Can I buy a house in California without being a resident?

Derrik, good news: California does not require you to be a state resident, or even a US citizen, to buy property here. Residency and homeownership are two separate things. What actually changes based on your situation is not residency, it is how you will use the home, because that drives your loan: - Primary residence: best rates and lowest down payment, but you have to actually move in. - Second home or vacation property: still good financing, usually needs more down. - Investment or rental: expect a higher rate and typically 15 to 25 percent down. So a Washington buyer can absolutely purchase in California. The lender just wants to know which of those three it is, and to document your income and assets from wherever you earn them. A few practical notes for an out-of-area buyer: - You do not have to be physically present to close. California closes through escrow, and we handle remote buyers all the time with a mobile notary and overnight documents. - If you are financing, get pre-approved before you shop. Cash offers and strong pre-approvals win here. - If you are a foreign national rather than a US buyer, there are extra tax mechanics that come into play when you eventually sell (federal FIRPTA and a California withholding at closing). Those hit at sale, not purchase, but it is smart to know about them going in. A CPA who handles cross-border clients is worth the call. I am a Los Angeles and South Bay real estate professional, so I know the California side of a remote purchase well. I am not a tax advisor, so confirm any tax questions with a CPA. If you are eyeing Southern California I can help directly, and if it is another part of the state, I am glad to connect you with a strong agent from my network. Zoltan

Yes, but I would highly suggest speaking with a legal professional as there are criteria that must be met to do this successfully. Keith Jean-Pierre Managing Principal The Dapper Agents Real Estate Operations in ALL 50 States

Yes, you can buy a house in California. Consult your CPA regarding residency/tax considerations and utilize the appropriate loan product (impact the loan product and down payment requirements). If you want to retain WA residency then you will not designate the CA home as your primary residence.

Yes, you can buy a house in California even if you are not a resident. Many people purchase second homes or investment properties in other states. Buying a home does not automatically change your residency, but how much time you spend there could affect things like taxes, driver’s license, and voter registration. Because residency rules vary, it is always best to confirm the details with a tax professional or attorney before you make a move.

Yes -- You can even buy homes in foreign countries if you wanted too. Are you going to live in the home as a primary residence, is it going to be an investment (rental) or second home -- and are you active duty military? If it is a second home and you spend the majority of the year in Washington and claim that to be "home" -- it should not change your current state residency. Contact your local government and ask the questions. It is best to be informed by the people to enforce the laws in your State!