Buying Florida Real Estate as a foreign national is open to everyone, and this guide covers the planning steps that matter most.
Facts checked October 16, 2026 against the developer fact sheet, floor plans and offering summaries. Figures can change; the developer documents govern.
Foreign nationals can buy Florida real estate without restriction. The planning happens around tax and title, and it should happen before you sign.
How to Take Title
Options include an individual name, joint ownership, a revocable living trust, a Florida land trust, an LLC or a corporation. An LLC or corporation generally cannot claim the Florida homestead exemption. See the comparison on the buying guide.
Two Federal Rules
US-situs assets held by a nonresident face federal estate tax above a $60,000 exemption, at rates up to 40%. On resale, FIRPTA generally requires the buyer to withhold 15% of the gross price from a foreign seller.
Financing and Language
Lenders offer foreign national programs with larger down payments. Our team works in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian and Ukrainian. This is general information, not tax or legal advice.
Steps for Buying Florida Real Estate From Abroad
- Set your budget and decide between cash and foreign national financing.
- Choose a title structure with a cross-border tax advisor.
- Open a US bank account if needed and plan international wires.
- Sign the contract and use the review period with your attorney.
- Close with a title company, often remotely.
Most steps can be handled remotely, though many buyers visit at least once to see the building and neighborhood.
Taxes When Buying Florida Real Estate
Florida has no state personal income tax, but property taxes apply each year, and rental income is subject to federal rules. When a foreign owner later sells, FIRPTA generally requires withholding at closing. Estate tax exposure for nonresidents is a major reason buyers consider entity or trust structures. Get professional tax advice before signing.
Financing Options
Foreign national loans typically require larger down payments and documentation of income and assets abroad. Pre-construction buyers usually pay deposits in cash and arrange financing near closing. See how the Icon Beach deposit schedule works and compare prices.
Working With a Multilingual Team
Our team works in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian and Ukrainian, which simplifies document review and communication. Broader market coverage is on Miami Real Estate Trends.
Title Options at a Glance
| Structure | Homestead exemption possible | Typical reason buyers choose it |
|---|---|---|
| Individual or joint names | Yes, if the owner qualifies as a Florida resident | Simplest to set up |
| Revocable living trust | Generally yes, if the beneficiary qualifies | Avoiding probate |
| Florida land trust | Can be, depending on the beneficiary | Privacy of ownership |
| LLC or corporation | Generally no | Liability separation and, for some, estate tax planning |
Choose with a cross-border tax advisor. This is general information, not tax or legal advice.
Cash Needed Before Closing: An Example
On a residence near the reported $825,000 starting price, the Icon Beach 20/20/10/50 schedule means about $165,000 at contract, $165,000 at groundbreaking and $82,500 at top-off, a total of $412,500 paid before closing. The remaining $412,500 is due at closing, often with foreign national financing. Plan international wires well ahead of each milestone and confirm wiring instructions by phone.
Timeline for an International Purchase
- Week 1: choose a residence and receive the developer documents.
- Within 15 days: attorney and tax review during the cancellation window.
- Construction period: pay milestone deposits as they come due.
- About a year before completion: start foreign national loan approval if financing.
- Closing: sign remotely or in person with a title company.
Choosing the Right Property When Buying Florida Real Estate
Start with how you will use the home. A personal winter residence, a family base for children studying in the US and a rental investment each point toward different buildings. Rental rules matter: some condominiums restrict short-term rentals or set minimum lease terms, so confirm the rules before you commit.
Pre-construction offers newer design, modern amenities and staged deposits, while resale offers immediate use and a known track record. Many international clients buy one of each over time.
Currency and Timing
Exchange rates can move significantly between contract and closing on a pre-construction purchase. Some buyers convert funds gradually to reduce currency risk. Discuss timing with your bank or a currency specialist.
Managing the Property From Abroad
Owners who live overseas often appoint a property manager to handle maintenance, rentals and association matters. Building management and the concierge team can also help with deliveries and access.
Why an Experienced Team Matters When Buying Florida Real Estate
The process involves developers, attorneys, title companies, lenders and tax advisors, sometimes in several countries. Our team has more than 23 years of experience representing buyers in Miami and South Florida and features multiple projects, so international clients can compare many options in one place. We coordinate each step and communicate in your language. When buying Florida real estate, that coordination saves time and avoids costly mistakes.
Ask us for a shortlist that matches your budget, timeline and goals, including Icon Beach and other projects across Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach.
Buying Florida Real Estate FAQ
Can foreigners buy property in Florida?
Yes. There is no general restriction on foreign nationals buying Florida real estate.
Do I need to be in the US for closing?
Not always. Remote and mail-away closings are common when buying Florida real estate.
What taxes apply when buying Florida real estate?
Annual property taxes apply, and federal rules govern rental income, estate tax and FIRPTA withholding on resale.
Can your team help?
Yes. Call +1 305 571-6319 or use the WhatsApp bubble to speak with our team.