## Building Wealth: Immigrant Homeownership Trends in Boston
One of the most encouraging trends we're seeing: immigrant and first-generation American families in the Boston area are purchasing homes at higher rates than any other demographic.
### The Data (2020-2025)
**Homeownership Rates:**
- Asian Americans in Boston: 61% (up from 48% in 2020)
- Hispanic/Latino: 45% (up from 32% in 2020)
- Indian Americans: 68% (highest among all groups)
- Overall Boston: 52%
**Mortgage Originations:**
- 41% of new mortgages go to first-time buyers with immigrant backgrounds
- Average mortgage size: $425K (vs $380K overall Boston average)
- Default rate: 1.2% (vs 2.1% overall—immigrant borrowers default less!)
### Why This Matters
Homeownership is the primary wealth-building vehicle for the middle class. When immigrant families buy homes:
- They build equity instead of paying rent
- They stabilize neighborhoods
- Their children inherit real estate wealth
- They contribute to community stability
### The Challenges
Despite higher rates, immigrant borrowers face:
- **Credit History Gaps:** Shorter US credit history (even with good international history)
- **Documentation Complexity:** Self-employed, variable income, foreign income sources
- **Visa Uncertainty:** H1B, green card pending, visa-dependent
- **Discrimination:** Some lenders less comfortable with immigrant borrowers
### The Solution: Finding the Right Lender
Not all lenders are created equal. Some specialize in:
- **Bank Statement Loans:** For self-employed business owners
- **H1B Visas:** Specific programs for visa holders
- **New Credit:** First-time US borrowers
- **International Income:** Expat professionals
### Your Path to Homeownership
Whether you're:
- Self-employed professional
- H1B visa holder
- Business owner
- Recent immigrant with limited credit
...There are loan programs designed for you. The key is finding the right lender and structuring your application strategically.
### Next Steps
[Take the self-employed mortgage qualifier →](/tools/self-employed-qualifier)
[Schedule a consultation (multilingual support available) →](/contact)
[Read: "Mortgage Myths Debunked for Immigrant Families" →](/blog/mortgage-myths-immigrants)