The Ultimate Foreign National Guide to Buying Central Florida Real Estate

Welcome to Theme Park Living! Whether you are looking for a magical vacation home near the parks, a lucrative short-term rental, or a sunny second residence, purchasing property in the United States as a non-resident is highly achievable.

Central Florida is a premier global destination, and navigating the real estate market from overseas just requires the right roadmap. Here is everything you need to know about buying your piece of the magic as a foreign national.

1. Can Foreign Nationals Buy Property in the US?

Yes! There are generally no restrictions on non-U.S. citizens purchasing real estate in the United States. You do not need a green card or a specific type of visa to simply buy and own property.

However, it is important to note that owning property does not grant you legal residency or extended visitation rights beyond what a standard tourist visa allows.

2. Financing: Cash vs. Mortgages

While many international buyers prefer to purchase real estate in cash to streamline the process, getting a mortgage as a foreign national is entirely possible.

Cash Purchases: Clean, fast, and highly attractive to sellers. You will need to ensure your funds are transferred to a U.S. bank account in time for closing.
Foreign National Mortgages: Many U.S. lenders offer specialized loan programs for international buyers.
- Down Payments: Expect to put down a larger percentage than a U.S. resident—typically 25% to 30%.
- Documentation: Lenders will require documentation from your home country, such as credit references, proof of income, and bank statements.
- ITIN: You will likely need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you are securing a U.S. mortgage.

3. The Buying Process Step-by-Step

The U.S. real estate transaction process might look different from your home country. Here is the standard flow in Central Florida:

Assemble Your Team: The most critical step. You need a trusted local real estate agent, a mortgage broker (if financing), an accountant, and a property manager.
Home Shopping: We can tour properties virtually via video calls or set up an itinerary for when you visit the states.
Making an Offer: Once we find the perfect home, we submit a written contract.
Inspection and Appraisal: A licensed inspector will check the home’s condition, and the bank will verify its value.
Closing: The final transfer of funds and title. You do not always need to be in the U.S. for this; closing can often be handled remotely through mail-away documents or the local U.S. embassy.

4. Tax Implications (FIRPTA)

When you eventually decide to sell your U.S. property, you will be subject to FIRPTA (Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act).

Under FIRPTA, the IRS typically requires 15% of the gross sales price to be withheld at closing to ensure U.S. capital gains taxes are paid. This isn’t a permanent tax—it’s a withholding. Once you file your U.S. tax return, you will be refunded any amount that exceeds your actual tax liability. Always consult with an international tax professional regarding your specific situation.

5. Managing Your Vacation Home

If you are buying an investment property or a home you plan to rent out on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO when you aren’t visiting, a local property manager is essential.

A great property management company will handle:

Guest bookings and customer service
Routine maintenance and emergency repairs
Cleaning between stays
Ensuring local short-term rental taxes are collected and paid

Ready to Find Your Dream Home?

Buying property internationally is a major milestone, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Having a local expert on the ground in Central Florida ensures your interests are protected every step of the way, from the initial search to the final signature.

Let’s start the conversation about your real estate goals.