Florida’s International Gateway City
Fort Lauderdale is consistently among the top five U.S. real estate markets for international buyers. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport offers direct routes to Bogotá (3.5 hrs), São Paulo (9 hrs), Buenos Aires (9.5 hrs), Toronto (3 hrs), and London (9 hrs). The city has large, established communities of Brazilian, Venezuelan, Colombian, Argentinian, and Canadian buyers — creating familiarity and infrastructure that makes the transition easier.
Florida law is favorable. There are no restrictions on non-U.S. citizens purchasing real property in Florida. And specialized foreign national loan programs mean many international buyers who assume they must pay cash can actually secure financing.
Neighborhoods popular with international buyers: Galt Mile for oceanfront condo living (especially popular with Canadian and Latin American buyers), Harbor Beach and Rio Vista for waterfront estates, Victoria Park and Flagler Village for urban lifestyle, and Coral Ridge for families seeking established neighborhoods near top-rated schools.
You May Not Need to Pay Cash
Many international buyers assume they must pay cash because they lack U.S. credit history. This is no longer true. Jim Blackburn at Stairway Mortgage specializes in foreign national loan programs that allow buyers without U.S. SSN or credit history to secure mortgage financing.
Typical requirements: 25–35% down payment, documented income from home country (bank statements, tax returns, or employer letter), valid passport, and a U.S. bank account for closing. Rates run 0.5–1.5% above standard U.S. rates. The financial advantage of financing vs paying cash is significant — preserving capital while leveraging a property that historically appreciates. Call Jim at (954) 993-1625 before assuming you must pay cash.
For Canadian buyers specifically: Canadian credit history and income documentation are well-established in the U.S. mortgage system. Many Canadian buyers qualify for near-conventional loan terms with proper documentation. Cross-border tax implications should be discussed with your Canadian tax advisor before purchasing.
International Buyer's Step-by-Step Guide
U.S. bank account setup, FIRPTA explained, foreign national financing, and the complete purchase process.
What Every International Buyer Needs to Know
Live Fort Lauderdale listings from the Broward County MLS — updated daily with active listings, new pendings, and recent solds.
Call Olga for Current Listings — (954) 993-1625Get the Fort Lauderdale Neighborhood Report
Monthly market updates, new neighborhood guides, and insider tips for buyers. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
