Non UK Resident/Citizen, Can Get A Mortgage To Purchase UK Real Estate? WHAT?!?!

Has anyone gone this route? 'Cause this doesn't look Kosher;

http://www.barclayswealth.com/international/mortgages-loans/non-resident-mortgages.htm#

Why do you say it doesn't look kosher? It's possible for non-residents to get mortgages in the UK.

Really? Geeta, I was under the impression that a non-citizen/non-resident would never get approval for a mortgage from any UK bank, until they have been granted indefinite leave to remain?

What didn't look above board to me, was the fact that going through the Barclays route would mean alot of middle-men, thus expenses and fees.  I'll admit that I'm a 1st timer in the real estate game, and doing a purchase outside of the US is giving me a "Maalox Moment" regarding my life's savings.
 

Did you read the small print at the bottom? It says their services are not being offered in Japan, the US or to US residents.

And from the Important Information page:

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Really? Geeta, I was under the impression that a non-citizen/non-resident would never get approval for a mortgage from any UK bank, until they have been granted indefinite leave to remain?

It might not be easy but it's definitely possible for a non-citizen or non-resident to get a mortgage. Not for your average person, but it is possible.

Thank you ksand24!

NYNewcastle, we weren't able to get a mortgage going the normal routes in 2006, because I didn't have ILR.   There are more specialist mortgage brokers out there that might be able to do it, but there will be possibly substantial fees for this 'privilege'.  All I can suggest is do your research into different mortgage providers and be up front about your situation with any banks or advisors from the get-go.  If they're not willing to consider you because of your visa status, cut your losses and move on.  Best of luck to you (we're planning to buy again this year once our former house has sold, and I'm so grateful that my immigration status will not be a factor this time around!)

Thanks austengirl! Best of luck to you. I'm looking to go the investment property route 1st (retail on ground flr/2bed flat on 1st flr) to get some income rolling.