FIRPTA Withholding & International Clients
Buying or selling from abroad, done right.
International clients, handled with care.
Florida’s Gulf Coast draws buyers and sellers from all over the world. Doing a deal from another country adds a few steps, from wiring funds to a federal tax rule called FIRPTA. Craig McCoy has guided international buyers and foreign sellers through every part of it, so nothing surprises you at closing.
What is FIRPTA withholding?
FIRPTA is a federal law. When a foreign person sells U.S. property, the buyer must hold back part of the sale price, often about 15 percent, and send it to the IRS toward the seller’s taxes. There are exceptions, and the seller can often get money back or reduce the hold-back with the right paperwork. The key is to plan for it early, not at the closing table.
For foreign sellers and overseas buyers.
- Foreign sellers: Craig works with your title company and tax advisor so the FIRPTA hold-back is handled right, and helps you avoid last-minute surprises.
- Overseas buyers: buy without flying in. Craig coordinates remote showings, wiring, and closing by power of attorney.
- Financing: some lenders offer loans to foreign nationals. Craig can point you to the right people and explain what you will need, such as an ITIN.
- The whole picture: from the first call to the keys, you get one steady guide who has done this before.
Craig McCoy is a real estate broker, not a tax advisor or attorney. FIRPTA involves federal tax rules. Work with a licensed CPA or tax attorney and your title company for how it applies to your sale. Craig coordinates the real estate side and brings the right people to the table.
Why clients from abroad choose Craig
Four decades in business, a global outlook, and a steady hand on every detail.
FIRPTA and international questions
What is FIRPTA?
FIRPTA is a federal law about foreign sellers of U.S. property. When a foreign person sells, the buyer must hold back part of the sale price for the IRS toward the seller’s taxes.
How much is withheld?
It is often about 15 percent of the sale price, but there are exceptions and lower amounts in some cases. Your CPA or tax attorney confirms the number, and sellers can often claim money back later.
Can a foreign national get a mortgage here?
Yes. Some lenders offer loans to foreign nationals. You will usually need extra documents and an ITIN. Craig can connect you with lenders who do these loans.
Can I buy without visiting Florida?
Yes. Many of Craig’s overseas buyers never fly in until closing, or not at all. He handles remote showings, video walk-throughs, wiring, and closing by power of attorney.
Who handles the tax part?
A licensed CPA or tax attorney and the title company handle FIRPTA. Craig coordinates the real estate side and makes sure the right people are involved from day one.
Talk to Craig About Your International Deal
Tell Craig about your situation and he will guide you through the next steps.