Financial Preparation

• Determine your total investment budget (property + transaction costs + reserves)
• Establish a currency exchange strategy (Chilean peso can be volatile)
• Research historical USD/CLP or CAD/CLP exchange rates to identify favorable timing
• Set up international wire transfer capabilities with your home bank
• Consider opening a Chilean bank account (documentation requirements are substantial)
• Evaluate tax implications in both Chile and your home country
• Arrange financing if needed (mortgage pre-approval or evidence of funds)

Market Research

• Identify target cities based on investment goals (capital growth vs. rental yield)
• Research neighborhood-specific price trends and rental yields
• Join online forums for property investors (Expat.com, AllChile)
• Subscribe to property market reports (Portal Inmobiliario, Yapo)
• Analyze infrastructure projects and development zones
• Research tenant demographics and rental demand in target areas
• Plan a preliminary market visit to evaluate areas firsthand

Professional Network Development

• Connect with bilingual real estate attorneys specializing in foreign client purchases
• Identify reputable real estate agencies with experience helping international buyers
• Research property management companies in your target market
• Establish contact with currency exchange specialists (e.g., Wise, OFX)
• Find a Chilean tax accountant familiar with non-resident investor concerns
• Connect with property inspectors for technical assessments
• Consider mortgage brokers if financing will be required

Expert Tip: The Chilean property market has distinct seasonality. The most active period is September through December (Chilean spring/early summer), with a second busy period in February-March. January is vacation season when many Chileans are away, so business slows down. Winter months (June-August) typically see fewer listings but potentially more motivated sellers. Consider timing your property viewing trip in October/November for the best selection.

Recent Regulatory Change: Chile implemented the Beneficial Ownership Registry in 2020, requiring disclosure of the ultimate beneficial owners of companies with Chilean assets. This affects investments through corporate structures, including offshore entities. While privacy is still possible, transparency requirements have increased, and investors should be prepared to disclose ultimate ownership to Chilean authorities regardless of the investment structure chosen.

Banking Setup

• Chilean Bank Account Options:
  • Local banks: Banco Santander, Banco de Chile, BCI offer services for foreigners
  • International banks with Chilean presence: Scotiabank, Itaú often better for international clients
  • Foreign investor accounts: Special accounts designed for non-residents
  • Digital options: Limited but growing with fintech development
• Typical Requirements:
  • Chilean Tax ID (RUT/RUN)
  • Passport and secondary identification
  • Proof of address (in home country and Chile if applicable)
  • Reference letters from existing banks
  • Source of funds documentation
  • In-person appointment (virtually always required)
• Alternative Approach: Many foreign investors complete property transactions without a Chilean bank account by using their attorney’s client account (cuenta de terceros) for the purchase and then setting up property management with direct transfers to overseas accounts.

Financing Options

While cash purchases are common among foreign investors, financing options include:

1. Chilean Mortgages for Foreign Nationals:
   • Availability: Limited but accessible through major banks
   • Down Payment Requirements: Typically 30-40% for foreign buyers
   • Interest Rates: Usually 3.5-6% (UF-denominated loans) or 5-8% (peso-denominated)
   • Terms: 20-30 year amortization schedules available
   • Documentation: Extensive, including international credit reports, income verification from home country, tax returns
2. Developer Financing:
   • Common for new constructions and pre-sales
   • Typically requires 20-30% down payment
   • Terms range from 1-10 years depending on developer
   • Often higher interest rates than bank financing
   • Less stringent qualification requirements
3. Home Country Financing:
   • Refinancing existing properties in North America
   • Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs)
   • International investment loans
   • Often more accessible than Chilean financing

Currency Management

The Chilean Peso (CLP) can be volatile, creating both risks and opportunities:

• Exchange Rate Considerations:
  • Monitor USD/CLP and CAD/CLP trends to identify favorable exchange windows
  • Consider working with a currency specialist offering rate alerts
  • Be aware that major copper price movements often affect the peso’s value
• Currency Services:
  • Specialized services like Wise, OFX, or Moneycorp typically offer better rates than banks
  • Forward contracts can lock in exchange rates for future payments
  • Regular payment services for ongoing costs like mortgages
• UF Consideration:
  • Many Chilean property transactions use the UF (Unidad de Fomento), an inflation-adjusted unit
  • UF-denominated loans provide protection against peso inflation
  • Property prices often quoted in UF in higher-end markets
  • UF value changes daily based on inflation rates
• Income Repatriation:
  • No restrictions on repatriating rental income or sale proceeds
  • Tax clearance required before repatriating large sums
  • Maintain accurate records for tax purposes in both countries

Currency management can significantly impact your overall investment returns. The Chilean peso has historically experienced greater volatility than many developed market currencies, with 10-15% annual fluctuations against the USD not uncommon. This can substantially affect your effective purchase price and ongoing returns when measured in your home currency.

