Navigating the U.S. Mortgage System as a Latin American Buyer

Buying a home in the United States can feel overwhelming, especially if you're coming from a different financial system, like Brazil’s. As a Latin American buyer, understanding the U.S. mortgage process is crucial for making confident and informed decisions. Let’s break down a few important differences—and how working with a lender who understands both worlds can make the journey smoother.

U.S. Mortgage Basics: What You Need to Know

In the U.S., most homebuyers finance their purchase with a mortgage loan, which typically requires:

• A credit score

• Proof of income and tax returns

• A down payment (often 3%–20%)

• Employment verification

  
  

Unlike in Brazil, where inflation-adjusted loans and high interest rates are common, the U.S. offers fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages with longer terms (15 to 30 years) and more stable monthly payments.

Common Terms—Made Simple

• Pre-approval: A lender reviews your finances to estimate how much you can borrow.

• Closing costs: Fees you pay to finalize the mortgage (typically 2–5% of the loan).

• Escrow: A special account to manage property taxes and insurance.

• Underwriting: The process of reviewing loan applications to determine eligibility.

  
  

Bridging the Gap: How I Can Help

As a Brazilian who’s now a licensed lender in Miami, I know the challenges Latin American buyers face when entering the U.S. real estate market. From navigating credit history to understanding tax documentation and financing options for foreign nationals, I’m here to guide you every step of the way—in Portuguese, Spanish, or English.

Whether you’re buying your first home, investing in property, or relocating, I’ll help simplify the process, translate the jargon, and find the loan program that fits your goals.