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COFFEE WITH DJINJI

By Djinji Crocker

What happens to my property if I am deported?

Imagine having built a life in Florida and facing the possibility of being deported. With the Trump administration’s recent deportation policies, this concern has become more pressing. In January 2025, the administration implemented stricter measures for the deportation of undocumented immigrants, including expanding deportation authorities and removing protections in sensitive areas such as schools and churches. 

Faced with this difficult situation, you are probably wondering: What will happen to all your hard-earned assets? Your home, car, savings, and personal belongings are all in question. Below, we explain what you need to know about the fate of your assets in the event of deportation.

Your property rights remain protected

Contrary to popular belief, deportation does not automatically mean the loss of your property. You retain ownership of your assets, whether they are tangible property like a home or car, or intangible property like bank accounts or investments. The U.S. Constitution protects property rights for all people, regardless of immigration status.

However, managing these assets from another country can be complicated. It is crucial to take steps before you leave to properly protect and manage your assets.

Measures to protect your assets:

  1. Designate a power of attorney: Entrust a trusted person to manage your affairs in your absence. This person will be able to conduct financial transactions, manage property, and handle legal matters on your behalf.

  2. Organize your finances: Make sure your bank accounts are accessible from abroad. You may consider transferring funds to an international bank or activating online banking services.

  3. Debt Settlement: Try to pay off your outstanding debts or set up a plan to continue making payments and avoid default problems.

  4. Safeguard important documents: Collect and securely store essential documents such as property deeds, vehicle titles, and financial records.

  5. Plan your belongings: Decide what you will take with you, what you will store, and what you will sell or give away.

  6. Consider renting or selling your property: If you own a property and the community where you live allows renting, you may choose to put the property up for rent if you don't want to sell it right away. This will allow you to generate income while managing your affairs from abroad. If you prefer to sell, you can also conduct the entire selling process completely online, saving time and effort.

 

Complex situations

Some circumstances can complicate property management after deportation. For example, if you co-own property with a U.S. citizen spouse or have an active mortgage, managing these assets may require specific strategies. In these cases, it is vital to seek legal advice to understand your rights and options.

Conclusion

Although deportation is a difficult process, it doesn't mean you'll lose everything you've built. With advance planning and the right support, you can protect your assets and maintain control over your financial future, even from abroad. Making smart decisions, such as renting or selling your property, can make managing your assets easier and give you peace of mind during this process.

 

Sincerely,

Your real estate agent,

Djinji Crocker

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