Foreign-national loans

Why are down payments often higher for foreign-national loans?

Lenders price higher down payments and reserves to offset limited U.S. credit history and cross-border enforcement risk. Percentages vary by program and change over time — obtain current quotes rather than relying on outdated blog numbers.

Reviewed 2026-07-23 · Suzie Castillo, Founder & Broker

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Detailed explanation

Compare total cash to close (down payment, closing costs, reserves, furnishings, travel) using an ownership-cost worksheet. A “higher down payment” loan can still be rational versus 100% cash depending on liquidity preferences.

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What varies

  • Program
  • Property type
  • Occupancy

Documents that may be needed

  • Lender estimate / Loan Estimate when available

Professionals to consult

  • Lender
  • Licensed broker

Related questions

Sources

  • Primary sources linked from related cornerstone pages; ask your advisor for transaction-specific references.

Talk with a licensed advisor

Private-client guidance for Mexico ↔ The Woodlands.

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Global Collective

A discreet, bilingual brokerage for foreign investors and buyers from Ciudad de México, Monterrey, Guadalajara, and cities across Mexico — focused on The Woodlands, Houston, and North Houston.

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Global Collective Real Estate is a licensed Texas real estate brokerage serving The Woodlands, greater Houston, and cross-border clients in Mexico. Information is provided for general purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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