Why London Real Estate Appeals to International Buyers
London continues to be one of the world’s top destinations for international property investment. With strong rental demand, global connectivity and long-term capital appreciation, non-residents are increasingly drawn to London for both lifestyle and financial reasons.
But buying property in the UK, especially in London, often requires financing. And for non-residents, that means navigating a slightly different mortgage process.
The good news? Yes, you can finance London property as a non-resident, provided you meet certain criteria and work with lenders familiar with international borrowers.
This guide explains exactly how to finance a property in London if you’re a non-resident, including requirements, mortgage options and how to work with a global mortgage expert.
Can Non-Residents Get a Mortgage in London?
Yes. UK lenders do provide mortgages to non-resident buyers, including foreign nationals and expatriates. While requirements can vary by lender and nationality, it is entirely possible to obtain a UK mortgage for London property without residing in the country with the following terms:
- Fixed or variable interest rates
- Loan terms of 10 to 30 years
- Buy-to-let and residential options
- Interest-only and principal-and-interest repayment structures
However, as a non-resident, you may need to put down a larger deposit (usually 25%–40%), and provide proof of income from abroad.
Working with an international mortgage broker like Global Mortgage Group (GMG) gives you access to multiple lenders across the UK who understand the needs of non-residents and foreign income profiles. GMG helps you:
- Find competitive rates
- Navigate foreign income verification
- Overcome regulatory and currency hurdles
What You Need to Qualify as a Non-Resident Buyer
| Requirement | Details |
| Deposit | 25% – 40% of the property price |
| Income Verification | Tax returns, payslips or audited financials from your home country |
| Credit History | Foreign credit reports or asset documentation may be accepted |
| Currency Considerations | Income in non-GBP currencies may be subject to a lender’s exchange risk cap |
| Property Use | Residential, second home or buy-to-let properties are all eligible |
| Visa or Residency | Not required for financing (but may affect loan terms) |
Step-by-Step: How to Finance a London Property as a Non-Resident
Step 1: Evaluate Your Budget
Understand how much you can afford based on your income, deposit and target property price. Use mortgage calculators to estimate repayments based on London’s current interest rates.
Step 2: Get Mortgage Pre-Approval
Before property hunting, it’s wise to get pre-approved for financing. This shows sellers you are a serious buyer and gives you a firm borrowing limit.
Step 3: Find a Property
Work with a UK-based agent who understands your buying goals. London offers everything from new-build flats in Canary Wharf to townhouses in Kensington.
Step 4: Submit Your Mortgage Application
Provide the required documentation to your lender or mortgage broker, including proof of income, ID, and property details. If you're working with GMG, they’ll handle the process from start to finish.
Step 5: Property Valuation and Offer
Once approved, the lender will conduct a valuation of the property. If it meets their criteria, you’ll receive a formal mortgage offer.
Step 6: Complete the Purchase
Your solicitor and mortgage advisor will guide you through contract signing and closing. Once the deal is finalized, the funds are released, and you take ownership.
Mortgage Types Available to Non-Residents
| Mortgage Type | Best For | Key Features |
| Fixed-Rate | Buyers seeking stability | Same interest rate for 2 – 10 years; protects from market shifts |
| Variable-Rate | Buyers expecting rate reductions | The rate fluctuates with the Bank of England base rate |
| Interest-Only | Investors prioritizing cash flow | Pay only interest; principal due later |
| Buy-to-Let | Buyers renting out the property | Requires rental income coverage; higher deposit may apply |
Why Work with Global Mortgage Group (GMG)?
Financing a UK property from abroad is more complex than applying locally, but not if you work with an experienced cross-border lending expert like Global Mortgage Group.
GMG Helps With:
- Foreign income and asset verification
- Access to a wide range of UK mortgage products
- Competitive rates tailored for non-residents
Whether you’re based in the U.S., Singapore, the UAE, or anywhere else, GMG ensures your financing strategy is smooth, compliant and cost-effective.
Contact Global Mortgage Group
Start your London property journey with a free consultation:
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.gmg.asia
📅 Book a Consultation: Schedule your one-on-one strategy session today!
Final Thoughts
Buying property in London as a non-resident is entirely achievable with the right financial structure.
From navigating multiple lenders to international income documentation, non-resident buyers now have the option to work with trusted international brokers when financing their U.K. property.
Let Global Mortgage Group help you unlock the London market confidently to meet your investment goals or secure your dream home.
Your Top Questions Answered:
1: Can non-residents obtain a mortgage for London property?
Yes, UK lenders provide mortgages to non-residents, including foreign nationals and expatriates, with options for fixed or variable rates, buy-to-let, and interest-only structures.
2: What are the main requirements for non-residents to secure a mortgage in London?
Non-residents typically need a deposit of 25% to 40%, proof of income from abroad, foreign credit or asset documentation, and awareness of currency considerations.
3: How does working with an international mortgage broker help non-residents?
Specialist brokers like Global Mortgage Group streamline documentation, verify foreign income, access multiple lenders, and ensure compliance with UK lending rules.
4: What types of mortgages are available to non-resident buyers in London?
Options include fixed-rate mortgages for stability, variable-rate mortgages for potential rate reductions, interest-only mortgages for investors, and buy-to-let mortgages for rental properties.
5: What is the process for financing a London property as a non-resident?
The process includes evaluating your budget, obtaining pre-approval, selecting a property, submitting a mortgage application, completing a property valuation, and finalizing the purchase with legal and financial guidance.
