In the midst of strained relations between Canada and the U.S., some snowbirds are grappling with a decision this January: head south for warmer weather or distance themselves from a country that has shifted from ally to adversary.
For many Canadian snowbirds, particularly those who collectively own approximately $60 billion worth of property in Florida, the choice is not easy. Donna Lockhart, a snowbird from Ennismore, Ont., opted to sell her condo near Punta Gorda, Fla., due to what she perceived as growing anti-Canadian sentiment, fueled by U.S. President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Lockhart expressed unease with the current direction of the United States, stating, “If they don’t want us there, we don’t need to be there.” However, the decision to sell her property was complicated by the oversaturated real estate market in southwest Florida, where an influx of Canadian sellers has led to an imbalance between supply and demand.
Southwest Florida, spanning from Naples to Tampa Bay, is facing housing challenges exacerbated by recent hurricanes, escalating insurance costs, and a surplus of homes for sale. The Canadian exodus from the region has further dampened the market, with prices declining and properties lingering on the market for extended periods.
Realtor.com has observed a decline in Canadian interest in U.S. real estate, particularly in southwest Florida, where prices are projected to drop significantly in 2026. This trend aligns with a survey by Royal LePage, indicating that many Canadian property owners in the U.S. are considering selling due to concerns over the current political climate.
Despite the economic impact of fewer Canadian visitors and residents, some Florida politicians, like Democratic candidate Allen Spence, are advocating for a return of Canadian snowbirds, emphasizing the historical ties and economic contributions of Canadian visitors to the region.
Lockhart, along with other Canadian property owners, is cautiously navigating the market downturn, with plans to list her property in 2027 in hopes of a rebound in prices. Despite facing some instances of hostility as a Canadian, she remains resilient in her decision to maintain her property in Florida while waiting for a more favorable selling environment.
