Between 2022-2023, the U.S. hosted over 1,000,000 international students, +12% from the previous year, the fastest growth rate in more than 40 years! (The Open Doors® 2023 Report on International Educational Exchange, Nov 13)
Let me repeat this…
The U.S. saw a 40-year high growth rate in international students attending U.S. universities between 2022-2023!
What was also interesting was Singapore (our headquarters) and India saw record numbers of students attending U.S. colleges.
Did you know…
We created the world’s first U.S. mortgage, which allows your child to be the tenant, AM Student+.
Education
From our client surveys, Education was given as a key reason for their U.S. real estate investments.
Most of the time, the objective of owning real estate to earn income almost always comes down to "could I live there one day"?
A popular strategy for our clients is to purchase an investment property "in anticipation” of sending their child to college, set up a base in that city, and earn rental income along the way.
Then upon college acceptance, the parents can live in the property when visiting and rent it out when it's not in use.
Upon graduation, the price appreciation may even pay for college if they decide to sell.
Another popular option, if the child stays in the U.S. for work, is to transfer the property to the child's name as a "graduation gift" to help build up their credit profile and/or earn rental income. Why high schools?
Here are the following “Education-related” reports - there is plenty of good information here - including the best Public and Private high schools in California, Texas, Florida, and New York:
Nestled on France's southern coast, near the Italian frontier, the French Riviera showcases some of the most enchanting towns you could envision. With its chic allure, this region has magnetized celebrities for generations. Boasting approximately 300 sunlit days annually, its climate is nothing short of ideal. From designer boutiques, to the array of nearly 40 Michelin-starred restaurants, it's a destination of elegance. It's also a thriving community of English and American expatriates.
TOP DESTINATIONS FOR PROPERTY OWNERS
Surrounded by both the majestic mountains and the serene sea, the Riviera promises a perfect balance. While the coast will be your regular retreat, snow-capped peaks are always within reach for a winter getaway. Explore the top places to reside in the Riviera:
Antibes: Originating from the 16th century, Antibes exudes a maze-like ambiance. Renowned for its breathtaking golden glow, which has attracted artists over the centuries, it houses magnificent villas in the wooded Cap d'Antibes.
Cannes: Apart from the high-end boutiques and its iconic film festival, Cannes is a stone's throw from the secluded Lérins Islands.
Nice: As one of the significant French cities, Nice offers a vibrant nightlife, chic boutiques, and diverse museums.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: This petite peninsula is the address for some of the Riviera's most luxurious estates and also offers upscale dining options and serene beaches with panoramic views.
Saint-Tropez: Famed for its pristine beaches and dynamic clubs, Saint-Tropez is a haven for entertainment seekers but also has developed into a family holiday destination.
Now to the good stuff....
FINANCING FOR FOREIGN NATIONALS
Problem: Securing financing for Foreign Nationals to purchase property in France has always been difficult - time zone, language, lack of understanding for both lender and borrower, and other issues. Most banks and financing institutions are not focused on Foreign Nationals as the domestic market is strong, and they have enough business to satisfy them.
The GMG Solution: Our GMG European Lender Acquisition team has worked with a few smaller private banks to create a financing solution for our international clientele with a structure that suits their specific needs.
ELIGIBILITY AND REQUIREMENTS
For Foreign Nationals seeking finance in this exclusive domain, banks have set specific benchmarks to evaluate potential candidates.
1. Geographical Preference
Prime Locations: It's imperative for the property in question to be situated in sought-after areas. This encompasses regions such as Paris, leading stations in The French Alps, and The French Riviera.
Emerging Desirability: The South West has been gaining traction recently, making it an area of interest for Private Banks.
2. Property Type
Prospective properties should fall under categories such as: Luxury Apartments, Modern Residences, Contemporary Villas, Maisons de Maître, Manoirs, or Impeccably Refurbished Chateaux (case-by-case basis).
3. Loan Size
Minimum loan amount is €1M, excluding ancillary fees.
4. Our 100% LTV Solution!
In this structure, the client will invest a portion of funds equal to 30-50% of the loan amount into an interest-earning product.
In return, the bank will finance 100% of the purchase amount of the property (excluding fees)!
Client earns investment income, which may be more than the interest paid on the mortgage = positive carry.
5. Age Bracket
Applicants should be no older than 65 years at the submission time, with a preference for those below 60.
6. Financial Overview
Generally, the focus is on High Net Worth (HNW) individuals, specifically those boasting a net valuation exceeding €2M. Liquid assets or readily available cash remains a pivotal factor in discussions.
