Income / PITIA 
DSCR = $2,600/ $1,940 
DSCR = 1.34 

Daniel’s monthly rental income of $2,600 not only covered the mortgage payment of $1,940 but also generated a positive cash flow of $660 per month. With HomeAbroad’s expertise and AI-driven property search platform, Daniel found the perfect investment property and secured financing without a US credit history.

At HomeAbroad, we bring years of industry expertise and a proven track record in helping foreign nationals and TN Visa holders invest in US real estate. Our deep industry knowledge, expert guidance, and AI-driven property search platform ensure you find high-return investment properties with ease. 

If you’re ready to take the next step toward homeownership or real estate investment, here’s how you can apply for a TN Visa Mortgage. 

How to apply for a TN Visa Mortgage

Applying for a TN Visa mortgage with HomeAbroad is a seamless and efficient process, designed to help you secure your dream home or investment property with expert guidance and tailored financing solutions.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you get started: 

Step 1: Get Started with HomeAbroad Loans 

Step 2: Connect with a HomeAbroad Mortgage Officer

Step 3: Get Preapproval 

Step 4: Gather Your Documents 

Step 5: Make an Offer on Your Dream Home 

Step 6: Lock in Your Interest Rate 

Step 7: Underwriting & Appraisal 

Step 8: Closing 

By following these steps, HomeAbroad streamlines your TN Visa mortgage application, making it easy to invest in US real estate with confidence.

For a more detailed breakdown of each step, you can check out our comprehensive guide on How to Get a Foreign National Mortgage With No US Credit History.

Why You Should Buy House on a TN Visa?

Purchasing property while on a TN visa can be a strategic financial decision. Here are some compelling reasons to consider: 

1. Build Equity and Wealth 

Investing in real estate allows you to build equity over time. Instead of spending money on rent, owning property ensures your payments contribute to a valuable asset, creating long-term wealth. 

2. Stable Housing for Your Family

Buying a home provides stability and eliminates concerns about fluctuating rental markets or leases ending unexpectedly. It ensures a permanent place to live while you pursue career opportunities in the US.

3. Tax Benefits

Homeownership in the US offers potential tax advantages. Mortgage interest and property taxes can be deductible, helping you save money during tax season.

4. Eligible for Mortgage

TN visa holders have access to various mortgage options tailored to their immigration status, including those that don’t require a US credit history. These options make owning property in the US more achievable than you might think.

5. Flexibility for Future Goals

Owning property gives you the option to convert it into a rental property in the future, generating passive income. This flexibility ensures your investment continues to work for you, even if your circumstances change. 

To take advantage of these benefits, let’s explore the mortgage eligibility requirements for TN visa holders.

Conclusion

Securing a mortgage on a TN Visa is entirely possible, opening up exciting opportunities to invest in US real estate. As a TN Visa holder, tapping into the thriving real estate market can be a rewarding step toward financial growth. 

At HomeAbroad, our team of experts brings years of experience and in-depth knowledge to support foreign nationals like you. We offer tailored mortgage solutions to your unique needs, empowering you to achieve your real estate goals with confidence. 

Ready to get started? Explore your TN Visa mortgage options with HomeAbroad today!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can a TN Visa holder buy a house?

Absolutely! TN visa holders are allowed to purchase property in the US. Whether you’re looking for a primary residence or an investment property, you can secure a mortgage tailored to your needs. 
Get a TN visa mortgage for your home.

Can a TN visa be converted to a green card? 

While a TN visa is a non-immigrant visa, it is possible to transition to a green card through employment sponsorship (via an employer willing to sponsor a green card application). 

How long does it take to get a TN visa mortgage?

At HomeAbroad, we aim to close mortgages within 30 days, ensuring a smooth and efficient process for foreign nationals.

About the author:
Rachel Spaccarotelli is a licensed mortgage originator (NMLS #1497555) and Senior Customer Loan Manager at HomeAbroad with a decade of experience in home financing for foreign nationals, specializing in international lending and Non-QM mortgages.
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