INTERNATIONAL BUYERS & SELLERS
Global. Coastal. Yours.
Moving across an ocean is more than a real estate transaction. It’s a reimagining of your daily life—where you’ll watch the sunrise, how your morning coffee will taste with salt air drifting through open windows, what it will feel like to step outside in January without reaching for a heavy coat.
I understand this deeply, because I’ve lived it. After twenty-seven years in the Greater Boston area, I made my own leap—trading New England winters for South Florida sunshine. That experience taught me that the logistics of relocation, while important, are only part of the story. The emotional journey matters just as much.
Whether you’re drawn to the refined elegance of Boca Raton, the artistic soul of Delray Beach, the tranquil exclusivity of Highland Beach, or the charming coastal character of our barrier island communities, my role is to walk beside you—answering questions before you know to ask them and ensuring that when you finally turn the key in your new front door, you feel not like a visitor, but like someone who has come home.
How I Work With International Clients
Before You Arrive
Distance should never be a barrier to finding the right home. I work with international clients across every time zone, adapting to your schedule for calls and video consultations. Before you ever board a plane, I can provide curated virtual neighborhood tours, private video walkthroughs of properties tailored to your criteria, and comprehensive market analyses—giving you the insight to explore confidently from anywhere in the world.
My monthly publication, The Waterfront Portfolio, keeps you informed about market trends and noteworthy properties, and I’m always just a message away on WhatsApp, email, or video call.
Your Discovery Visit
When you’re ready to experience South Florida in person, I coordinate comprehensive visit itineraries designed to maximize your time. Beyond property tours, I’ll encourage you to wander Atlantic Avenue at sunset, have breakfast at an oceanside bistro, and feel what daily life here actually looks like. You’re not just buying a property—you’re choosing a community.
During your visit, I can also arrange introductions to mortgage brokers who specialize in international lending, attorneys experienced in cross-border transactions, and other professionals who will become part of your trusted team.
From Offer to Keys
Once you’ve found your home, I’ll guide you through every step of the purchase process—explaining contract provisions, coordinating inspections, and navigating the complexities that international transactions involve. Florida contracts can be signed electronically, and I’ll work closely with your attorney, lender (if applicable) and title company to ensure nothing falls through the cracks, even when you’re participating in the process from thousands of miles away.
For international buyers, we build in appropriate timelines for wire transfers and document authentication through the appropriate local Consul office, and I remain actively involved through closing day and beyond—because my commitment to you doesn’t end when your sale closes.
For International Sellers
If you currently own South Florida property and are considering selling from abroad, I provide comprehensive support: property preparation guidance, coordination with local service providers, professional photography and video marketing, and regular video consultations to keep you informed at every stage. I also work closely with international tax specialists who can help you navigate FIRPTA requirements and optimize your after-tax proceeds.
Resources for Your Journey
International relocation involves layers of complexity—financing options, tax implications, ownership structures, currency considerations, and more. I’ve developed comprehensive guides on each of these topics and am happy to share them as your journey unfolds. When you’re ready to dive deeper, just ask.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The United States places very few restrictions on foreign property ownership. Citizens of virtually any country can purchase residential real estate in Florida with proper documentation.
No. Property ownership does not require a US visa, and purchasing real estate does not grant any visa or immigration status. However, your visa status may affect how many days you can spend in the US annually.
Cash buyers need only the purchase price plus closing costs. If financing through a US lender, international buyer programs typically require 30-40% down payment, though requirements vary.
FIRPTA (Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act) requires 15% withholding from the sales price when a foreign owner sells US property. This isn’t a tax itself—it’s withheld against potential capital gains, and you may recover some or all through tax filings.
Yes. Several US lenders offer foreign national mortgage programs with higher down payments (typically 30-40%) and interest rates. I can connect you with lenders experienced in international transactions.
This depends on your circumstances. US LLCs can provide liability protection and estate planning benefits, but add complexity. I strongly recommend consulting a cross-border tax specialist before deciding.
Annual costs include property taxes (typically 1.5-2% of assessed value), homeowners insurance, flood insurance if applicable, and HOA fees if applicable. I help clients understand total ownership costs before purchasing.
From accepted offer to closing, plan for 45-60 days minimum. The search process varies—some clients purchase on their first visit, others explore over months or years. There’s no wrong timeline.
Let’s Start the Conversation
The decision to purchase property in another country is significant—financially, logistically, and emotionally. My promise is to be your trusted guide through every step. Whether you’re just beginning to explore or ready to start a focused search, I welcome the opportunity to help to implement your vision.