Property Search Resources

• Online Property Portals:
  • Portal Inmobiliario – Chile’s largest property portal
  • Yapo – Popular classified site with property listings
  • Enlace Inmobiliario – Specialized in higher-end properties
  • Propiedades EMOL – Associated with major newspaper El Mercurio
• Real Estate Agencies:
  • International chains: Sotheby’s, RE/MAX, Engel & Völkers
  • Local established firms: Propiedades Bywaters, CorredoresIntegrados
  • Bilingual boutique agencies specializing in foreign buyers
  • Note: Unlike North America, many Chile agents represent specific properties rather than buyers
• Developer Direct Sales:
  • Major developers have sales offices in urban areas
  • Often offer pre-construction discounts and payment plans
  • Show apartments (pilotos) available for viewing
  • May offer better pricing than secondary market for new properties
• Property Finders/Buyer’s Agents:
  • Emerging service specifically for foreign buyers
  • Represents your interests rather than seller’s
  • Bilingual assistance throughout process
  • Typically charge 1-3% of purchase price

Property Viewing Trip Planning

For overseas investors, an efficient property viewing trip is essential:

1. Pre-Trip Research:
   • Identify 10-15 potential properties before arrival
   • Schedule viewings in advance (appointment culture is important in Chile)
   • Research neighborhoods thoroughly online
   • Arrange meetings with attorneys, property managers if needed
2. Trip Logistics:
   • Plan at least 5-7 days per city being considered
   • Allow extra time for traffic in Santiago (significant congestion)
   • Schedule viewings in geographical clusters
   • Leave time for neighborhood exploration at different times of day
3. During Viewings:
   • Take detailed photos and notes
   • Ask about gastos comunes (HOA/maintenance fees)
   • Verify contribuciones (property tax) amounts
   • Check internet/utility infrastructure
   • Note proximity to transport, amenities, and noise sources
   • Be aware of sun orientation (southern exposure gets less light)
4. Consider using a bilingual assistant who can:
   • Translate during viewings
   • Help navigate neighborhoods
   • Provide cultural context for negotiations
   • Facilitate communication with sellers and agents

Property Evaluation Criteria

Assess potential investments using these key criteria:

• Location Factors:
  • Transport access (Metro stations, major roads)
  • Walking distance to amenities (commerce, parks, services)
  • School proximity for family rentals
  • Safety of neighborhood (consult local crime statistics)
  • Noise considerations (traffic, nightlife, construction)
  • Employment centers and universities
• Building Quality:
  • Seismic construction standards (critical in Chile)
  • Age and condition of property
  • Building materials and quality
  • For apartments: administration company reputation
  • For houses: construction type and maintenance
  • Heating/cooling systems (varies greatly by region)
  • Water pressure and quality (important in some areas)
• Rental Potential:
  • Rental yield compared to area average
  • Tenant demographics in the area
  • Seasonal factors (especially for tourism destinations)
  • Potential for value-add improvements
  • Rental restrictions in condominium bylaws
  • Short-term rental regulations in the municipality
• Financial Considerations:
  • Price per square meter compared to area average
  • Gastos comunes (HOA fees) and what they include
  • Contribuciones (property tax) amount and payment status
  • Insurance costs (especially in coastal or forested areas)
  • Potential capital appreciation based on local trends
  • Exit strategy considerations

Expert Tip: In Chile, building quality varies significantly between neighborhoods and price points. Premium properties in areas like Las Condes, Vitacura, and Providencia typically feature better seismic engineering, higher quality finishes, and stronger property management. Budget-friendly properties may have lower construction standards or use lower quality materials. Pay particular attention to thermal insulation, as Chilean building codes have only recently begun to emphasize energy efficiency. In southern regions (south of Concepción), heating systems are crucial for comfort, while in the north (La Serena and above), cooling systems become more important.

