is a syndicator a good way for foreign investors

[Etienne Dubois]

i am a foreign rental property investor looking to build a portfolio in the US, are syndicators a good way to start? or are there better ways for non americans to invest in properties in america or is the 500,000 usd route better to get residency in america to qualify for american mortgages 

[Joseph Firmin]

Hi @Etienne Dubois, syndication is a good way to start if you're unfamiliar with the markets you would like to invest in or how real estate in general is grown in the US. A few things to note as a foreign investor to begin investing in the US (if you don't want to go the $500K route you mention):

1. Obtain a US-based LLC
2. Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
3. Execute an operating agreement with partners
4. The first 3 can all be done with the assistance of a company like Corporate Direct. These next 2 you can do on your own.
5. Apply for an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) or Social Security Number
6. Open US-based accounts (with the above items in hand, you can open a US bank account)

This will set you up to legally invest as you see fit. Actively or passively (via syndication). I would recommend discussing with a CPA familiar with this process to ensure you get the best advice possible and invest in the most tax-advantaged manner possible. Happy to help if you have any other questions! All the best Etienne!