US Banks That Finance Homes in Mexico

Cash dominates Mexican residential home purchases at a staggering 90%, which creates an interesting opportunity for US banks that finance homes in Mexico. The Mexican real estate market still prefers cash, but buyers now have more financing options through traditional banks and specialized lenders.

Mexican mortgages today provide more flexibility than ever. Cross-border loans begin at $100,000 and can cover up to 70% of property values. Interest rates usually fall between 10% to 15%. Intercam Bank’s Dream Loan program stands out with competitive rates of 7-9% for properties worth $250,000 or more. This detailed guide gets into the latest options to finance a home in Mexico. It breaks down everything from qualification requirements to regional factors that potential buyers should think over.

Top US Banks Offering Home Loans in Mexico for 2025

Americans looking to finance homes in Mexico need to look beyond regular banking options. US banks rarely get involved directly, but Americans still have several ways to finance their dream home in Mexico.

Major commercial banks with cross-border programs

American banks usually shy away from financing international property purchases, especially in Mexico. Notwithstanding that, some global banking institutions with US operations help customers buy Mexican property.

HSBC International helps US citizens get mortgages in select countries, including Mexico, thanks to their global presence. Their international banking division helps Americans guide through foreign property markets.

Barclays International creates specialized mortgage solutions for US citizens, mainly focusing on UK properties. But their international banking services sometimes help Mexican property purchases through their global network.

Standard Chartered Global Banking completes the list of major commercial options with international mortgage programs for American customers wanting to finance property abroad. They help with original purchases and refinancing options.

Most major banks’ cross-border mortgage programs typically:

• Just need minimum loan amounts of $100,000
• Finance up to 70% of the property’s value
• Offer higher interest rates than domestic US mortgages
• Just need substantial documentation including property verification

Specialized mortgage lenders for Mexican properties

MoXi (formerly Global Mortgage) is a fully regulated financial institution in both the US and Mexico, backed by billions in capital. MoXi specifically helps US citizens buy or refinance residential property in Mexico, offering a mortgage experience similar to US processes.

MEXLend is Mexico’s prominent residential mortgage broker with over 20 years of experience. Through strategic collaborations with local real estate agencies and Mexican lenders, MEXLend offers the widest range of peso-denominated loan programs to international buyers. It also provides an exclusive US Dollar Loan Program for all nationalities buying vacation homes in Mexico.

Yave leads the way in cross-border loans, creating mortgage solutions for non-Mexican residents without Mexican citizenship or residency requirements. Their application process needs a minimum 15% down payment, good credit history in the applicant’s home country, and proof of stable income.

Cross Border Investment, 20 years old, brings unique experience supporting foreign buyers with exclusive mortgage products.

Credit unions with international financing options

United Nations Federal Credit Union (UNFCU) is a chance for qualifying members. Their international home loans program lets members finance homes outside the US without collateral requirements.

UNFCU’s international property loans feature:

• Borrowing up to 90% of property value, subject to qualifications
• Loan terms ranging from six months to 15 years
• Fixed rates starting at 10.75% APR
• Specialized understanding of international employment contracts
• Decision timelines as short as five business days after documentation submission

People who can’t qualify with specialized lenders or credit unions have other financing options. Coldwell Banker La Costa mentions that seller financing works well, with three main methods: traditional mortgage liens, reserve of domain restrictions on title transfers, and trust deed guarantees through Mexico’s fideicomiso system.

Over the last several years, specialized lenders have filled gaps where traditional banks hesitate to help. These cross-border financing solutions make Mexican real estate more available to American buyers who want alternatives to all-cash deals.

Qualifying for a Mexico Mortgage Through US Lenders

Getting financing for Mexican property through US lenders needs you to meet specific criteria. These requirements are different from regular domestic mortgages. A clear understanding of what lenders want will help speed up your application process.

Credit score requirements

Your credit profile is the foundation to qualify for a Mexico mortgage through US lenders. Cross-border lenders want borrowers to have good credit history in their home country. American citizens need a FICO score of 680 or higher. Your international credit history plays a bigger role here than with domestic loans.