Legal Due Diligence

• ✓
  Title Study (Estudio de Títulos): Comprehensive review of property ownership history going back at least 10 years
• ✓
  Property Certificate (Certificado de Dominio Vigente): Confirms current legal ownership
• ✓
  Encumbrances Certificate (Certificado de Gravámenes y Prohibiciones): Verifies any liens, mortgages, or restrictions
• ✓
  Municipal Compliance Certificate (Certificado de Recepción Final): Confirms building was legally constructed and approved
• ✓
  Zoning Certificate (Certificado de Informaciones Previas): Details zoning regulations and permitted uses
• ✓
  Condominium Bylaws (Reglamento de Copropiedad): Rules governing shared ownership in condominiums/apartments
• ✓
  HOA Records Review: Meeting minutes, financial statements, future planned assessments
• ✓
  Boundary Verification: Property plans from Conservador de Bienes Raíces (property registry)

Physical Due Diligence

• ✓
  Technical Inspection (Inspección Técnica): Professional review of property condition
• ✓
  Seismic Assessment: Crucial in Chile due to earthquake risk; review construction quality
• ✓
  Utilities Verification: Confirm proper connection and function of water, electricity, gas
• ✓
  Environmental Hazards: Checking for flood risk, landslide potential (especially in hillside areas)
• ✓
  Common Areas Inspection: Assess condition of shared facilities in condominiums
• ✓
  Internet/Communications: Verify available providers and service quality
• ✓
  Renovation Assessment: Obtain estimates if improvements planned

Financial Due Diligence

• ✓
  Property Tax Verification (Certificado de Avalúo Fiscal): Confirm assessed value and tax status
• ✓
  Utility Payment Status: Verify no outstanding utility bills attached to property
• ✓
  Comparative Market Analysis: Verify price aligns with recent comparable sales
• ✓
  Rental Market Research: Confirm realistic rental expectations (consult local property managers)
• ✓
  Transaction Cost Calculation: Determine all purchase expenses (legal fees, notary, registration)
• ✓
  Running Cost Assessment: Calculate all ownership expenses (gastos comunes, contribuciones, maintenance)
• ✓
  Future Special Assessments: Research planned building improvements requiring extra payments

Expert Tip: In Chile, property titles must be carefully reviewed due to the country’s unique legal history and inheritance practices. Ensure your attorney conducts a thorough “estudio de títulos” going back at least 10 years. Pay particular attention to properties that have been inherited or have multiple previous owners, as these can sometimes have title issues that aren’t immediately apparent. Obtaining title insurance is not standard practice in Chile, making proper legal due diligence even more critical. Also note that property boundaries in rural areas may not always match official records, so physical inspection and verification are essential for land purchases.

Offer and Negotiation

1. Make an Offer: Typically done verbally through the real estate agent
2. Negotiation: Back-and-forth on price and terms
3. Offer Acceptance: Verbal agreement (not legally binding at this stage)
4. Reservation Agreement: Often includes a small deposit (20-50 UF) to take property off market

Unlike North America, there is typically no standardized offer form. Initial negotiations are usually informal, followed by a more formal reservation agreement. This initial deposit is often refundable if serious issues are discovered during due diligence, but terms should be carefully negotiated and documented.

Purchase Process

1. Appoint Attorney: Engage Chilean attorney specialized in real estate transactions
2. Due Diligence Phase:
   • Title study (estudio de títulos)
   • Property certificates verification
   • Technical inspections
   • Legal compliance verification
3. Promissory Agreement (Promesa de Compraventa):
   • Formal contract establishing terms and conditions
   • Typically requires 10-20% deposit
   • Sets timeline for final closing
   • Includes contingencies and penalties for non-compliance
   • Executed before a notary (notario)
4. Closing Preparation:
   • Final document preparation
   • Funds transfer arrangements
   • Final property inspection
   • Resolution of any outstanding issues
5. Deed Execution (Escritura Pública):
   • Final purchase contract signed before notary
   • Balance of purchase price paid
   • Property possession transferred
   • Notary verifies identities and documentation
6. Registration:
   • Deed registered with Property Registry (Conservador de Bienes Raíces)
   • Usually handled by attorney
   • Takes 2-4 weeks to complete
   • Transfer legally completed once registered

The timeframe from offer acceptance to final registration typically ranges from 6-12 weeks for a straightforward transaction. The process can be longer for properties with complex title issues or if frontier zone authorization is required. For foreign buyers, additional time may be needed for international funds transfers and RUT (tax ID) application.

