BecomeHHThe USA offers full foreign ownership, deep liquidity and the famous 30-year fixed mortgage. Markets vary wildly — from high-tax, high-price coasts to high-yield Sun Belt metros like Austin and Miami.
Rates in late 2026 sit around 7.4–7.6% (Freddie Mac 30-year average 7.40% on 8 Oct 2026). Property tax is the highest in our database (avg ~1.6%/year) and varies by county, so always check the local rate before committing.
Market overview
The escrow/title system protects both sides: earnest money sits in escrow while inspection, appraisal and underwriting complete. Closing costs run 2–5%. Foreign buyers can purchase freely; financing without US credit history is possible via foreign-national loan programs at lower LTV and higher rates.
Popular locations:
Mortgage rates in USA (October 2026)
| Bank | Rate | Max LTV | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Chase Bank | 7.40% | 80% | www.chase.com/personal/mortgage |
| Wells Fargo | 7.53% | 80% | www.wellsfargo.com/mortgage/ |
| Bank of America | 7.60% | 75% | bankofamerica.com/mortgages |
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True cost of buying & owning
If you rent it out: Non-residents: 30% withheld on gross rent by default; electing net-basis taxation (IRC §871(d)) taxes the profit at graduated 10–37% rates — about 10–12% on a modest rental profit. Compare all countries →
Get your exact numbers with the Hidden Buying Costs and Annual Ownership Costs calculators.
Step-by-step buying process
- 1Get mortgage pre-approval
- 2Hire a buyer's agent
- 3Make an offer + earnest money deposit
- 4Home inspection & appraisal
- 5Final mortgage underwriting
- 6Title search & escrow
- 7Closing — sign & pay closing costs
- 8Receive keys — you own it!