In a recent interview, Maria Marta Calderon, Esq., founder of Calderon Law Firm, outlined critical legal considerations for Latin American investors entering the South Florida real estate market. Calderon, who revalidated her law degree in the United States and graduated with highest honors from the University of Miami (UM) School of Law, emphasized that the most severe mistake foreign buyers make is assuming the process mirrors that in their home countries. She warned against relying on advice from non-specialized sources such as friends, real estate agents, or title companies, noting that improper structuring can trigger legal liabilities, tax exposure, and complications with FIRPTA.
Calderon highlighted the hazards of purchasing property in one's personal name, including federal estate tax for non-resident aliens and exposure to lawsuits. She advocates for corporate or fiduciary structures that limit liability and facilitate family succession. For high-net-worth investors, she sees opportunities in mixed-use developments, logistics centers, multifamily housing, and tech-driven projects, but stresses the need for thorough due diligence tailored to each property type, from reviewing lease agreements to analyzing energy infrastructure for data centers.
Drawing on her experience as a Director of the Argentine-American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, Calderon noted the cultural and legal contrasts between the Civil Law systems common in Latin America and the Common Law system in the US. She positions her firm as a bridge, helping clients navigate these differences to capitalize on US legal stability. Her golden advice: surround yourself with excellent advisors and never sign under pressure. For more insights, visit Calderon Law Firm.
