Who buys and where
- Buyer mix: investors diversifying euro wealth plus tech and remote workers seeking a US base.
- Lisbon’s startup wealth is a growing source of Florida investment capital.
- Portuguese speakers plug into South Florida’s large Lusophone community for services and property management.
- Smaller buyer pool than Brazil or Spain, but highly deliberate, research-driven purchasers.
Financing without US credit
Foreign national loans are built for exactly this: 25–30% down is typical, with qualification on passport, visa status, and documented reserves instead of a US credit score. See foreign national loan requirements › Investors buying rentals can also use DSCR loans, which qualify on the property’s rental income.
ITIN
Most financed purchases and US tax filings require an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. File Form W-7 with the IRS (passport required); many buyers complete it alongside the purchase with help from the title company or a CPA.
FIRPTA withholding on sale
When a foreign person sells US real property, the buyer must withhold 15% of the gross sale price and remit it to the IRS. This is a withholding, not the final tax. File a US tax return to compute the actual gain and claim any refund. Plan for it in your exit math from day one.
Moving money from Portugal
Like Spain, Portugal offers frictionless euro movement: SEPA transfers to your US account are fast and inexpensive, with no exchange controls. Focus on the FX spread, Portuguese banks commonly mark up EUR/USD by 1% or more versus specialist providers, which matters on six-figure transfers. US lenders require seasoned funds and source documentation (Portuguese property sale, savings, business proceeds). Assemble the paper trail before you need it.
Remote closings & power of attorney
You do not need to be in the US to close. The standard structure: a US bank account for wires, a power of attorney authorizing your representative, and a mail-away/remote closing coordinated by the title company. Lenders and title companies handle foreign-buyer remote closings routinely.
Managing from abroad
A Florida property manager handles leasing, maintenance, rent collection, and bill payment; you oversee from monthly statements. Interview 2–3 managers, verify their foreign-owner experience, and confirm how they handle security deposits and tax documents (1099-MISC / 1042-S).
Tax overview
Portugal’s NHR (non-habitual resident) regime has changed over time and interacts with US-source income in complex ways. Whether you are NHR, standard resident, or non-resident, get Portugal-US tax advice on rental income, gains, and wealth reporting before committing.
Tax notes on this page are general information, not tax advice. Cross-border taxation is complex, consult a CPA or tax attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdictions before structuring your purchase.
Popular areas
- Miami, Brickell and Downtown, the Lusophone professional corridor.
- Orlando, Investor-friendly condos with tourism-driven demand.
- Fort Lauderdale, Value entry with strong rental occupancy.
FAQ
Can Portuguese citizens get US mortgages?
Yes, via foreign national loans: 25–30% down typical, passport + visa, reserves documented. No US credit history required.
Is buying better than Portugal’s golden visa route?
They solve different problems, the golden visa was about residency; Florida property is about dollar assets and yield. Many buyers now do both separately.
How does FIRPTA affect Portuguese sellers?
15% of gross sale price withheld; file a US return to reconcile. Factor it into hold-vs-sell math.
Can I manage the property from Lisbon?
Yes, Florida property managers handle leasing, maintenance, and rent collection; you oversee from statements and periodic visits.