Question 1

Can a Brazilian buy real estate in Miami?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There is no nationality restriction on buying residential property in Florida, and no visa, green card or US citizenship is required. Foreign buyers hold the same ownership rights as residents, with tax obligations specific to non-resident status.

Question 2

Does buying property in the US grant a visa or green card?

Accepted Answer

No. Buying residential real estate does not grant a visa, green card or residency. Investment programs with immigration effects follow separate rules and are handled by immigration attorneys, not by a real estate advisor.

Question 3

Do I have to be in Miami to close?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Offer, contract, due diligence and signing can largely be handled remotely with electronic documents and, when required, notarization at a consulate or authorized notary. In-person visits are still recommended for completed properties intended for personal use.

Question 4

Do I need an ITIN to buy?

Accepted Answer

An ITIN is usually not required for the purchase itself, but it becomes necessary for tax filings, rental income reporting and withholding on a future sale. A US accountant (CPA) handles the application and advises on timing.

Question 5

Can foreign buyers get a mortgage in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Yes. US and international banks offer foreign national loan programs, typically with a larger down payment and proof of income and assets. Terms vary by institution and profile, so pre-approval should come before choosing a property.

Question 6

What costs continue after closing?

Accepted Answer

The recurring ones are association fees, county property tax, insurance, management and maintenance, plus possible special assessments. These vary widely between buildings and must be modelled before the decision, not after.

Question 7

Should I buy personally or through an LLC?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the objective, the number of buyers, estate planning and tax strategy in both countries. Each structure carries different maintenance costs and tax effects; the decision belongs to your attorney and accountant, and the property search is then adapted to it.

Question 8

What taxes apply to Florida property?

Accepted Answer

An annual county property tax, income tax on rental income when the unit is leased, and FIRPTA withholding on a sale by a foreign seller, which may be fully or partly recovered depending on the result. Rates depend on location and on the specific case and are calculated by an accountant.

Question 9

Which Miami neighbourhoods suit international buyers?

Accepted Answer

There is no single best area, only the area consistent with your objective. Downtown, Brickell, Edgewater, Wynwood, Miami Beach, Sunny Isles, Midtown and Aventura suit different profiles; Coral Gables and Coconut Grove form the leafier residential corridor.

Question 10

How does pre-construction work in Miami?

Accepted Answer

Payments are made in instalments tied to construction milestones defined in the contract, with the balance due at delivery. In exchange for time and lower liquidity during construction, the buyer accesses pricing and units unavailable later, and takes on schedule and market risk.

Question 11

Can I rent my unit short term?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the building and municipal rules: each association sets a minimum lease term and some areas restrict short-term rental. Some developments are designed with short-term rental permitted. This must be verified in writing before an offer.

Question 12

What return can I expect on rent?

Accepted Answer

No credible return can be promised. What can be done is to analyse comparable rental history, recurring costs, occupancy and management expenses, and build conservative, mid and optimistic scenarios so the decision is made with clear risk.

Question 13

How does Alana Ferreira work with clients?

Accepted Answer

It starts with a diagnosis of objective, timeframe, ownership structure and intended use. Only then comes a shortlist of consistent options, with technical comparison, cost explanation and guidance through the whole journey, including after handover. First we understand, then we select, only then we present.

Buying property in Miami as a foreign national

Buying in Miami as a foreign national

Costs, financing and structure

Product and neighbourhood choice