New Member: Non-US Resident (Visa) Seeking Advice on First US Multifamily Deal

New Member: Non-US Resident (Visa) Seeking Advice on First US Multifamily Deal

Investor · Great Falls, MT · Member since 2026 · 1 post · 0 votes

Hi everyone,

I’m new to BiggerPockets and excited to learn from this community.

I’m originally from South Africa, where I own two apartment units. I’m currently working in the US on a visa (not a US resident/citizen). I’ve been educating myself on US real estate, focusing on multifamily, and I’ve started underwriting deals that could potentially be my first investment.

My situation:

•  Limited capital on my side

•  I Would need partners/investors to help me finance

•  Very new to US deal structures, financing options for non-residents, and how to properly bring on investors

•  Goal is to invest in multifamily properties in the US

I’m trying to figure out if/how this is realistic as a first deal, what common pitfalls non-residents face, and the best ways to structure things or find the right partners.

Specific questions I’m hoping for advice on:

1.  Realistic paths for non-US residents (on a visa) to get into multifamily with limited personal capital?

2.  What should I focus on while underwriting my first deals (key metrics, red flags, team members I need first)?

3.  Any tips on approaching potential partners/investors when you’re still new and have limited skin in the game?

I’m happy to share more details about the types of deals I’m looking at or answer questions. Looking forward to connecting with people who have experience with foreign/non-resident investors or starting small in multifamily.

Thanks in advance!

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  • Divin KanyamaBusiness Member
    Accountant · Seattle, WA · Member since 2025 · 342 posts · 122 votes
    5h

    @Michael Erasmus Your goal is realistic, but with limited capital and a visa, the first deal may be more about building credibility than buying a large property. Starting with a smaller multifamily, partnering with an experienced operator, or taking a defined role in someone else’s deal can help you learn the U.S. process and establish a track record. Financing is available to some foreign nationals, but expect fewer options, larger down payments, and more documentation.

    For underwriting, focus on in-place income, realistic expenses, debt coverage, reserves, deferred maintenance, taxes after purchase, and a conservative exit. Build your team early: a lender familiar with non-resident borrowers, a local broker, property manager, CPA, and attorney who understands both securities and immigration-related issues.

    When approaching partners, be upfront about your experience and capital. Bring value through strong underwriting, sourcing, local research, or operations, and clearly explain the deal, risks, roles, and returns. Avoid raising money casually—bringing in passive investors can trigger securities rules. Your South African rentals are still relevant experience, so use that background while staying humble about what is different in the U.S. Just a practical investor perspective; get legal, tax, and immigration advice before structuring a deal.

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