How Chinese Investors Can Buy US Real Estate Remotely — A Practical Checklist for Cross-Border Landlords

Chinese investors can absolutely buy US real estate remotely. 

• Step one is financing: you can get a mortgage without US credit — DSCR and other foreign-national loans underwrite based on rental cash flow, typically requiring a 25–35% down payment, while all-cash deals are simplest. 
• Step two is structure: register a US LLC (in states like Delaware or Wyoming) to shield personal liability and obtain an EIN, then apply for an ITIN (Form W-7, usually 7–11 weeks via a certified acceptance agent). 
• Step three is tax: rental income must be reported annually on Form 1040-NR; making a Section 871(d) net-election lets you deduct mortgage interest, property taxes, insurance, management fees and depreciation. When you sell, FIRPTA withholds 15% of the gross sale price — apply for Form 8288-B to reduce withholding in advance and claim any refund the following year. 
• Step four is management: hire a licensed local property manager (typically 8–10% of monthly rent) and close remotely with online notarization. The whole process needs no trip to the US — but do work with a CPA who understands both Chinese and US taxes.