Home › Moving to Florida › Canadian buyers
Buyer guide · Canadians in Florida
Canadians buying in Florida: the snowbird's home buying guide
Florida is a favorite second home for Canadians. Here's what to know about time limits, financing, ownership and selling later, plus how a buyer rebate offsets currency and closing costs.
$450,000 snowbird purchase
$6,750
back at closing
Example only. Commissions are negotiable and vary by transaction. Your rebate is 50% of the compensation actually received, confirmed in writing.
Plan my Florida purchase
Reviewed by Bryan Berns, Florida real estate broker (License BK3659524), licensed since 2011 · Updated October 2026What Canadian buyers need to know
Time in the U.S.
Canadian visitors are generally limited to about six months a year. The IRS also counts days under its substantial presence test, so track your time and ask an advisor about filing obligations.
Financing
Some U.S. and cross-border lenders offer mortgages to Canadians, often with larger down payments. Many snowbirds pay cash.
How to hold title
Personal names, trusts and entities each have tax and estate implications in both countries. Get cross-border advice before closing.
Selling later
When a foreign owner sells U.S. property, a portion of the price is generally withheld for U.S. taxes (FIRPTA) unless an exemption applies.
Where Canadians buy in Florida
Southwest Florida, the Gulf Coast and Palm Beach County are long-time snowbird favorites, with 55+ communities and condos that lock and leave easily.
Explore Fort Myers, Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Palm Beach County and Ocala.
Your rebate helps offset currency costs
Exchange rates and transfer fees add to a Canadian buyer's cost. A rebate of half the buyer-agent commission, credited at closing, offsets part of that. Our team includes a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) familiar with international buyers.
Buying from out of state? We handle it remotely
Video tours, digital paperwork and remote closings. Lock in your 50% rebate in writing before you fly down. Commissions are negotiable and every situation is different.
Canadian buyer FAQ
Can Canadians get a buyer rebate in Florida?
Yes. Florida rebates are available to any buyer when disclosed and, if financed, approved by the lender.
Do I need a U.S. bank account?
It helps for paying property taxes, HOA dues and utilities. Many buyers open one before closing.
Can I rent out my Florida home when I'm not there?
Often, depending on HOA and local rules. Rental income has U.S. tax filing requirements.
Plan your Florida purchase from Canada
Tell us your area and timeline. We'll set up video tours and confirm your rebate in writing.
Faster: call or text
(407) 357-0357