Are You an Australian Investor Looking to Buy Property in the U.S.?
You’re not alone. More and more Australian investors are exploring the U.S. property market, drawn by strong rental yields, portfolio diversification, and attractive long-term growth.
The good news is that Australian citizens can obtain a U.S. mortgage, even without a U.S. credit score or residency status. Whether you’re looking to invest in rental property or build wealth through U.S. real estate, there are financing options tailored for non-resident buyers.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how Australians can secure a U.S. mortgage for investment property, what documentation is needed, and which loan types are the best fit for investors.
Can Australian Citizens Buy U.S. Real Estate?
Yes. No restrictions are preventing Australians from purchasing property in the United States. As a non-resident, you can own and finance investment real estate anywhere in the country.
Specialized lenders offer foreign national loan programs that evaluate your global financial profile; no U.S. credit or income history is needed.
Comparing U.S. and Australian Mortgage Markets
Understanding how U.S. mortgage features differ from Australia will help set proper expectations and improve your investment strategy:
| Feature | United States (Foreign National) | Australia |
| Residency Required | No | No (but easier for residents) |
| Credit Score Requirement | Not needed | Required |
| Typical Down Payment | 25% | ~20% |
| Interest Options | Fixed or adjustable | Mostly variable |
| Common Loan Terms | 15–30 years (regardless of age) | Up to 30 years (age restricted) |
| Approval Basis | Rental income only or international assets, income accepted | Local income |
Required Documents for Australian Investors
When applying for a U.S. mortgage as an Australian citizen, lenders typically request:
- Valid Australian passport
- Two month’s recent bank statements (Australia, US or global accounts)
- Documentation of available funds for the down payment and reserves (if required)
- Purchase contract or property details (only if a property has been identified)
- Projected rental income estimates (for investment properties)
- A U.S. credit score is not required
If you’re purchasing a rental property, personal income verification is usually not needed. Lenders offering DSCR loans focus on the property’s ability to generate sufficient income to cover the mortgage.
Mortgage Options for Australian Citizens
1. Foreign National Investment Loan
This loan is ideal for Australians with no U.S. financial footprint who are investing in U.S. property. Approval is based on international assets and financials.
Best For:
- Buyers of investment properties or second homes
- Investors without U.S. residency or credit history
Features:
- 25% down payment
- No US credit is required
- Available for rental properties in all 50 U.S. states
2. DSCR Loan (Debt Service Coverage Ratio)
America Mortgages is the industry expert in this type of mortgage lending for non-US residents. Designed specifically for rental property investors, DSCR loans base eligibility on the property’s income, not the borrower’s.
Best For:
- Investors focused on rental cash flow on a 1:1 basis (can go below 1:1 with certain requirements)
- Buyers seeking minimal documentation and fast approvals and competitive rates
Features:
- Approval based on projected rental income which will be determined by the valuation report or rental agreement. Property does not need to be rented at purchase time
- No personal income or employment verification required
- No tax returns or U.S. credit score needed
Why Work with a Specialized U.S. Lender?
Applying for a mortgage across borders, especially without U.S. residence, requires expertise and the right partnerships. That’s where America Mortgages comes in.
As a dedicated provider of U.S. mortgage solutions for foreign nationals, America Mortgages understands the needs of Australian investors and offers loan products designed to simplify the process.
Contact: [email protected]
Website: www.americamortgages.com
24/7 US Loan Specialist support line: +1 845-583-0830
Need help getting started? Use their 24/7 online booking tool to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a licensed U.S. mortgage advisor. https://www.americamortgages.com/home-mortgage-for-foreign-national-form/
