For French Buyers

French Buyers’ Guide to Florida Real Estate

French buyers are drawn to Florida for the climate, vacation rentals, and investment. Here is how to buy from France with confidence, guided by a CIPS and Florida attorney.

Arthur Simpson — Attorney, Broker & Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS), and a member of the Real Property and International Law Sections of The Florida Bar.

Full ownership rights

French citizens can buy any Florida property with the same rights as Americans — no visa or residency required. Owning property does not grant U.S. immigration status.

Remote purchase

You can complete the entire purchase from France via digital documents, a power of attorney, and remote notarization.

Financing & euro

Cash or foreign-national loans (~20–30% down, no U.S. credit). Time your euro-to-dollar transfer to protect your budget.

Taxes

An ITIN is usually needed for financing/rentals; FIRPTA applies at sale; a tax treaty may reduce double taxation — confirm with a cross-border CPA. Start here →

Ready to buy in Florida?

As an attorney, broker, and CIPS — and a member of The Florida Bar's Real Property and International Law Sections — we guide French buyers through every step, remotely and with confidence.

Start Your Florida Purchase →

Frequently asked questions

Can French citizens buy property in Florida?

Yes — with the same ownership rights as U.S. citizens, and no visa or residency required.

Can I buy from France without traveling?

Often yes — remote closings use digital documents, a power of attorney, and remote notarization.

What U.S. taxes apply to French buyers?

Property taxes match U.S. owners; rental income is reportable (ITIN needed); FIRPTA applies at sale, with possible tax-treaty relief.

This page is general information for French buyers and is not legal or tax advice. International purchases involve U.S. and home-country tax and legal questions that should be reviewed with a qualified attorney and a cross-border CPA. Real estate brokerage services are provided by Simpson & Simpson Realty; legal services are provided separately by Cornerstone Wealth & Legacy Law, PLLC.