South Florida continues to attract strong global interest, and in the last year, Latin American investors have emerged as the dominant force. According to the Miami Association of Realtors, investors from Latin America accounted for $367 million in real estate transactions from August 2023 to July 2024.
This figure represents a substantial portion of the foreign investment market and illustrates a growing trend that is reshaping the landscape of the South Florida real estate market. With 29% of all U.S. foreign real estate investment coming from Latin America, South Florida real estate stands out as a top destination.
Global Buyers Flock to South Florida
According to the 2025 National Association of REALTORS® Report, global buyers purchased $56 billion worth of U.S. existing homes from April 2024 through March 2025. This marks a 33.2% increase from the previous year, indicating renewed international interest in U.S. real estate.
Florida remains the #1 state for global buyers—for the 16th consecutive year—making it the most consistent and favored market for international investment. Even more telling, nearly half of Florida's international real estate transactions occur in South Florida, according to the latest Florida REALTORS® report.
This data underscores the strategic importance of South Florida real estate not only for Latin American investors but for buyers around the world.
Growing Demand from Latin America South Florida Real Estate
The reasons for this surge are clear:
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Economic and political instability in countries such as Argentina, Venezuela, and Colombia
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A desire to protect wealth by investing in U.S. real estate
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The appeal of Florida's climate, lifestyle, and bilingual communities
These factors create strong demand for safe, stable, and profitable South Florida real estate investment opportunities.
Why Is South Florida a Top Destination?
Miami and the broader South Florida real estate area are seen as natural extensions of Latin America. With established cultural ties, Spanish-speaking populations, and direct flights to major Latin American cities, it's no surprise that foreign buyers feel at home.
Additionally, Florida's tax-friendly laws (no state income tax, for example) and consistently growing South Florida real estate values make it an appealing long-term play.
Countries Leading the Charge
Buyers from countries like Argentina, Colombia, Brazil, and Mexico are leading the pack. Brazil alone accounted for 13% of international transactions in Miami. These investors are not just purchasing vacation homes—they're acquiring South Florida real estate assets to generate cash flow and build wealth.
Investment Trends Among Latin American Buyers
The recent data from the Miami Herald and Miami Realtors report shows:
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91% of Latin American buyers purchase property as an investment—whether for short-term vacation rentals, long-term leases, or a combination.
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68% of these transactions are cash purchases, demonstrating high liquidity and a strategic shift toward dollar-based assets.
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Latin Americans are buying more new construction units than ever before—making up nearly half of all foreign purchases of new builds.
These trends highlight a savvy and determined investor profile focused on stable returns and diversification in South Florida real estate.
How Latin American Buyers Impact the South Florida Market?
The increased activity from international buyers affects local market conditions:
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Rising home prices in sought-after neighborhoods like Brickell, Edgewater, Coral Gables, and Boca Raton
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Increased demand for luxury condos and new developments
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Higher competition for housing inventory, especially in desirable coastal locations within the South Florida real estate market
New Construction: A Favorite Investment Type
New developments appeal to foreign buyers due to:
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Modern amenities
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Strong resale and rental potential
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Lower maintenance needs
Builders are also marketing directly to foreign investors, offering concierge services, financing options, and even multilingual sales teams to ease the South Florida real estate buying process.
Why Latin Americans Prefer South Florida Over Other U.S. Markets?
While cities like New York and Los Angeles have long attracted international capital, South Florida real estate wins for several reasons:
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Geographic proximity: Shorter flight times to most Latin American countries
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Cultural familiarity: Latin music, food, and events are integral to Miami's lifestyle
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Investment security: Stable legal framework and property rights protections
In uncertain economic times, buying in Florida provides a safe haven for families and investors alike looking for South Florida real estate opportunities.
Top Cities in South Florida for Latin American Investors
Miami remains the primary destination, but other hotspots include:
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Fort Lauderdale: Growing downtown, waterfront properties, and less congestion
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Boca Raton: Known for its luxury South Florida real estate, excellent schools, and international appeal
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West Palm Beach: Increasingly popular for urban development and investment returns
These cities offer a range of South Florida real estate opportunities, from vacation condos to multi-family rental properties.
What’s Next for South Florida Real Estate?
As 2025 approaches, the outlook for South Florida real estate remains strong. With Latin American investors continuing to show confidence and commitment to the region, the area is likely to remain a top international market.
Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or invest, now is the time to understand how these trends affect your next move in the South Florida real estate market.
To navigate these shifts and opportunities, contact The Mastropieri Group, Realtors® at (561) 544-7000 . As trusted local experts, we offer the insight and strategy you need to succeed in the evolving South Florida real estate market.