The United States has always and continues to be a stable and welcoming market for
foreign investors.
It offers a robust legal system, tax incentives, reliable infrastructure, and access to one
of the world's best consumer markets.
The South Florida region, in particular, offers a diverse group of unique real estate
markets that attract the interest of international investors with wealth preservation,
consistent income, and long-term investment in mind.
Buying Florida Real Estate: What Foreign Investors Should Know.
In Florida, foreign nationals who invest in real estate are an important segment of the
population.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), Florida has the largest
number of foreign investors in real estate in the United States.
The volume of Florida’s existing homes purchased by foreign buyers from August
2018 to July 2019 was $16 billion—that’s 12% of the total volume of Florida’s existing-
home sales.
This certainly demonstrates foreign investors’ enthusiasm for Florida real estate. So,
what should you know before you buy?
Foreign investors are free to purchase real estate in Florida, like anywhere else in the
The United States, without any intervention from a government agency.
On the other hand, it should be noted that buying real estate in Florida in no way
confers—on any foreign investor whatsoever—special privileges or even a different
legal status.
For those who wish to stay in the United States for longer than the standard visa
allows, we advise that you contact an immigration specialist to understand the
guidelines.
As the purchase of real estate in Florida is open to foreign nationals, they can invest in
single-family homes, condominiums, and townhouses, as well as in duplexes, triplexes,
and other forms of condos.
They can buy real estate in their own name or through a legal entity.
But the ways in which a buyer purchases property can have significant tax
consequences—unless there is a homeownership exemption, real estate professionals
recommend against buying a home in your own name in order to limit liability,
minimize taxes, and ensure confidentiality.
While buying real estate in Florida is a privilege, the fact remains that some aspects
of the American real estate market and the regulations and practices of the State of
Florida requires professional support. Don’t hesitate to contact us—our experts will be
glad to assist you.