FIRPTA is an acronym for Foreign Investors in U. S. Real Property Tax Act.

This is a U. S. tax law that closed a massive loophole in U. S. tax.  Until 1980 -- when the FIRPTA became law -- it was possible for nonresidents to buy U. S. real estate, sell at a profit, and pay no tax.

Those good old days are gone, and we are left with FIRPTA.  It is an acronym known throughout the U. S. real estate industry by brokers, lenders, title companies, escrow companies, lawyers, and accountants.

Pronounce it FURptuh.  Yes, it is a tongue-twister, that "P" right up against the "T".