Ex-Pat Mortgages

Is it Possible to Obtain Ex-Pat Mortgages in the UK?

Some mortgages are far easier to find than others, at least where a range of choices is concerned. Ex-pat mortgages do not usually fall into this bracket, however. While you can obtain an expat mortgage in the UK today, very few lenders are willing to offer such deals. This makes it even more vital to know what you are looking for and where to find it.

What type of home loan is most commonly requested by expats?

A buy to let mortgage is the loan expats most often go for. This gives them the chance to purchase a property in the UK to rent out to someone else. In doing so, they can receive a yield to help cover the monthly repayments and to cover maintenance and upkeep.

Why do many expats seek to buy a property in the UK when they no longer live here?

There are some worthwhile reasons for doing this:

  • Some view it as a safe investment opportunity
  • Yields on such properties can be in excess of 5%
  • Others want to have a UK property they can come back to if need be

How big should a deposit be if you are looking to get an expat home loan?

You should be looking at 25% of the purchase price and possibly more. As with all home loans, the more you can put down as a deposit the lower the interest rates will be. Indeed, some rates are very similar to those offered on standard residential home loans throughout the UK.

How long will it take to complete the loan?

You should expect it to take longer than a traditional home loan in the UK. It is logistically more complicated than setting up a loan for someone who is resident in the UK. More paperwork must be completed to finish the process. Bear this in mind if time is an important factor for you.

Can you expect to pay the same fees as you would for a regular mortgage?

It is likely the setup fees for an expat loan will be slightly higher than for a regular loan. It is wise to check this in advance, so you know what to expect.

Consider seeking the advice of an expert mortgage broker

The mortgage market can be a minefield, much more so if you are abroad and trying to buy a property back in the UK. An experienced broker can be an indispensable source of advice and support as you navigate your property purchase.

Speak to The Mortgage Broker Ltd today and see how we can help you. We will be able to source a wide range of ex-pat mortgage deals, some of which you may have trouble finding on your own. We know which lenders are most likely to offer the deal you are looking for. We should be able to find a deal that will fit with your needs and requirements.

Contact us today to find out how we can help or complete our easy online mortgage enquiry form. We will be in contact to discuss your requirements in further detail.

Published on 22 July 2020

About the author:

The Mortgage Broker

The Mortgage Broker is an award-winning UK mortgage and protection specialist with decades of experience helping thousands of customers secure suitable and affordable mortgage solutions. Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, all advisers are minimum CeMAP-qualified and known for delivering clear, transparent, and expert guidance whether helping first-time buyers, home movers, remortgage clients or those with complex or adverse-credit needs. Recognised as a finalist at the Mortgage Strategy Awards 2025, The Mortgage Broker combines digital speed with human trust, offering access to over 130 lenders and more than 25,000 products. The company’s app, secure client portal and easy-to-use tools make it simple for customers to compare rates, track progress, and stay informed from start to finish. With more than 2,500 verified five-star Trustpilot reviews, clients consistently praise the firm’s professionalism, value for money, and personal service. Reviews highlight the team’s ability to explain complex mortgage and protection topics in plain English, providing support throughout the entire journey. The company’s reputation for knowledge, empathy, and reliability has made it one of the UK’s most trusted brokers, delivering advice that is honest, transparent, and tailored to each individual’s financial goals. Every part of The Mortgage Broker’s service reflects Google’s E-E-A-T principles: Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. Its team has decades of hands-on industry knowledge, proven technical expertise, and national recognition supported by awards, media features, and verified customer feedback. As an FCA-regulated firm with a 5-star reputation, The Mortgage Broker stands for no-nonsense advice, common-sense lending, and exceptional customer outcomes — setting the standard for trusted mortgage advice across the UK.


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