Relocation Guide for International Buyers & Expats

Relocating to Washington, DC

Updated On: October 2026

Relocating to Washington, DC from abroad? This guide covers what it is like to live here as an international buyer or expat: the community and neighborhoods international residents favor, where to eat, how the market looks today, and how the buying process works for non-US citizens. Claude Labbe, a REALTOR® with Douglas Elliman Real Estate at 1027 33rd St NW in Georgetown, Washington DC, helps international buyers and expats make these decisions with clarity, discretion, and thoughtful execution.

The Community

Washington DC's International Community

Washington DC is one of the most international cities in the United States. Nearly a quarter of the DC metro population is foreign-born, more than 168 languages are spoken across the region, and 176 embassies call the city home. Whatever your country of origin, you will find a community, a cultural center, and a familiar grocery store not far from your front door.

Walkability is a big part of the appeal. DC's overall Walk Score is 77, and the neighborhoods international residents favor score far higher: Dupont Circle at 98, Capitol Hill at 88. Daily errands, schools, and restaurants are within easy reach on foot in the city's walkable core.

For families, the region offers a strong set of international schools, including the Washington International School in Cleveland Park, the British International School of Washington in Georgetown, the Lycee Rochambeau French International School in Bethesda, the German International School in Potomac, and the public charter DC International School.

Embassy Row mansions along Massachusetts Avenue NW in Washington DC on a golden autumn afternoon

Dupont Circle & Kalorama

The heart of Embassy Row along Massachusetts Avenue, with historic mansions, global restaurants, and a Walk Score of 98.

Georgetown

Waterfront dining, university energy, high-end shopping, and the British International School of Washington along the Potomac.

Foggy Bottom

Home to the State Department, George Washington University, and the World Bank and IMF. Heavily diplomatic and walkable.

Woodley Park & Cleveland Park

Tree-lined, family-friendly streets near Rock Creek Park, the Smithsonian National Zoo, and top international schools.

Capitol Hill

The political center with the city's largest historic residential district, popular with diplomats and staffers. Walk Score 88.

Adams Morgan

A cosmopolitan crossroads with Central and South American, Caribbean, African, and European communities and diverse dining.

Best Restaurants

Where to Eat in Georgetown and Beyond

Candlelit tables and warm brass lighting inside an upscale Georgetown restaurant at dusk

The DC dining scene is one of the best reasons to move here. From white-tablecloth institutions to neighborhood standbys, the range of cuisines reflects the city's international character. These are a few of the highly rated spots near Georgetown and the surrounding neighborhoods that locals and newcomers return to again and again.

Ratings below are drawn from public review platforms and current as of this writing. Claude is happy to tailor recommendations to your tastes and budget when you arrive, so ask him for the full list.

Filomena Ristorante

Italian

A beloved Georgetown institution on Wisconsin Avenue known for handmade pasta and generous portions. 4.4-star rating.

1063 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC

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1789 Restaurant

Classic American

A Georgetown classic in a Federal-era townhouse, serving refined American fare since 1962. 4.4-star rating.

1226 36th St NW, Washington, DC

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Rasika West End

Modern Indian

Award-winning modern Indian cuisine in the West End, minutes from Georgetown. 4.4-star rating.

1190 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC

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CUT D.C. by Wolfgang Puck

Steakhouse

A polished steakhouse from Wolfgang Puck in the heart of Georgetown. 4.4-star rating.

1050 31st St NW, Washington, DC

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Osteria Mozza DC

Italian

The Nancy Silverton and Joe Bastianich restaurant on M Street, famous for its mozzarella bar. 4.3-star rating.

3276 M St NW, Washington, DC

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Das Ethiopian Cuisine

Ethiopian

A neighborhood favorite on 28th Street NW serving authentic Ethiopian food in a warm setting. 4.3-star rating.

1201 28th St NW, Washington, DC

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Market Conditions

The DC Market Right Now

$677K

DC Median Home Price

3 months ending Aug 2026, down about 1.8% YoY · Redfin

~57

Median Days on Market

DC homes, 3 months ending Aug 2026 · Redfin

4.8

Months of Supply, DC

A near-balanced market as active listings rise

7.28%

30-Year Fixed Mortgage

Avg. first week of October 2026 · Freddie Mac

The Washington DC market is cooling in activity, not in price. Inventory has climbed roughly 33% year over year, and the District now sits near a balanced market with about 4.8 months of supply. Well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods still draw strong demand, while condos offer more room for negotiation. For a fuller picture, see the DC Metro market report and the October 2026 market update.

FAQ

Questions International Buyers Ask

Can a foreign national buy property in Washington DC?

Yes. There is no US citizenship, visa, green card, or residency requirement to buy property in Washington DC. Buying property does not grant immigration status or the right to reside in the US, so be clear on your visa situation separately. Cash purchases are the simplest path for non-residents.

Can I get a mortgage as a non-US resident?

Expats living in the US on work visas with a Social Security Number or ITIN and a US credit file can often use conventional or ITIN mortgage programs. Foreign nationals living abroad typically need foreign national (non-QM) loans, which usually require roughly 25% to 30% down, documentation of foreign income and assets, and often an ITIN for tax reporting. Cash remains the most straightforward route.

How does the closing process work for an international buyer in DC?

DC is an attorney state, so a licensed DC attorney or settlement agent must conduct the closing, typically at a title company office. If you cannot attend in person, you can sign remotely using a power of attorney notarized in your home country or a remote online notarization where accepted.

What taxes apply when I buy a home in DC?

In DC the buyer typically pays the recordation tax and the seller pays the transfer tax, each 1.1% for properties under $400,000 and 1.45% above that, though these are negotiable in the contract. Once the property earns rental income or is sold, US tax rules including FIRPTA withholding can apply. Consult a US tax advisor before buying.

Which neighborhoods are best for international families?

Dupont Circle and Kalorama sit at the heart of Embassy Row. Georgetown is a longtime expat favorite near the British International School. Woodley Park and Cleveland Park are family-friendly and close to the Washington International School. Capitol Hill is popular with diplomats. Each offers a different balance of schools, walkability, and price.

Is now a good time to buy in Washington DC?

For many buyers, yes. Prices have leveled slightly, inventory has grown, and homes are taking a bit longer to sell, which means more choices and more room to negotiate than in recent years. Mortgage rates near 7.3% keep monthly payments elevated, so run your numbers and get pre-qualified early.

Mortgage Calculator

Estimate Your Monthly Payment

A quick estimate of principal and interest plus property tax and insurance. This is a planning tool, not a lender quote. International buyers should plan for a larger down payment (often 25% to 30%) on foreign national loans.

Estimates use standard amortization and do not include condo fees, HOA dues, mortgage insurance, or the recordation and transfer taxes discussed above. For a precise figure tied to your situation, get a quote from a lender who understands foreign national lending.

Planning a move to Washington?

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