There are multiple adjustable rate mortgage programs designed for foreign buyers and investors in Florida. These loans can be amortized over 30 years and generally have a fixed rate for several years, depending on the program that best suits the buyer.

One of the programs most used by foreigners is the fixed rate for the first 5 years of the loan, which is then converted to an adjustable variable annual rate.

Some of these loans can be canceled before the stipulated time, paying the principal of the loan without any type of prepayment penalty.

Minimum conditions to qualify for a mortgage loan:

In general, to qualify, a series of documents must be provided that vary depending on the institution in which the loan will be presented. Banks typically require the following information:

  1. Verify that the client has at least two years of employment or more
  2. A certified letter from your accountant or attorney regarding your source of income
  3. Provide at least 2 or 3 bank and credit references (can be from any country)
  4. Demonstrate that funds for down payment and closing costs have been deposited in U.S. accounts Funds for “reserves” can be verified in personal accounts in your country
  5. A copy of your passport
  6. Receipt of a service such as electricity or water, to verify your country of residence

Some important facts:

  • Generally, a minimum of 30% down payment is required and it increases according to the type of property that is acquired.
  • Most banks start financing foreign individuals from a purchase amount of approximately US$200,000.
  • Interest rates for foreign loans range from 5.125% to 7%
  • In some cases, interest could reach up to 10% if you opt for a private loan.
  • In addition to the initial, they must take into account the closing costs: between 5% to 8% of the value of the property.
  • In the US there is no age discrimination to grant mortgage loans.
  • If you would like to make extraordinary payments on your mortgage, it will not reduce your monthly payment, but it will reduce the term of your loan.

What would my monthly payment responsibilities be?

La mayoría de las hipotecas americanas son pagables cada mes y su banco local puede hacer arreglos para hacer el pago mediante ellos directamente. Los impuestos a la propiedad y las primas de seguros son recolectados mensualmente por el prestamista y pagados por el mismo anualmente. Generalmente su banco le descontará mensualmente:

  • Mortgage
  • Insurance (flood, casualty, hurricanes)
  • Third party insurance (optional)
  • Property taxes

For your part, if there is an association or condominium board, you will be responsible for paying the monthly maintenance cost directly.

*Approval is subject to the financing and credit policy of the financial institution