Buying property in Florida as a UK buyer is far more straightforward than many people expect, but the process is very different from buying in the UK. Understanding those differences early can save time, money, and a lot of unnecessary stress.
This guide explains how UK residents can buy property in Florida, what to expect at each stage, and the common mistakes British buyers often make when navigating the US system for the first time.
Can UK residents legally buy property in Florida?
Yes. UK citizens can legally buy property in Florida with no requirement to live in the US, hold residency, or have a visa.
There are:
- No restrictions on foreign ownership
- No requirement to be a US citizen or green card holder
- No limit on the number of properties you can own
You can purchase property in your personal name or through a legal entity, depending on your goals and tax planning (professional advice is recommended for structuring decisions).
What does differ from the UK is how the purchase process works, particularly around offers, inspections, escrow, and closing.
How buying property in Florida differs from the UK
UK buyers are often surprised by how transparent and structured the Florida process is, but also by how hands-on the buyer must be early on.
Key differences include:
- No “subject to survey” culture. Inspections happen after an offer is accepted
- Escrow replaces solicitors – a neutral third party handles funds and documents
- Faster timelines – many transactions complete in 30–45 days
- Buyers choose their own inspectors – not the lender or seller
In Florida, an accepted offer starts a due-diligence period, where inspections, financing, and title checks happen in parallel.
The Florida buying process (step by step)
1. Choose your location and property type
Before making an offer, UK buyers should understand:
- Local neighbourhood differences
- HOA rules (very common in Florida)
- Short-term rental restrictions (if investing)
This is where working with a British realtor in Sarasota who understands UK buyer expectations can help bridge cultural and process gaps.
2. Make an offer
Offers in Florida are:
- Written contracts (not verbal)
- Negotiable on price, closing costs, and timelines
- Often accepted quickly if priced correctly
Once accepted, the property comes off the market.
3. Pay your escrow deposit
After acceptance, buyers typically place an escrow deposit (often 5–10%) with a title or escrow company. This is not paid to the seller and remains protected during inspections.
4. Inspections and due diligence
Instead of a single “survey,” Florida uses specialist inspections:
- General home inspection
- Roof, HVAC, plumbing, or electrical (if needed)
- Optional pest or mould inspections
Buyers can renegotiate or exit the contract based on findings.
5. Financing or proof of funds
If financing, lenders finalise underwriting.
If paying cash, proof of funds is confirmed.
UK buyers financing property should understand that Florida mortgage requirements differ significantly from UK lending, particularly around deposits and documentation.
6. Closing
Closing can happen:
- In person
- Remotely from the UK
- Via courier and digital notarisation
Ownership transfers once funds are received and documents are recorded.
Typical costs UK buyers should expect
While Florida does not have stamp duty in the UK sense, buyers should budget for:
- Escrow deposit: usually 5–10%
- Closing costs: typically 2–4% of purchase price
- Inspections: paid upfront
- Ongoing costs: insurance, property tax, HOA fees (if applicable)
Costs vary by property type and location, which is why understanding Florida property taxes for UK buyers is essential early on.
Common mistakes UK buyers make
UK buyers often run into trouble by:
- Skipping or rushing inspections
- Underestimating insurance costs
- Misunderstanding HOA rules
- Assuming the process mirrors the UK conveyancing system
Another common issue is choosing professionals who are unfamiliar with overseas buyers, leading to poor communication or unrealistic expectations.
Should UK buyers work with a Florida-based agent?
While it’s possible to buy property without representation, most UK buyers benefit from working with a Florida-based agent who regularly works with UK clients.
This helps with:
- Explaining US terminology in UK context
- Coordinating inspections remotely
- Managing time zone differences
- Navigating negotiations confidently
Many UK buyers prefer working with a British realtor in Sarasota who understands both the UK mindset and the realities of the Florida market.
What UK buyers should explore next
Depending on your goals, the next step is usually understanding one of the following in more detail:
- Florida mortgage options for UK buyers
- Florida property taxes and ongoing costs
- Whether condos or houses are the right fit
Each of these areas can significantly affect your decision and long-term costs.
A practical next step for UK buyers
If you’re a UK buyer trying to understand how this works in practice (particularly across time zones and without being on the ground) speaking with a Florida-based agent who regularly works with UK clients can help you avoid costly misunderstandings before you commit.
