Crossing the Pond: A Guide to US Mortgages for UK Real Estate Buyers
UK citizens can now easily invest in US real estate with the right mortgage. This guide simplifies eligibility, mortgage options, and the application process for a seamless entry into the American real estate market.
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.
Key Takeaways:
➡️ UK citizens can secure US mortgages with favorable terms through HomeAbroad Loans, enabling smooth entry into the American real estate market.
➡️ Tailored mortgage options are available for both investment properties and primary residences, catering to diverse buyer needs.
➡️ Streamlined application support ensures UK citizens can access the US mortgage process with ease and confidence.
“Every hundred feet the world changes.” ― Roberto Bolaño, 2666
In life and in real estate, this couldn’t be truer. Each country has its own unique real estate market and financial opportunities—and crossing the Atlantic takes that change to a whole new level.
Yet, the journey can seem daunting at first. Having worked with UK investors, we’ve seen the initial hesitations: “How do I get a mortgage to buy a house without a US credit history?” or “What’s the process even like?”
But with the right guidance and expertise from HomeAbroad Loans, those doubts quickly transform into confidence.
This guide is your roadmap to going through those hundred feet and beyond, helping you secure a US mortgage with ease and invest like a pro.
Table of Contents
Can UK Citizens Get a Mortgage in the US?
Absolutely! UK citizens can secure a mortgage in the US to invest in US real estate, whether it’s a luxurious vacation home or an income-generating property.
You don’t need to be a US resident or have a green card to qualify for a mortgage. By using years of experience in foreign national mortgages, HomeAbroad Loans ensures you get access to competitive mortgage products that align perfectly with your goals.
Now you know that getting a US mortgage as a UK citizen is entirely within reach, the next step is exploring the available loan options. Whether your goal is to invest in a rental property or purchase a primary residence, understanding your choices is key to making the right financial decision.
Investment or Primary Residence? Foreign Mortgage Options for UK Buyers
For UK citizens, US mortgage options are categorized based on the purpose of the property—investment or primary residence. Each option is tailored to meet the unique needs of foreign buyers, and HomeAbroad Loans ensures you have access to the best fit for your goals.
Let us look at them in detail:
Foreign National Mortgage Options for Investment Properties
If you are a UK investor looking to invest in US real estate, these options are perfect for you, depending on your investment type. However, before we move to the details, here’s an overview of HomeAbroad Loans’ investment mortgage programs:
1. DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) Loan
DSCR Loan evaluates the rental income potential of the property rather than the borrower’s personal income or credit history. This is an ideal foreign mortgage option for UK investors who want to purchase income-generating properties.
2. Fix and Flip Loan
Fix and Flip Loan is a short-term loan designed for investors who want to purchase, renovate, and resell properties quickly for a profit. This loan offers fast access to funds and flexible terms, making it ideal for high-return projects, particularly in emerging US markets like Philadelphia and San Jose, California.
3. Bridge Loan
Bridge Loan is again another short-term loan that provides immediate capital to secure properties while waiting for the sale of an existing asset. It is perfect for competitive markets where investors need to act quickly.
4. Full Documentation Loan
Full Documentation Loan is a comprehensive loan program for UK citizens purchasing vacation homes or rental properties, qualifying based on foreign income and assets. This mortgage program accepts international credit reports and bypasses the need for US credit history, offering quick approval within 30 days.
If you are a US newcomer on a visa buying a primary residence, and do not have a US credit history, this option is the best fit for you:
1. US Newcomer Mortgage
The newcomer mortgage program is a loan tailored for UK citizens who have recently moved to the US on a visa and want to buy primary residence.
With this loan program, you can qualify using your credit reports from the UK. It eliminates the need for a US credit score, making it accessible for newcomers purchasing a primary residence.
US Mortgages for UK Citizens with a Good Credit Score
If you have been in the US for quite some time and have established a good credit score, you can easily qualify for conventional loans, just like any US citizen. You can check FHA Loans or Conventional Loans.
Found the right mortgage program for your US credit situation and ready to apply? Here’s a detailed guide on “How can foreigners apply for a US mortgage?” which includes everything you need to know.
Step-By-Step: How UK Citizens Can Apply for a US Mortgage
With a clear roadmap and tailored solutions, you can secure financing for your dream property in no time.
Here’s a brief overview of the steps:
✅ Consult with HomeAbroad Mortgage Officer: Discuss your property goals with HomeAbroad’s expert mortgage officers with international expertise and explore tailored loan options.
✅ Document Submission: Provide proof of income, bank statements, and an international credit report if required.
✅ Pre-Approval: Receive a pre-approval letter confirming your borrowing capacity.
✅ Property Selection: Work with a real estate agent to identify your ideal property.
✅ Final Approval and Closing: Complete the underwriting process and finalize your mortgage.
However, they faced challenges due to the lack of a US credit history and uncertainty about meeting US mortgage requirements.
The Challenges
❓ No established US credit history. ❓ Needed a loan that didn’t rely on personal financials but on the property’s income potential. ❓ Required a streamlined process for remote application and closing.
Due to the client’s unique residency solution, he was turned down by many lenders. It was really satisfying to help a client meet their investment objective and assist someone no one else could. As we specialize in helping foreign nationals buy US real estate and qualify for mortgages with no US credit history, it was an easy task for us and a one and only solution for the director.
Steven Glick, Director of Mortgage Sales, HomeAbroad
The Solution: DSCR Loan
HomeAbroad Loans guided the investor through its DSCR loan program, which evaluates the property’s rental income instead of the borrower’s personal income or US credit history.
✅ Approval Time: Pre-approval in 5 days, closing completed within 45 days.
The Outcome
The investor successfully secured the property and now enjoys a steady rental income with long-term appreciation potential. This example demonstrates how HomeAbroad Loans can simplify the process for UK citizens investing in US real estate.
Investing in US real estate as a UK citizen is not only achievable but also an exciting opportunity to diversify your portfolio or secure a dream property.
With tailored mortgage solutions like DSCR loans, Fix and Flip loans, and US Newcomer Mortgages, HomeAbroad Loans makes the process seamless and efficient.
Now is the perfect time to explore the US property market and turn your aspirations into reality.
Pre-qualify for a US mortgage as an international buyer. No US credit history needed.
Yes, UK citizens can buy property in the US without restrictions. Whether for personal use or investment, foreign nationals, including UK citizens, can purchase real estate and even secure a mortgage through lenders like HomeAbroad Loans.
2. Do I need a US credit history to get a mortgage in the US?
No, a US credit history is not required. HomeAbroad Loans offers options like DSCR loans, which focus on the property’s income potential, and Full Documentation Loans, which accept international credit reports and foreign income for qualification.
3. What is the typical down payment for a US mortgage as a UK citizen?
UK citizens need a down payment of 25% when applying for foreign national mortgages.
4. Are there tax implications for UK citizens investing in US real estate?
Yes, UK citizens investing in US property should be aware of tax implications in both the US and the UK. Fortunately, the US and UK have a tax treaty that helps prevent double taxation on income and gains. For more details, check out our comprehensive Tax Guide.
5. Can I apply for a US mortgage remotely from the UK?
Yes, HomeAbroad Loans offers a streamlined application process that allows you to apply and complete the closing process remotely. This is ideal for UK citizens who cannot travel to the US during the transaction.
About the author:
Amresh is the Founder & CEO of HomeAbroad. With over 14 years of mortgage industry experience, he specializes in foreign national mortgages and Non-QM mortgages. He is also a licensed mortgage originator (NMLS # 2549148).
US Newcomer Mortgage
Foreign Investor Mortgage 
DSCR Loan
Real Estate Agent 