MoXi, formerly Global Mortgage, looks at credit profiles much like US mortgage underwriters do. They’ve adapted their approach specifically for cross-border deals. They review both your FICO score and overall credit patterns. Yave makes it clear – you must show “good credit history in your home country” as one of their main qualifying factors.

Income verification process

Income verification is the life-blood of mortgage qualification. This holds true no matter where the property is. US lenders want proof of stable, verifiable income for Mexican property loans. To name just one example, see Yave’s requirement – you need a minimum monthly income of USD 1,170 (about MXN 22,000).

Lenders will review:

• How stable your employment is (they look for consistent work history)
• Your regular income deposits (some want deposits that cover 200% of your monthly payment)
• Recent years’ tax returns
• Bank statements that show steady income

America Mortgages stands out from other US-based lenders. They let borrowers qualify based on the property’s rental income potential instead of personal income.

Property eligibility criteria

US lenders won’t finance just any Mexican property. The type and location of property substantially affect eligibility. Mexican banks usually finance only existing homes with clear titles. New construction or raw land don’t make the cut.

Lenders have these key property requirements:

• Property value minimums (MoXi wants properties worth USD 250,000 or more)
• Special rules for beachfront properties
• Some lenders only work with pre-existing homes
• Professional property appraisal is a must

Loan-to-value ratios range from 60-90%, based on the lender and property type. MoXi gives loans up to 65% of the appraised value. Mexican banks are more conservative – they might limit foreign buyers to just 50% of the home’s value.

Documentation needed for application

You’ll need plenty of paperwork to prove your financial stability and identity. The essential documents include:

• Valid passport or government ID
• Recent bank statements showing you can make the down payment (usually 2-6 months worth)
• Previous years’ tax returns
• Employment verification letter or income proof
• Credit reports from your home country
• Address proof like utility bills

MoXi has a special service for cross-border loans. Their pre-qualification process gives you an answer within 24 hours. This helps you know your budget before you start house hunting.

Mexican property financing through US lenders needs the same careful financial review as domestic mortgages. The international aspect just adds extra steps. Your chances of approval go up when you prepare your documents early and understand what lenders need.

Comparing Mexico Mortgage Rates and Terms from US Banks

US banks that finance homes in Mexico have different standards for mortgage rates and terms. You need to understand the digital world and what lenders offer. Lenders vary by a lot in their interest rates, loan-to-value ratios, term lengths, and fee structures.

Current interest rate ranges

Mexican property mortgages have higher rates than US domestic properties. Specialized US lenders like MoXi (formerly Global Mortgage) offer rates between 7-9% to qualified borrowers, though market conditions affect these rates. Three main factors determine these rates: FICO score, loan-to-value ratio, and loan size.

Yave sets fixed rates of 11.66% for their cross-border mortgages. Traditional Mexican banks have minimum mortgage rates of 9.36% as of January 2025. Mexico’s central bank cut its standard interest rate to 9.00% in March 2025. This rate came down from an all-time high of 11.25% in March 2023.

Loan-to-value ratios for Mexican properties

US lenders typically offer these loan-to-value (LTV) ratios:

• 50-70% through most Mexican banks serving foreigners
• Up to 65% for MoXi’s specialized cross-border loans
• 50% for cash-out refinancing through MexLend
• Up to 90% for qualified permanent residents in certain economic conditions

So, most buyers should have a minimum 30-35% down payment ready when financing through US institutions. MoXi needs at least 35% down. Yave stands out by asking for just 15% down.

Term length options

Mexican property mortgages in 2025 offer flexible terms. MoXi provides fully amortized terms up to 30 years with fixed interest rates for the entire loan period. Cross-border mortgage programs usually offer:

• Short-term options from three years
• Mid-range options of 15-20 years
• Long-term options up to 30 years

Lenders finalize rates 48-96 hours before closing. Borrowers can track their rate throughout the escrow period. Current Mexican mortgages no longer include balloon payments as a standard feature.

