Canada
Canadian snowbirds often look for winter homes near golf and lakes. Time spent in the U.S. can have tax and immigration consequences, so speak with advisers about how long you plan to stay each year.
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Buying in Orlando from abroad
A Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) broker guiding buyers from Canada, the UK, Brazil and beyond through Central Florida real estate.
- Credential
- CIPS
- Buyers from
- Canada · UK · Brazil
- Closing
- Remote available
- Seller tax
- FIRPTA
International Buyers
Foreign buyers can own U.S. real estate
There is no citizenship or residency requirement to buy a home in Florida. Buyers from Canada, the United Kingdom, Brazil and many other countries purchase second homes, vacation homes and investment properties across Central Florida.
Bryan Berns holds the Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designation, with training in international transactions. We coordinate with your attorney, CPA, lender and title company so the purchase works from wherever you live.
Important
We are real estate professionals, not attorneys or tax advisers. Before you buy, speak with qualified U.S. and home-country tax, legal and immigration counsel.
Learn about the brokerWhere Our International Clients Look
How It Works
Buying from abroad, step by step
General information only, not legal or tax advice.
- 01
Consult your advisers
Decide with your counsel whether to buy in your own name, an LLC or another structure.
- 02
Plan the money
Foreign-national mortgages are available from some lenders, usually with larger down payments; many buyers pay cash.
- 03
Tax identification
You may need a U.S. Taxpayer Identification Number (such as an ITIN) for rental income or a future sale.
- 04
Tour remotely
Video tours, local inspections and appraisal coordination on your behalf.
- 05
Close remotely
Documents can be signed abroad, often with notarization at a U.S. embassy or consulate or by remote online notary.
- 06
Know FIRPTA
When a foreign person sells U.S. real estate, the buyer generally must withhold a percentage of the sale price under FIRPTA. Plan for it from day one.
Country Notes
What buyers from each country ask
United Kingdom
UK buyers often want a holiday home near the parks or a lakefront home for visits with friends and relatives. Currency timing and international wires matter, so plan transfers early with your bank or a currency specialist.
Brazil
Brazilian buyers often choose homes in Dr. Phillips, Windermere and Lake Nona for personal use or investment. Portuguese-speaking lenders, attorneys and title professionals can be part of your team.
Wiring funds safely
Wire fraud targets real estate closings. Always confirm wiring instructions by phone with the title company using a number you already trust, never one from an email.
Financing First
Get pre-approved before you tour.
Some lenders offer foreign-national loan programs. Start an application or ask us to introduce you to lenders who handle international buyers.
Questions
International buyer FAQ
Answers are general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice.
Can a foreigner buy a house in Orlando?
Yes. There is no citizenship or residency requirement to own real estate in Florida.
Does buying a home give me a visa or residency?
No. Owning U.S. property does not by itself grant a visa, residency or a right to stay. Speak with an immigration attorney about your options.
Can I get a mortgage as a foreign national?
Some lenders offer foreign-national loans, usually with larger down payments and more documentation. We can introduce you to lenders who do this regularly.
What is FIRPTA?
The Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act generally requires withholding from the sale price when a foreign person sells U.S. real estate. Your CPA can advise on the amount and exceptions.
Do I need to visit Orlando to buy a home?
Not always. Many international buyers tour by video, sign electronically, and close remotely. Visiting before you buy is still recommended when possible.
Can I use a U.S. LLC to buy a home?
Some buyers do, for privacy or liability reasons. Tax and legal effects differ by country, so decide with your attorney and tax adviser before you sign a contract.
Can I rent out my Orlando home?
Often, but rules differ by community and city. Many associations restrict short-term rentals, so we check before you buy.
International Buyers
Wherever you are, we’re local.
Buying from abroad? Work with a Certified International Property Specialist who coordinates the details from start to finish.