How to Buy a Home in Florida from Turkey: A Step-by-Step Guide
Short answer: Yes. Turkish citizens can buy residential property in Florida. You don't need to be a U.S. citizen or a green card holder. However, buying a home does not automatically grant you residency or a visa.
Buyers looking in from Turkey usually have the same questions: Where do I start? How is money sent? Can I buy without visiting? This guide walks through the process step by step. Figures and timelines vary by lender, property, and market, so I use the word "usually" a lot.
The process at a glance
- Initial call and setting goalsAbout 30 minutesWhy and what for are you buying: to live in, rent out, or invest?
- Financing planDepends on the lenderCash or financing? Down payment and monthly payment become clear.
- Home searchCan take weeksShortlist, in-person tour, or video tour.
- Offer and contractA few daysNegotiating price and terms, putting down earnest money.
- Inspection, insurance, loan approvalDepends on inspection and approval timelinesHome inspection, insurance quote, and appraisal if financing.
- ClosingUsually 30-45 days from contractSignatures, wire transfer, and getting the keys. Cash purchases can move faster.
1. Budget and financing plan first
There are three basic options:
- Cash purchase: The fastest route. No waiting on loan approval, so the process is shorter.
- Conventional loan: Usually requires U.S. credit history and a Social Security number (SSN). Not always an option for buyers coming from Turkey.
- Foreign national and DSCR loans: Products designed for buyers without U.S. credit history. Most lenders require a higher down payment than conventional loans, and rates can run higher too. DSCR loans are approved based on the property's rental income and are used for investment purchases.
A loan officer will determine which product fits you. I connect you with lenders I trust. To try the numbers yourself, use my mortgage and investment return calculators.
2. How is money wired?
The down payment and closing funds are usually sent by bank wire to the account of the title/escrow company handling the transaction. A few important points:
- Your bank in Turkey may ask about the purpose of the transfer and the source of funds. Keep documents like the offer or purchase agreement on hand.
- Earnest money is usually deposited shortly after the contract is signed. The amount and terms depend on the contract.
- Calculate exchange rate and wire fees in advance.
Watch for fraud: Wire fraud via fake emails changing account details before closing is common. Before sending money, verify account information by calling the title company at a known, independently verified number.
3. Finding a home and making an offer
If you're in Turkey, you can view homes on a video tour, and I can check them in person on your behalf. Once you choose a home, we submit a written offer. The offer includes price, earnest money, inspection period, closing date, and financing terms. If the seller accepts, or counters, negotiation typically wraps up within a few days.
4. Inspection, insurance, and loan approval
- Home inspection: An independent inspector reviews the roof, plumbing, A/C, and structure. Depending on the results, you can request repairs or a price reduction, or, where the contract allows, walk away.
- Insurance: Home insurance in Florida can be expensive and varies a lot by the home's age, roof, and flood zone. I recommend getting an insurance quote before you offer, since it directly affects your monthly payment.
- Appraisal: If you're financing, the lender has the home's value appraised.
5. Closing and signing from Turkey
Closing is the final step, managed by the title company. It can be completed without traveling to the U.S. Documents can typically be signed before an authorized notary or at a consulate, and in some cases an apostille or power of attorney may be required. The title company and lender decide which method is accepted, so asking early speeds up the process.
Closing costs and ongoing expenses
Closing costs are calculated as a percentage of the sale price and can run higher if you're financing. For an exact figure, ask the lender and title company for a written closing estimate. This includes title and closing fees, loan fees, the first year's insurance, and a property tax prepayment. Once you own the home, your ongoing expenses include:
- Annual property tax (varies by county)
- Home insurance
- HOA fees (if the neighborhood or community has them)
- Maintenance and repairs
After you buy: renting it out and taxes
If you're considering renting the home out, working with a property management company makes remote management easier. Some communities and municipalities restrict rentals (especially short-term rentals), so check before you buy.
On the tax side, how rental income is taxed, the FIRPTA withholding that applies when you later sell, and structures like an LLC all require expertise. I recommend working with a CPA who knows U.S. tax law, and an attorney if needed. I'm a real estate agent and don't give tax or legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can a Turkish citizen buy a home in Florida?
Yes, you can purchase residential property. You don't need to be a U.S. citizen to buy. Since certain regions or countries may be subject to specific restrictions, we confirm current rules together during the purchase.
Will buying a home get me residency or a Green Card?
No. Owning a home alone does not grant a visa or residency. For immigration matters, consult an immigration attorney.
Can I get a loan without a Social Security number (SSN)?
Foreign national loans are designed for exactly this situation. Instead of an SSN, the lender may ask for documents like a passport, proof of income, and bank statements. Requirements vary by lender.
How much should the down payment be?
Foreign national loans typically require a higher down payment than conventional loans. If you're paying cash, there's no down payment question. The exact rate depends on the lender and your profile.
Can I buy without ever visiting the U.S.?
Often, yes. A video tour, digital signature, and notary or consulate certification can let the process be handled remotely. The title company and lender decide which documents are accepted.
Can I rent out the home I buy?
Usually yes, but HOA rules and local ordinances can restrict renting. It's important to check the rental rules before you buy.
Have questions?
Let's talk through your goals and budget in a short call, and map out the right path together.
Get a free consultationThis article is for general informational purposes and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Rules, rates, and timelines can change. Consult a licensed attorney, CPA, and loan officer before making a decision. Nisa Esmer, Florida licensed REALTOR® (License No. SL3665986), Elite Choice Home Group, Future Home Realty Inc.