Frequently Asked Questions – USA

Below you will find simple answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from our USA property investors.

Can foreign nationals own property in USA?

Foreigners are free to purchase real estate in the USA. There is an abundance of finance and mortgage facilities available to foreign investors in all areas of the States.

Why should I choose USA?

The sheer expanse and variety that the USA offers property purchasers means there is something to please every taste. With a current slowdown in the market, many investors are taking advantage of reasonable prices in hotspots such as Florida and Las Vegas, which retain their appeal and market buoyancy. Tourist locations are firm favourites amongst foreign investors who enjoy a second home or cash in on buy-to-let yields from their investments in high demand resorts where returns are high.

What is the economic and political situation?

The USA is the world’s largest economy. Despite economic losses during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, and Republican losses in the mid-term elections, USA still offers investors strong potential. A recent rise in interest rates has slowed down the market, while many investors see this as an ideal time in which to buy, while prices are at a standstill for now. They are favouring top-end luxury property or other options located in busy tourist locations where values will continue to rise. In today’s economic climate the strength of the Sterling and Euro against the Dollar allows many foreign investors to purchase even more for their money.

How do we travel to USA?

The USA is well served by giants such as British Airways and Virgin Atlantic airlines, while an Open Skies agreement is planned in order to open up travel options to Europeans seeking more competitively priced services from a wider variety of airlines in the near future.

Virgin Atlantic (www.virginatlantic.com) flies direct to Las Vegas, Orlando, New York, Boston, Washington, Detroit, Miami. Los Angeles and San Francisco

Continental (www.continental.com), American Airlines (www.americanairlines.co.uk) and

Delta Airlines (www.delta.com) fly direct to most cities in the USA.

What is the direct flying time from UK to USA?

7 – 11 hours

Is a visa required to enter USA?

Under the Visa Waiver Program, some foreigners are allowed to stay in the USA for 90 days without applying for a visa. Currently, 27 countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program, as shown below:

Visa Waiver Program - Participating Countries

If you wish to stay in the USA for longer or do not come from one of the above countries, you will need to find out about your particular visa application needs. You are advised to apply to the American Embassy or Consulate within the jurisdiction of your permanent residence.

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