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United Kingdom

Escape the grey — and discover a Florida lifestyle
that rewards research-minded buyers.

The decision to purchase property in South Florida is rarely impulsive for someone coming from the UK. You've likely been thinking about it for some time, perhaps visiting, testing the feeling, asking yourself whether this is truly something you could do. The answer is yes — and it is more straightforward than you might expect. The lifestyle here is real: warmth, beauty, culture, and a genuine sense of ease that is difficult to manufacture anywhere else. When sterling is strong against the dollar, the relative value can be remarkable. Boca Raton and Delray Beach offer a sophistication and cultural richness that will feel familiar and welcome — this is not a place that asks you to sacrifice refinement for sunshine.

I've prepared a comprehensive British Buyer's Guide that walks through everything you'll want to know before you act — from how the 90-day Visa Waiver limit affects your planning, to understanding your estate tax exposure as a non-US resident. I'd be glad to send it to you, with no obligation attached.

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Currency & Exchange

Your purchase will be in US dollars (USD). The GBP/USD rate can significantly shape your affordability — working with a dedicated currency broker to time your conversion is well worth considering.

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Entering the us

As a British citizen, you qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) — no visa required for stays up to 90 days per visit. If you're planning longer winter stays, a B-l/B-2 visa can extend that to up to 6 months.

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Tax Treaty

You benefit from a comprehensive US-UK tax treaty that provides meaningful income tax protections. However, as a non-US resident, your US-based assets are still subject to US estate tax above the $60,000 threshold — worth discussing with a cross-border specialist before structuring your purchase.

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Financing Your Purchase

You may purchase in cash or finance through a US lender. Foreign national mortgage programs are available to British buyers, typically requiring 30–40% down. Establishing a US banking relationship prior to purchase is advisable.

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When You Sell

Under FIRPTA, 15% of your gross sale price will be withheld at closing against potential capital gains. US-UK treaty provisions may allow a reduction — your cross-border tax specialist can advise on this before you list..

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GETTING HERE — FLIGHT TIMES TO SOUTH FLORIDA

London Heathrow (LHR) → Miami (MIA) ~10 hrs
London Gatwick (LGW) → Miami (MIA) ~9.5 hrs

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A Personal Note from Maureen

Bringing your dog or cat from the UK to the US involves no quarantine at all — the US considers the UK a low-risk country, so as long as your pet's rabies vaccination is current and your paperwork is in order, they arrive with you, with no facility stay and no waiting period. When you find yourself wanting a proper pint and a reminder of home, the Blue Anchor British Pub in Delray Beach has been a landmark for the local expat community for years. And for women looking to build immediate friendships on arrival, the British Women's Club of Boca Raton is exactly what it sounds like — a warm, active network that has been connecting British women in South Florida since long before anyone thought to put it on a website.

Your Complete British Buyer's Guide Is Ready

  • Visa planning
  • Tax treaty essentials
  • Step-by-step purchase timeline
Request Your British Buyer's Guide
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