The economic crisis triggered in the United States in 2008 by the "housing bubble", caused a sharp drop in the property values around the country. One of the primary reasons was the need of banks to dispose their excess stock, which created an oversupply an drove the market down. These events created a scenario that presents a unique opportunity for those who have always wanted to own a property in the U.S., specially in cities like Miami, Orlando, New York, among others.

Buying real estate in the United States has always been a privilege of a minority with high purchasing power. Now, this dream became possible for practically anyone. Currently, it is cheaper to buy a good property in all major American cities than anywhere else in the world. For just $50,000 it is possible to find good properties almost anywhere in the US. It is also a very attractive venture for those who want to invest in the medium or long run. Since real estate is currently very cheap, a sharp appreciation in prices in the near future is very likely to happen. 

Foreigners were responsible for 22% of the acquisitions of Real Estate in Florida in 2010

 Any property, whether new or pre-owned, is an excellent investment option for those who want to live, vacation or invest.

STS Realty Group, assists foreign nationals interested in acquiring properties in the USA. We help our clients from the very moment they decide to purchase. We support them in all necessary requirements to acquire their property. In addition we provide all necessary services whether  is buying, selling, maintaining or leasing properties, either for personal use or investment.

 Attention Needed

Purchasing a property overseas requires special attention, as each country has its own sets of rules and regulations. Although real estate transactions in the United States are very secure and organized, they can differ from other countries. That is why all this aspects should be perfectly understood before initiating any real estate transaction.

In the US, real estate activity is regulated by the government. All professionals involved with the real estate activity must be registered and licensed. This brings transparency and safety to both the seller and the buyer.

 Another little known feature is that in the US, due to the intense control and regulation, the majority of the transactions are conducted with the help of a real estate professional, with no cost to the buyer.

STS Realty Group has all the expertise necessary to ensure its clients a perfect experience, no matter whether they are buying, selling, leasing or if they are in the US or at home.

 How and Where to Buy

To acquire a good property in the United States, finding an experienced broker who knows all the specifics in the desired region is essential. This professional will assist the buyer in all steps necessary to acquire the desired property.

 Among the places most sought by international buyers, Miami and New York - where prices fell only 21% from the peak, stand out. Miami (Florida), Las Vegas (Nevada) and San Diego (California), among others, have depreciated even more. In Miami, values dropped more than 50% since 2006 and, according to the S&P / Case-Shiller index, prices have not yet begun to react.

Legal Aspects

US law favors the purchase of real estate by foreigners. "There are no limits to someone from another country to buy homes in America."

Regarding the paperwork, bureaucracy is similar to anywhere else. You must pay for the deed and the transfer of the property. The cost structure is also similar: maintenance, insurance and property taxes.

 If the property is subsequently rented or sold, the income earned is subject to taxation.

Financing

Real estate financing is available for non US residents. These loans usually reach 70% of property value, with maturities up to 30 years on fixed or variable rates. These conditions change constantly depending on market variables. Currently, the average fixed rate is around 6% per year for 30 year contracts.

STS Realty serves a significant number of foreign investors interested in acquiring properties in the US.

 We believe that current conditions in the housing market created a unique opportunity for foreign buyers. To get an idea, today a property sold  three or four years ago may, in many cases, be acquired by virtually 50% of the current construction cost.

In our view, this scenario should not last for much longer. Signs of recovery in the U.S. economy have begun - as a result from the massive investments by the US government in infrastructure and job  generation. In a few years the housing market is expected to normalize, as is already happening in some regions "