Get help from UrbBurb. We’re Canadian specialists uniquely skilled to search and close real estate while advising you on all aspects for foreign ownership. Our services don’t cost you a penny so why create unnecessary work and stress in your life.
Financing U.S. property. Canadian buyers will typically pay cash. If borrowing in this more challenging lending environment it is important to be approved and know your realistic price range and any loan restrictions before you begin.
Do the research. Our website and our staff are endless sources of market reports, current articles, stats, MLS listing data and more. Understand the buying process and the market while listening to our advice and you’ll avoid surprises later.
Get on to our new listings email list. Be the first to react to new listings for your property parameters and get a better feel for market trends and current pricing.
Keep your offer simple. The more demands you make in the contract the more difficult it becomes for the seller to understand their bottom-line in the deal. UrbBurb will help you craft the most advantageous contract for you while keeping things simple for the other side.
Respect the contract. Your myurbburb page makes it easy to understand your contractual obligations and timelines during escrow while we work diligently in the background to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Owning U.S. Property. Know the tax and legal implications of each type of ownership. You can research this more in our Canadian Buyer Guide.
Organize for close. Your utility setups and other professional services should be under way well before closing (we’ll be here to help every step of the way). There’s a lot of work before you finally take possession so start preparing the day you sign the contract for a smooth transition to your new home.
Tax Rules for U.S. Property. Contact us directly for more information on how the recent Canada-U.S. Tax Treaty helps protect Canadian financial assets in the U.S. and reduces tax exposure.
U.S. Property and your retirement. U.S. property creates two opportunities for Canadian retirees. The current buyer’s market has created numerous low-risk investment opportunities for portfolio cash-flow and equity growth. Secondly, compared to equivalent Canadian alternatives, retiring in Arizona offers a much lower cost and a higher standard of living.
Exchanging Currency. Rather than accepting the posted rate of exchange, exchange large sums at each transaction and ask for the spot rate. You will typically find better rates and service from reputable currency brokers rather than from banks. Contact us for exchange contacts and information.
Immigration & Customs Rules. Remember to have your passport at customs when departing for the U.S. and keep your passport or I.D. with you during your stay. If you stay longer than six months or if you wish to work within the U.S. will require the proper visa. When staying longer than six month you will be required to complete a U.S. tax return.
Medical Coverage in the U.S. Remember, health care is not something you want to come out-of-pocket for in the U.S. Fill your prescriptions in Canada and make sure when traveling to the U.S. to get a good travel insurance policy. A high-deductible policy allows you the piece of mind when traveling without the higher expense.
