Do I need a Social Security number or ITIN?

Some foreign-national programs require an ITIN, others don't. You generally do not need a Social Security number. If you'll be filing US tax returns on rental income, applying for an ITIN as part of the process is common.

How much down payment is typical?

25% is the baseline on a second home for strong files; 30–40% is common on investment properties. Higher down payments often unlock better rates.

What about credit — I have no US credit history?

Foreign-national programs use international credit reference letters (typically two letters from tier-one banks in your home country, each covering at least two years of relationship and account standing) in place of a US credit report.

Can I close in an LLC?

Yes, and many foreign investors do — particularly for rental property purchases. The LLC structure adds liability protection and can simplify estate planning. Personal guarantees are still typically required from the LLC members.

Do I need to travel to the US to close?

Not necessarily. Many lenders allow remote closings through a US consulate or embassy notary, or via mail-out closings using a notary in your home country. Specifics vary by state and lender.

How long does foreign-national underwriting take?

Plan for 30–45 days minimum once a complete file is submitted. Documents from outside the US may require translation and certification, which adds time on the front end.

Are short-term rentals like Airbnb financeable?

Some foreign-national DSCR programs allow short-term rental income qualification using 12-month operator P&L or AirDNA reports. Standard programs usually require long-term lease comparables.

Foreign-national Loans in Charleston, SC | Limits, Requirements

Non-US residents purchasing property in the United States. Asset-based or alternative-credit underwriting.

Borrowers in Charleston, South Carolina can use Foreign-national financing for primary residences in most cases, subject to the 2026 loan limit applicable to South Carolina. Talk to a licensed loan officer to confirm eligibility for your situation — credit, debt-to-income ratio, and property type all factor into approval.

Before reaching out, verify any loan officer's current licensing through NMLS Consumer Access. MLO Finder shows source-linked review snapshots where available but is not a lender and does not originate loans.

Foreign-national loans serve non-US citizens and non-US residents buying property in the United States — typically vacation homes, investment properties, or homes for adult children studying or working in the US. The borrower doesn't need a Social Security number, US credit, or US tax returns.

Foreign-national financing on a Charleston, South Carolina purchase requires a lender that actively places this specialty paper — most retail banks do not. Begin by contacting licensed loan officers serving Charleston and asking directly whether they have current foreign-national programs and what their down-payment and reserve thresholds are. Plan for 30–45 days minimum from complete file to closing, with extra time for translated documents. Verify any loan officer's current licensing through NMLS Consumer Access before applying. MLO Finder is a directory, not a lender.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a loan offer, rate quote, or commitment to lend. Verify any loan officer's current licensing through NMLS Consumer Access. MLO Finder is a directory, not a lender, and does not originate loans.

Foreign-national Loans in Charleston, SC

What this loan type means for Charleston buyers.

Who Foreign-national loans are for in Charleston.

What it takes to qualify for a Foreign-national loan.

Common myths about Foreign-national loans.

Foreign-national loan limits in South Carolina.

Helpful Guides & Resources

Licensed mortgage professionals serving Charleston.

Travis Patrick Howard

Zachary K Larichiuta

Foreign-national loan questions Charleston buyers ask.

Foreign-national financing in Charleston, SC.

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