Resources for international buyers
Buying a Florida home as a foreign national
You do not need citizenship, residency, or a special visa to own property in the United States. You need accurate information — and a team that speaks your language.
Every year, thousands of international families buy homes in South Florida — cash or financed, to live, invest, or prepare their arrival. The process is more accessible than it looks, but it has rules of its own that nobody explains clearly… until now.
This guide collects, topic by topic, what Paola walks her international clients through every week. Read it in order, or jump straight to the topic that keeps you up at night.
The guide, topic by topic
Foreign national loans: how they work, what they require, and the down payment you need.
02 FIRPTA: the tax at sale timeThe 15% withholding that surprises foreign sellers — and how to plan for it from day one.
03 Visas and residencyBuying a home does not grant a visa — but there are paths. B-2, E-2, and EB-5 without the hype.
04 Bringing money from homeInternational wires to escrow, documenting source of funds, and avoiding closing fraud.
05 Taxes for the foreign ownerRental income, capital gains, the estate tax nobody mentions — and why Florida still wins.
06 Document checklistEverything to have ready before making an offer — printable and bilingual.
Reference converter
Reference exchange rate updated daily (public source). For actual transfers, your bank or FX service sets the final rate.
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The questions that always come first
Can I buy a home in Florida without being a US resident?
Yes. US real estate is open to foreigners with no citizenship or residency restriction. With a passport and documented funds you can buy in your name or through an LLC.
Do I need to travel to the US to buy?
Not necessarily. You can tour by video, sign the contract electronically, and close by power of attorney or remote online notarization (RON). Many of Paola’s clients buy without setting foot in Florida until moving day.
Does buying property help me get residency?
On its own, no — property grants no immigration status. Investment routes like E-2 and EB-5 exist, with active-business requirements. Our visa guide explains what works and what is myth.
How much extra should I budget beyond the price?
Quick rule: 2–4% of the price in closing costs (title, recording, title insurance), plus annual property tax (~1% of value), home insurance, and HOA if applicable. Financing as a foreign national, the typical down payment is 25–30%.
Your next step
Shall we buy your Florida home?
Tell Paola your situation — country, budget, timeline — and get a concrete plan, no obligation.
