Buying a Home in Pinellas County From Abroad
Buying from Canada or another country starts with understanding how a Florida home purchase fits your plans. Your intended use, budget, timing and ongoing ownership costs all help shape the right property search.
I’m Stephanie Joines with lpt Realty. Licensed since 2012, I have helped Canadian clients buy and sell Florida property. I bring local knowledge of Dunedin and Pinellas County together with practical transaction guidance.
I also have trusted contacts for cross-border tax questions, financing, currency transfers and international referrals. Together, we can identify the appropriate professionals for your circumstances and coordinate the steps involved in purchasing here.
Start With These Three Decisions
How You’ll Use the Home
Decide whether you’re buying for year-round living, seasonal stays or rental use.
Your Full Ownership Budget
Plan for the purchase, currency conversion, closing costs and ongoing ownership expenses.
Your Buying Timeline
Consider travel, financing and the time needed to coordinate funds and closing documents.
Financing and Currency Transfers
Explore financing early. Mortgage options are available for some Canadian and other international buyers, but eligibility, documentation and terms vary by lender, borrower circumstances and property. A lender experienced with cross-border purchases can help you understand your options before making an offer.
If your funds are held in another currency, plan for conversion and transfer costs as part of your purchase budget. Ask your bank or currency specialist about exchange rates, fees and the time needed to deliver U.S. dollars for closing.
I can introduce you to appropriate lending and currency-transfer contacts and coordinate the real estate timeline with their requirements.
International Home Buying: Your Questions Answered
Can Canadians and other international buyers purchase a home in Pinellas County?
Many can, subject to applicable laws and individual circumstances. Florida has restrictions affecting certain foreign buyers and transactions, so eligibility questions should be reviewed with a qualified Florida real estate attorney before committing to a purchase.
Does owning a Florida home let me live in the United States year-round?
Can spending winters in Florida affect my U.S. tax residency?
Do Canadian buyers have to report a Florida vacation home on Form T1135?
Can I buy while I’m still living outside the United States?
What should I investigate before buying a condo or seasonal home?
Coordinating Your Purchase From Abroad
Buying from another country takes clear communication and a coordinated timeline. I help you evaluate properties in Dunedin and Pinellas County, arrange showings and inspections and understand the offer and contract deadlines.
I coordinate with your lender, closing team and other professionals so document requirements, funding arrangements and your travel plans can be addressed early. When specialized questions arise, I can help identify appropriate expertise through my established contacts and global relationships.
My experience includes helping Canadian clients buy and sell Florida property. I have also been appointed to serve on the Florida Realtors Global Business Committee in 2027, supporting my continued involvement in international real estate relationships while keeping my work grounded in the local market.