Find U.S. Real Estate Investment Property Financing Options by State

Navigating the U.S. real estate landscape as a foreign national

Investing in U.S. real estate presents unique opportunities for both domestic and international investors. The United States offers something for every investment style and budget with its diverse regions and localized markets. Whether you’re interested in investing in bustling urban centers or serene suburban neighborhoods, each state has advantages.

In this guide, we will provide an overview of real estate investing in the U.S., focusing on how to pick the right state for your investment as a foreign national.

Why invest in U.S. real estate?

The U.S. real estate market is a global powerhouse, attracting investors seeking stability, growth, and diversified portfolios. These are some of the top reasons that investors from around the world purchase real estate in the United States.

How to select a U.S. state to invest in

Choosing involves evaluating various factors based on your investment goals. Each state offers unique market conditions and opportunities, whether you're seeking buy-and-hold rental properties or vacation rentals.

Factors to consider when selecting a U.S. state to invest in

1. Population growth and economic factors

Investing in areas with population and job growth can be advantageous to landlords. An increasing population often leads to higher housing demand, which can increase property values and rental rates. 

2. Weather

Weather significantly impacts property desirability, insurance, and operational costs, making it an important factor in real estate investment. For example, Florida’s sunny weather attracts vacationers and retirees but comes with higher insurance premiums due to hurricanes. On the other hand, snowy regions like Colorado may draw ski enthusiasts, but require additional expenses for snow removal and face greater wear and tear on properties over time. Understanding these trade-offs can help investors make more informed decisions based on their goals and risk tolerance.

3. Evaluating tax policies

State tax policies can significantly affect your monthly mortgage payment and return on investment. For example, certain states do not levy state income taxes. Another factor to consider is property taxes, which vary by location. Conducting thorough research is important to understand how local tax policies may impact your overall investment.

4. Local laws

Real estate laws across the U.S. vary by state. Some states are categorized as landlord-friendly, whereas others are considered tenant-friendly based on their regulations. Understanding these distinctions can help investors align their strategies with the legal environment of a particular state.

It’s also important to evaluate rental regulations and development incentives. Some areas encourage growth by supporting ADUs, like California’s grants for homeowners. Others impose anti-growth policies that limit construction. Short-term rental rules can also affect income potential. Research these factors to align with your investment strategy.

DSCR loans for foreign national real estate investors

DSCR (debt-service-coverage-ratio) loans are available for investment property purchases across the United States. DSCR loans are an attractive financing option for real estate investors, including international buyers, seeking to purchase rental properties across the United States. Unlike traditional mortgage loans, which primarily assess the borrower's personal creditworthiness and income, DSCR loans focus on the income potential of the property itself.

Key benefits of DSCR loans include:

  • Income-based approval
  • No U.S. credit required
  • Less Documentation

DSCR loan requirements: traditional lenders vs Waltz

Refinancing

This strategy allows you to refinance your existing property and pull out a portion of its equity in cash, which can then be used to fund additional investments.
Get a Quote on a DSCR Mortgage.

"I wanted to find a way to leverage real estate with financing, so that I could scale faster." - Adi from Israel

Mortgage terms and conditions for DSCR loans

When considering a DSCR loan, understanding the terms and conditions is very important for making informed decisions. Here are some of the key elements involved in evaluating a DSCR loan:

Required documents to apply for DSCR loans

Documents needed include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Valid passport and Visa Documentation
  • Rental property details
  • Proof of income and assets
  • Letters of reference from financial institutions
  • LLC documentation

Fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages

DSCR loans are available in both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate formats:

  • Fixed-rate mortgages offer predictable monthly payments throughout the life of the loan, providing stability for investors who prefer long-term planning

  • Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs), on the other hand, typically start with a lower interest rate— this may adjust periodically based on market conditions, offering potential savings in the initial years.

Pre-payment penalty

Many DSCR loans may come with a pre-payment penalty. This is a fee charged in cases where the loan is refinanced or paid off before a certain period, which can range from 1 to 5 years.

Interest rates

While the specific interest rates for DSCR loans vary, they are generally determined by a combination of factors.  This includes but is not limited to; economic conditions, borrower risk (credit score, debt levels), loan terms, lender costs, and competition in the market.

Reserves

Most lenders require borrowers to have reserves– these are funds set aside to cover property-related expenses in case of unexpected events. A typical requirement for DSCR loans is six months' worth of reserves.

Seasoning period

For refinancing purposes, DSCR loans generally have a seasoning period. This refers to the minimum length of time a borrower must have owned the property before refinancing. Typically, this period is at least six months, but it can vary depending on the lender’s policies.

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Explore DSCR loans across the U.S.

Waltz provides tailored solutions for foreign nationals seeking investment property financing across the United States. Explore states where you can get DSCR loans for investment properties with Waltz.

Frequently asked questions

Can foreign nationals qualify for real estate financing in all U.S. states?

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Yes, foreign nationals can secure investment property loans across all states. Terms and conditions may vary by lender.

What is the minimum DSCR loan amount?

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With Waltz, the minimum loan is $100,000. Although this may vary by lender, this minimum is a common industry standard.

What is the maximum DSCR loan amount?

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The maximum loan amount with Waltz is $1 million, though this may vary by lender.

What property types are eligible for DSCR loans?

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With Waltz, we offer loans for 1-to-4 residential units, including single-family homes, condos, multi-family properties, and townhomes. Eligibility may vary by lender.

Do you need to have an LLC or other U.S. entity to use a DSCR loan?

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Yes. With Waltz's Investor Kit, you can get an LLC with an EIN as part of your loan application process.

What are the recommended additional steps after buying a property?

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Once you've purchased the property, consider renovations or repairs to increase its value and potential monthly rent price. Next, find suitable tenants or engage a property manager for rental management. Finally, make sure to stay on top of property taxes to ensure compliance and maximize your investment's profitability in the long term.

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