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Financing

Can foreign nationals get a mortgage in Miami?

By Lory Minici · Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty · Updated October 2026

Short answer: Yes. Lenders with foreign national loan programs finance Miami property, usually with 25% to 30% down and proof of income and reserves, often without a US credit history. In a pre-construction purchase, the mortgage is arranged close to delivery and covers part of the final balance.

Many people think a foreigner has to pay all cash in the US. Not true: international buyers finance property in Miami every day, through what's called a foreign national loan, programs built precisely for non-residents.

How does financing for foreign nationals work?

Foreign national loans follow similar rules at most lenders:

Terms vary by lender. Visa or residency status matters only insofar as it affects which financing options are available, never as a criterion of who may or may not buy.

When does financing come into a pre-construction purchase?

Here's the part many people don't know: in pre-construction, the mortgage is arranged near delivery. The deposit installments during construction (reservation, contract, milestones) are paid from your own funds. The mortgage typically covers most of the value, the 60% at closing.

In practice: you pay about 40% from your own funds in installments over construction and, at delivery, finance much of the remaining 60%, instead of paying the whole amount at once.

What is the first step?

The best first step is a pre-qualification with a lender who works with international buyers. It's quick, no obligation, and gives you clarity on how much you can finance before you even choose a unit. Lory Minici can refer you to these professionals.

What are the typical terms?

The table sums up the most common terms, which vary by lender:

ItemForeign national loan
Down paymentUsually 25% to 30% (some lenders ask for more)
DocumentationIncome and reserves (statements, accountant letter)
US credit historyOften not required
When to applyClose to delivery, for the closing balance
RateAbove the average for residents; the 30-year benchmark was 7.24% on Oct 29, 2026 (Freddie Mac)

To run numbers, use the simulator on the home page and see how much a condo costs in Miami.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a US bank account?

Lenders usually require a US account for monthly payments, which can be opened during the process.

Can I finance during construction?

No. In pre-construction, construction deposits are paid with your own funds; the mortgage comes in close to delivery.

Is the rate fixed?

There are fixed and adjustable options. Final terms depend on the lender and the buyer's profile at the time of the loan.

Sources: Freddie Mac PMMS; checked October 2026.

About the author

Lory Minici is a Miami Realtor (Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty) specializing in new developments, serving buyers in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Italian. She has invested in Miami real estate since 2011 and has been a licensed Florida agent since 2021, with the Scott Shuffield Group.

Want a no-obligation pre-qualification?

Lory Minici refers you to lenders who work with international buyers and guides you through the process.

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