In the United Kingdom, expats can obtain both residential and buy-to-let mortgages.
It is possible for an expatriate to purchase property in the UK for various reasons, such as moving back to the country but first purchasing a residence to use when visiting.
You may also take out a buy-to-let mortgage for an investment property or purchase a property for a family member. Expats in Dubai or elsewhere who want a UK mortgage may be able to choose from a range of suitable products.
Borrowers who have lived abroad for a long period of time may not have an easily traceable credit score in the United Kingdom. While this might sound better than having an adverse credit history, it can be problematic.
UK lenders cannot assess the risk of lending to a particular borrower without a credit score to show how an applicant has dealt with previous credit commitments.
As with any borrower, expats must provide lenders with evidence of both their income and other personal information, including their current address. For non-UK residents, however, this can be more complicated.
Generally, lenders require bank statements and payslips from their current employer as proof of employment and income. It may be easier for expats than multinationals with a UK presence to secure finance, however certain lenders may still be able to provide finance to self-employed expats.
If the applicant's current accommodation and utility bills are covered by their employer, he or she may need to obtain a letter of induction from the employer to provide proof of address.
Expatriates who wish to purchase property within the UK may wish to consider using an independent mortgage adviser based in the UK.
In addition to offering impartial advice and gaining a contact within the UK, an adviser offering a whole of market service can use their knowledge of the UK mortgage market to find the best products for them.
To investigate your expat finance options call our broker team or fill in our call back form - speak to our independent mortgage broker team who will be able to offer impartial advice or you can call us on 0117 403 3464