Recent discussions about potential tariffs between the U.S. and Canada have sparked concerns across multiple industries. While these trade policies primarily affect goods and manufacturing, they can also create ripple effects that indirectly influence real estate markets. For Canadians investing in U.S. rental properties, understanding these potential impacts is key to making informed decisions.

What Are Tariffs and Why Do They Matter?

A tariff is a tax or duty imposed by a government on imported goods and services, making foreign products more expensive to encourage domestic consumption. While intended to protect local industries, tariffs often raise costs for consumers and businesses, potentially leading to inflation and reduced purchasing power.

How Tariffs Might Indirectly Impact U.S. Real Estate Investing

Although there are no direct restrictions on cross-border real estate investment, Canadian investors should be aware of several potential indirect effects:

1. Increased Construction and Renovation Costs

The real estate sector relies on materials such as lumber, steel, aluminum, and appliances—many of which cross the U.S.-Canada border. If tariffs increase the cost of these materials, new construction and renovations could become more expensive, potentially reducing the housing supply amidst a national housing shortage, and driving up property prices.

2. Currency Fluctuations and Hedging Strategies

Trade tensions often impact currency exchange rates. While short-term volatility can occur, real estate is a long-term investment, and savvy investors use currency hedging strategies to mitigate risks. Holding assets in USD can serve as a hedge against declines in the CAD, providing a measure of financial stability.

3. Interest Rates and HELOCs for Cross-Border Investors

The Bank of Canada and the U.S. Federal Reserve have different approaches to interest rate policy, influencing financing strategies for Canadian investors. Currently, Canada's interest rates are decreasing faster than in the U.S., which helps offset some of the effects of currency fluctuations.

For Canadians borrowing in CAD—such as through a HELOC to invest in U.S. real estate—lower interest rates mean:

Lower borrowing costs – Monthly payments on HELOCs or variable-rate loans decrease.

Savings on financing – Even if the CAD weakens, lower interest payments help balance out the higher cost of USD-based investments.

While lower Canadian interest rates don’t directly change the exchange rate, they help reduce borrowing costs, making foreign exchange fluctuations less impactful when investing across the border.

🏦 Learn more about Home Equity Lines Of Credit (HELOCs)

4. Economic Diversification and Inflation Protection

Regardless of trade tensions, inflation remains a key factor in long-term wealth planning. Real estate has historically served as a hedge against inflation, offering investors stability through rental income and property appreciation. By investing in U.S. single-family rentals, Canadians diversify their portfolios beyond the Canadian economy, reducing exposure to domestic economic uncertainty.

Our Position: U.S. Real Estate Remains a Strong Investment for Canadians

At SHARE, we are closely monitoring developments in U.S.-Canada trade relations. However, as of now, there are no direct threats to cross-border real estate investment. The fundamentals of U.S. rental property investing remain strong:

• Demand for single-family rentals continues to rise.
• Institutional-grade service providers and property management reduce operational risks.
• Lower barriers to entry, strong economic fundamentals, and long-term appreciation and cash flow opportunities make U.S. real estate attractive for Canadian investors.

Ultimately, tariffs apply to traded goods—not real estate. While broader economic effects may influence market conditions, U.S. single-family rentals remain a compelling investment choice for Canadians seeking diversification, cash flow, and long-term financial growth.