Does homeownership come to mind when you think about the American Dream? For just about everyone who currently resides in the U.S., the answer is a resounding yes. But what about those who are not citizens? Can immigrants buy a house in the USA?

Immigrants can buy a house across the USA in many ways. The big question is: How can you find new homes in today’s market at affordable prices? Enter NHC. We’re proud to offer the lowest price per square foot on homes across multiple states, including Texas, helping you secure a permanent roof over your head for a low price. You can explore our available homes starting as low as the $100s.

We also help immigrant and first-time homebuyers secure affordable lending options. When you finance your new home with our partner, NHC Mortgage, you can get rates as low as 5.99%. You’ll have access to a loan officer who will focus on making sure you move into your new home without the unnecessary stress of getting approved for a loan elsewhere. Your designated loan officer will help you cover down payments, mortgage types, interest rates, and all the other confusing components. You can rest easy that NHC will help put your mind at ease with our financing options, as well as knowing you got the best price in the market!

Can A Non-citizen Buy A House in the U.S.A.?

So, immigrants can buy a house in the USA, but are there any legal challenges? The short answer is no. In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors 2024 International Buyers Report, foreign buyers purchased $59 billion worth of U.S. residential real estate over a recent 12-month period. Immigrants can buy property in the USA at any time, so long as they’re financially ready.

Non-citizens typically fall into one of these categories:

• Green card holders (lawful permanent residents)
• Visa holders (work, student, investor, etc.)
• Undocumented immigrants
• Foreign investors living abroad

As a result, there are a few different routes you could take.

Step-by-Step: How Non-Citizens Can Buy a House in the U.S.A.

Buying in Cash

Buying in cash is a great way immigrants can buy a house in the U.S.A. and build immediate equity. Why is this? Simply put, this allows you to bypass the financing stage entirely. By purchasing your property in cash instead of with a loan, you’ll own your home without needing to answer to a bank, credit union, or other lender.

At NHC, we offer homes at the lowest price per square foot on the market, making it even easier to afford a cash payment if you want to skip the mortgage process.

Getting a Mortgage

If buying in cash is not possible, do not worry. Immigrants can still buy a house in the USA by acquiring a loan, especially if they partner with an affordable homebuilder like NHC. You will need to present several documents to a lender to secure your loan, including proof of income or employment, a permanent resident card or valid work visa, and even credit history.

Our team of loan officers is available anytime to help you through this process, ensuring that you and your family receive the best financing to complement your low-priced home. Check out our mortgage checklist and mortgage calculator to see what you will need and estimate your monthly payments.

Get Co-Signers

Although mortgages could be tricky for non-U.S. residents to qualify for by themselves, securing co-signers can be a great option for immigrants buying a house in the USA. Your co-signers could be family members or friends who will join you in applying for the mortgage. This can strengthen the mortgage application by providing additional income and creditworthiness to the lender's assessment.

What to Consider When Applying for a Mortgage

Although getting a mortgage, one of the key steps to buying a house in the USA as an immigrant, is easier than it might seem, there are several factors to keep in mind during the process.

Credit History

One of the most important factors in securing a mortgage is your credit score. Non-U.S. citizens may not have a U.S. credit history, which can make it difficult for lenders to evaluate their creditworthiness.

If this is the case for you, don’t worry. At NHC, our process is designed to take the stress out of financing. First, we’ll help you find the right home at the right price. Then, our loan officers will work closely with you to figure out the best route for securing a mortgage.  

Get Pre-Approved

Being pre-approved strengthens your buying power and helps determine your budget.

Here's what the process typically involves:

• Application: You’ll fill out a mortgage pre-approval application with a lender, providing personal and financial details.
• Verification: The lender will verify your identity, visa status or lawful presence, income sources, employment history, and bank assets.
• Credit Check: A lender may check your U.S. credit history. If you don’t have one, they may ask for international credit records or other proof of financial responsibility (e.g., rental history or utility bills).
• Estimated Loan Amount: If approved, the lender will give you a pre-approval letter stating the loan amount you qualify for. This helps you shop within your budget.

You should also be prepared to show consistent income or employment in the U.S. and submit documents in English or have them officially translated.

Down Payments for Loans

For immigrants buying property in the U.S., a potential lending option is the foreign national loan. One of the potential issues with this type of loan, however, is that a higher down payment may be required. At NHC, we can help you offset these potential loan costs by covering the closing costs for your new home.

Lender Policy

Not all lenders offer the same policy to non-U.S. residents. This does not mean you won’t qualify for a loan, but it is important to research your potential lender to ensure they’re giving you the best rate.

Now, government-backed FHA loans could offer an easy solution if certain lenders aren’t offering you the best deal. For immigrants looking to buy property in the U.S., FHA loans could be a great way to secure the financing they deserve.

FAQs

Can I buy a house in the U.S. if I am not a citizen?
Immigrants can buy property in the U.S. at any time. You also don’t need to be a full-time citizen to qualify for loans.

Can I get a green card if I buy property in the USA?
Buying a house does not automatically qualify you for a green card. However, owning property can help you establish permanent residency for employment-based or family-based visas.

Can non-U.S. citizens own U.S. land?
Yes. Non-U.S. citizens can buy property in the USA for their full-time residence or vacation home through loans.