Nearly twenty years ago, Argentine attorney Maria Marta Calderon arrived in South Florida with a dream to practice law in the United States. Her journey from a young immigrant to the founder of Calderon Law Firm is a testament to determination, marked by her graduation with highest honors from the University of Miami (UM) School of Law and experience at top Am Law 200 firms. Today, she advises prominent developers and Family Offices on cross-border asset protection and real estate structuring.
In an exclusive interview, Calderon highlights the most common legal mistakes Latin American entrepreneurs make when buying property in the U.S. "The most severe mistake is assuming the rules work the same as in their home countries," she says. Many rely on advice from friends, real estate agents, or title companies, none of whom are specialized attorneys in U.S. foreign investment. Proper structuring is crucial, as a poorly structured purchase can trigger legal liabilities, tax exposure, and complications with FIRPTA.
Calderon warns against purchasing real estate under personal names, which can lead to federal estate taxes for non-resident aliens and direct personal exposure to lawsuits. "A well-designed corporate or fiduciary structure can limit liability, safeguard assets, and create long-term tax efficiencies," she explains. Her firm focuses on individualized counsel to protect not just investments but family legacies.
Regarding current opportunities, Calderon sees movement in mixed-use developments, logistics centers, multifamily housing, and tech-driven projects. She emphasizes that commercial transactions require complex due diligence, from reviewing lease agreements to analyzing zoning codes and environmental impact. "Having ironclad contracts and appropriate legal structures is not a luxury; it is an absolute necessity," she notes.
As a licensed attorney in Argentina and a former Director of the Argentine-American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, Calderon bridges the gap between Civil Law and Common Law systems. She helps clients navigate cultural and legal differences, providing the legal certainty and stability that the American system offers. For those hesitant to invest, her golden advice is simple: "Surround yourself with excellent advisors, and never sign anything out of pressure or haste." Contracts in the U.S. are powerful, and judges hold parties to their terms, making professional legal counsel indispensable.