Robert Chadwick
CEO
Why Expats Face Challenges With U.S. Mortgages
After more than 5 years advising U.S. expats and foreign nationals, one thing has become clear: the U.S. banking system isn’t built with expats in mind. For most traditional lenders, if your income isn’t in U.S. dollars and backed by a W-2 form, you’re out of luck.
That’s where America Mortgages’ U.S. Expat Mortgage Loans come in.
We offer conforming mortgages specifically designed for Americans living abroad. These loans mirror what you’d find at a U.S. bank: fixed and adjustable-rate mortgages, 30-year amortization, interest-only payment options, but are built for borrowers who earn income overseas.
What Makes Our Expat Mortgage Loans Different?
Traditional U.S. lenders and banks struggle with:
- Verifying foreign currency income
- Evaluating non-U.S. credit histories
- Accepting international tax documentation
Here’s how:
- Overseas income and credit accepted – Salaries in foreign currencies are no problem.
- Up to 80% loan-to-value (LTV) – For purchases, refinancing, and equity release.
- Flexible loan programs – Choose from 15- or 30-year fixed rates, or 5- and 7-year ARMs.
- Loan sizes $150,000–$5 million – Designed for both starting and luxury investors.
- 30-year amortization regardless of age – Makes long-term planning simple.
- Interest-only options – Fixed 10-year interest only loans that convert to a principal and interest 30-year fixed without a rate change. Helps manage cash flow and maintain peace of mind with a fixed rate while living overseas.
Real-Life Example: From Singapore to California
Take John and Sarah, U.S. expats working in Singapore. John earns his salary in Singapore dollars at a multinational tech firm, while Sarah runs her own consulting business.
When they applied for a mortgage at their U.S. bank, they were told: “We can’t use your income unless it’s on a W-2.”
Through America Mortgages’ Foreign Income Mortgage Program, we qualified them based on their actual earnings. The result:
- A 30-year fixed loan at 80% LTV
- An interest-only period for 10 years, giving them flexibility
- Financing secured at competitive rates without a penalty for living abroad
Today, John and Sarah own the California home they’ll eventually retire in. Proof that U.S. expat mortgages can be both straightforward, transparent, and affordable.
Why Act Now?
With interest rates declining, U.S. expats have a rare opportunity to lock in long-term financing. Whether you’re buying a vacation home, investment property, refinancing, or pulling equity from your property, now is the time to explore your options.
Your income source shouldn’t prevent you from accessing the U.S. housing market. With the right lender, it won’t.
Schedule a call with our U.S. Mortgage Specialist.
