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First Time Buyer Expat UK: How to Get Your First UK Mortgage from Abroad

First time buyer expat UK mortgages enable overseas-based professionals to purchase their first UK property whilst living and working abroad. Whether based in Dubai, Singapore, New York, or Doha, many professionals discover that securing a first UK mortgage from overseas involves different requirements compared to standard first-time buyer applications available to UK residents.

First-time expat buyers face unique considerations that distinguish them from both UK-based first-time buyers and experienced expat property owners. Without existing UK property equity to leverage, no established UK credit history in many cases, and the complexities of foreign currency income assessment, the path to property ownership requires careful planning. Understanding lender appetite, deposit requirements, and the distinction between residential and buy-to-let options helps first-time buyers make informed decisions.

This guide explores the eligibility requirements for first-time expat buyers, the key differences between residential and buy-to-let mortgages, common challenges faced by overseas purchasers entering the UK property market, and the step-by-step process from initial enquiry through to completion. Whether evaluating owner-occupation or investment opportunities, the following sections provide an overview of securing your first UK mortgage whilst living abroad.

Key Takeaways

  • First time buyer expat UK mortgages are available from specialist lenders who assess foreign currency income, international documentation, and non-resident status for overseas-based purchasers.
  • Deposits commonly range from 25-40% of the property value for first-time expat buyers, translating to loan-to-value ratios of 60-75%, though actual requirements vary significantly by lender, applicant profile, and income currency.
  • UK credit history is not always essential, as specialist lenders often assess international credit records, overseas payment history, and employment stability instead.
  • Residential and buy-to-let mortgages serve different purposes and have distinct eligibility criteria, tax implications, and occupancy rules that first-time buyers should understand before committing.
  • Foreign currency income is accepted by many specialist lenders, though conversion rates and income discounts of 20-25% are commonly applied to account for exchange rate fluctuations.
  • Non-resident purchasers face additional costs, including a 2% Stamp Duty Land Tax surcharge in England and Northern Ireland (applied to each SDLT band), plus a 5% surcharge for buy-to-let or additional property purchases. 
  • First-time buyer relief, where available, only applies to properties intended as the buyer’s main residence, not buy-to-let purchases.
  • The application process can be completed remotely, with documents signed overseas or via Power of Attorney arrangements, typically taking 8-12 weeks from enquiry to completion.
  • Specialist expat mortgage brokers can access lenders that mainstream banks cannot, often identifying suitable options for first-time buyers with complex overseas circumstances.

What Is a First Time Buyer Expat Mortgage?

A first time buyer expat mortgage is a specialist lending product designed for individuals who have never owned property in the UK and wish to purchase whilst living overseas. These mortgages accommodate the specific circumstances of overseas-based applicants who lack existing UK property equity or established domestic credit history.

First-time expat buyers differ from other expat purchasers in several important ways. Without existing UK property to leverage for equity release or remortgage, first-time buyers typically rely entirely on savings accumulated overseas for their deposit. Many have limited or no UK credit footprint, having lived abroad for extended periods. Additionally, first-time expat buyers may be less familiar with UK property market dynamics, conveyancing processes, and regional price variations.

Lenders assess first-time expat applications with particular attention to income stability, deposit source verification, and long-term intentions. Some lenders view first-time buyers favourably due to lower existing debt obligations, whilst others prefer applicants with demonstrated property ownership experience.

Can Non-Residents Buy UK Property?

Non-residents can purchase property in the UK, as there are no legal restrictions preventing overseas buyers from owning UK real estate. Both UK nationals living abroad and foreign nationals may purchase freehold or leasehold property in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland.

However, non-resident purchasers face different financing options compared to UK residents. Many high street banks no longer offer mortgages to non-residents, limiting options to specialist expat lenders, international bank divisions, and private banks with appetite for overseas borrowers. The pool of available lenders varies significantly based on the buyer’s country of residence, nationality, income currency, and employment type.

Non-resident buyers also encounter additional tax obligations. In England and Northern Ireland, a 2% Stamp Duty Land Tax surcharge applies to purchases by individuals who have spent fewer than 183 days in the UK during the 12 months preceding the transaction (per GOV.UK SDLT guidance). This surcharge applies regardless of nationality, affecting both UK expats and foreign nationals equally.

