Main options
Buyers who cannot attend can sign documents before a notary where they live, use a consulate or embassy notary, use a mobile notary, sign electronically through remote online notarization if the lender and title company accept it, or appoint an attorney-in-fact through a power of attorney.
Acceptance depends on the title company, lender and the type of document.
Power of attorney
A power of attorney lets a trusted person sign closing documents for you. It must be specific, properly executed and often recorded in the county. Lenders and title companies may impose extra conditions.
Draft it with an attorney and have it reviewed by the title company before you travel or sign.
Notarization and apostille
Documents signed abroad often require notarization and, depending on the country, an apostille or legalization. Check the requirements for the specific country and document.
Allow time for apostille processing.
Remote online notarization
Florida allows online notarization under rules that require identity checks and secure platforms. Not every lender or title company uses it for every transaction.
Ask whether your transaction qualifies.
Funds and documents
Wire funds early to the title company's escrow account and review the closing statement before signing. Keep copies of everything.
See our guide on sending money.
Risks
Fraud, mistakes in the power of attorney and delays in courier or notarization can disrupt closing. Choose a trustworthy agent and verify instructions by phone.
Never sign blank documents.
Common mistakes
Starting late, using generic forms, forgetting the apostille, giving broad powers without limits and not confirming lender approval.
Another mistake is relying on email instructions only.
Checklist
Ask the title company which methods it accepts. Choose the method. Prepare ID and documents. Review the closing statement. Arrange notarization and courier. Confirm receipt and recording.
A typical plan
A buyer abroad chooses a power of attorney for a trusted relative, has it notarized and apostilled in their country, sends the original by courier and the title company reviews it. Funds are wired in advance, the attorney-in-fact signs, and the buyer receives scanned copies and later the originals.
Practical tip
Ask the title company for a sample of the acceptable power of attorney wording. Using a form they have already accepted prevents last-minute rejection.
Next step
Tell us where you live and we will plan a signing route with the title company. 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.
Official sources
