If you’ve been wondering who’s fueling activity in Florida’s housing market lately, the answer may surprise you: foreign buyers are back.
According to the National Association of Realtors® 2025 International Transactions Report, international buyers purchased over $56 billion worth of existing U.S. homes from April 2024 to March 2025. That’s a 33% increase over the prior year, and the first time we’ve seen meaningful year-over-year growth in this segment since 2017.
Florida: The #1 Choice for International Buyers
Once again, Florida ranked as the top destination for foreign real estate purchases, accounting for 21% of all international home sales. That means nearly 1 in 5 homes purchased by foreign buyers in the U.S. were here in the Sunshine State.
Florida’s long-standing appeal — from its climate and lifestyle to its tax benefits and investment potential — continues to draw global interest. The recent uptick in inventory also created opportunities for international buyers who had been waiting on the sidelines during the pandemic years.
Who’s Buying, and What Are They Buying?
Here’s a snapshot of this year’s foreign buyer activity:
- 78,100 properties purchased, up 44% from last year
- $494,400 median purchase price — a new record
- 47% of purchases were all-cash, compared to 28% of all U.S. buyers
- Top countries of origin:
- China (15%)
- Canada (14%)
- Mexico (8%)
- India (6%)
- United Kingdom (4%)
Interestingly, international buyers are more likely to purchase higher-priced properties, with cash offers giving them a competitive edge in tight markets.
Why It Matters for Florida Homeowners
If you’re a homeowner in Florida, especially in popular metro areas like Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, or South Florida, here’s what this means for you:
- Demand remains strong in desirable neighborhoods, especially those offering vacation potential, rental income, or long-term investment appeal.
- Cash buyers may push values upward in certain pockets, particularly for waterfront properties and new construction.
- Even if overall market activity cools, international demand can help buffer local slowdowns.
If you’re considering selling, your home may appeal to a broader audience than just local or out-of-state U.S. buyers. And if you’re buying, it’s worth noting that in competitive markets, international cash buyers can influence pricing—especially in upper price tiers.
What’s Driving the Trend?
While interest rates remain elevated, many international buyers are less affected by financing constraints, especially those coming from countries with weaker property protections or higher inflation. The strength of the U.S. legal system, stable property rights, and long-term appreciation potential continue to make American real estate a safe bet.
Florida’s enduring appeal, combined with global economic recovery, is breathing new life into this market segment.
0 Comments Leave a comment