HOW IT WORKS
Example Purchase price: €1,000,000 Loan amount: €1,000,000 (100% LTV) Interest rate: 4.50% Loan duration: 20 years Loan type: Principal + Interest
Mechanics The 100% LTV mortgage €1,000,000 @ 4.50% for 20 years = Total mortgage interest PAID = €518,359
The interest-earning investment for 50% of loan amount €500,000 investment @ 4.50% “Compounded” for 20 years = Investment value end of Year 20 = €1,205,000 - €500,000 principal = Total interest EARNED = €705,000
That is to say, the bank will give you a positive carry-trade for using their mortgage, and not only is the mortgage FREE, you MAKE money!
THE PURCHASE PROCESS
Navigating property acquisition in France is smoother with the guidance of a property buyer's agent familiar with the region and the nuances of French property transactions. Once you've found your dream home, the steps are as follows:
Proposal Submission: You'll submit a written proposal. This will be forwarded to the property owner for a response. If the proposal gains approval, both parties – the buyer and the seller – will endorse the 'Compromis de Vente.' This preliminary agreement outlines the property specifics and the sale terms. As the transaction progresses, especially during conveyancing, certain terms in this contract might undergo modifications.
Reflection Window: Following this, there's a 10-day cooling-off window. During this phase, should you reconsider the purchase, you can withdraw without repercussions. Specifically, the 5-10% earnest money you've placed as a deposit is fully refundable.
Financing Initiatives: At this juncture, the financial groundwork commences (details above).
Conveyancing Phase: Post cooling-off window, the conveyancing phase kicks off. This process, extending up to three months, involves a series of property evaluations, all supervised by the notaire.
Finalization: After a thorough review and addressing any reservations, the concluding payment is made to the notaire. Subsequently, both parties validate the 'Act de Vente,' essentially the property's title deed.
In conclusion, owning a home in the South of France is now achievable for non-residents with our new GMG Luxury France Mortgages! I hope I get an invite to visit you one day!
Global Mortgage Group offers innovative financing solutions to meet the diverse needs of our global clientele, including Overseas Expats, Foreign Nationals, Family Offices, Investment Funds, High-Net-Worth Clients, and Private Banks. Contact us at [email protected] to start your Riviera investment journey today!
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me directly at [email protected] or my personal mobile +65 9773-0273.
Global Mortgage Group (GMG), a leading international mortgage originator, is proud to announce the successful funding of a $38.5 million asset-based bridging loan for a luxury Good Class Bungalow (GCB) property in Singapore. The loan enabled the owner to complete the acquisition of another company by leveraging on this prime real estate.
With a strong commitment to empowering Singapore real estate investors and homeowners with bespoke financial solutions, GMG specialises in catering to the unique needs of high-net-worth (HNW) individuals and foreigners seeking to access liquidity without the need for a deep dive into personal and company financials. GMG offers these customised liquidity solutions worldwide, including U.S.A., Australia, U.K., Canada, Thailand, Philippines, Hong Kong, and Dubai.
Located in one of Singapore's most sought-after neighbourhoods, the GCB offers unrivalled luxury and privacy, making it a prime investment in Singapore's thriving property market. The loan was structured to meet the client's funding needs and exit timeline at a 72% LTV (loan-to-value) with an 18-month interest servicing-only tenor. This closing marks GMG's successful funding in excess of over $350 million in bridging loans in Singapore this year alone.
"We are thrilled to have facilitated this substantial asset-backed bridge loan for our client. Our team of experienced financial analysts structured a tailored solution that met the client's specific requirements, enabling them to capitalise on this unique investment opportunity to expand their business. From the initial discussion to funding, the process took only 12 days." said Madel Tan, Singapore Head for Global Mortgage Group. "We have seen an upward trend in market demand for bridging loans that offer flexibility and liquidity to our HNW clients."
GMG's expertise in providing efficient asset-based bridge loans for high-value properties allows their clients access to an extensive network of lenders with bespoke programs. Their commitment to excellence extends to simplifying what is often a complex real estate transaction.
About Global Mortgage Group:
Global Mortgage Group is a leading international mortgage originator that specialises in offering customised financial solutions for high-net-worth individuals and foreign investors. With a track record of successfully funding significant real estate transactions in Singapore and globally, Global Mortgage Group provides flexible and personalised mortgage options to meet the diverse needs of its clients worldwide.
For more information, please visit www.gmg.asia or get in touch with Madel Tan, Director and Head of Singapore at, +65 9634 5623 or [email protected].
As you may have read in our previous emails, real estate bridging loans have been the most active part of our business this year as traditional bank financing has tightened globally.
When the need for liquidity arises with a short time window to fund, we can use the value of the property as collateral for a short-term loan.
