Should a Mexican citizen buy under my personal name or through an LLC in Miami?

🇲🇽 Buying in Your Personal Name (as a Mexican Citizen)

✅ Pros:

Simpler and faster purchase process
Lower upfront costs (no legal setup fees)
You can qualify for homestead exemption if you later become a U.S. resident and make it your primary residence

❌ Cons:

Less asset protection — your property could be exposed in lawsuits or creditor claims
FIRPTA withholding applies if you sell — the IRS withholds 15% of the sale price
Inheritance complications — U.S. estate tax may apply to non-resident aliens with assets over $60,000 at the time of death

🏢 Buying Through a U.S. LLC

✅ Pros:

Limited liability protection — separates your personal assets from property-related risks
Estate planning advantage — easier to transfer shares to heirs without triggering U.S. estate taxes
Privacy — your name doesn’t appear on public property records
Potential tax optimization with proper structure (consult a U.S.-Mexico tax advisor)

❌ Cons:

Legal and administrative setup costs (approx. $500–$1,000)
Ongoing compliance: annual filings, registered agent, tax returns
May not be eligible for some types of financing or homeowner insurance discounts

🧾 Best Practice for Mexican Investors

For long-term investment or rental properties, many experts recommend using an LLC or foreign-owned U.S. company for protection and tax flexibility.
For a vacation home with low risk and no heirs, buying in your personal name may be simpler.

📌 Final Tip:

Always consult with a U.S. real estate attorney and a cross-border tax advisor to set up the ideal structure based on your personal situation and investment goals.

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Antonio Aguirre

Meet Antonio Aguirre

Broker Associate | Realtor® based in Miami, FL

With over 20 years of real estate experience, Antonio Aguirre is a trusted expert helping buyers, sellers, and investors—both local and international—make smart, strategic decisions in one of the most competitive markets in the U.S.

Antonio’s career began by opening offices, recruiting, training, and mentoring agents across the U.S. and Latin America. His leadership and consistent results have earned him multiple industry recognitions, and his global perspective allows him to understand and meet the diverse needs of his clients.

Today, Antonio leads a multidisciplinary team committed to delivering comprehensive, transparent, and personalized service. Whether you’re investing in pre-construction, exploring private equity opportunities, or looking for existing properties, Antonio has the knowledge, network, and resources to help you secure the best possible deal.

A true Miamian at heart, Antonio is passionate about watersports and gastronomy—qualities that reflect his energetic, detailed, and client-centered approach to real estate.