Secure a UK Mortgage as a British Expat in the USA
For British expats living in the USA, investing in UK property can be a strategic way to maintain ties to home, build wealth, and plan for the future.
Whether it’s purchasing a family home, refinancing an existing property, or starting a buy-to-let portfolio, the UK property market usually offers long-term growth and stability.
However, as a British expat, securing a mortgage in the UK can come with challenges.
Factors such as earning income in US dollars, limited access to high-street lenders, and currency exchange rates can complicate the process.
Why British Expats in the USA Invest in UK Property
The UK property market has always been a dependable investment for expats. Its resilience, long-term growth potential, and robust rental opportunities make it attractive for those living overseas. Whether you’re planning to return to the UK in the future or simply want to maintain a financial foothold, here’s why expats choose UK property:
- Stability and Security: The UK property market has weathered global economic fluctuations and remains a secure investment.
- Familiarity: For many expats, owning property in the UK provides a sense of connection to home and a market they are more familiar with.
- Potential For High Rental Yields: Cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham offer strong rental demand, making buy-to-let properties an excellent investment. Rental yields vary with the north of England usually producing a higher yield, whereas historically, London has appreciated more over time.
- Potential for Growth: Generally, UK property values have shown consistent growth over the years, offering long-term wealth-building opportunities. Be aware, things can change and some places have performed better than others.
Find out Your Options
Can British Expats Living in the USA Get a UK Mortgage?
Yes, British expats living in the USA can secure a UK mortgage, though the process can be more complex than for UK residents. They also need to meet the remainder of the criteria of the lenders that offer these mortgages.
Many high-street banks may have strict criteria or be unwilling to lend to non-residents. However, in addition to some high street lenders, there are also specialist lenders and private banks offer tailored solutions designed for expats.
At Kerr & Watson, we work with lenders who understand the unique financial circumstances of British expats.
Whether you’re earning in US dollars, have complex income structures, or need a bespoke solution, we can look for lenders who can meet your needs, if you meet criteria.
Challenges for British Expats Applying for UK Mortgages
Limited UK Credit History
As a British expat, your credit history may be outdated or inactive, which can make it difficult to meet the requirements of traditional lenders. Some lenders, however, are able to take a more comprehensive view, assessing your overall financial health rather than relying solely on your credit score.
Foreign Income and Currency Exchange Risks
If your income is in US dollars, lenders will factor in exchange rate fluctuations when calculating affordability.
Many apply a “haircut” to foreign earnings, considering only a percentage of your income to mitigate potential risks, usually taking around 75% – 80% of it.
Complex Income Streams
Expats often have diverse income sources, such as salaries, dividends, rental income, or investments. Some lenders may struggle to assess these, but there are lenders that can evaluate your full financial profile.
Time Zone and Communication Barriers
The time difference between the UK and the USA can make communication with lenders challenging.
At Kerr & Watson, we prioritise flexible communication, ensuring that you’re always informed and involved, whether through phone, email, or video calls.
Types of Mortgages Available to British Expats in the USA
Residential Mortgages
Residential mortgages are ideal for expats planning to return to the UK or secure a family home. Lenders will evaluate your foreign income, existing outgoings, and overall affordability, looking at both your situation now and what it will look like when you get your keys.
Buy-to-Let Mortgages
For expats interested in earning rental income, buy-to-let mortgages can provide an excellent opportunity. Lenders typically base affordability on projected rental income rather than your personal income, making these loans accessible to expat investors, although they will need a full understanding of your income and expenditure in the USA.
Remortgaging
If you already own a UK property, remortgaging allows you to release equity, consolidate debt, or potentially secure better rates depending on what you are paying. It may be that you are on your lenders standard variable rate and they are unwilling to offer you a new product due to your residency in the USA.
Bridging Loans and Development Finance
Bridging loans for expats are short-term finance options that can help expats looking to secure property quickly or fund renovations.
These products can bridge the gap while you arrange long-term financing or complete a property transaction.
These are high risk products due to the cost and need to repay them in the near future, so professional advice should always be taken.
Commercial Mortgages
British expats in the USA may also be able to access expat commercial mortgages if they are purchasing or refinancing property used for business purposes, such as offices, retail units, mixed-use buildings or investment properties. Commercial lending is assessed differently to residential borrowing, with lenders placing greater emphasis on the property itself, the tenant occupying it and the strength of the rental or business income. While fewer lenders offer commercial mortgages to expats, specialist providers can consider applications where income is earned in US dollars, provided the overall case is strong and well-structured.
Conclusion
Securing a UK mortgage as a British expat living in the USA is achievable with the right guidance as long as you meet the lender’s criteria. Only some lenders operate in this market, so it’s recommended to take professional advice to ensure you meet the lenders requirements for such finance.
Whether you’re purchasing a new property, investing in buy-to-let opportunities, or refinancing an existing home, we can speak to you to explain your options.
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward achieving your UK property goals.