Residential vs Buy-to-Let: Understanding Your Options

First-time expat buyers face a fundamental decision: purchase a residential property for eventual owner-occupation or family use, or acquire a buy-to-let investment property. Each option involves different regulatory frameworks, lender availability, tax treatment, and practical considerations.

Purpose and Occupancy Rules

Residential mortgages are designed for properties the borrower or their immediate family will occupy. Lenders typically require confirmation that the property will serve as a primary residence upon return to the UK or house close family members. Letting a residential property without lender consent breaches mortgage terms and may constitute fraud.

Buy-to-let mortgages are structured for investment properties where rental income is the primary purpose. These products offer greater flexibility, as the property can house tenants, family members, or remain available for the owner’s future use. Many expats favour buy-to-let arrangements due to uncertain return timelines.

Financing and Lender Availability

Residential expat mortgages fall under Financial Conduct Authority regulation, with lenders required to conduct thorough affordability assessments based on the borrower’s income. Fewer lenders offer residential products to non-residents, and eligibility criteria tend to be more stringent.

Buy-to-let mortgages are generally not FCA-regulated for most borrowers, as they are treated as business lending rather than consumer credit. An important exception exists: Consumer Buy-to-Let mortgages, which apply to “accidental landlords” (such as those who inherit a property or let a former residence), are FCA-regulated and offer consumer protections equivalent to residential mortgages. Most specialist expat buy-to-let lenders, however, treat mortgages as commercial lending and fall outside FCA regulation. 

Lenders assess affordability primarily through the Interest Coverage Ratio (ICR), comparing expected rental income against mortgage payments. ICR requirements typically range from 125-145% at a stressed interest rate. This rental income focus often provides more options for expat borrowers whose foreign currency income might face heavy discounting under residential affordability models.

Tax Considerations

Both residential and buy-to-let purchasers face Stamp Duty Land Tax in England and Northern Ireland. Non-resident buyers pay a 2% surcharge on standard rates (for buyers not present in the UK for at least 183 days in the preceding 12 months). Buy-to-let purchasers face an additional 5% surcharge as the property constitutes an additional dwelling (per GOV.UK higher rates guidance).

For example, a non-resident first-time buyer purchasing a £400,000 residential property (intended as their main residence) would pay SDLT as follows: the 2% non-resident surcharge applies to each band, resulting in effective rates of 2% on the first £300,000 (£6,000) and 7% on the remaining £100,000 (£7,000), totalling £13,000. By comparison, a UK-resident first-time buyer purchasing the same property would pay just £5,000 (0% on the first £300,000 plus 5% on the remaining £100,000), a difference of £8,000. If the property were purchased as a buy-to-let (where first-time buyer relief does not apply), the 5% additional property surcharge and 2% non-resident surcharge would both apply on top of standard rates, bringing total SDLT to £38,000. These costs significantly impact total purchase budgets and should be factored into affordability calculations from the outset.

Buy-to-let owners receiving rental income face UK tax obligations regardless of residence. Under the Non-Resident Landlord Scheme (NRLS), letting agents or tenants ordinarily deduct basic rate tax (currently 20%) from rental payments before remitting to the landlord. However, non-resident landlords are still required to submit annual UK Self-Assessment tax returns declaring their rental income. The actual tax liability depends on the landlord’s total UK income and applicable tax band, meaning the 20% withheld may be more or less than ultimately owed. Landlords can apply to HMRC to receive gross rent (with no deduction) if they meet one of the following criteria: their UK tax affairs are up to date, they have never had UK tax obligations, or they do not expect to be liable for UK tax in the year the application is made (per GOV.UK NRLS guidance).

Practical Considerations for First-Time Expat Buyers

Property management presents different challenges depending on the purchase type. Buy-to-let properties require professional letting agent services for tenant sourcing, rent collection, and maintenance coordination. Residential properties occupied by family members may involve less formal arrangements but still require someone to manage issues arising in the owner’s absence.

Currency exposure affects both options. Mortgage payments in sterling create ongoing currency risk for borrowers earning in foreign currencies. Buy-to-let properties generate rental income in sterling, which may partially offset currency exposure on mortgage payments.

Future flexibility often favours buy-to-let arrangements for expats with uncertain return timelines. Residential mortgage terms typically restrict letting, whilst buy-to-let structures accommodate various occupancy scenarios as circumstances evolve.

Comparison Table: Residential vs Buy-to-Let for Expats

The following comparison reflects common differences discussed in UK mortgage planning. Individual circumstances vary, and this table is for educational illustration only.