In Singapore, we are the leaders in high-value real estate bridging financing for HNW individuals, with nearly $400M in funded bridging finance deals YTD. For more details, refer to our recent press release highlighting a recent transaction.
We offer short-term asset-backed loans against real estate in: USA, Singapore, Canada, UK, HK, Thailand, Philippines, and Australia.
Now, we have another asset-backed solution!
Listed shares…..
What is listed-share financing?
Simply put, share financing helps investors by utilizing their existing shares to fund new investments without having to sell any of their shares.
Capitalization through investment, a stock loan, or other liquidity and financing transactions allows owners of publicly traded stock the flexibility to gain access to the locked-up value of their freely traded stock position.
GMG Share Financing is designed specifically for corporations, its employees, officers, and major holders of publicly traded companies while providing total privacy to our clients.
Our process is quick, transparent, and completely confidential.
Financing proceeds can be used for personal or business purposes or to diversify or hedge current stock positions.
Funding is quick, with a transaction closing in as little as 3 to 7 business days.
Terms of providing you with liquidity and funding are based on evaluation of the risk and future performance associated with the securities involved in the transaction.
The transaction term is typically three years, with Interest payments or Maintenance Fees on a quarterly or semi-annual basis.
Financing and provision of liquidity are interest only or accompanied by modest Maintenance Fees, and additionally, are non-recourse.
The recipient of funding has the option of simply walking away at any time with no further liability and no personal or corporate guarantees.
In the event of a default, there is no report to any credit bureaus or governmental agencies, nor is there a file of public notice. There is no adverse consequence to the client’s credit.
Listed share financing is available in:
Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, Mexico, South America, and the Middle East.
Our Lenders
Our stock lenders are privately held asset-based lending companies that provide individuals and institutions with flexible, customized non-recourse high-value stock loans.
When Banks say NO, we say YES!
Our lenders are also uniquely positioned to provide stock loans and secured share financing even when banks, brokerage firms, and securities houses are unwilling or unable to do so; this is due to their global market reach, extensive relationships, and applicable jurisdictional law.
Benefits of GMG Share Financing
Fast transaction & funding
Non-recourse
No personal or corporate guarantee
No credit reporting in the event of a default
Private & confidential
Quick closing
Reduce the need for traditional bank recourse financing
No out-of-pocket expenses or upfront fees
Low interest rates or maintenance fees
Fair share pricing using a three or five-day average
Flexible terms
Large transaction amounts accepted
Transaction Process
1. Submit a stock for a quote
2. Term Sheet issued
3. Term Sheet signed
4. KYC info for shareholder and shareholder info provided to the Lender
5. Agreement provided to Shareholder
For specific information on rates and terms, please reach out to our team at [email protected] or contact me directly at +65 9773-0273.
Interest rates rising globally (in the U.S., rates tripled!)
Russian-Ukraine conflict
Other Geo-political concerns
Inflation concerns
Supply chain issues stemming from Covid-19
And I said U.S. real estate purchased by foreigners was ONLY 10% LESS THAN the previous year.
Would you believe me?
Of course not!
Frankly, this report surprised me but states the resilience of the U.S. real estate market, especially with foreign investors and overseas investors.
If you have any questions about this report or anything real estate financing-related, please feel free to reach out to me directly at [email protected] or my personal mobile +65 9773-0273.
Sincerely,
Donald Klip, Co-Founder
Global Mortgage Group
Before we begin, I want to thank our summer intern, Angelina Hong, who is currently reading the Classics at the University of Oxford in the UK and the author of this report and many of our previous articles. We wish her the best in her future endeavours!
International Buyers of U.S. Real Estate: 2023 Highlights
In the ever-evolving landscape of global real estate investment, the United States remains a sought-after destination for international buyers. The year 2023 has brought about significant changes and trends in the international real estate market, with foreign buyers continuing to play a vital role. This article explores the statistics and key factors driving the international buyers of U.S. real estate in 2023.
Key Statistics (April 2022-March 2023):
$53.3 billion of foreign buyer purchases
84,600 foreign buyer existing-home purchases
Average foreign buyer purchase price rose to $639,900
Top foreign buyer: China
Top destination: Florida
Part I: Strong U.S. Housing Demand, Tight Supply, Soaring Home Prices
The United States housing market has experienced its own set of dynamics. In 2021, it witnessed the highest levels of home sales since 2006. However, 2022 saw a slowdown and normalisation of the market due to various factors. In response to inflationary pressures, mortgage rates were raised, which impacted housing demand.
As of the end of March 2023, the housing market faced challenges related to supply. Unsold homes were 4% above levels seen one year prior. The median price of existing homes also hit a notable milestone, reaching $375,700 in April 2023.
