The question I hear most from Brazilians who want to buy in Florida is not about price or neighborhoods. It is this: "Patricia, how do I send the money over there?"
It is a fair question. We are talking about a significant amount of money, two countries with their own rules, and a closing date that will not wait. The good news is that the path is well known, completely legal and, when done in the right order, stress-free. Let me show you the order.
The golden rule: everything declared, everything through the official system
The money leaves Brazil through a foreign exchange contract (contrato de câmbio) with a bank or an authorized exchange broker, and arrives in the U.S. in the escrow account of the title company, the company that conducts the closing. This route leaves a paper trail on both sides, and that is what protects you: when you file your income tax return, prove where the money came from, or sell the property in the future, everything is on record.
Informal channels may look faster or cheaper. I do not recommend them. If something goes wrong, you are left without proof and without protection.
Step by step
Contract first, money second. Only send funds after your offer has been accepted and the contract is signed. The contract sets the deadlines for the initial deposit and for the balance.
Get the instructions from the title company. They arrive in writing, with the escrow account details.
Confirm by phone. Email scams with fake bank details exist in real estate. Before you transfer anything, call the title company at a number you verified yourself (on the company's official website or one I gave you) and confirm the instructions. Never accept a change of account by email.
Close the exchange. Go to your bank or an authorized exchange broker and state the purpose: purchase of real estate abroad. Ask more than one institution for a quote, because rates and fees vary. Get in writing the total you will pay, including IOF tax and fees, before you close.
Send it early. A cash purchase usually closes in 2 to 4 weeks. Schedule the transfer well ahead so the money is never the cause of a delay.
Keep everything. The exchange contract, transfer receipts, the final closing document (closing disclosure) and the deed. Your accountant will ask for them.
What about IOF?
Foreign exchange operations in Brazil are subject to IOF tax. The rates were changed by decree in 2025 and were even challenged before the Brazilian Supreme Court. Because the rate depends on the nature of the operation and may change again, I prefer not to give you a number that could be outdated by the time you read this. Ask your bank or exchange broker, in writing, which rate applies to your operation before you close.
Source of funds
Title companies, banks and exchange brokers may ask for documents proving where the money came from: bank statements, income tax returns, the sale contract of another asset. This is routine and does not mean distrust. Have these documents organized before you make an offer so they do not delay closing.
What to declare in Brazil
Income tax (IRPF): the U.S. property must appear in your annual return as an asset abroad.
Central Bank (CBE): if the total of your assets and funds abroad (real estate, accounts, shares, cash) exceeds US$ 1 million on December 31, you must also file the Declaration of Brazilian Capital Abroad (CBE) with the Central Bank. The amounts are added together, not just the property. In 2026, the annual filing window ran from February 15 to April 5. Late or incorrect filings can result in fines.
Rental income and capital gains on the sale also have rules in Brazil and in the U.S. That is a matter for your accountant, preferably someone who knows both sides.
Who to talk to before sending the first dollar
Your accountant in Brazil, your bank or exchange broker, and the title company. I coordinate with the title company throughout the process and, if you do not yet have an accountant or attorney who serves international clients, I can refer trusted professionals.
If you are planning to buy and want to understand your case before making your first offer, book a call with me: https://calendar.app.google/DpQrJmZHKJwRetQs8. I work in Portuguese, English and Spanish.
This article is informational and does not replace the advice of an accountant, attorney or financial institution. Information checked on October 10, 2026; tax and exchange rules change often.
Sources:
· Declaração de Capitais Brasileiros no Exterior – 2026 (CBE)
· IOF on exchange and remittances abroad in 2026
· Central Bank of Brazil: bcb.gov.br
