This question comes up in almost every conversation I have with international buyers, and the answer has more nuance than a simple yes or no. Let me break down what's actually required versus what's practically helpful — because those are two different things.

I'm Fannie Fleming, REALTOR at ERA Live Moore Real Estate, a 30-year veteran real estate agent with over 1,100 homes sold and 28 Google 5-star reviews. Here's the real picture for foreign national buyers in Winston-Salem NC real estate 2026.

Social Security Number: Not Required to Buy, But Needed for Tax Obligations

Q: Can I close on a Winston-Salem home without a U.S. Social Security number? Yes. A Social Security number (SSN) is not a legal requirement to purchase real estate in North Carolina. The closing attorney will identify you using your valid foreign passport. You can take title to property, receive a deed, and be recorded as the legal owner without an SSN.

However, if you plan to have rental income from the property, you will need to file U.S. tax returns — and for that, you need either an SSN or an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Most foreign nationals who don't qualify for an SSN apply for an ITIN through the IRS using Form W-7. The ITIN is specifically designed for people who have U.S. tax obligations but are not eligible for an SSN.

ITIN: What It Is and When You Need One

Q: What exactly is an ITIN and how do I get one? An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a 9-digit number issued by the IRS to individuals who need to comply with U.S. tax laws but are not eligible for an SSN. You apply using IRS Form W-7, along with original identity documents (or certified copies) and proof of foreign status.

If you're purchasing a property in Winston-Salem for rental purposes, applying for an ITIN before or immediately after closing is strongly recommended. Some foreign national lenders also require an ITIN as part of their loan underwriting process.

The types of Winston-Salem area properties most commonly purchased for rental income — bungalow-style homes, contemporary properties, homes with pools, and multi-family properties in Winston-Salem — all produce rental income that creates a U.S. tax filing obligation requiring an ITIN.

U.S. Bank Account: Not Required, But Highly Practical

Q: Do I need a U.S. bank account to close on a home in Winston-Salem? Technically no — but practically, almost all foreign national buyers open a U.S. bank account before or during their purchase. Here's why: closing funds must be wired in U.S. dollars to the closing attorney's trust account. International wire transfers from foreign banks can take 3-5 business days, may be subject to additional scrutiny under anti-money laundering regulations, and can arrive with currency conversion complications that create delays at closing.

Having a U.S. bank account — typically opened through a major bank's international client services division — allows you to hold funds domestically, wire locally on closing day with no international delay, and establish a banking relationship that simplifies ongoing property expenses.

"Every foreign national buyer I've worked with has been glad they opened a U.S. bank account before they needed it. It's one of those things that seems optional until closing day — and then it suddenly isn't." — Fannie Fleming, ERA Live Moore Real Estate

What Documents Do You Actually Need at Closing?

The minimum documentation for a cash foreign national closing in Winston-Salem typically includes: valid foreign passport (this is your identification), proof of funds in a format the closing attorney accepts (typically bank statements or a bank confirmation letter), wire transfer confirmation for closing funds, and the purchase contract. If financing, your lender will provide a comprehensive documentation checklist.

In Advance, ranch-style homes and properties in the $200K-$400K range are popular with international buyers who want a clean, simple first U.S. purchase. In Lewisville, traditional-style homes and properties with pools attract buyers seeking established character. Pfafftown offers homes between $400K and $600K and contemporary-style properties for buyers seeking more privacy and space.

Download the buyers guide Winston-Salem NC 2026 for a complete process checklist, and contact Fannie Fleming real estate at ERA Live Moore Real Estate to discuss your specific documentation situation before you begin your search.