InvestorInMiami

Foreign Investors Guide

Complete step-by-step guidance for international buyers in Miami.

Big Reassurance

Florida is generally considered investor-friendly, with a favorable tax environment, strong demand, and stable legal framework. However, you still need professional legal and tax advice for your specific situation. This guide provides an overview—not legal/tax advice.

Step-by-Step Overview

1

Define Your Goals

  • •Vacation home for family visits?
  • •Rental investment for income?
  • •Pure investment to build wealth?
2

Choose the Right Property Type & Area

  • •Single-family homes (simpler, fewer rules)
  • •Condos (more amenities, but check HOA rules)
  • •Multifamily (more complex, higher potential returns)
3

Decide on Ownership Structure

  • •Personal name (simplest, but tax implications)
  • •LLC or company (better privacy and liability protection)
  • •Trust (wealth planning option)
  • •Always consult a Miami real estate attorney
4

Explore Financing Options

  • •Foreign buyers can get mortgages (usually 40–50% LTV)
  • •Higher down payments required (50–60%)
  • •Certain lenders specialize in foreign buyers
  • •Bring documentation: passport, income proof, bank statements
5

Understand the Closing Process

  • •Title search and insurance
  • •Property inspection and appraisal
  • •Closing attorney reviews all documents
  • •Funds wired from your bank to escrow
6

Know Ongoing Tax & Reporting

  • •US federal income tax on property income
  • •Florida state property taxes (roughly 1% of value)
  • •FIRPTA (Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act) for sales
  • •Consult a CPA familiar with foreign investors

What Can Go Wrong?

Currency Risk

USD fluctuations affect your return if you convert back

Regulation Changes

Tax laws and HOA rules can change

Distance Management

Managing property remotely is harder than locally

Bad Property Management

Wrong manager can hurt your investment

Market Swings

Economic cycles affect value and rental demand

Visa/Immigration Issues

Property ownership doesn't affect your immigration status, but plan ahead

Free Downloads for Foreign Investors

Foreign Buyer Checklist
Questions to Ask Your Miami Real Estate Attorney
Ownership Structure Comparison
Currency Planning Worksheet

Next Steps

  1. Consult a Miami real estate attorney who works with international buyers
  2. Speak with a CPA familiar with foreign investor taxation
  3. Get pre-approved for financing (if applicable)
  4. Start exploring neighborhoods and properties
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