Non-U.S. citizens can generally buy residential real estate in Florida, with cash or with a foreign-national mortgage. Florida's 2023 law known as SB 264 (sections 692.201 and following, Florida Statutes) restricts some purchases by people and entities connected to certain foreign countries of concern, especially near military installations and critical infrastructure; if it could apply to you, speak with a Florida real estate attorney before you make an offer.
Buying in Florida from another country is very doable — many of our clients shortlist homes on live video from home and fly in once. This page covers the questions every international buyer asks, with links to the official rules and where to get legal and tax advice.
Last updated November 6, 2026. General information, not legal or tax advice.
Can a foreigner buy a home in Florida?
Non-U.S. citizens can generally buy residential real estate in Florida, with cash or with a foreign-national mortgage. Florida's 2023 law known as SB 264 (sections 692.201 and following, Florida Statutes) restricts some purchases by people and entities connected to certain foreign countries of concern, especially near military installations and critical infrastructure; if it could apply to you, speak with a Florida real estate attorney before you make an offer.
Should I pay cash or get a mortgage?
Many international buyers pay cash. Some lenders offer foreign-national mortgages, usually with larger down payments, more documentation and a longer approval; ask lenders early. Builders' incentives sometimes depend on using their lender, so compare the total cost.
What is FIRPTA?
When a foreign person sells U.S. real estate, the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (26 U.S.C. 1445) generally requires the buyer to withhold 15% of the amount realized and pay it to the IRS, unless an exception or a withholding certificate applies. Plan how you'll own and later sell the home with a tax adviser before you buy.
Can I close without flying in?
Often, yes. Title companies can arrange remote online notarization or documents signed abroad before a notary or consulate. Plan for international wire timing, and always confirm wire instructions by phone with the title company — never from an email alone.
Who looks after the home while I'm away?
If you'll rent it out or leave it empty for months, use a licensed Florida property manager and check the HOA's rental and leasing rules before you buy. Dorota can introduce licensed managers; you choose and contract with them directly.
Can I see homes before I travel?
Yes. Dorota tours homes and model homes live on video in your time zone, in English or Polish, and you can ask questions on camera. Most international buyers shortlist on live video and fly in once.
Non-U.S. citizens can generally buy residential real estate in Florida, with cash or with a foreign-national mortgage. Florida's 2023 law known as SB 264 (sections 692.201 and following, Florida Statutes) restricts some purchases by people and entities connected to certain foreign countries of concern, especially near military installations and critical infrastructure; if it could apply to you, speak with a Florida real estate attorney before you make an offer.
Should I pay cash or get a mortgage?
Many international buyers pay cash. Some lenders offer foreign-national mortgages, usually with larger down payments, more documentation and a longer approval; ask lenders early. Builders' incentives sometimes depend on using their lender, so compare the total cost.
What is FIRPTA?
When a foreign person sells U.S. real estate, the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (26 U.S.C. 1445) generally requires the buyer to withhold 15% of the amount realized and pay it to the IRS, unless an exception or a withholding certificate applies. Plan how you'll own and later sell the home with a tax adviser before you buy.
Can I close without flying in?
Often, yes. Title companies can arrange remote online notarization or documents signed abroad before a notary or consulate. Plan for international wire timing, and always confirm wire instructions by phone with the title company — never from an email alone.
Who looks after the home while I'm away?
If you'll rent it out or leave it empty for months, use a licensed Florida property manager and check the HOA's rental and leasing rules before you buy. Dorota can introduce licensed managers; you choose and contract with them directly.