FactorResidential (Owner-Occupier)Buy-to-Let / Investment
Intended useOwner or family occupation (or planned occupation on return to UK)Rental investment: property let to tenants or managed as investment
Regulation (FCA coverage)Typically FCA-regulated if owner-occupation intention, consumer protection appliesGenerally not FCA-regulated (treated as business lending), unless consumer buy-to-let
Lender availability for expatsMore limited, many mainstream UK lenders restrict or decline non-resident applications; specialist providers requiredAlso constrained but specialist expat-BTL lenders exist; viability depends on income, deposit, country, and property type
Income assessmentBased primarily on borrower’s personal income (foreign income acceptable if qualified by lender)Underwritten primarily on projected rental income (ICR 125-145% at stressed rates)
Typical LTV / Deposit (for expats)Usually 25-40% deposit required; some lenders may require more for foreign income or limited credit historyOften similar or more conservative; many expat-BTL lenders cap at 70-75% LTV (25-30% deposit)
Non-resident SDLT surcharge2%2% + 5% additional property surcharge
First-time buyer relief available? Yes (if main residence intended, property ≤£500,000)No, relief requires main residence intention 
Occupancy flexibilityRestricted, letting without consent breaches mortgage termsMore flexible, accommodates tenants, family, or future personal use
Practical management from abroadLess practical if buyer remains overseas long-term; requires planning for occupancyMore aligned to expat lifestyle, rental income can service mortgage; easier to delegate to letting agents

Expert Insight: “For first-time expat buyers unsure about their five-year plans, buy-to-let often provides greater flexibility. Residential mortgages require clear occupancy intentions, whilst buy-to-let accommodates evolving circumstances, whether buying for pure investment and rental yield or to initially rent with a view to keeping options open for eventually moving back.” – Justin Whitelock, Managing Director of Mortgage London

Expat-Specific Risks and Challenges

First-time expat buyers should be aware of several risks that distinguish their situation from UK-resident purchasers:

Currency and Exchange Rate Risk: Mortgage payments in GBP whilst earning income in foreign currency create ongoing exchange rate exposure. Rental income from buy-to-let properties may partially offset this risk, but timing and rates can impact affordability throughout the mortgage term.

Deposit and LTV Constraints: Expat borrowers typically face higher deposit requirements (25-40%) and lower LTV ceilings than UK residents. Actual requirements vary by lender, country of residence, income stability, and mortgage type.

Limited Lender Options: Mainstream UK banks often decline non-resident applications outright. Access typically requires specialist expat lenders or brokers experienced with foreign-income underwriting. The available lender pool can change with market conditions.

Documentation and Verification Requirements: Lenders require proof of overseas income, employment stability, and sometimes foreign credit checks. Deposits sourced overseas need clear documentation including bank statements and evidence of legitimate accumulation.

Regulatory and Tax Considerations: Buy-to-let mortgages are generally not FCA-regulated, meaning expats should understand commercial lending rules and recourse limitations. Non-residents face additional tax obligations including SDLT surcharges and compliance with the Non-Resident Landlord Scheme.

Property Management and Oversight: Residential properties require careful planning if left vacant or occupied by family from afar. Buy-to-let properties typically need professional letting agents to manage tenants, rent collection, and maintenance remotely.

How First Time Buyer Expat Mortgages Work

The mortgage process for first-time expat buyers follows a structured path, with adaptations for overseas circumstances at each stage.

Agreement in Principle

The process typically begins with obtaining an Agreement in Principle (AIP), confirming indicative borrowing capacity before property searches commence. AIPs typically remain valid for 60-90 days and demonstrate mortgage viability when making offers. For expats, securing an AIP involves initial assessment of country of residence, income currency, employment type, and deposit availability to identify suitable lenders.

Property Search and Offer

With an AIP in hand, buyers can search for properties with confidence. First-time expat buyers often rely on family members, friends, or professional property search services to conduct viewings on their behalf. Making an offer with a confirmed AIP strengthens negotiating position with sellers and estate agents.

Full Application and Underwriting

Once an offer is accepted, the full mortgage application process begins. This involves submitting comprehensive documentation including identity verification, income evidence, deposit source confirmation, and employment details. The lender instructs a property valuation and underwriters review the complete application, assessing affordability and verifying documentation. For expats, this includes evaluating foreign currency income stability and applying exchange rate stress tests.

