Are you a United Kindom citizen interested in buying property in Florida, US? This guide is for you. Whether you are looking for an investment property, vacation home, or a primary residence, we’ve got you covered.
Learn everything about Florida’s real estate market and discover all the mortgage options available for foreigners.
What are the Requirements for Purchasing a House in Florida From the United Kingdom?
📈🤖 Unlock unparalleled trading potential with GPT Stocks Master AI! Revolutionize your portfolio, leveraging real-time insights and predictive analytics. Don’t miss out – step into a world where precision and profitability meet. Ready to transform your trading journey? Click “Master My Trades” now for your exclusive access! ✨🚀📊
Here are the requirements you need to consider to ensure the process of acquiring a house in Florida is seamless.
- A valid passport.
- Proof of Income.
- US credit history
- Proof of funds.
- Visa.
- Power of Attorney.
- Tax Identification Number.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a House in Florida From the United Kingdom
Here is how you can acquire a house in Florida:
Research and Planning
The first step of buying a Florida-based house involves conducting thorough research. Discover how the real estate market in Florida works, check house prices, and identify suitable locations in the state.
Moreover, determine the amount of funds you wish to spend on your ideal house and the various financing options available.
Get a Qualified Real Estate Agent
As a foreigner, we advise you to seek the services of a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) to streamline the process of buying a house in Florida. Once you explain to them your specific needs, they will identify the right property for you.
Property Selection
The professional real estate agent will provide you with a list of houses that they believe suit your needs. Once you choose your preferred house, the agent will schedule property viewing. It could be virtual or in person.
Purchasing Property
If you like the house after viewing it, consult with the CIPS agent to submit a competitive bid to the house owner. The agent will be involved in the entire negotiation process to help you get the best deal.
Do Your Due Diligence
After your offer is accepted, inspect the house to determine whether repairs are needed. You can hire a professional property inspector to help you with this.
Moreover, review all the legal documents thoroughly before signing them.
Secure Financing
If you cannot afford to pay for the house in cash, secure a mortgage from a US financial institution that serves foreigners. Make sure to provide necessary documents like bank statements, credit history, and proof of income.
Close the Buying Process
After the mortgage lender approves your loan, appoint a lawyer to help you complete the house-buying process. They will guide you on signing the legal-binding documents and ensure that funds are transferred to the house owner to initiate the ownership transfer process.
Once you sign the agreement with the property owner, the lawyer will take the documents to a title deed office to prepare a new deed for the house. Immediately after the title deed office confirms the change of ownership, you will be handed the keys to your new property. And that’s it. You are now a house owner in Florida.
Mortgage Options for United Kingdom Citizens Acquiring a Florida-Based House
UK citizens have access to various mortgage options in the United States. If you have a US credit history, you can secure a conventional mortgage. To obtain this type of mortgage, you must have an active bank account with a United States-based bank that has a strong credit history. Your credit score should be above 620. Moreover, you must be able to pay a 20% down payment on the property you want to buy. Lastly, show proof of stable income.
If you do not have a US credit history, you can opt for a foreign national mortgage. This type of mortgage is intended for non-American citizens. However, the interest rates charged on foreign national mortgages are considerably higher than those imposed on conventional mortgages. To qualify for a mortgage without a US credit history, provide a credit report from your home country and show proof of employment. Moreover, you must demonstrate the ability to pay 20% of the house’s value.