Skip to main content
Broward County, Florida

Foreign National Mortgages in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Buy property in Fort Lauderdale as a foreign national. Specialized financing with 20+ years of experience.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, the "Venice of America," is a coastal gem in Broward County with over 300 miles of navigable waterways. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant Las Olas Boulevard, and growing luxury condo market, Fort Lauderdale attracts European and Latin American buyers who want waterfront living at prices below Miami Beach.

Why Buy in Fort Lauderdale?

Fort Lauderdale offers the South Florida waterfront lifestyle at a significant discount compared to Miami Beach and Bal Harbour. The city is experiencing a massive transformation with new luxury developments, world-class restaurants, and cultural institutions rivaling Miami. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport provides direct flights to major Latin American and European cities. The boating culture is unmatched — many homes have private docks with direct ocean access through the Intracoastal Waterway.

Price Range

From $350,000

To $1,500,000

Property Types

Single FamilyWaterfront HomeCondoTownhouse

Top Nationalities

ColombianBrazilianArgentineBritishCanadian

Popular Neighborhoods

  • Las Olas
  • Victoria Park
  • Rio Vista
  • Lauderdale Beach
  • Coral Ridge
  • Harbor Beach

Why Invest in Fort Lauderdale

1

Waterfront properties with ocean access command premium prices and appreciate faster than inland homes

2

Fort Lauderdale condos are 20-40% less expensive than equivalent units in Miami Beach

3

The city's $2 billion redevelopment wave is attracting luxury buyers and raising property values

4

Strong seasonal rental market from snowbirds and tourists provides reliable income for investor owners

Nearby Attractions

Las Olas Boulevard — Fort Lauderdale's premier dining, shopping, and gallery street
Fort Lauderdale Beach — Miles of pristine coastline with the iconic wave wall promenade
NSU Art Museum — World-class contemporary art museum on Las Olas Boulevard
Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale — Mile-long linear park along the New River with events year-round

FAQs About Fort Lauderdale

Is Fort Lauderdale better than Miami for foreign buyers?
Fort Lauderdale offers several advantages over Miami for foreign buyers: lower prices per square foot, less crowded beaches, a more relaxed lifestyle, and similar waterfront living. The airport has growing international service, and the city is just 30 minutes north of Miami. However, Miami offers more urban nightlife, cultural diversity, and a larger Latin American business community. Many buyers choose Fort Lauderdale for primary residences and Miami for investment condos.
What are flood insurance costs in Fort Lauderdale?
Flood insurance is a significant cost consideration in Fort Lauderdale, especially for waterfront properties. FEMA flood zones determine rates — homes in high-risk zones (AE, VE) can pay $2,000-$8,000+ per year, while properties in moderate-risk zones (X) may pay $400-$1,200. Newer buildings with elevated foundations pay less. Always check the flood zone before purchasing, as this affects both insurance costs and mortgage requirements.
Can I buy a waterfront home with a boat dock?
Yes, and this is one of Fort Lauderdale's biggest draws. The city has over 300 miles of canals and waterways, and many single-family homes come with private docks. Some have direct ocean access via the Intracoastal, while others are on interior canals. Waterfront homes with ocean access command a premium of 30-50% over non-waterfront properties. Foreign nationals can purchase and dock boats in Fort Lauderdale — there are no citizenship requirements for boat ownership.
What is the rental market like in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale has a strong rental market with both long-term and seasonal demand. Annual rental yields average 4-6% for condos and 3-5% for single-family homes. Seasonal rentals (November-April) can generate higher per-night income but may have vacancy periods. Beachfront units and waterfront properties rent at a premium. The city allows short-term rentals in most areas, though some HOAs restrict them. The growing tech and finance sectors are also driving demand for year-round rentals.
How do I get from Fort Lauderdale to Miami?
Fort Lauderdale is approximately 30 miles north of Miami, connected by I-95 (25-45 minutes depending on traffic). The Brightline high-speed train connects Fort Lauderdale station to Miami Central in just 30 minutes, making it easy to work in Miami and live in Fort Lauderdale. Tri-Rail commuter train is another option for daily commuters. Uber and Lyft are readily available for trips between the two cities.

Ready to Buy in Fort Lauderdale?

Call Medardo F. Cevallos — foreign national mortgage expert in Fort Lauderdale.