The UK real estate market is one of the most attractive in the world, offering stable capital growth, rental yields, and a transparent legal framework. But for many international buyers, the question remains: Can foreigners get financing to buy UK property? The answer is yes – though the process involves unique requirements, eligibility criteria, and careful lender selection.
At Fraser Bond, we work with a trusted network of mortgage brokers, private banks, and specialist lenders to help foreign nationals and non-residents access UK property financing options that suit their investment goals.
Yes. Foreign nationals without UK residency or citizenship can obtain financing for UK property – both residential and buy-to-let – although the terms and requirements differ from those available to UK residents.
Eligible buyers include:
Non-UK passport holders
British expats living overseas
Foreign companies and trusts acquiring UK property
International investors from the UAE, Nigeria, China, Hong Kong, USA, Europe, and more
Offered by specialist lenders and some high-street banks, non-resident mortgages typically cover:
Buy-to-let properties
Second homes or pied-à-terre
Investment flats or houses
Key features:
Loan-to-Value (LTV): Typically 60–75%
Minimum deposit: 25%–40%
Terms: 5–30 years
Currency: GBP loans, though some lenders offer foreign-currency options
Repayment: Interest-only or capital repayment
Private banks and global lenders offer bespoke mortgage solutions to high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), often involving:
Larger loan sizes (£1M+)
Multi-currency flexibility
Tax structuring and estate planning integration
Concierge-level banking services
Ideal for investors with international portfolios or complex income profiles.
Used for quick acquisitions, auction purchases, or refurbishment projects, bridging loans are:
Fast to arrange (within days or weeks)
Secured on property value, not just income
Higher in cost, but ideal for time-sensitive transactions
Fraser Bond works with lenders who offer short-term solutions to foreign investors needing speed and flexibility.
Some off-plan property developers offer payment plans or deferred finance for international buyers. These may include:
10–30% deposit on exchange
Stage payments during construction
Final balance upon completion
Often found in luxury and new-build developments in London and Manchester.
Foreign buyers will need to provide documentation to satisfy UK lenders’ due diligence and anti-money laundering (AML) checks, including:
Valid passport and visa (if applicable)
Proof of income and employment or business ownership
International credit report or banking references
Asset statements or portfolio overviews
Proof of deposit source (must be legal and verifiable)
Lenders may also require:
A UK solicitor
A UK-based managing agent (especially for buy-to-let)
A property valuation report
Fraser Bond simplifies this process by connecting clients with experienced mortgage brokers and legal advisors familiar with non-resident lending.
Interest rates for foreign buyers tend to be higher than for UK residents due to perceived risk and additional underwriting requirements.
Buying in GBP means fluctuations in foreign exchange rates can impact your real cost – we recommend working with an FX advisor to mitigate exposure.
Ownership through a company or trust may impact both mortgage approval and tax obligations (e.g., Stamp Duty, CGT, IHT). Tax planning should be addressed early.
Fraser Bond offers complete support for international investors seeking UK real estate financing, including:
Introductions to trusted UK and international lenders
Tailored advice on financing options, terms, and structures
Assistance with mortgage applications and documentation
Property sourcing aligned with lender criteria
Coordination with tax and legal professionals to ensure compliance
Our team ensures that financing is aligned with your broader investment strategy and executed seamlessly – whether you’re purchasing a single unit or building a multi-property portfolio.
Financing UK property as a foreign national is entirely possible – but requires the right guidance, lender network, and financial strategy. Whether you're acquiring a London apartment, a student buy-to-let, or a long-term development asset, Fraser Bond ensures you secure financing that supports your goals with clarity, discretion, and speed.
Let us help you unlock the full potential of the UK property market with the right funding behind you.
