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Marin County draws serious international buyers. Novato offers relative value inside one of California's most desirable counties.
Foreign nationals can own property here. These are non-QM loans — outside standard Fannie Mae guidelines — built for non-US citizens.
30%+
Down Payment Minimum
12–24 months
Reserves Required
Not required
US Credit Score
45–60 days
Typical Close Time
Non-QM / varies
Rate Type
No US credit history required. Lenders use foreign credit reports, bank statements, or asset documentation instead.
Most lenders want 30% down or more. Reserves of 12–24 months are common. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
Most retail banks won't touch foreign national loans. This is a specialty product — only certain wholesale lenders offer it.
We work with 200+ wholesale lenders at SRK CAPITAL. That matters here. Fewer than a dozen of them actively price foreign national programs.
The documentation package is the deal. Missing one item — a foreign bank statement, a visa copy — stalls closing fast.
Start building your file early. Wire transfer history and source-of-funds letters take time to gather from overseas institutions.
If you have a US taxpayer ID, ITIN loans may fit better. They carry less restrictive terms than pure foreign national programs.
Investment properties in Novato? DSCR loans are another path. They qualify based on rental income — not your personal income at all.
Novato is Marin's most affordable entry point. That still means high price points by national standards — expect jumbo loan territory.
Marin properties move fast. Foreign national loan timelines run longer than conventional. Get pre-approved before you start shopping.
Yes. Foreign national lenders accept overseas credit reports or bank statements. A US credit score is not required.
Accepted visa types vary by lender. B1/B2, E, L, and O visas are commonly approved. We match you to lenders that fit your status.
Most foreign national programs require 30% down. Some lenders go higher depending on property type and country of origin.
Yes. Foreign nationals can buy investment properties. A DSCR loan may also work — it qualifies on rental income, not personal income.
Expect 45–60 days minimum. Document gathering from foreign institutions adds time. Start early.
Not always, but it helps. Some lenders require US-held reserves at closing. Ask us before opening accounts you don't need.
Foreign National Loans in Novato