How International Buyers Finance Miami Luxury Real Estate (2026)

Miami is a global city, and international buyers make up a large share of every luxury transaction I handle. The most common question I hear from buyers abroad is simple: can I actually get a mortgage here, or do I need to pay all cash? The answer is that you have real options — and understanding them before you shop puts you in a far stronger position.

Quick answer: International buyers can finance Miami luxury real estate through foreign-national mortgage programs offered by many U.S. and international banks. Expect to put down roughly 30% to 40%, provide documentation of income and assets, and plan for slightly higher rates than a domestic borrower. Many buyers still choose to pay cash and finance later through a cash-out refinance.

Can International Buyers Get a Mortgage in Miami?

Yes. There is no citizenship or residency requirement to buy real estate in Florida, and a number of lenders offer foreign-national loan programs designed specifically for buyers who live and earn abroad. These programs exist because Miami’s luxury market has always been international, and lenders compete for this business.

What lenders are really evaluating is straightforward: your ability to repay, the strength of your assets, and the quality of the property. If you can document those clearly, financing is very achievable.

How Much Do International Buyers Put Down?

As a 2026 guideline, most foreign-national programs ask for a down payment in the range of 30% to 40% of the purchase price. The exact figure depends on the lender, the loan amount, and your profile. Larger down payments often unlock better terms.

Beyond the down payment, plan for:

• Reserves — lenders typically want to see several months to a year of payments in reserve.
• Documentation — passport, proof of income, bank references, and a clear paper trail on the source of funds.
• Rate premium — foreign-national rates usually run modestly higher than comparable domestic loans.

Every lender is different, and terms move with the market, so I connect my clients early with lenders who specialize in foreign-national financing rather than a general retail bank. For broader context on returns, see my guide to investing in Miami luxury real estate.

Cash Now, Finance Later

Many of my international buyers pay cash to win in a competitive situation, then complete a cash-out refinance after closing. This approach makes your offer as strong as possible up front while still letting you put leverage in place afterward. It is a common, effective strategy at the high end, and worth discussing with your lender and tax advisor before you commit.

Taxes International Buyers Should Understand

Financing is only one piece of the puzzle. Foreign buyers and sellers should also understand the tax side, especially the withholding rules that apply when a foreign owner sells U.S. property. I cover that in detail in my FIRPTA guide for Miami real estate. For general federal guidance, buyers can also review the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau resources on mortgages. Always confirm your specific situation with a qualified tax professional.

The Process, Start to Finish

Here is how I walk international buyers through a financed purchase:

• Get pre-qualified with a foreign-national lender so we know your budget and terms.
• Tour in person or remotely, and shortlist properties that fit your goals — from Gables Estates to a Brickell condo.
• Structure a strong offer, using cash or financing depending on the competition.
• Manage inspections, appraisal, and closing, coordinating across time zones.

Done well, buying from abroad is smooth. The key is preparation and the right team around you.

Investors selling other U.S. investment property can explore a 1031 exchange into Miami real estate to defer capital gains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a foreigner buy property in Miami?

Yes. There is no citizenship or residency requirement to purchase real estate in Florida. Foreign nationals buy Miami property regularly, either with cash or through foreign-national mortgage programs.

How much down payment do international buyers need in Miami?

As a 2026 guideline, foreign-national loan programs typically require 30% to 40% down, plus reserves. The exact amount depends on the lender, loan size, and borrower profile.

Do international buyers pay higher mortgage rates?

Usually a modest premium over comparable domestic loans, reflecting the lender’s added diligence. Strong assets and a larger down payment can improve your terms.

Should international buyers pay cash or finance?

Many pay cash to strengthen their offer, then complete a cash-out refinance afterward. The best choice depends on your rates, tax situation, and goals, so review it with your lender and tax advisor.

What documents do international buyers need to finance a home?

Typically a passport, proof of income, bank references, and clear documentation of the source of funds and reserves. A lender who specializes in foreign-national loans will provide a full checklist.

If you are buying from abroad and want a clear plan for financing your Miami purchase, I would be glad to connect you with the right lenders and walk you through every step. Reach me at (786) 801-4442 or through my contact page.

About Erika Schell
Erika Schell, P.A. is a Luxury Certified REALTOR® with The Keyes Company and a Forbes Global Properties affiliate, specializing in $1M+ residential real estate across Coral Gables, Cocoplum, Gables Estates, Key Biscayne, Pinecrest, South Miami, and Doral. With a Master’s in Finance, 20+ years of business experience, and 123+ successful transactions, Erika brings CFO-level pricing analysis and worldwide Forbes marketing to every luxury sale. Call or text (786) 801-4442.