Florida Realtors has solidified its international presence by signing a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Japan-America Real Estate Coalition Office (JARECO) in Tokyo. This strategic alliance aims to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and investment opportunities between real estate professionals in Florida and Japan. The agreement coincides with the upcoming launch of direct passenger flights between Orlando and Tokyo, signaling a new era of connectivity and economic partnership.
Key Takeaways
- A new partnership between Florida Realtors and JARECO will facilitate market data sharing, professional training, and research.
- The upcoming nonstop flights between Orlando and Tokyo are expected to significantly boost tourism and investment.
- Florida is identified as a highly attractive market for Japanese investors due to its lifestyle, economic growth, and robust real estate sector.
Deepening Bilateral Real Estate Ties
The MOU, signed during the Southeast U.S.–Japan Association meeting, establishes a framework for enhanced cooperation. Florida Realtors President Tim Weisheyer highlighted the agreement’s potential to "open even more doors for collaboration, learning, and investment between Florida and Japan." JARECO, representing a broad network of Japanese real estate organizations, views Florida as a prime U.S. market for investment, citing its appealing lifestyle, steady economic growth, and strong real estate sector.
A Game-Changer for Connectivity
The timing of this partnership is particularly opportune with the imminent launch of ZIPAIR, a Japan Airlines subsidiary, offering the first nonstop passenger flights between Orlando and Tokyo in early 2026. Weisheyer, who also serves as the immediate past chairman of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, described these flights as a "game-changer" for strengthening business ties. This direct air link is anticipated to significantly increase tourism and facilitate cross-border investment, with real estate positioned at the forefront of this burgeoning economic relationship.
Enhancing Professional Standards and Investment
Under the terms of the MOU, both Florida Realtors and JARECO are committed to advancing ethical standards, professionalism, and innovation within the global real estate industry. JARECO, founded in 2013, acts as a crucial link between the National Association of Realtors and major Japanese real estate organizations, representing hundreds of thousands of professionals. This collaboration, coupled with Florida’s recent elimination of the business rent tax, positions the state as an increasingly attractive destination for global capital and reinforces its status as a hub for international investment.
Sources
- Florida Realtors sign Japan partnership as Orlando–Tokyo flights near launch, Florida Politics.
- Florida Realtors, Japan-America Real Estate Coalition expand ties, HousingWire.