Legal Completion

The legal process follows standard UK conveyancing procedures. First-time buyers unfamiliar with UK property law often benefit from solicitors experienced in acting for overseas clients. Documents may be signed at overseas consulates or through Power of Attorney arrangements where a UK-based representative acts on the buyer’s behalf. Completion typically occurs 8-12 weeks from application, depending on chain complexity and documentation requirements.

Eligibility Requirements for First Time Buyer Expats

Lender criteria vary, but common eligibility factors apply across most first-time expat applications.

Income Requirements

Many specialist lenders apply minimum income thresholds, commonly starting around £50,000-£75,000 equivalent annually. Income is typically converted to sterling at the lender’s chosen exchange rate, often with a discount of 20-25% applied to account for currency fluctuation risk over the mortgage term.

Deposit Requirements

Deposit requirements for first-time buyer expats commonly range from 25-40% of the property value, translating to loan-to-value ratios of 60-75%, though actual requirements vary significantly by lender, applicant profile, income currency, and market conditions. Some specialist lenders may offer more favourable LTVs (up to 80-85%) for well-qualified applicants with strong income documentation and stable currencies. This compares to typical UK resident first-time buyer deposits of 5-15%. The generally higher deposit requirement reflects lender risk assessment for overseas-based borrowers with foreign currency income, but should not be assumed as universal across all providers.

Without existing UK property equity, deposits typically come from overseas savings, requiring clear documentation of accumulation. Gift deposits from family members are generally acceptable with appropriate gift letters.

Credit History

UK credit history helps but is not essential for all lenders. Many specialist providers assess international credit records, overseas mortgage or rental payment history, and employment stability. First-time buyers who have lived overseas for extended periods commonly have limited UK credit data, which specialist lenders accommodate through alternative assessment methods.

Country of Residence

Lender appetite varies significantly by country. Applicants in established expat destinations such as the UAE, USA, Singapore, Hong Kong, Switzerland, and Qatar generally find multiple lending options. Those in countries with currency restrictions or political instability may face reduced lender availability.

Unique Challenges for First-Time Expat Buyers

First-time expat buyers face challenges that distinguish them from both UK-based first-time buyers and experienced overseas property owners.

No UK Credit History

Many first-time expat buyers have lived overseas for years or have never resided in the UK, resulting in absent or limited UK credit footprint. Unlike returning expats with historical UK credit data, first-time buyers may have no domestic credit record whatsoever. Specialist lenders address this through international credit assessment and alternative verification methods.

No Existing Property Equity

Experienced property owners can leverage existing UK property for remortgage, equity release, or sale proceeds. First-time buyers lack this advantage, relying entirely on accumulated savings for deposits. This often requires longer preparation periods to build sufficient funds.

Unfamiliarity with UK Property Market

First-time buyers may lack knowledge of regional price variations, property types, conveyancing processes, and market conditions. This unfamiliarity can complicate property selection and increase reliance on professional advisers for guidance.

Foreign Currency Deposit Verification

Deposits accumulated overseas in foreign currencies require clear documentation of legitimate source. Lenders scrutinise deposit origins carefully, and transfers from overseas accounts involve currency conversion costs and exchange rate considerations.

Expert Insight: “Having lived overseas myself, I know how frustrating it is to navigate UK systems from abroad, especially when the stakes are this high. First-time expat buyers often come to me after wasting months approaching high street banks that were never going to lend to them. Getting the lender match right the first time matters enormously, that’s where specialist knowledge makes the difference.” – Justin Whitelock, Managing Director of Mortgage London

Additional Considerations

Limited Company Structures

Many expat investors consider purchasing through a limited company structure rather than in personal names. According to Hamptons research (March 2025), over 680,000 properties across England and Wales are now held in limited company structures, with approximately 70-75% of new buy-to-let purchases going into company ownership. A record 61,517 new limited companies were established for this purpose in 2024 alone, a 23% increase on the previous year.

Companies can deduct mortgage interest as a business expense before calculating corporation tax liability (currently 19-25% depending on profit levels, per GOV.UK Corporation Tax guidance). This contrasts with individual landlords, who face significant restrictions on mortgage interest relief under Section 24 of the Finance Act 2015. These restrictions were phased in between April 2017 and April 2020, and came into full effect from the 2020/21 tax year. Individual landlords can now only claim a 20% basic-rate tax credit on mortgage interest payments, regardless of their actual tax band. 

