Foreign National loans are a specialized segment of Non-QM mortgages tailored to non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents who wish to invest in the nation’s real estate.
According to the National Association of Realtors’ Profile of International Transactions in U.S. Residential Real Estate 2024, more than 50% of Foreign National buyers either purchased U.S. properties in cash or made large down payments – significantly exceeding the rate among domestic buyers—thereby mitigating the lender’s risk and easing loan qualification concerns.
As a mortgage broker, it is necessary to understand these loans to assist your clients. They provide a niche opportunity to tap into the growing market of international investors seeking flexible mortgage options.
Key Benefits of Foreign National Loans
Access to the U.S. Real Estate Market: Foreign National loans enable international investors to gain entry and diversify their portfolio investments in the U.S. real estate markets. This presents opportunities for value appreciation and steady income in one of the most stable and predictable economies.
Versatile Qualification Criteria: Qualification is more flexible with these loans; and they do not require credit reports.
Simplified Documentation Process: Foreign National loans typically have minimal paperwork; lenders can take income verification from bank statements, P&L’s, or by evaluating rental income through DSCR calculations, removing the need to provide U.S. tax returns.
Insights and Considerations on Foreign National Loans
Higher Interest Rates: Typically, the interest rate is slightly higher on these loans than traditional mortgages. Although this is a factor to consider, it also opens the opportunity to tap into a growing market of international investors.
Larger Down Payments: These loans typically require down payments ranging from 20% to 30%, which is a reasonable upfront payment. However, this also tends to attract more serious investors who are committed to making large-scale investments in U.S. real estate.
Ideal Clients for Foreign National Loans
The ideal borrowers for these loans are international investors who:
- Seek to diversify their portfolios by adding U.S. real estate
- Have strong financial backgrounds but potentially no U.S. credit history
- Have experience in property management and an interest in income-generating assets, such as single-family residences, multi-unit properties, or condos
These borrowers are seeking flexible loan options to take advantage of the nation’s lucrative real estate market, making Foreign National loans the ideal solution for both them and mortgage brokers alike.
Property Types and Loan Flexibility
Foreign National loans have access to the same property types as U.S. citizens:
- Single-family residences and multi-unit properties
- Condos and condotels
- Rural real estate
The flexibility in loan terms and property eligibility is a major selling point for brokers. By offering loans on properties with up to 80% LTV and loan amounts up to $2 million, brokers can provide Foreign Nationals with the right tools to achieve success in the U.S. real estate market.
Opportunities for Mortgage Brokers
Foreign National loans offer mortgage brokers a strong opportunity to serve international investors. These loans allow them to invest in the U.S. real estate market with flexible mortgage options and alternative solutions.
There’s substantial value in offering Non-QM programs that waive bank statement income verification, visa requirements, and credit scores – features that are particularly appealing to Foreign Nationals.
As an originator, partnering with Lendz grants you access to a wide range of Non-QM financing solutions that can strengthen your competitive edge. By offering these flexible programs, you not only stand out in a competitive market but also ensure consistent growth of your pipeline.
