Amid escalating tensions between Canada and the U.S., many snowbirds are grappling with a tough decision this January: head south to warmer climates or distance themselves from a country that has shifted from friend to adversary.
For numerous Canadians who collectively own an estimated $60 billion worth of property in Florida, the traditional haven for winter escape, the dilemma is particularly challenging. Donna Lockhart, a snowbird from Ennismore, Ont., reached a breaking point due to the increasing anti-Canadian sentiment, prompting her to sell her condo near Punta Gorda, Fla., and depart from U.S. President Donald Trump’s America.
The negative rhetoric, including Trump’s talk of a 51st state and the trade disputes, along with dismissive comments from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis towards Canada and Ontario Premier Doug Ford, led Lockhart to feel unwelcome in a place she once cherished as a second home.
Citing concerns about the direction of the United States, Lockhart emphasized the importance of feeling wanted in a country, stating, “If they don’t want us there, we don’t need to be there.” However, the decision to sell her home was complicated by the oversaturated real estate market, driven by an exodus of Canadians causing a surplus of listings and a shortage of buyers in southwest Florida.
Southwest Florida, extending along the Gulf Coast from Naples to Tampa Bay, is facing housing challenges due to recent hurricanes, rising insurance costs, the end of the COVID-19 housing boom, and a surge in Canadian property owners attempting to sell their homes. This situation has led to a substantial increase in housing inventory, declining prices, and extended time on the market.
Data from Realtor.com indicates a decline in Canadian interest in U.S. real estate, with southwest Florida regions being highly sought after by Canadians while also projected to experience significant price drops in 2026. The political climate, trade tensions, and anti-Canadian sentiments have driven many Canadian homeowners to consider selling their U.S. properties, as revealed by a survey conducted by Royal LePage.
In response to the Canadian exodus and its economic repercussions, some Florida politicians are urging Canadians to reconsider their departure, highlighting the significant contributions Canadians make to the local economy through property taxes and tourism. Despite challenges, efforts are being made to mend the strained relationship and encourage Canadians to maintain their ties with Florida.
Lockhart, who plans to delay listing her property until 2027 in hopes of a market rebound, expressed disappointment over the deteriorating relations with a once close ally. She emphasized the need for mutual respect and lamented the changing dynamics that have made her feel less welcome in a place she once considered a second home.