Florida ranks as the number one destination for international real estate investment in the United States. South Florida concentrates the bulk of that demand — driven by buyers from Venezuela, Colombia, Argentina, Mexico, and across Latin America looking to preserve capital, generate dollar-denominated rental income, or secure a foothold in one of the world's most resilient markets.

If you're considering buying from abroad, the process differs in a few key ways from a domestic purchase. Here's everything you need to know before you begin.

You Don't Need to Live in the U.S. — or Even Visit

The most common misconception among international buyers is that purchasing real estate in the U.S. requires residency or physical presence. It doesn't. Many of our clients across Latin America have closed on Florida properties entirely remotely — through electronic signatures and, when needed, a power of attorney notarized at a U.S. consulate in their home country.

No Visa or Immigration Status Required

Foreign nationals can buy property in Florida freely — no visa, green card, or Social Security number needed. The only document you'll need is an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number from the IRS) if you plan to rent the property and declare income in the U.S. Obtaining an ITIN is a straightforward process that doesn't affect your immigration status in any way.

Financing Options for International Buyers

Most international buyers purchase with cash, which simplifies the transaction significantly. Some U.S. lenders offer foreign national mortgage programs — typically requiring 30–40% down, proof of verifiable foreign income, and a strong credit history. Rates and approval criteria vary widely by institution.

A frequently overlooked alternative: many pre-construction developments in Miami offer developer-backed installment plans — typically 20–30% at signing, with the balance spread across the construction period. This lets international buyers enter the market without traditional bank financing while building equity from day one.

The Buying Process, Step by Step

  1. Property selection — We identify the right development or resale property based on your investment goals, budget, and expected timeline.
  2. Offer and contract — Signed electronically. Your deposit is held in a regulated escrow account, fully protected under Florida law.
  3. Due diligence — Title search, legal review, and inspection where applicable.
  4. Closing — Documents are signed remotely or at a U.S. consulate. The property is recorded in your name — or in a U.S. LLC, if that's your preferred structure.

Taxes Every Foreign Buyer Should Know

  • Property tax: Annual, paid to the county — approximately 1–2% of assessed value.
  • FIRPTA: When you sell, the buyer must withhold 15% of the sale price as a tax prepayment to the IRS. This is reconciled when you file your U.S. return — you typically receive a significant portion back depending on your actual capital gain.
  • Rental income tax: Subject to U.S. federal income tax. A U.S.-based accountant familiar with international buyers can structure this efficiently.

Structuring tip: Many international buyers hold their Florida property through a U.S. LLC — this provides liability protection and simplifies estate planning for non-resident owners. Discuss this option with a real estate attorney before signing. We refer our clients to trusted professionals who work with Latin American buyers regularly.

Before finalizing your budget, make sure to account for closing costs in Florida, which typically add 2–4% on top of the purchase price and are often overlooked by first-time buyers.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

We've guided Latin American investors through the Florida market for over 20 years. We know the developers, the buildings, the legal nuances, and the right questions to ask at every stage. Contact us for a private, no-pressure consultation — in English or Spanish, from wherever you are.