A Foreign National’s Guide to Buying Residential Property in Florida

Key legal milestones, financing options, and tax considerations every non-resident buyer should know before acquiring real estate across Florida.

Florida remains the number one destination in the United States for international property acquisitions. Investors and families from Latin America, Europe, and Canada are drawn by the state’s economic dynamism, world-class infrastructure, and solid capital preservation.

No U.S. Citizenship Required

One of the greatest advantages of the U.S. real estate framework is its accessibility: foreign nationals can purchase, own, and lease property with straightforward protocols. You do not need a permanent visa or U.S. citizenship to acquire title under your personal name or a corporate entity.

Financing & Legal Due Diligence

• Foreign National Loans: U.S. lenders offer competitive financing options typically requiring a 30% to 40% down payment without a domestic credit history.
• Corporate Structures: Holding assets via a Florida Limited Liability Company (LLC) often provides liability protection and simplified tax management.
• FIRPTA Awareness: Understanding potential withholding rules upon future resale allows for proactive tax planning from day one.

Navigating cross-border transactions requires clear bilingual advisory and coordinate action with trusted title attorneys and tax advisors.