Transaction Costs

Budget for these typical transaction expenses:

• Legal Fees: 1-2% of purchase price for attorney services
• Notary Fees: 0.1-0.5% of property value
• Registration Fees: 0.2-0.5% at Conservador de Bienes Raíces
• Real Estate Agent Commission: Usually 2-4% (typically paid by seller, but negotiate if using buyer’s agent)
• Tax ID (RUT) Application: Nominal fee plus attorney costs to process
• Technical Inspection: $300-800 USD depending on property size and type
• Mortgage Costs: 1-2% of loan amount if financing (study fee, appraisal, processing)
• Foreign Exchange Costs: Varies by provider (0.5-3% spread)

Total transaction costs for foreign investors typically range from 3-6% of the purchase price. Unlike many countries, Chile does not impose a significant transfer tax or stamp duty on real estate purchases, making acquisition costs comparatively reasonable.

Expert Tip: The promissory agreement (promesa de compraventa) is a critical document in Chilean property transactions and should be carefully negotiated. It creates legally binding obligations and typically includes penalty clauses for non-compliance. Unlike in some countries, these penalties are regularly enforced by Chilean courts. Ensure your attorney includes appropriate contingencies for title issues, financing (if applicable), and property condition. For foreign buyers unable to be present for closing, a properly executed and apostilled power of attorney can be arranged in your home country, but this should be prepared well in advance to avoid delays.

Administrative Tasks

• ✓
  Property Registration: Verify deed has been properly registered at Conservador de Bienes Raíces
• ✓
  Utility Transfers: Change electricity, water, gas, internet accounts to your name
• ✓
  Property Tax Notification: Update address with SII (tax authority) for property tax notices
• ✓
  Homeowner Association: Register with building administration for condominiums
• ✓
  Property Insurance: Arrange appropriate coverage (earthquake insurance highly recommended)
• ✓
  Municipal Registration: Update municipal records for local services
• ✓
  Property Manager Appointment: Engage management services if not personally residing in property

Regulatory Compliance

Rental properties in Chile must comply with several regulations:

• Municipal Permits:
  • Patente Municipal (business license) required for commercial rentals
  • Some municipalities require registration of short-term/tourist rentals
  • Compliance with zoning regulations regarding property use
• Building Compliance:
  • Property must maintain compliance with building standards
  • Modifications require municipal permits
  • Regular safety inspections for multi-unit buildings
• Tourism Regulations:
  • Registration with Sernatur (tourism authority) for properties marketed as tourist accommodations
  • Compliance with hospitality standards for such properties
  • May include specific safety and service requirements
• Condominium Regulations:
  • Adherence to building bylaws (reglamento de copropiedad)
  • Some condominiums restrict short-term rentals
  • Regular payment of gastos comunes (HOA fees)
• Tenant Rights:
  • Chilean law provides significant tenant protections
  • Contracts must comply with residential tenancy laws
  • Security deposit limitations and regulations

Compliance requirements vary by municipality and property type. Professional property management can help ensure all regulatory requirements are met, particularly for foreign owners who cannot regularly monitor changing local regulations.

Record Keeping

Maintain comprehensive records for tax and legal purposes:

• Property Documents:
  • Purchase deed (escritura de compraventa)
  • Registration certificate from Conservador de Bienes Raíces
  • Property certificates and technical reports
  • Building plans and permits
  • Insurance policies and claims
• Financial Records:
  • All property-related expenses with receipts
  • Mortgage statements (if applicable)
  • Gastos comunes (HOA fee) receipts
  • Property tax (contribuciones) payments
  • Rental income and tenant deposits
  • Currency exchange transactions
• Tax Documentation:
  • Annual tax declarations (Declaración de Renta)
  • Depreciation schedules
  • Capital improvements documentation
  • Foreign income reporting for home country
• Tenant Information:
  • Rental contracts (contratos de arriendo)
  • Tenant identification and references
  • Property condition reports
  • Security deposit documentation
  • Maintenance requests and resolution

Chilean tax authorities (SII) require records to be kept for at least 6 years. For foreign investors, maintaining duplicate records in both Chile and your home country is recommended, particularly for supporting documentation needed for both tax jurisdictions.

