International Buyer Specialist
South Florida Real Estate for International Buyers
Bilingual luxury representation for buyers from Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia — navigating FIRPTA, foreign financing, and LLC ownership so your investment is protected from day one.
South Florida: The World's Preferred Real Estate Market
South Florida consistently ranks as one of the top destinations for international real estate investment — driven by no state income tax, a stable legal system, strong rental demand, and a lifestyle that rivals the world's great cities.
Matilde Leyva has represented buyers from Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Panama, Spain, Portugal, France, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and beyond. She speaks English and Spanish fluently, understands the unique challenges international buyers face, and has the network to make your South Florida purchase seamless.
Serving Buyers from Around the World
Matilde has represented buyers from four continents. Wherever you're coming from, she understands your specific needs.
Latin America
Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Panama, Dominican Republic, Bahamas
Spanish-language service available. Expertise in wire transfer protocols and foreign national financing.
Europe
Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Germany, United Kingdom
Familiar with EU buyer documentation requirements and cross-border tax treaty considerations.
Middle East
UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain
Experience with cash transactions, LLC structuring, and privacy-focused ownership arrangements.
Asia & Pacific
China, India, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, Canada
Coordination with international tax advisors and foreign national mortgage specialists.
What We Handle for International Buyers
Buying real estate in a foreign country involves layers of complexity. We navigate every one of them.
FIRPTA Guidance
Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA) withholding applies to most international buyers. We coordinate with tax attorneys to minimize your exposure and ensure compliance.
LLC & Entity Structuring
Many international buyers purchase through a Florida LLC or foreign corporation for privacy, liability protection, and estate planning benefits. We connect you with the right legal team.
Foreign National Financing
Several lenders offer mortgage programs specifically for non-US citizens and non-residents. We connect you with foreign national mortgage specialists who understand your situation.
Bilingual Representation
All contracts, negotiations, and communications available in English and Spanish. We ensure you fully understand every document before signing.
Remote Buying Process
Many international clients complete their purchase remotely. We coordinate virtual tours, remote notarization, and international wire transfers so you can close from anywhere in the world.
Property Management Referrals
If you're purchasing as an investment or second home, we connect you with trusted property management companies to handle rentals, maintenance, and tenant relations in your absence.
International Buyer FAQs
Can a non-US citizen buy real estate in Florida?
Yes. There are no restrictions on foreign nationals purchasing real estate in Florida. Non-US citizens can buy in their personal name, through a US LLC, or through a foreign corporation. The process is similar to a domestic purchase, with additional considerations for FIRPTA withholding, financing, and estate planning.
What is FIRPTA and how does it affect international buyers?
FIRPTA (Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act) requires buyers to withhold 15% of the purchase price when buying from a foreign seller. As an international buyer, FIRPTA affects you when you eventually sell — not when you buy. Proper structuring through an LLC or trust can reduce this exposure significantly.
Can international buyers get a mortgage in Florida?
Yes. Several US lenders offer foreign national mortgage programs with down payments of 25–40%. Requirements vary by lender and country of origin. We work with mortgage specialists who focus exclusively on international buyers and can often secure competitive rates.
Should I buy in my personal name or through an LLC?
Most international buyers benefit from purchasing through a Florida LLC or foreign corporation for privacy, liability protection, and estate planning. The right structure depends on your country of residence, tax treaty status, and investment goals. We connect you with a real estate attorney before you make this decision.
Can I complete the purchase without traveling to Florida?
Yes. We regularly facilitate remote purchases for international clients. Virtual tours, video walkthroughs, remote notarization, and international wire transfers make it possible to close on a South Florida property without leaving your home country.
Your South Florida Investment Starts Here
From your first question to closing day, Matilde provides the bilingual expertise, legal network, and local knowledge to make your international real estate purchase straightforward and secure.