Fee structures and closing costs

Closing costs are a major part of financing a home in Mexico. These costs run between 5-10% of the purchase price for mortgage transactions. Properties in Mexico’s restricted zone need a budget of 6-8% of the purchase price for closing costs.

Common fees include:

• Notary fees (1-2% for properties under $300,000)
• Acquisition tax (2-3% of property value)
• Property registration (0.2-0.5%)
• Credit referencing fees
• Formal property valuation fees
• Insurance requirements (both life and property insurance)

Currency fluctuations can affect your debt payments when taking loans in Mexican pesos. US lenders complete the underwriting process quickly, making them “faster than cash” in many deals.

Application Process: How to Finance a Home in Mexico

Getting financing through US banks for a Mexican property follows a well-laid-out path that is different by a lot from domestic mortgage processes. Preparing for these differences ahead of time can save buyers time and frustration.

Pre-approval steps

A pre-qualification gives prospective buyers a realistic budget before they hunt for property. This process usually needs:

• Financial information submission (income, debt, assets)
• Identification documents (passport, proof of address)
• Recent bank statements showing enough funds for down payment
• Tax returns from previous years

Specialized lenders like MoXi can complete mortgage pre-approval within 24 hours after they receive a complete application. This assessment helps buyers understand their purchasing power before they make offers.

Property valuation procedures

Professional property valuation, known as an “Avalúo” in Mexico, is a crucial part of the mortgage process. This appraisal:

• Confirms the property’s current market value
• Sets the maximum loan amount based on loan-to-value ratios
• Checks property condition and amenities
• Looks at location factors that affect value

The property’s location affects valuation by a lot. Prime areas like tourist destinations command premium values. The appraisal protects both buyer and lender by making sure the property serves as good collateral.

Closing process with US lenders

US lenders coordinate multiple steps with several parties to close a Mexican property purchase. The process has:

• Full title searches to verify clean ownership
• Work with the Notario Público (a specialized attorney appointed by the government)
• Trust setup if the property lies in restricted zones
• Document preparation and review by all parties

Foreign buyers who purchase in Mexico’s restricted zones (beaches, borders) need to set up a bank trust (fideicomiso). Most US lenders’ legal teams handle this added complexity.

Timeline expectations

Buyers should plan for a 60-90 day timeline from application to closing. MoXi’s fastest closing took just 23 days. Most transactions take longer because of:

• Property transfer logistics (especially with fideicomiso transfers)
• Documentation verification procedures
• Multiple party coordination
• Regional requirements and restrictions

Things outside buyer control—like seller documentation, property type, and location—can change timelines a lot. Smart buyers write purchase contracts with 90-day closing periods and add 30-day extension options.

Regional Considerations When Financing Property in Mexico

Your property’s location significantly influences financing options from US lenders for Mexican real estate. The geographical position shapes legal ownership structures and loan terms.

Beachfront vs. inland property financing differences

US lenders set stricter financing terms for coastal properties than inland homes. Beachfront property loans usually need:

• Higher down payments (35-50% compared to 30-35% for inland properties)
• Additional documentation to verify property boundaries
• Lower loan-to-value ratios than inland properties

Properties near the beach often lie within Mexico’s restricted zones. This creates extra legal requirements that shape financing structures. Properties away from the coast outside restricted zones might qualify for simpler financing with fewer legal hurdles.

Popular tourist destination lending policies

Tourist hotspots like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Tulum have better lending options. These areas attract specialized lenders who understand local market dynamics.

MoXi and other cross-border lenders have simplified processes in popular tourism markets. Tulum’s property values have grown 10-15% yearly based on recent reports. This growth makes the area attractive to lenders.

Tourist destination properties often qualify for special programs. Intercam Bank’s Dream Loan needs minimum purchase prices of $250,000 and offers interest rates between 7-9%.

Restricted zone financing requirements

Mexican law prohibits foreigners from directly owning property within 50 kilometers of coastlines and 100 kilometers of international borders. Foreign buyers must use a fideicomiso (bank trust) to guide through this limitation.

A Mexican bank holds legal title while foreign buyers keep all ownership rights. These rights include selling, renting, remodeling, or passing down the property. The trust needs government approval and costs $500-600 in yearly administration fees.