Expert Tip: Digital record-keeping is especially important for foreign investors in Chile. Many Chilean service providers now offer electronic invoicing (facturas electrónicas), which can be automatically stored in cloud systems. Consider establishing a dedicated email address for property-related correspondence and a secure cloud storage solution for documents. For properties in condominium buildings, request to be added to the building’s communication system (many use WhatsApp groups or dedicated apps) to stay informed about building issues, even when not physically present in Chile.

Chilean Tax Obligations

• Property Tax (Contribuciones):
  • Paid quarterly (April, June, September, November)
  • Based on fiscal valuation (avalúo fiscal), which is typically below market value
  • Rates range from 0.98% to 1.143% annually of fiscal value
  • Agricultural properties have different rates
  • Some properties may be exempt or have reduced rates
• Income Tax on Rental Income:
  • Non-residents taxed at flat 35% rate on net rental income
  • Residents taxed at progressive rates from 0% to 40%
  • Annual declaration required (Declaración de Renta)
  • Deductible expenses include property management, maintenance, depreciation
  • Monthly provisional payments may be required for substantial rental income
• Capital Gains Tax:
  • Non-residents pay 35% on gains from property sales
  • Residents may be exempt on primary residence if held over one year
  • Calculation based on sales price minus acquisition cost and improvements
  • Costs adjusted for inflation using CPI (IPC in Chile)
  • Complex calculation requires professional assistance
• Value Added Tax (IVA):
  • Generally not applicable to residential property rentals
  • 19% VAT applies to commercial property leases
  • New construction sales may include VAT
  • Monthly reporting required for VAT-applicable rentals
• Municipal Taxes:
  • Business license (patente municipal) for commercial rentals
  • Rates vary by municipality and property use
  • Typically paid semi-annually or annually

Home Country Tax Obligations

Chile has comprehensive tax treaties with both the United States and Canada which help prevent double taxation. However, the interaction between tax systems is complex and requires professional guidance from advisors familiar with both jurisdictions.

Tax Planning Strategies

• Entity Structure: Evaluate whether personal ownership, Chilean company, or other structures optimize tax position
• Expense Documentation: Maintain meticulous records of all allowable expenses to maximize deductions
• Depreciation: Properly claim building depreciation to reduce taxable income
• Capital Improvements: Document all property enhancements which may reduce future capital gains tax
• Timing of Sales: Consider tax year timing for property sales to optimize position
• Exchange Rate Planning: Time income repatriation when exchange rates are favorable
• Tax Treaty Benefits: Utilize applicable provisions of tax treaties to avoid double taxation
• Professional Services: Engage Chilean accountant with foreign investor expertise

Chile’s tax system is undergoing modernization, with increased digitalization and enhanced enforcement. Regular consultations with Chilean and home country tax professionals are essential to ensure continued compliance and optimal structuring.

Expert Tip: Chile’s tax authority (Servicio de Impuestos Internos, or SII) has significantly digitalized its tax system. Foreign investors should obtain a “Clave Fiscal” (tax password) to access the online tax portal, which allows for electronic filing and monitoring of tax obligations. For property sales, timing can significantly impact tax liability. In some cases, structuring the sale across tax years or reinvesting in other Chilean properties can provide tax advantages. Consult with a tax specialist well in advance of any planned property sale to implement appropriate tax planning strategies.

Selecting a Property Manager

Evaluate potential property managers using these criteria:

• Experience with Foreign Investors:
  • Bilingual capabilities (English-Spanish)
  • Experience with international clients
  • Understanding of foreign investor needs
• Professional Credentials:
  • Proper business licensing
  • Industry association membership
  • Professional indemnity insurance
• Market Knowledge:
  • Specialization in your property location/type
  • Understanding of local rental market trends
  • Tenant database and marketing capabilities
• Client Communication:
  • Digital reporting systems
  • Responsiveness to international time zones
  • Regular updates and transparency
• Maintenance Network:
  • Established contractor relationships
  • Emergency response procedures
  • Maintenance quality control
• Tenant Management:
  • Thorough screening process
  • Proper contract documentation
  • Effective rent collection systems
• Regulatory Compliance:
  • Knowledge of Chilean tenancy laws
  • Tax reporting assistance
  • Municipal compliance management

