Buying property in Sarasota from the UK is far more straightforward than most people think. You don’t need to be a US resident, you don’t need a US credit score, and you don’t even need to be physically present for the purchase.

But… the process is completely different to the UK system.

As a British-born Sarasota Realtor, I help UK buyers, expats, and investors navigate these differences every day. This guide will walk you through exactly how British buyers can purchase property in Sarasota, what to expect, and how to avoid the common mistakes that cost overseas buyers time and money.

Let’s dive in.

🏡 1. Can UK Buyers Purchase Property in Sarasota?

Yes. Absolutely.

There are no restrictions on foreign nationals buying property in Florida. UK residents purchase:

• Holiday homes

• Relocation homes

• Gulf Coast condos

• New-build communities

• Long-term rental properties

• Short-term investment homes (Airbnb/seasonal)

You do not need a visa or residency status to own Florida property.

However:
Owning property does not give you the right to live in the US full-time. (More on visas below.)

🧾 2. What You Need Before You Start Searching

Here’s what UK buyers should have ready:

✔ A budget (in GBP or USD)

Most UK buyers use cash or a large down payment.

✔ Proof of funds

A bank statement or letter showing available funds.

✔ A US Realtor (ideally British-born)

The real estate agent represents you — the buyer — and is typically paid by the seller.

With Florida contracts and negotiation rules being so different, having someone who speaks both “UK property” and “US real estate” makes the process far smoother.

🌴 3. Understanding Sarasota’s Property Market

Sarasota is one of the most desirable locations on Florida’s Gulf Coast, known for:

• Award-winning beaches (Siesta Key was ranked #1 in the US multiple times)

• A vibrant downtown

• Golf courses and country clubs

• Strong rental demand

• Great weather year-round

• High quality of life

Popular areas for UK buyers include:

• Siesta Key

• Lakewood Ranch

• Downtown Sarasota

• Palmer Ranch

• University Park

• Casey Key / Osprey / Nokomis

• Longboat Key

Each area offers different price points, rental rules, and lifestyle options. Something we can explore together based on your goals.

🔍 4. How the US Real Estate System Differs From the UK

Here’s where most UK buyers get confused, and where I help the most.

✔ No solicitors

Instead, title companies and closing agents handle contracts, funds, and legal searches.

✔ Offers are written on a full contract

When you make an offer, you’re signing the entire contract upfront — not a short acceptance letter like in the UK.

✔ You can walk away during the inspection period

Most contracts include 7–15 days to inspect the property.
If something isn’t right, you can renegotiate or cancel with your deposit refunded.

✔ Property taxes differ

Florida property taxes are local and vary by neighbourhood.

✔ Insurance matters more

Especially flood, hurricane, and wind coverage.

✔ HOA and CDD fees

Many communities have monthly or annual fees — these cover amenities, maintenance, and sometimes debt repayment for local infrastructure.

Understanding these differences early prevents costly surprises later.

📦 5. The Buying Process for UK Buyers (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Initial Consultation

We discuss your goals, areas, timeline, and budget — usually via Zoom or WhatsApp.

Step 2: Curated Property Search

I build you a personalised shortlist of:

• Neighbourhoods

• Sample properties

• Price ranges

• Rental potential

• Lifestyle differences

Step 3: Virtual Tours

If you’re in the UK, I tour properties on your behalf and give you honest, detailed feedback.

Step 4: Making an Offer

We choose a price, structure your offer, and negotiate with the seller.

Step 5: Inspection & Due Diligence

You get:

• A full inspection report

• Pest/WDO report

• Appraisal (if financing)

• Title search

• HOA rules & rental guidelines

Step 6: Closing

You can close from the UK, digitally. No need to fly over unless you want to.

Once funds clear and documents are signed, the property is legally yours.

💷 6. Payment Options for UK Buyers

🏦 Cash (most common)

Fastest, simplest, no mortgage restrictions.

🧾 Foreign national mortgages

Yes — UK buyers can get a mortgage in Florida.

Typical requirements:

• 25–35% down payment

• Higher interest rate

• Full income verification

• No US credit score required

I can introduce you to lenders who specialise in international buyers.

💱 Currency exchange considerations

With large transfers, even a small FX difference can cost thousands.

Using a specialist UK-to-US currency service is usually far cheaper than a high street bank.

🏖️ 7. Buying a Holiday Home vs Investment Property

Many UK buyers start with a holiday home they can also rent out during the year.

Short-term rental rules vary by:

• County

• City

• Community / HOA

Some areas allow Airbnb-style rentals.
Others allow only 30-day, 90-day, or annual leases.

As your agent, I research all rental restrictions before you offer — so you don’t buy a property you can’t legally rent.

📑 8. Taxes UK Buyers Should Know

You should get professional tax advice, but here’s the simple version:

Stamp Duty (SDLT)

Does NOT apply in the US.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

Applies in the US and possibly the UK on sale — depending on your situation.

Property Taxes

Paid annually in Florida.

Rental Income Tax

If you rent your home, you’ll pay US tax on the rental income.

I can connect you with accountants who specialise in UK→US property taxation.

🛂 9. Can Buying a Property Help With a US Visa?

Buying property alone does not grant residency or a visa.

However, it may support:

• B1/B2 visitor visa travel history

• Potential future investment-related visa pathways (E-2 if applicable)

Always consult an immigration attorney for your specific situation.

🔧 10. After You Buy. Ongoing Support

My UK clients often need:

• Property management

• Contractors

• Insurance quotes

• Recommendations for cleaners, landscapers, handymen

• Furniture packages for holiday homes

• Rental projections

• Local introductions

I stay with you long after closing — because buying overseas isn’t just a transaction, it’s a relationship.

⭐ 11. Why UK Buyers Choose to Work With Me

• 🇬🇧 British-born Realtor living in Sarasota

• 📌 Experience in both London and Florida property markets

• 🧠 Clear, straightforward explanations (no confusing jargon)

• 🎯 Deep understanding of foreign national transactions

• 🕒 Flexible communication across UK time zones

• 📈 Investor-focused mindset and negotiation strategy

You get someone who understands exactly how property works in the UK — and exactly how it’s different here.

📞 Ready to Explore Buying in Sarasota From the UK?

Whether you’re looking for a holiday home, relocation, or investment property, the first step is a simple conversation.

👉 Book a call with me

Let’s talk through your plans, answer your questions, and see whether Sarasota is the right move for you.