Florida Leads the Nation for International Buyers
When buyers from outside the United States look for a home here, Florida is where most of them start. According to the National Association of Realtors 2026 International Transactions report, Florida draws about 20% of all foreign buyers, more than any other state. NAR points to the beaches and the winter climate as the reasons.
These buyers are serious. Nearly half of foreign buyers paid all cash, compared to 28% of all U.S. existing home buyers, and 15% purchased homes priced above $1 million.
Most Look South. The Opportunity Is North.
Florida Realtors reports that close to half of the state’s international sales happen in the Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach area. That leaves Northeast Florida as one of the state’s best kept secrets for global buyers.
Here you get uncrowded Atlantic beaches like Vilano Beach and Ponte Vedra Beach, the history and charm of St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, and the energy of Jacksonville, from historic Riverside on the St. Johns River to a growing downtown.
Why Fall and Winter Matter
Most international buyers want to visit Florida before they buy. Fall and winter are when many make that trip, which makes this a natural time to tour. A furnished home that is ready to use right away is especially appealing to buyers planning to spend their winters here.
Two Ways to Live Here
If the ocean is calling, an oceanfront home in Vilano Beach puts you minutes from St. Augustine with the Atlantic out your back door. If city life on the water is more your style, Riverside offers historic charm, walkable streets and river views close to downtown Jacksonville.
Buying From Abroad? Start With the Right Team
Buying across borders brings its own questions about financing, taxes and closing remotely. As a Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Advisor, I work with international buyers and their agents to make the process clear from the first call to the closing table. Call or text me at 904.704.1208.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a non U.S. citizen buy a home in Florida? Yes. There is generally no citizenship requirement to buy residential property in Florida. Financing, tax and reporting rules can differ for foreign buyers, so it’s smart to involve a real estate advisor, a lender and a tax professional early.
Where do most international buyers purchase in Florida? Close to half of Florida’s international sales are in South Florida, but areas like Jacksonville, St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach offer beaches, history and city living with more space.
Do international buyers usually pay cash? Many do. NAR reports that 48% of foreign buyers made all cash purchases.
When is a good time for international buyers to visit Northeast Florida? Fall and winter are popular, with mild weather that makes touring homes and neighborhoods easy.
Sources: NAR 2026 International Transactions in U.S. Residential Real Estate; Florida Realtors 2025 Profile of International Residential Transactions in Florida. Bobbie Jean DeMunck, Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty.