February 21st, 2025 | Buying

Domestic Vs International Real Estate Investment For Canadians

Domestic Vs International Real Estate Investment For Canadians

As Canada’s cultural and financial epicentre, Toronto boasts an extraordinarily active rental market. Consistent demand for rental properties paired with easing regulations presents innumerable opportunities for real estate investors.

Despite Toronto’s advantageous landscape, some investors prefer to explore alternative markets beyond their backyard. In this article, we will offer nuanced insights about purchasing a dedicated investment property abroad as a Canadian. Continue reading for further insights.

Considering an investment in Toronto’s high-opportunity market? Click here for more information.

Investing Abroad

While the majority of Canadian investors elect to purchase property domestically, some invest in real estate abroad. Various markets across the globe present unique opportunities to earn short-term income and foster personal or generational equity through property ownership. That said, despite its advantages, purchasing real estate abroad is replete with complexities.

Buying Real Estate in the United States

Among international real estate markets, the United States has proven popular with Canadian investors – and for good reason. A diverse, populous nation sharing many cultural similarities with Canada, many domestic investment strategies translate nicely across the border.

However, in terms of purchasing a property in America, investors must select their market wisely as financial and legal considerations may vary from state to state. For example, Florida is one such state that is popular with non-American investors. Beyond the idyllic climate and lifestyle, the State’s taxation practices make real estate investment a particularly lucrative opportunity.


Searching for more resources pertaining to wealth and real estate investment? Consider these posts from our blog.


International Financing

Another nuanced element of purchasing real estate abroad is financing. When acquiring an investment property in Canada, buyers are able to secure a mortgage from any lender they choose. However, in the case of international investment, not all lenders will be willing to provide financing for a non-domestic property.

Should investors face obstacles securing the financial means for international investment, they should consult a well-connected real estate agent. A veteran agent who is well-positioned in the Toronto market will have direct relationships with local brokers and lenders. In turn, they can connect you with a bank that is likely to support your ambitions.

Travel & Property Access

Not all considerations regarding international real estate investment are financial. Rather, there are a significant number of regulatory and legal elements that investors must be mindful of as well.

One of the most relevant of these complexities is immigration and property access. Every country has its own policies in relation to immigration, visitation, and non-domestic homeownership. To that end, investors should understand their privileges and requirements in terms of travel to and from the property.

For example, the United States permits Canadian citizens to visit the country for a total of only six months annually assuming they do not hold dual citizenship or permanent residency. To that end, Canadians who purchase real estate below the border will not be legally permitted to stay or use their property beyond these limitations without acquiring the formal means to do so.

If you are purchasing a property with the sole intention of earning income – in other words, you do not intend to use or stay in the property personally, immigration and visa regulations may be less restrictive. However, it is imperative to consult a legal advisor ahead of your purchase either way.


Eager to discover new investment pathways? Explore these dynamic resources from our blog.


Guiding Your Investment

If you are seeking a seamless and lucrative investment in Toronto real estate, it is essential to begin your journey with the assistance of a knowledgeable industry professional. Leveraging our direct expertise in Toronto’s active rental landscape, Armin Group’s strategic insights provide you with unparalleled guidance as you source and purchase an investment property.

Further, our exclusive affiliation with Sotheby’s International Realty Canada grants investors access to an unparalleled range of global real estate markets. In addition to connecting you with high-opportunity properties worldwide, our relationships with market-local real estate experts ensure you receive expert counsel throughout your venture.

As your personal consultants and real estate resource, our dynamic guidance exceeds the transaction. Should you require assistance in assessing your finances, sourcing or screening tenants, ROI-adding property upgrades, or beyond, Armin Group’s white-glove investor services allow you to navigate Toronto’s complex market with confidence.

Seeking sophisticated real estate guidance? Armin Group can help. Send us an email at ar********@************ty.ca or call 416.960.9995 to begin your journey.

Access Exclusive Content

Join our newsletter to receive the latest market insights, community updates, and more.