2026 Guide: Buying Real Estate in Florida – Prices, Cities & Opportunities

Buying real estate in Florida remains a solid choice for investors, second-home buyers, and those planning to relocate. The state’s diverse cities, evolving market trends, and flexible ownership rules create opportunities for a wide range of buyers. This Florida real estate guide 2026 offers an updated, clear overview of Florida’s real estate market, including legal considerations for foreign buyers, recent price trends, city profiles, financing options, and strategies to help you make informed decisions.

1. Is it legal for foreign buyers to purchase in Florida?

Foreign buyers often ask if they can purchase property in Florida and what restrictions apply. The good news is that foreign citizens can buy property in Florida without needing a visa or residency. This makes Florida an attractive destination for international investors and second-home buyers.

• ✔️ Yes. Foreign citizens can buy property in Florida without a visa or residency requirement.

• ✔️ Purchases can be made personally or through an entity (LLC) depending on your investment strategy.

⚠️ Important: Buying property does not grant U.S. residency or work authorization. It’s strictly an investment.

2. Florida Real Estate Guide 2026: Market Overview

After several years of rapid growth, Florida’s real estate market is showing signs of stabilization. This shift offers new opportunities for buyers who previously faced stiff competition and rising prices.

Key market trends include:

• 📈 Increased inventory in some areas

• 📉 Price stabilization or modest declines in some segments

• 🤝 Buyers now have stronger negotiating power

Indicative 2025 prices:

• Florida state median: ≈ $386,892

• Boca Raton: ≈ $544,013

• Weston: ≈ $775,000 (+6.5% YoY)

• Coral Springs: ≈ $600,000

⚠️ Note: Prices vary by property size, type, and city. Some properties may be available under $250,000, especially smaller condos or homes in secondary areas.

3. Choosing the Right City for Your Real Estate Project

Florida is not a single market but a collection of distinct cities, each with its own characteristics and appeal. Your choice should reflect your goals, whether for a primary residence, rental investment, or portfolio diversification.

Primary Residence / Family

• Weston: suburban life, top-rated schools

• Coral Springs: stable, attractive residential neighborhoods

→ Typical budget: $600,000 – $800,000+, depending on size and location.

Rental Investment / Portfolio Diversification

• Boca Raton: strong rental demand, median ≈ $544,000

• Plantation / Margate / Coconut Creek: more affordable options, some properties < $250,000

Luxury / Coastal Lifestyle

• Miami / Miami Beach / Bal Harbour / Palm Beach: premium market, prices > $1M

4. Prices & Budgets (Indicative 2025)

⚠️ Note: Prices vary with neighborhood, renovations, taxes, and property size.

5. Financing for Foreign Investors

• U.S. banks finance non-residents, with specific requirements

• Higher down payment typically required (30–40%)

• U.S. interest rates higher than in recent years

Benefits:

• Preserve liquidity for other investments

• Leverage moderate rates over the long term

⚠️ Each application is unique: financing depends on income, assets, and profile.

6. Taxation & Ownership

• Local property taxes

• Taxes on rental income

• International taxation obligations

• Option to purchase via LLC or personally

✅ Key point: Florida has no state income tax, but federal and home-country tax obligations still apply.

7. 2026 Opportunities & Caution

Opportunities:

• Markets attractive for structured investors

• Cities like Weston, Coral Springs, Boca Raton remain stable

• Strong rental demand in many areas

Cautions:

• Local markets differ (prices, taxes, schools, services)

• Clear strategy essential

📞 Interested in Florida Real Estate?