This means higher-rate (40%) and additional-rate (45%) taxpayers cannot claim relief proportional to their tax rate, a structural disadvantage that has driven 70-75% of new buy-to-let purchases into company ownership structures. For expats with complex international tax situations, company structures may provide clearer separation between personal and investment finances.

However, company purchases involve additional costs including incorporation fees, ongoing accountancy requirements, and compliance obligations. Mortgage products for limited company purchases often carry higher interest rates than personal borrowing. First-time buyers considering this route benefit from professional tax advice to assess whether the structure suits their circumstances.

Non-resident companies purchasing residential investment property face specific SDLT considerations. While a 17% flat rate of SDLT applies to company purchases of residential property exceeding £500,000, most buy-to-let acquisitions qualify for relief from this rate where the property is purchased for a qualifying property rental business (letting to unconnected third parties). In such cases, companies instead pay standard SDLT rates plus the 5% additional dwelling surcharge, and non-resident companies pay a further 2% non-resident surcharge on top. For example, a non-resident company purchasing a £400,000 buy-to-let property would pay SDLT at standard rates plus 7% (5% additional dwelling + 2% non-resident), not the 17% flat rate. This combined surcharge structure means company purchases do not reduce SDLT costs compared to individual purchases, the primary advantage remains the full mortgage interest deductibility against corporation tax.

Property Type: New Build vs Established

First-time expat buyers often weigh new build properties against established homes. New builds typically offer modern specifications, energy efficiency, lower initial maintenance requirements, and developer warranties. However, purchase prices often carry premiums over comparable existing properties.

Established properties may offer better value and greater variety, though renovation requirements and ongoing maintenance need consideration. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements continue evolving for rental properties, with minimum standards applying to new tenancies. Properties with lower EPC ratings may require improvement works, affecting both purchase decisions and ongoing costs.

For overseas buyers managing properties remotely, both options require consideration of maintenance arrangements and professional property management where applicable.

Returning Expats: Planning Ahead

Expats planning to return to the UK within one to three years may find additional mortgage options available. Some lenders specifically cater to returning expats, offering products that bridge the gap between overseas employment and UK relocation.

Returning expat mortgages may allow purchase completion before physical relocation, enabling buyers to secure property whilst overseas income remains in place. Documentation typically includes evidence of planned return, such as employment contracts, visa applications, or relocation correspondence.

Planning property purchases around return timelines can provide advantages, as lenders may view imminent UK residence favourably when assessing applications. This approach requires careful coordination between property completion, relocation logistics, and mortgage arrangements.

Why navigate this alone?

Most first-time expat buyers spend weeks approaching the wrong lenders, only to face rejection or unfavourable terms. Many high street banks won’t even consider non-residents, and discovering this after weeks of paperwork is costly and demoralising.

Justin Whitelock has spent years building relationships with specialist lenders who actually want expat business. He knows their criteria inside out, which means faster approvals, better rates, and no wasted applications. As someone who’s lived the expat experience himself, he understands the challenges you’re facing in a way that most UK-based advisers simply don’t.

Get clarity in one conversation
Contact Mortgage London for a free consultation and find out exactly where you stand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Non-residents can purchase property in the UK without legal restriction. Both UK nationals living abroad and foreign nationals may buy freehold or leasehold property throughout England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. However, financing options differ from UK residents, with many high street banks declining non-resident applications. Specialist expat lenders, international bank divisions, and private banks typically provide mortgage options for overseas buyers. Non-resident purchasers in England and Northern Ireland face a 2% Stamp Duty Land Tax surcharge on residential property purchases, payable in addition to standard rates. This surcharge applies to buyers who have spent fewer than 183 days in the UK during the 12 months preceding the transaction.

Non-UK residents can obtain mortgages through specialist lenders with appetite for overseas borrowers. Eligibility depends on factors including country of residence, nationality, income currency, employment type, and deposit availability. Lenders typically require deposits of 25-40% for non-resident applications, higher than UK-resident requirements, though some specialist providers offer more favourable terms for well-qualified applicants. Foreign currency income is commonly accepted, though lenders apply exchange rate discounts of 20-25% when calculating affordability. UK credit history helps but is not essential, as many specialist providers assess international credit records and overseas payment history instead. Working with specialist brokers helps identify lenders suited to specific overseas circumstances.

