International Real Estate Tax Services
International Real Estate Tax Services for Non-Resident Property Owners
U.S. Tax Experts for Non-Residents Selling Real Estate
Selling U.S. real estate as a non-resident involves unique tax rules, reporting requirements, and withholding obligations.
At Chaston Liberty CPA, we help non-resident property owners navigate every step of the process—from obtaining or renewing an ITIN, to preparing required tax returns, and maximizing available tax savings.
Our experienced team works closely with buyers, realtors, and title companies to ensure your transaction is handled correctly and efficiently.
Our International Tax Services
We provide complete tax compliance and planning services for non-residents, including:
- Coordination with realtors and title companies
-
FIRPTA withholding Form preparation
- Tax planning to reduce tax liability
- ITIN applications and renewals
- U.S federal and state income tax return preparation
Understanding FIRPTA
The Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA) generally requires buyers of U.S. real estate from foreign sellers to withhold a portion of the sales price and remit it to the IRS.
Any withholding not needed to pay the federal capital gains tax is refunded when a tax return is filed. Our team evaluates your specific situation to determine the most tax-effective strategy and helps ensure you receive the maximum refund you are entitled to.
ITIN Applications & Renewals
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is required for all non-residents who need to file a U.S. tax return. ITINs also identify any FIRPTA withholding as belonging to you.
We assist with:
- New ITIN applications
- Expired ITIN renewals
- Required IRS documentation
- Filing Forms W-7 with supporting paperwork immediately after the sale.
As Certified Acceptance Agents, we guide you effortlessly through the entire application process. Taxpayers that have an active ITIN can have their tax returns electronically filed which greatly simplifies and speeds up the filing and refund process.
Tax Return Preparation
We prepare all required U.S. Federal and State tax returns related to your real estate transaction. Each seller files a separate tax return to report their share of the sale. A tax return is required to be filed even if no tax is due. Not all of the gain is taxable, so please contact us so we can discuss your specific situation.
Returns can be filed starting in February the year following the year of the sale.
Returns are prepared accurately and filed promptly to minimize delays in receiving your refund.
Maximizing Your Tax Savings
Many expenses can reduce your taxable gain, including:
- Realtor commissions
- Escrow and other closing costs
- Tax Preparation and Legal fees
- Certain capital improvements
- Travel expenses related to the sale (when applicable)
We carefully review your transaction to ensure all eligible deductions are claimed.
Wendy Carlson
FIRPTA & International Real Estate Tax Specialist
Wendy Carlson is Senior Tax Manager at Chaston Liberty CPA.
Wendy helps non-residents confidently navigate the tax complexities of owning, renting, and selling U.S. real estate. As an IRS Certified Acceptance Agent, she makes ITIN applications and renewals simple while providing expert guidance on FIRPTA withholding, U.S. tax filings, capital gains, and tax-saving strategies.
From coordinating with realtors and title companies, to securing refunds of excess withholding, she handles every aspect of the process so clients can complete their transactions with confidence and peace of mind.
Contact Wendy at NR@ChastonLiberty.com
Why Choose Chaston Liberty CPA?
- Extensive experience with non-resident sellers of U.S. real estate
- Personalized guidance throughout the transaction
- Direct coordination with escrow and title companies
- Accurate tax filings and compliance
- Strategies designed to minimize tax liability and maximize refunds
Schedule Your Free Consultation
The earlier you contact us, the more opportunities we have to reduce withholding, avoiddelays, and simplify the tax filing process.
Contact Chaston Liberty CPA
Phone: (602) 942-4100
Email: NR@ChastonLiberty.com
Let us help make your U.S. real estate sale as smooth and tax-efficient as possible.
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