Part II: International Buyers
Purchases of Existing Homes
The 2023 statistics reveal a shift in the international buyer landscape. The number of existing homes purchased by foreign buyers decreased to 84,600, marking the lowest figure since 2009. This decline represents a 14% drop from the previous year, with 14,000 fewer foreign buyers participating in the market.
The dollar volume of foreign buyer purchases also decreased by 9.6% to $53.3 billion, reflecting the impact of market dynamics.
READ – still $53 billion of demand, despite the issues mentioned above!
Origin and Destination
The origin of international buyers continues to diversify. Asian buyers maintain their dominance, representing the largest group with a market share of 38%. Latin American buyers follow closely behind, accounting for 31% of the market. European and Canadian buyers hold 14% and 10% of the market share, respectively.
China remains the top country of origin for international buyers, representing 13% of the market. Chinese buyers stand out with the highest average purchase price at $1.2 million, often investing in expensive states such as California and New York. In contrast, Mexican buyers tend to purchase less expensive properties, with Texas being a preferred destination.
The top 10 countries of origin of international buyers:
1. China 2. Mexico 3. Canada 4. India 5. Colombia 6. United Kingdom 7. Australia 8. Germany 9. Venezuela 10. Israel
In terms of destinations within the United States, Florida remains the top choice for international buyers, with a significant 23% share of the market. California and Texas closely follow, each with a 12% share.
The top 10 states for international buyers:
1. Florida 2. California 3. Texas 4. North Carolina 5. Arizona 6. Illinois 7. New York 8. Ohio 9. Pennsylvania 10. New Jersey
Financing
Foreign buyers continue to exhibit a propensity for all-cash purchases, with 42% choosing this payment method, compared to 26% among all buyers of existing homes. Those foreign buyers residing abroad are more likely to make all-cash purchases.
Property as a Real Estate Investment
Foreign purchases of U.S. real estate saw 6% increase from the previous year, indicating a growing interest in real estate investment for various purposes.
READ: Year-on-year INCREASE in property purchased for investment purposes!!!
The majority of foreign buyers prefer detached single-family homes, with 76% making such purchases. Additionally, foreign buyers tend to gravitate towards suburban areas, with 45% choosing this type of location. Interestingly, more than three-quarters of Asian Indian buyers opt for suburban properties. Conversely, Canadian buyers are more likely to purchase properties in resort areas for use as vacation homes.
Part III: Reasons for Not Purchasing U.S. Property
Despite the allure of U.S. real estate, some international clients cite their perception of hurdles for investing in this sector.
Here are the common misconceptions, the actual facts and our solutions:
Cost of properties
Not at all. See the following chart on price comparisons to global cities
Difficulties in finding suitable properties
This can be an issue with time zones, which sites to look at etc. We have fixed this – AM Property Finder.
Immigration Laws
As a foreign real estate investor, there are NO restrictions!
The reality of U.S. taxes is MUCH EASIER than perception. Some states, like Texas, don’t have state taxes, which is why it’s one of the most popular investment destinations. Also, there are many ways to deduct expenses to maximise your rental income.
Maintenance fees
Any real estate investment will have maintenance required, but that is why you pay a small fee to the property manager. AM Concierge service can introduce you to our preferred managers to make your investment seamless and hassle-free.
Currency transfer difficulties
No issues here. AM Concierge service has partner remittance firms that help our clients. Even in China we have viable solutions from our partners.
Insurance
Insurance is a small percentage of the rental income you receive, and we have partners to help you with this.
Exchange rate concerns
If you are funding the mortgage payments in your home currency, you may experience a currency loss, BUT you can easily hedge this, PLUS you will be earning USD rental income.
America Mortgages Concierge Services:
Property Finder
Property Management
International Remittance Solutions (including China)
Property Taxes
Tax Advice and Filing
LLC company set up
Immigration Consultants
In conclusion, the 2023 statistics on international buyers of U.S. real estate demonstrate a changing landscape influenced by global economic conditions, supply and demand dynamics, and evolving buyer preferences. While challenges persist, the U.S. remains an attractive destination for international real estate investment, drawing buyers from diverse backgrounds and motivations.
Contact us at [email protected] and seize opportunities in the thriving U.S. property market. Visit www.gmg.asia for more information.
Australia has consistently been one of the strongest real estate markets for overseas buyers and continues to be despite the rate increases.
Here is a snapshot our GMG Australia+ mortgage program and what makes our loan program unique:
1. Land + Home
Traditional banks excel in downtown condos but shy away from construction loans, especially in suburbs and rural areas. GMG Australia+ loan program defies norms.
