Parents and retirees who once dreamed of winters in Florida or summers in California are suddenly rethinking the plan. According to a new survey by Royal LePage, more than half (54%) of Canadians who own residential property in the U.S. say they are considering selling within the next year.
The top reason? Politics. Nearly two-thirds (62%) of those planning to sell cite the current U.S. administration as their main concern, while others point to personal or financial changes (33%) and the growing impact of extreme weather (5%).
“The polarizing political climate in the United States is prompting many Canadians to reconsider how and where they spend their time and money,” Phil Soper, president and CEO of Royal LePage, said in a statement. “A significant wave of property sales would leave a noticeable mark on the regional economies that snowbirds support.”
Royal LePage noted that Canadians have long been the most active foreign buyers in U.S. residential real estate, particularly in states like Florida, Arizona and California. Unlike other foreign investors, most Canadians actually live in these neighbourhoods seasonally — spending in local shop and restaurants and also engaging in community activities. Their departure could make a noticeable difference.
Where the money is going: a Canadian reinvestment trend
For many sellers, the plan is to bring money back home. One-third (32%) of respondents who sold or expect to sell their U.S. property within the next year say they plan to reinvest proceeds into the Canadian housing market.
“Across sectors, Canadians are increasingly choosing to support domestic businesses, prioritize homegrown products, and invest in their own communities,” Soper said. “Many who are selling their U.S. properties are opting to bring that capital back home, with some reinvesting in local recreational property.”
These findings tie into the broader “Buy Canadian” trend, which has gained momentum amid ongoing tariff disputes between Canada and the U.S. Even outside of property sales, Canadians are spending less across the border: Statistics Canada data shows that in the first quarter of 2025, Canadian residents made 6.1 million trips to the U.S., a 10.8% decline year over year, with spending falling 7.9% to $5.7 billion.
Impact on both sides of the border
The decision for Canadians to sell their U.S. property isn’t just about politics, according to the survey findings.
For some, upkeep and distance have become burdensome, while uncertainty around border rules adds another layer of stress. “For years, Canadians rarely gave the American border a second thought on their way to a winter break in the south,” Soper said. “Now, many fear that easy neighbourly travel can no longer be taken for granted.”
At the same time, American buyers are increasingly curious about moving north.
Royal LePage reported spikes in U.S. web traffic to its site during major political events, from protests in Los Angeles this summer to Trump’s re-election last year. After the 2024 presidential vote, traffic from American users rose 70% year over year during election week, highlighting Canadian real estate’s appeal as a “safe haven.”
“Moments of political unrest in the United States are directly correlating with surges in interest from American visitors to our website,” Soper said. “It’s a powerful signal that Canada’s reputation as a secure and welcoming place to live and invest continues to resonate beyond our borders.”
What this means for Canadian homeowners
For Canadians already weighing the pros and cons of a U.S. property sale, the survey suggests they’re far from alone. Political uncertainty, border rules and even climate change are adding new risks to owning property abroad.
At the same time, reinvesting at home — whether in recreational property or primary residences — appears to be gaining momentum, and that could potentially add further strain to Canada’s housing market supply.
For American communities used to welcoming Canadian snowbirds, though, the shift could mean quieter winters and weaker local economies. As both sides adjust, cross-border real estate may become less about sun and sand — and more about politics and stability.
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.