First-time expat buyers generally require deposits ranging from 25-40% of the property value, translating to loan-to-value ratios of 60-75%, though requirements vary by lender and individual circumstances. This compares to typical UK-resident first-time buyer deposits of 5-15%. Higher deposit requirements reflect the additional risk assessment lenders apply to non-resident borrowers with foreign currency income and limited UK credit history. The deposit source must be clearly documented, with lenders requesting evidence of savings accumulation over time. Gift deposits from family members are generally acceptable with appropriate gift letters confirming no repayment expectation. Some specialist lenders offer higher LTV ratios up to 80-85% for well-qualified applicants with strong income profiles.

UK credit history is not essential for all first-time expat mortgage applications. Many specialist lenders assess international credit records, overseas payment history, and employment stability as alternatives to UK credit data. First-time buyers who have lived abroad for extended periods or have never resided in the UK commonly lack domestic credit footprint, which specialist lenders accommodate through alternative verification methods. Evidence of responsible financial behaviour overseas (such as rental payments, existing mortgage performance in other countries, or credit card management) can support applications. Higher deposits may be required where no UK credit history exists, and some lenders request references from overseas banks.

The choice between buy-to-let and residential depends on individual circumstances, return timeline intentions, and financial objectives. Residential mortgages suit buyers with clear plans to occupy the property personally or house immediate family members, though occupancy restrictions limit flexibility. Buy-to-let mortgages offer greater flexibility for expats with uncertain return timelines, accommodating tenants, family members, or future personal use. Buy-to-let applications are typically assessed on rental income rather than personal income, potentially providing more options for borrowers whose foreign currency earnings face heavy discounting. However, buy-to-let purchases incur higher Stamp Duty costs, including the 5% additional property surcharge alongside the 2% non-resident surcharge.

First-time buyer Stamp Duty relief in England and Northern Ireland (following the April 2025 changes) provides 0% on the first £300,000 and 5% on the portion from £300,001 to £500,000 for qualifying purchases. Critically, relief is only available if the buyer intends to occupy the property as their main residence, it does not apply to buy-to-let or investment purchases. If the purchase price exceeds £500,000, first-time buyer relief is lost entirely and standard SDLT rates apply to the full purchase price. Non-resident status does not disqualify expats from claiming first-time buyer relief on qualifying main-residence purchases. However, the 2% non-resident surcharge applies to each SDLT band (resulting in effective rates of 2% and 7% rather than 0% and 5%), meaning total costs are substantially higher than for UK-resident first-time buyers.

Expats planning to return to the UK within one to three years may find additional lender options available. Some providers specifically cater to returning expats, offering products that bridge overseas employment and UK relocation. These arrangements may allow property purchases to complete before physical return, securing properties whilst overseas income documentation remains current. Imminent UK residence can be viewed favourably by lenders during application assessment. Documentation supporting return intentions (such as employment contracts, visa applications, or relocation correspondence) typically strengthens applications. Once resident in the UK, borrowers gain access to standard UK mortgage products upon remortgage, potentially securing more competitive terms.

The typical timeline from initial enquiry to completion ranges from 8-12 weeks for first-time expat mortgage applications. Factors affecting timescales include documentation complexity, property chain length, lender processing times, and overseas document verification requirements. Agreements in Principle can often be obtained within days, providing confidence when making property offers. The formal application, valuation, and underwriting stages typically require 4-6 weeks, with conveyancing running concurrently. First-time buyers unfamiliar with UK processes may experience slightly longer timelines as they navigate new procedures. Time zone differences rarely cause significant delays with experienced lenders. Complex circumstances such as self-employment or multiple income sources may extend the timeline.

Important Considerations

First-time expat buyers face additional complexities including higher deposit requirements, limited lender availability, and no existing UK property equity to leverage. Non-resident purchasers may face Stamp Duty Land Tax surcharges, and first-time buyer relief only applies to properties intended as a main residence, not buy-to-let purchases. Tax treatment for non-UK residents differs from UK residents and depends on individual circumstances. 

Working with a specialist expat mortgage broker can help navigate these complexities and identify lenders suited to your specific situation. Contact Mortgage London for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your circumstances.

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The information and data provided in this blog are of a general nature and have been prepared using our best endeavours and understanding at the time of writing. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions. The content does not constitute a formal recommendation and is provided for guidance and informational purposes only.  

If you are in any doubt, you should seek independent advice from a relevant and suitably qualified professional with experience in cross-border matters before taking any action based on the information contained in this blog.