America Mortgages international mortgage: Details and how to apply

Alexis Konovodoff

It's often hard for American expats to get mortgage financing for US properties while living abroad.

Whether you're teaching, working at an international company, or traveling the world, America Mortgages is a company that bridges this gap with specialized mortgage loans for both US citizens living overseas and foreign nationals who want to invest in US real estate.

So, how do you get an international mortgage? Here's everything you need to know.

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Table of contents

What is an international mortgage?

An international mortgage allows buyers to finance property in one country while living or earning income in another.

US expats typically face several major obstacles when applying for traditional US mortgages.

Most domestic lenders ask for US-based income and a local credit history. Many won't accept foreign pay stubs or bank statements, so it can be nearly impossible for US expats to qualify.

This is where international mortgages come in. They allow US expats to access financing, but international lenders often have higher interest rates and stricter requirements than domestic banks.

For example, a US software engineer working in Singapore earning SGD could use an international mortgage to buy a house in Florida, despite having no current US-based income.

America Mortgages focuses on both US expats living abroad and foreign nationals who want to buy real estate in the US. They've been in business since 2019, and they offer financing in all 50 states.¹

Can you get an international mortgage from America Mortgages?

Yes, US expats can get a mortgage for an overseas property from America Mortgages.

The company exclusively serves clients living or working outside the US, and they advertise a 97% approval rate for mortgage applications. They partner with 150 US lenders for more options and better pricing.¹

Benefits of America Mortgages international mortgage

America Mortgages designed their programs specifically for US expats and foreign nationals, so they speak to the unique challenges of buying US property while living abroad.

Here's what you can expect.¹²³

  • Overseas income and credit acceptance: The company accepts foreign income sources and international credit histories, which is a common hurdle that US expats run into when trying to qualify for a US mortgage

  • High loan-to-value ratio: Borrowers can access up to 80% loan-to-value for purchases, refinancing, and equity release, which is pretty good for an international mortgage

  • Flexible term options: You can choose from multiple loan terms including 15-year fixed, 30-year fixed, 5-year ARM, and 7-year ARM rates. All loans can be amortized over 30 years regardless of age, and Interest-Servicing Only (Interest-Only) payments are available

  • Wide loan range: Loan amounts start at 150,000 USD and go up to 5,000,000 USD

  • No US documentation required: America Mortgages doesn't require US credit history, W2 forms, or personal income verification for US expats

  • Alternative qualification options: You can qualify based on rental income alone, and there are also High-Net-Worth Loan programs available (without Assets Under Management requirements)

  • Self-employed programs: There are dedicated loan programs for self-employed US expats and foreign nationals if you own a business

Overall, America Mortgages offers pretty strong advantages to American expats who typically don't have many options when it comes to financing US real estate.

💡 Learn more about buying property abroad as an American in our full guide.

America Mortgages eligibility requirements

America Mortgages encourage potential borrowers to schedule a consultation to discuss their options.

That said, the company advertises a 97% approval rate, claiming that it's because their only focus is clients living outside the US. This includes both US expats and foreign nationals.

Note that if you currently live in the US, you likely won't qualify for their international mortgage programs.

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How to apply for an international mortgage with America Mortgages

America Mortgages encourages all prospective borrowers to get in touch with them by scheduling a consultation with a mortgage specialist.

Here's what you can expect from the process.³

Step 1: Determine your budget and loan type

Calculate how much you can afford for monthly payments and the down payment.

America Mortgages offers both second-home mortgages (for properties you'll use personally) and investment property mortgages (for rental properties).

🌎 Thinking about where to buy international property? Start with these best countries to buy property abroad.

Step 2: Compare loan options

America Mortgages will match you with suitable programs from their network of 150 US lenders.

Their loan officers specialize in working with overseas clients and will explain your options for loan terms, down payments, and qualification requirements.

Step 3: Get pre-qualified

You'll need a pre-approval letter before making any offers on properties.

This process requires you to complete a US loan application, get a credit report from your current country of residence, and show proof of an available down payment.

Step 4: Submit required documents

To apply for an American mortgage, you'll typically need:

  • Completed loan application
  • Valid passport
  • Bank statements showing down payment funds
  • Credit report from your country of residence
  • Income documentation

You don't need a US credit score or US-based income.

Step 5: Complete your mortgage application

The specific application process depends on your chosen loan program. The America Mortgages team will walk you through everything you need to know to qualify for financing.

Step 6: Receive mortgage approval

America Mortgages submits your application to the selected lender. If approved, you'll receive a mortgage commitment outlining your loan terms and conditions.

Step 7: Property appraisal

An independent company will appraise the property. This typically costs 600 to 1,000 USD, depending on the property's size and location.

Step 8: Clear underwriting requirements

The underwriter may request additional documentation.

America Mortgages programs generally require minimal paperwork, but at this stage, you may need to produce a few extra documents depending on your individual situation.

Step 9: Sign documents and close

It's time to close on the mortgage and buy your property!

There are a few ways for you to sign your mortgage documents:
  • Sign at a US Embassy or Consulate
  • Use a local notary with Apostille (if available in your country)
  • Sign via video call
  • Appoint a US representative through Limited Power of Attorney
  • Sign in person anywhere in the US with a mobile notary

Overall, it's a pretty straightforward process compared to traditional US lenders.

What to consider when getting an international mortgage

Getting an America US expat mortgage can be a great way to get around the strict restrictions of US lenders and become a property owner.

That said, there are still a few important things to consider.

  • Larger down payment: International mortgages typically require at least 20% down payment, which is higher than many domestic US mortgages

  • Exchange rate fluctuations: Your mortgage payments will be in USD, but your income may be in another currency, such as EUR or GBP. Exchange rates can negatively affect how much of your salary goes toward monthly payments

  • Higher interest rates: International mortgages typically have higher interest rates than domestic US mortgages

You may also need to spend time and money on getting your documents translated and notarized if you're not living in an English-speaking country.


America Mortgages can be a good solution for US expats who want to buy property back home while living abroad.

The company has a high approval rate of 97% and specialized programs that recognize the challenges of getting international property financing.

If you need a fast and simple solution to move money across borders, try Wise for no unfair markups or fees.

Sources

  1. America Mortgages
  2. America Mortgages - US citizens living overseas
  3. America Mortgages - The requirements and process for getting a US mortgage loan
Sources checked 03/10/2025


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This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.

We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.

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