The fideicomiso isn’t a 99-year lease, contrary to common belief. The trust starts with a 50-year term and can continue indefinitely. This ensures lasting property rights for foreign buyers and their heirs.

US lenders know how to handle fideicomiso requirements for Mexican properties. They usually become primary beneficiaries until the loan is paid off.

US lenders now give Americans more ways to finance Mexican properties. Cash deals still lead the market. However, lenders like MoXi, MEXLend, and Yave have stepped in with rates between 7-15%. These cross-border options have made Mexican real estate more available than ever.

Location matters a lot, especially when properties sit in restricted zones that need fideicomiso arrangements. Getting financing approved needs good preparation. You’ll need a strong credit score and proper income documents. The rules can change based on where you’re buying. Buyers should plan for bigger down payments than they’d need in the US – usually 30-50% of the property value.

The Mexican property mortgage scene keeps changing. Specialized lenders have jumped in where traditional banks wouldn’t go. American buyers can get their Mexican dream home financed through several US-based options if they have the right paperwork and meet the requirements. Smart buyers look beyond cash-only deals. They check out these new financing options while keeping their situation and property location in mind.

Here are some FAQs about US banks that finance homes in Mexico:

Can you finance a house in Mexico from the US?

Yes, you can finance a house in Mexico from the US, but it usually involves working with specialized lenders or US banks that finance homes in Mexico. Some US-based financial institutions offer cross-border mortgage programs designed for Americans purchasing property in Mexico. The process may require higher down payments and stricter qualifications compared to domestic US mortgages.

What banks in the US are affiliated with banks in Mexico?

Several US banks have partnerships or affiliations with Mexican banks, which can simplify cross-border transactions. For example, BBVA USA (now part of PNC) has connections to BBVA México, and Citibank operates in both countries. If you’re looking for US banks that finance homes in Mexico, these institutions may provide useful resources or mortgage referrals for properties in Mexico.

Do US banks offer mortgages on foreign property?

Most traditional US banks do not provide mortgages for foreign properties, including homes in Mexico. However, some niche lenders and US banks that finance homes in Mexico offer cross-border mortgage solutions. Another option is securing financing through Mexican banks or international lenders familiar with Mexico’s real estate market.

What credit score is needed to buy a house in Mexico?

Mexican lenders typically require a credit score of at least 650, though this can vary by institution. If you’re working with US banks that finance homes in Mexico, they may consider your US credit history but could also request additional financial documentation. A stronger credit score improves approval odds and may secure better interest rates.

What is the mortgage interest rate in Mexico?

Mortgage interest rates in Mexico generally range between 8% and 12%, depending on the lender and loan terms. While higher than US rates, some US banks that finance homes in Mexico might offer more competitive cross-border financing options. Comparing rates from both Mexican and US-affiliated lenders is advisable before making a decision.

How much of a down payment do you need to buy a house in Mexico?

Down payments in Mexico usually range from 20% to 50%, with higher requirements for properties in restricted zones near borders or coastlines. If you’re using US banks that finance homes in Mexico, they may have similar or slightly lower down payment requirements, but additional fees or insurance costs could apply.

Does Chase bank exist in Mexico?

Chase Bank does not have retail branches in Mexico, though it offers international banking services for US clients with financial activities in the country. For financing a home in Mexico, you may need to explore US banks that finance homes in Mexico or local Mexican lenders, as Chase does not directly provide mortgages for Mexican real estate.

What is the best bank for expats in Mexico?

Many expats recommend HSBC México, Banamex (Citibanamex), and Scotiabank México for their expat-friendly services. Some US banks that finance homes in Mexico also partner with these institutions, making cross-border banking more convenient. These banks often provide bilingual support and accounts tailored to foreigners.

Does US Bank operate in Mexico?

US Bank does not have physical branches in Mexico, but it offers international banking services for US customers. If you need a mortgage for Mexican property, you may have to work with US banks that finance homes in Mexico or seek financing through Mexican banks directly, as US Bank does not offer specific mortgage products for foreign real estate.