Nearly two decades ago, Argentine attorney Maria Marta Calderon arrived in South Florida with the goal of practicing law in the United States. After graduating with highest honors from the University of Miami School of Law and gaining experience at top firms on the Am Law 200 list, she founded Calderon Law Firm. Now a trusted advisor to developers and Family Offices, Calderon shares critical insights on cross-border asset protection and real estate investment in 2026.
According to Calderon, the most severe mistake Latin American entrepreneurs make is assuming U.S. rules mirror those in their home countries. 'They often rely solely on what a friend, a real estate agent, or a title company tells them—none of whom are specialized attorneys in U.S. foreign investment,' she said. Poor structuring can trigger legal liabilities, tax exposure, estate taxes, and complications with FIRPTA. Calderon emphasizes that a property purchase should be viewed as an asset protection strategy, not just a transaction.
Purchasing real estate in one's personal name, Calderon warns, can lead to federal estate tax for non-resident aliens, ancillary probate, and personal exposure to lawsuits. 'A well-designed corporate or fiduciary structure can limit liability, safeguard assets, facilitate family succession, and create long-term tax efficiencies,' she explains. Each case requires individualized counsel based on investment specifics and objectives.
In commercial real estate, Calderon sees opportunities in mixed-use developments, logistics centers, multifamily housing, flexible office spaces, data centers, and tech-driven projects. However, due diligence varies significantly by asset type. 'Analyzing a multifamily property is completely different from analyzing a logistics center,' she notes. Her role involves guiding foreign investors through every stage, ensuring ironclad contracts and appropriate legal structures to mitigate risks and avoid costly litigation.
As a licensed attorney in both Argentina (Civil Law system) and the United States (Common Law system), Calderon acts as a bridge between distinct legal frameworks. 'The cultural and legal contrast is often one of the greatest hurdles for business owners,' she says. Her experience helps clients navigate both systems, capitalizing on the legal certainty and stability the American system offers.
Calderon's golden advice for investors: 'Surround yourself with excellent advisors, and never sign anything out of pressure, haste, or without understanding it 100%.' She stresses that contracts are extremely powerful in the U.S., and judges do not rewrite them. 'All too often, clients walk into my office after having signed contracts plagued with major issues. Unfortunately, in many cases, by then it is already too late,' she says. Her firm focuses on building trust and transparency to protect investments and ensure clients understand their rights and obligations.
