How funds move
Funds usually go by international wire from your bank to the title company's escrow account. The title company sends wiring instructions, and your bank may need an invoice or contract copy to release the transfer.
Ask your bank about daily limits, fees and the typical time for international wires.
Timing
International transfers can take several days, and compliance checks can add time. Send the deposit and the closing funds early and confirm receipt with the title company.
A delay can put your deposit or closing date at risk.
Currency and fees
You may convert currency at your bank or a transfer provider. Compare the exchange rate and fees, and confirm whether the title company expects the exact amount in dollars.
Intermediary bank fees can reduce the amount received, so ask how to cover them.
Source-of-funds documents
U.S. banks and title companies ask where the money comes from. Prepare statements, sale contracts, income or business records and a short explanation for large transfers.
Clear documentation speeds up compliance checks.
Wire fraud warning
Criminals send fake wiring instructions by email. Always verify instructions by calling the title company on a number you obtained independently, and never rely on instructions changed by email.
Report suspected fraud to your bank and the title company immediately.
Sanctions and restrictions
Banks screen payments for sanctions and other restrictions. Certain countries and individuals face limits, so some transfers may be delayed or refused. Discuss your situation with your bank and an attorney early.
See our guide on OFAC sanctions and real estate.
Common mistakes
Starting the transfer too late, using unverified instructions, sending from a third party without telling the title company and not keeping proof of funds.
Another mistake is ignoring intermediary fees.
Checklist
Call the title company to verify instructions. Ask your bank about limits, fees and timing. Prepare source-of-funds documents. Send early and keep receipts. Confirm receipt.
Practical tip
Do a small test or ask your bank in advance how it handles transfers to a U.S. escrow account. Knowing the process and typical delay is better than discovering it close to the deadline.
One more point
Keep a simple log of each transfer with date, amount, reference number and confirmation. If a question comes up later, you can answer it in minutes.
Next step
We will coordinate with the title company so you know what to expect. Legal and banking questions should go to your 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.
Official sources
