Financing a Florida Property as a Foreign Buyer (2026)

If you're considering buying a home in south Florida, either as an investment, vacation home, or permanent residence, it's important to consider the terms and conditions of getting a mortgage loan. Many financial institutions offer mortgage loans, from local and national banks to online financial institutions and private lenders.

Getting Approved for A Mortgage Loan

Mortgage rates have risen since 2022. In fall 2026, 30-year fixed rates for U.S. borrowers are around 7%, and loans for foreign nationals are usually priced higher. Even so, many buyers still choose to finance part of their purchase.

The following are some of the most common factors that influence the terms and conditions of the loan:

1. Your nationality

2. Legal status in the United States

3. Your credit history (if you have one)

4. Your income and bank accounts

Requirements for getting a mortgage as a foreign national:

1. A valid passport and proof of your legal entry into the U.S. Citizens of Germany, Switzerland and Austria usually travel with ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program.

2. Usually 25% to 40% of the purchase price as a down payment, depending on the lender and the property.

3. Condos often require a higher down payment, and the building itself must meet the lender's requirements (for example, a recent structural inspection and healthy reserves).

4. Proof of income:

· Bank statements

· Reference letters from your bank or credit institution

· Two forms of identification

Borrowing Costs

The costs of obtaining a loan vary from institution to institution and depends upon the services of a mortgage broker, if you are using one.

You can use the following guidelines:

1. Getting a mortgage loan directly from a local bank tends to be cheaper. However, it will be limited to that institution's specific financial products.

2. Hiring the services of a mortgage broker is very common and, despite usually being more costly than going directly to a financial institution, you'll have a much wider range of options.

3. The interest rate varies. The interest rate you’ll be offered depends on your credit history, monthly income, debts, type of property, and bank accounts. If the client doesn't have an established credit record, they will be required to pay a higher interest rate or be required to increase the down payment

4. The down payment varies, depending on:

a. The type of property that will be purchased:

i. Single-family home has the lowest down payment (usually 10% to 20%)

ii. Townhouses require a 20% to 30% down payment

iii. Condominiums requires the highest down payment (typically from 40% to 50%)

Credit history

i. Foreigners with no established credit history are required to pay a 30% down payment. This payment increases depending on the home country risk.

For more information call me

Nina Winiger Real Estate 786-241-6346