Expat mortgages can present unique challenges, but with the right expertise, even complex cases can be resolved swiftly and efficiently.

The Client

Our client, a UK national, was in the process of relocating back to the UK from the United States with his family. They had already exchanged contracts on a new build property in the UK, based on an agreement in principle provided by a broker recommended by the property developer. 

However, with completion set to take place within the next month, they needed to secure their expat mortgage, and were experiencing several delays with their current broker.

The client’s situation presented several potential complexities:

  1. He was employed by a US firm
  2. He was within the first 3 months of his role
  3. His wife was a US national
  4. They were in the midst of an international relocation
  5. They needed to borrow £735,000 on a purchase price of £980,000 – a fairly large loan value

Time was of the essence, as the client had sold his property in the US, and his wife and children were about to fly back to the UK with him shortly following.

How We Helped

Upon initial contact with the client, we quickly assessed their situation and advised on the best option to pursue. Despite the complexities, we determined that a high street lender would still be suitable, allowing the client to access a very competitive interest rate.

  1. We correctly assessed that the wife’s spousal visa was not required for this purchase, contrary to what the previous broker had insisted upon, which was causing delays up to this point.
  2. And we were able to work with the client’s employment situation, despite him being with a US firm and in a new role – speaking to underwriters at the bank directly to smooth this problem.

Due to the client’s tight deadline, we prioritised the case and submitted the application just one day after initial contact. And just 4 working days later, both the loan and valuation were signed off by the lender – just in time for our client’s flight back to the UK and providing much-needed reassurance during a potentially stressful international move.