Montreal-based Brasswater is expanding its U.S. real estate portfolio by investing in Florida, bucking a trend of Canadian caution towards American property ownership. This move comes as a significant portion of Canadian property owners in the U.S. are considering selling, influenced by political tensions and economic factors.
Key Takeaways
- Montreal’s Brasswater is actively pursuing investment opportunities in Florida’s real estate market.
- A notable percentage of Canadians who own U.S. property are planning to sell.
- Political climate and trade tariffs are cited as primary reasons for Canadian hesitation.
Brasswater’s Florida Focus
Despite a general air of uncertainty among some Canadian investors, Montreal’s Brasswater is demonstrating a strong commitment to the Florida real estate market. The firm, known for its activity in its home market, is growing its U.S. presence by acquiring properties in land-constrained areas like Coconut Creek, Florida. This strategic expansion highlights Brasswater’s bullish outlook on the Sunshine State’s investment potential.
Canadian Concerns Over U.S. Property
Conversely, a growing number of Canadians are experiencing "jitters" about owning property in the United States. Analyses from prominent real estate firms indicate a significant trend towards selling U.S. holdings. A study by Royal LePage revealed that 54% of Canadians owning residential property in America plan to sell within the next year. The primary driver for this decision, cited by 62% of those looking to sell, is the administration of President Donald Trump.
Political and Economic Influences
Phil Soper, President and CEO of Royal LePage, noted that the "polarizing political climate in the United States" is prompting Canadians to re-evaluate their investments and time spent in the U.S. He emphasized that Canadians are historically major foreign investors in American residential real estate, and a large-scale divestment could impact regional economies, particularly in states like Florida, Arizona, and California.
Furthermore, Realtor.com analysts point to trade tariffs imposed by the U.S. administration as a direct factor affecting Canadian property owners. Data from Realtor.com shows a 4.5% decline in Canadians seeking U.S. property from the third quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2025. This downturn coincided with the imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods, altering established trade relations.
Sources
- Montreal’s Brasswater looks to Florida for investment opportunities, CoStar.
- Canadians are getting jitters about owning property in Florida and other states, Florida Politics.