Who this applies to
Buyers from Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Israel, Germany, the Baltics and elsewhere who speak Russian often buy in South Florida. Your citizenship, residence, source of funds and banking route all affect the process.
Rules differ by case, so ask an attorney about your situation.
Documents
Passport, proof of funds, source-of-funds explanation, translations of foreign documents and a taxpayer number when required. Keep clear records of the origin of the money.
Prepare early, because compliance checks take time.
Banking and transfers
Transfers from some countries face restrictions or extra screening. Banks may refuse or delay payments, and a third country may be used only if lawful and transparent. Discuss routes with your bank and attorney before you sign.
Never use unusual routes to avoid questions: that can create serious legal risk.
Sanctions screening
Title companies and banks screen buyers and funds against sanctions lists. Being on a list or owning through a listed party can block a transaction. Review our guide on OFAC and real estate.
This is a legal area, so rely on an attorney, not on social media.
Taxes and structures
Consider estate tax exposure, income tax on rentals and FIRPTA on a future sale. Structures such as an LLC or trust may help planning but need legal advice and compliance.
Coordinate advisors in both countries.
Language support
We work in Russian, Ukrainian and English: translated explanations, clear checklists and calls at convenient hours. Contracts and legal documents remain in English and should be reviewed by an attorney.
Ask us to explain each clause in plain language.
Common mistakes
Relying on informal advice, hiding the origin of funds, using unverified intermediaries, sending money before the title company confirms and ignoring tax filings.
Another mistake is waiting until a sanction or banking issue appears.
Checklist
Consult an attorney on sanctions and structure. Prepare source-of-funds documents. Plan banking route and timing. Choose a title company. Budget insurance, taxes and fees.
Practical tip
Write down every question about money, structure and sanctions before your first call, and bring them to an attorney. Clear questions save time and reduce risk.
One more point
Choose advisors who work with international buyers every week. Their experience with documents and timing is worth more than a small difference in fees.
Next step
Write to Lidiya in Russian: we will explain the steps and connect you with licensed advisors. Lidiya Tretyak is a licensed Florida real estate agent with Douglas Elliman and speaks English, Russian and Ukrainian; the first consultation is free.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Laws and programs change — confirm details with a Florida attorney and a US tax professional.
