Do I need a U.S. visa or residency to buy?
No. Most foreign nationals can buy without a visa or residency. A few buyers domiciled in certain countries face Florida restrictions; ask a Florida attorney if that could apply to you.
Does buying property give me a visa or green card?
No. Owning property alone doesn’t qualify you for U.S. residency. The E-2 treaty investor visa requires investing in and running an active business, and the EB-5 program requires a qualifying investment that creates jobs.
Should I buy in my name or through an LLC?
It depends on your country, estate tax exposure, liability concerns and plans to sell. Decide with a cross-border tax advisor and lawyer before you sign a contract, because changing ownership later can trigger taxes and fees.
How is my rental income taxed?
By default, 30% of gross rent is withheld. Most owners elect to be taxed on net rental income instead, filing a U.S. nonresident return each year. Your home country may also tax the income, with treaty relief in many cases.
What is FIRPTA?
When a foreign person sells U.S. real estate, the buyer generally withholds 15% of the sale price and sends it to the IRS. It is credited against the seller’s actual U.S. tax, and any excess is refunded after filing.
Can I close without traveling to Florida?
Yes. Many international buyers sign with a power of attorney notarized and apostilled in their country, or use remote online notarization where available.
Who manages the property when I’m abroad?
A licensed property manager handles tenants, rent collection and maintenance, usually for a percentage of rent. Irina can introduce managers she trusts.
What does insurance cost in Florida?
Insurance is a significant cost in Florida, driven by wind risk. Get quotes early, and ask about wind-mitigation features and roof age, which affect premiums.
Are there rental restrictions?
Many condos and HOAs limit short-term or first-year rentals, and some cities regulate vacation rentals. Irina checks association rules before you make an offer.
What about condo safety rules?
Florida now requires structural inspections and funded reserves for older condo buildings. These can lead to special assessments, so Irina reviews association documents and reserve status before you commit.
Which areas are best for rental income?
It depends on your budget and goals. Broadly, condos near job centers and the beach rent year-round, while vacation areas favor seasonal or short-term rentals where allowed. Use the rental yield calculator and ask Irina for current comparables.
Does Irina speak my language?
Irina works in English, Russian and Ukrainian, and can coordinate with colleagues and professionals who speak other languages.
Not legal or tax advice. This article is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Tax rules, treaties and exchange rates change. Before you buy, talk to a cross-border tax advisor and a lawyer licensed in the relevant countries. Irina Manets is a licensed real estate sales associate with CENTURY 21 Stein Posner and does not provide tax or legal advice.