Management Agreement Essentials

Ensure your property management contract includes these key elements:

• Scope of Services: Detailed description of exactly what is included and excluded
• Fee Structure: Clear explanation of all management fees, commissions, and additional charges
• Contract Term and Notice Period: Duration of agreement and termination process
• Reporting Schedule: Frequency and format of financial and property condition reports
• Maintenance Authority: Spending limits for repairs without prior approval
• Tenant Selection Criteria: Parameters for approving potential tenants
• Rent Collection Procedures: Methods, timing, and handling of arrears
• Insurance Requirements: Coverage expectations and liability boundaries
• Accounting Practices: How rental income is processed and disbursed
• Taxation Support: Assistance with annual tax declarations

For foreign investors, securing references from other international clients is particularly important. Also verify which staff members speak English and their availability, as communication barriers can create significant challenges in property management.

Expert Tip: Chile’s rental market has distinct seasonal patterns in different regions. In Santiago, the strongest rental demand occurs in February-March (back-to-school season) and November-December. In resort areas like Viña del Mar or Pucón, peak rental rates during high season (December-February) can be 3-4 times higher than low season. Property managers should have strategies to optimize occupancy throughout the year. For long-term rentals, the standard contract length is 12 months with automatic renewal, which provides more stability than month-to-month arrangements. Ensure your property manager has experience with the specific rental market for your property type and location.

Exit Options

Sale Process

When selling your Chilean property:

1. Pre-Sale Preparation:
   • Property presentation and minor renovations
   • Address maintenance issues
   • Gather all relevant documentation
   • Consider vacant possession vs. tenanted sale
2. Agent Selection:
   • Expertise in your property type/location
   • International marketing capabilities
   • Commission structure (typically 2-4%)
   • Marketing plan review
3. Legal Preparation:
   • Instruct attorney early
   • Update certificates and documentation
   • Resolve any pending issues
   • Tenant notification if applicable
4. Marketing Period:
   • Professional photography
   • Online and print marketing
   • Property showings
   • Offer negotiation
5. Transaction Process:
   • Promissory agreement (promesa de compraventa)
   • Buyer due diligence period
   • Final deed preparation
   • Notarization and registration
6. Post-Sale Requirements:
   • Capital gains tax declaration and payment
   • Currency repatriation
   • Tax clearance certificate
   • Notice to property management and utilities

The Chilean selling process typically takes 2-4 months from listing to completion. For higher-value properties or those in less liquid markets, the timeline may extend to 6-12 months. Foreign sellers should plan for additional time for international fund transfers and tax compliance procedures.

Market Exit Timing Considerations

Several factors should influence your exit timing decision:

• Chilean Economic Cycles: Property values tend to follow economic performance, which is linked to copper prices and global economic trends
• Currency Exchange Rates: The Chilean peso can be volatile; timing sales when the peso is strong against your home currency can significantly enhance returns
• Interest Rate Environment: Lower interest rates typically stimulate buyer demand and improve property valuations
• Political Stability: Major elections or policy changes can affect market sentiment and foreign investor confidence
• Regional Development: Infrastructure projects or major investments can create selling opportunities in specific markets
• Seasonal Factors: Santiago market is most active in February-March and October-November, while tourist areas peak during summer months
• Tax Considerations: Timing sales to optimize tax position in both Chile and home country
• Supply Dynamics: New construction completions can temporarily flood markets, affecting resale values

The Chilean property market has historically shown resilience and steady long-term appreciation, but with notable cyclical patterns. Monitoring both macroeconomic indicators and local market conditions is essential for optimal exit timing. Currency considerations are particularly important, as exchange rate movements can sometimes overshadow property appreciation in determining total returns for foreign investors.

Expert Tip: Chile has a unique economic indicator called IMACEC (Monthly Economic Activity Index) that provides a more frequent snapshot of economic performance than quarterly GDP figures. This index often correlates with real estate market activity and can be a useful tool for timing market exits. Additionally, for properties in Santiago, the quarterly sectoral reports from the Chilean Chamber of Construction (Cámara Chilena de la Construcción) provide detailed data on supply, demand, and pricing trends by neighborhood, helping inform selling decisions. For international sellers, working with an attorney who can coordinate the sale closing with immediate currency exchange and international wire transfers can minimize exchange rate risk during the settlement period.