Foreign Buyers

International buyers frequently purchase in South Florida for lifestyle, investment, and currency diversification. The process mirrors domestic purchases in many ways — contract, inspection, title, closing — but adds FIRPTA withholding on future sale, entity ownership questions, cross-border wire compliance, and often remote signing.

Legal and tax planning

Engage a Florida real estate attorney and cross-border tax counsel early. LLC, trust, or foreign entity ownership affects lending, insurance, and U.S. tax reporting. FIRPTA requires withholding on sale proceeds when the seller is a foreign person — plan for this if you may exit within a few years.

Financing from abroad

U.S. mortgage programs for non-resident aliens exist but require larger down payments and thorough documentation of foreign income and assets. Many international buyers purchase all-cash; if you plan to finance, start lender conversations before you offer.

Wire transfers and fraud prevention

Wire fraud targeting real estate closings is widespread. Never wire funds based on email instructions alone — call the title company using a verified phone number to confirm routing and account details the day before transfer.

Remote closing

Power of attorney and mobile notary services allow closings without travel. Your attorney coordinates signing at a U.S. embassy, foreign notary, or overnight document courier depending on lender and title requirements.