When banks say "NO," we say "YES."
2. High LTV
Unlike traditional lenders with caps on LTV ratios, GMG Australia+ takes a different approach. We offer up to 85% LTV for purchases and 80% for cash-out, exceeding the usual 75% cap that banks have.
Unlock investment potential with GMG Australia+!
3. Refi/Cash-Out
We have loan programs that allow borrowers to Refi/Cash-Out of Australia. This unique feature empowers you to tap into the equity of your Australian assets, granting you greater financial flexibility. Imagine accessing funds to fuel new ventures, expand investments, or fulfill personal goals. With GMG Australia+, you're not just securing a mortgage - you're gaining a tool to shape your financial future.
4. Transparency
Our new loan programs track RBA rates explicitly. While the RBA's cash rate stays at 4.1%, our non-resident loans are around mid-7%. Unlike banks like HSBC, whose loans are around 6.5%, their rates don't come down quickly with RBA changes - Not the case with GMG Australia+ mortgages!
In the tech world, you will hear terms like “platform” and why they are so valued by investors. These are the Amazons and Facebooks of the world and it's because once they cover their fixed costs, as their revenue grows, so does their profitability. It’s also called operating leverage.
In a way, so is owning an investment property with a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. Your fixed costs are flat for 30 years (and if rates fall, you can refinance to a lower rate), but rental income and property values increase over time.
Rental prices, in particular, have been rising considerably, especially during the last 12 months, despite a rise in interest rates given the lack of property supply and also the marginal buyer who cannot own at 7% mortgage rates is forced to rent.
In a perverse way, the rate increases have made it a better environment to own an investment property, especially in states like Texas and Florida, where families prefer to migrate to, given low state taxes and affordable cost of living.
Here is a visual to explain this important point:
Amy, a savvy homebuyer living in Hong Kong, purchased her dream investment home in Los Angeles back in 2010. Recognising the benefits of a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, she secured a loan at an interest rate of 5.25%. This meant that her monthly mortgage payment would be approximately $2,185.
Home price in 2010: $500,000
Rental price in 2010: $2,300/month
Monthly mortgage payment in 2010: $2,185/month
Home price in 2023: $2,000,000
Rental price in 2023: $4,500/month
Monthly mortgage payment in 2023: $2,185/month
As you can see, Amy's monthly mortgage payments have remained the same over the years, while rental prices have steadily increased. This has resulted in a significant financial advantage for Amy.
Only in the U.S.!
The United States is the only country in the world that offers homeowners a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, which provides stability and predictability. This means that your monthly mortgage payments will remain the same for the entire loan term, even if interest rates fluctuate. This can be a huge advantage, as it gives you peace of mind and financial security. When interest rates do go down in the future, you can refinance your mortgage and take advantage of the lower rate. This could save you a significant amount of money over the life of your loan.
What are 30-Year Fixed Interest Rates?
A 30-year fixed interest rate is a mortgage loan with an interest rate that remains constant throughout the loan's entire term, typically three decades. This stability and predictability make it an attractive option for many homebuyers.
Advantages of 30-Year Fixed Rates:
Predictable Payments: Homebuyers benefit from knowing their mortgage payments will remain consistent over the long term. This predictability allows for better financial planning and budgeting.
Long-Term Stability: A 30-year fixed-rate mortgage offers homeowners extended stability. In uncertain economic times, this type of mortgage shields borrowers from sudden fluctuations in interest rates.
Protection from Market Volatility: Homebuyers can take advantage of historically low-interest rates when they lock in their mortgage for 30 years, safeguarding themselves from potential future rate hikes.
Key Takeaways
Foreign nationals can purchase homes in the United States, but they may face additional challenges, such as obtaining a mortgage.
A 30-year fixed-rate mortgage can provide stability and predictability for foreign nationals who are buying homes in the United States.
The cost of renting can increase over time, while the cost of a mortgage payment can remain the same.
Amy's case study shows that a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage can be a wise financial decision for foreign nationals who are buying homes in the United States. By locking in a fixed interest rate, Amy was able to protect herself from market volatility and ensure that her monthly mortgage payments would remain the same for 30 years. This gave her peace of mind and financial security, even as rental prices in her area increased.
Global Mortgage Group is a leading international mortgage originator specialising in offering customised financial solutions for residential real estate in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, U.K., France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Japan, and Australia.
Global Mortgage Group Pte. Ltd. is the world's leading international mortgage specialist. Based in Singapore with offices and partnerships across the globe, we connect our international clients to our network of lenders around the world. GMG offers financing solutions in the United States, United Kingdom, France, Canada, Australia and Singapore.
