It is fairly common for foreigners to invest in US real estate. Before doing so, however, they should consider the income, gift and estate tax implications of such investments and possible tax structuring (entities, trusts, etc.) to minimize exposure.

A foreigner may purchase US situs real estate directly and own the property or properties in his or her individual name, though this creates income tax reporting and withholding issues. In addition, if the foreign owner then dies, his or her US situs real estate is subject to US estate tax, often an unpleasant surprise for the surviving family members. This tax result is exacerbated because, generally speaking, foreigners do not get the benefit of a unified credit.