Foreign investors buying real estate in Florida

What foreign investors buy in South Florida

Waterfront and golf-community homes in Palm Beach County and Wellington, income condos and townhomes in Broward, small multifamily and mixed-use buildings, and entitled development land where foreign capital partners with local builders. Palm Beach, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Jupiter and Fort Lauderdale are the markets most international buyers ask about first.

Ownership structure comes before the offer

Whether to buy personally, through a U.S. limited liability company, or through a structure set up by your home-country advisers affects estate exposure, liability, financing and the tax you pay on exit. This is decided with a cross-border CPA and a Florida real estate attorney before a contract is signed, not after. Nova Horizons makes sure that conversation happens first.

FIRPTA, financing and insurance

When a foreign owner sells U.S. property, the buyer must generally withhold a percentage of the gross sale price for the IRS under the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA) unless a reduced-withholding certificate is obtained. Financing for non-residents exists but comes with larger down payments and different documentation. Florida property insurance, especially near the coast, is a real line item. All three should be priced into the decision on day one.

Development capital

Foreign investors who want more than a passive purchase can partner with Florida builders and developers on entitled sites, infill lots and small multifamily projects. Nova Horizons helps evaluate the site, the partner and the structure, then brings in the licensed professionals to execute.

Common questions

Can a foreigner buy property in Florida without living in the United States?

Yes. There is no residency or visa requirement to own Florida real estate. Owning property does not, by itself, give you the right to live in the United States; that is a separate immigration question.

Can a foreign buyer get a mortgage in Florida?

Often, yes. Several lenders offer foreign-national loans, typically with a larger down payment, proof of funds and income from your home country, and a U.S. bank account. Terms vary, so the financing plan should be confirmed before you make an offer.

What is FIRPTA and does it affect me?

FIRPTA is the U.S. rule that requires tax to be withheld from the sale price when a foreign owner sells U.S. real estate. It affects every foreign seller. Planning for it at purchase, including how the property is held, is what keeps it manageable.