How to Manage Your Global Business During Turbulent Times

It’s been tough to gauge how to maneuver your global real estate business over the past few years. In 2020, international buyer-dollar volume in Florida was $15.6 billion. As of this past July, it decreased to $10.4 billion. We, as real estate agents, have had a lot to balance with new restrictions put into place with the implementation of SB 264, which introduced regulations for buyers from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, and Syria.

Market Disruption from Tariffs and Rising Costs

In April 2025, the United States established tariffs on a wide range of goods, which created pressure on developers and consumers. Just prior to this, the Florida real estate market was in the midst of a significant transition, beginning to lead into a balanced market and stabilize prices. Sales in new construction were surging and providing inventory for buyers who had been seeking homes and waiting to buy. The rising costs and volatility forced many developers to delay or cancel projects.

Cooling International Buyer Demand

Economic and political friction began to cool international buyer demand. Online search traffic, particularly from Canada, declined. Agents reported their potential buyers hesitating or resisting purchases because they no longer felt welcome. For other buyers, the purchase price became cost prohibitive. Those looking at new construction didn’t want to sign contracts where price increases could occur during mid-builds.

Sounds depressing, right? But we need to remember there is opportunity in every market—particularly for those of us who have global connections and understand working with foreign buyers and sellers.

Increase in Foreign Seller Activity

Listing inventory from foreign sellers began to increase in the fall of 2025, which helped bring more condos and single-family homes to the market for consumers. Sellers benefited from increased U.S. property values, often realizing higher returns despite currency conversion to their home countries.

Growing Demand for International Investment

U.S. citizens interested in investing in overseas properties have continued to drive demand. What began as a niche trend during the pandemic has now become more mainstream, particularly among affluent individuals and those with the flexibility to work remotely. Toward the end of 2025, more than 67% of high-net-worth individuals owned residential real estate outside of the United States, with many more planning to invest internationally within the next five years.

For mainstream buyers, rising housing costs and higher interest rates have made international markets more appealing. These buyers range from remote workers to retirees, all seeking a lower cost of living and a higher quality of life. For some, owning property overseas also serves as a way to diversify assets during uncertain times.

Central America, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Europe (including Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Greece) remain popular destinations for U.S. buyers. Residency is increasingly viewed as an asset class and a hedge against domestic political and economic volatility. International investment has also evolved beyond simple property purchases to include structured investment funds and specialized tax strategies.

Learn More and Get Involved

If you are interested in learning more about expanding your global business, join us on May 13 at RASM South for a special presentation by the Global Business Council.