Whether you’re interested in purchasing a home in Florida or have your eye on commercial real estate, the CHIODO Team is proud to serve our international clients with brokerage, financing and leasing services. Our team works with international buyers who are interested in investing their resources in Florida real estate, and also with those who are considering moving to the state from overseas. We understand that the purchase process can be complicated for an international buyer, but we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Buying a Home as an International Buyer
If you are an international buyer, it’s important to understand the terminology used for different real estate transactions in the United States, and learn what the overall purchase process looks like. Here’s a brief overview of the buying process as an international buyer:
- Find a reputable real estate agent. One of the most important steps in finding a home or when searching for a commercial property is to work with a REALTOR® who is knowledgeable about the area. The CHIODO Team is comprised of several real estate agents who have access to all the properties listed in Florida and can guide you through the search process.
- Get pre-qualified and pre-approved. Finding out how much property you can afford is done through the prequalification and preapproval process. You can work with one of our lenders to determine exactly what price range is a good match for you.
- Begin the search. With the help of your CHIODO Team real estate specialist, you can start looking at different listings that are listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) but also look at foreclosures, or bank owned properties. The CHIODO Team has access to all types of listings and will start to forward you links to properties that suit your interests and budget.
- Set up a home showing. If you are planning a visit to the United States, the CHIODO Team can help you work through the visa paperwork and arrange home showings on your behalf. You will need to visit each site for a brief site inspection and learn more about the property.
- Review pros and cons. Making a list of pros and cons of each property you have visited can help you narrow down your search.
- Make an offer. The offer process involves reviewing all terms of the contract and starts the negotiation for the best price. The CHIODO Team real estate specialist can help you work through this often-complicated process so you are making the most informed decisions.
- Acceptance of the offer. Once the offer is accepted, you will need to sign the contract and prepare for the closing. The CHIODO Team real estate specialist can fax or e-mail all relevant paperwork to you in your home country if you are no longer in the United States.
- Home inspections and homeowners insurance. Once the offer has been accepted, you will need to arrange for a home inspection and obtain homeowners insurance. We can help you work through this process regardless of your location.
- Closing. If you will not be present at the Closing, one of our team members can represent you and go through Settlement Statement and other details before faxing over the documents for your signature. You will need to get pay for closing costs by getting a certified check from the bank.
Financing Options for International Buyers
When you work with a real estate specialist from the CHIODO Team, you can count on us to refer you to reputable lenders and financial officers who can help you with all of your mortgage needs. International buyers often have an advantage when investing in foreign real estate because they are eligible for certain tax breaks and a weak dollar overseas makes some properties a very valuable investment.
Resources for International Buyers
Here are some helpful links to guide you through the process of purchasing Florida real estate as an international buyer:
General Florida Real Estate Information
http://www.ired.com/usa/fl/general.htm
International Real Estate Digest
http://www.ired.com/usa/fl/general.htm
International Report – Realtor.org
http://www.realtor.org/cipshome.nsf/htmlarchives/IntlReportMay132009
International – Realtor.org
http://www.realtor.org/rmolaw_and_ethics/articles/2009/0905_law_internationalvisa
Speaking of Real Estate
http://speakingofrealestate.blogs.realtor.org/
