Hi Jody, Your countrymen are buying all over our beautiful state. Many come to the southwest Florida coastal area but no single area can claim to be the " best " ! With the current advantage of your currency to ours it really does make sense to consider purchasing now. Good luck with your search - let me know if I can be of further help.

The international property buyer has been an important source of business for many US Realtors since the market downturn. It’s estimated that between 150,000 and 190,000 homes were sold to foreign nationals from May 2007 to May 2008. Canada replaced Mexico as the country with the largest share of foreign buyers in the U.S. The percentage of Canadian buyers doubled from last year, from 11 percent to 23.5 percent according to a recent National Association of Realtors survey.



However, the recent strength of the US dollar (USD) against the Canadian dollar (CAD) is now starting to make it more expensive for Canadians looking to buy U.S. properties. Meanwhile the Canadian buyer knows that real estate prices in the U.S. are at historical low levels. Could it be that continued strengthening of the US dollar will prevent Canadians from fulfilling their dream of owning a “place in the sun”? It doesn’t have to be, particularly if the Canadian buyer accesses some of the new financial products available in the marketplace.



The Situation:

After gaining 17 percent in 2007, the Canadian dollar is down 6.4 percent in 2008 amidst a shrinking economy and a drop in oil prices. On August 8th 2008 alone, the Canadian dollar dropped 1.2 percent against the U.S. dollar, the biggest decline since March 20, 2008. The Canadian dollar is currently trading at CAD $1.0626 per US dollar, the lowest since last August.



A real example: due to the impact of fluctuating exchange rates, the cost of a U.S. Condo (priced at USD $300,000) for the Canadian buyer has increased by CAD$ 20,040 in just 3 weeks.



Cost in CAD $300,510 Cost in CAD $320,550

VS.

July 21st , 2008 August 8th, 2008

(CAD$1.0017 = USD$1.0000) (CAD$1.0685 = USD$1.0000)



Can this pricing increase continue? Is there a way for the buyer to insulate himself/herself?



The Solution:

If the US dollar continues to strengthen against the Canadian dollar, an excellent way to protect against the market volatility and downside risk is through a “forward contract.” There are companies, such as HiFX, that provides forward contracts out to 2 years in the future, effectively helping clients lock in exchange rates and give them peace of mind.





Please feel free to contact me at 415-678-2770 or jody.cracknell@hifx.com



Regards



Jody



Jody Cracknell

Business Development Manager



Refer A Client



HiFX Inc.

250 Montgomery Street, Suite 910

San Francisco, CA 94104



Phone: +1 (415) 678-2770

Toll Free: 1 (877) 999-4439

Fax: +1 (415) 773-1822

Mobile: +1 (415) 728-1381



Email: jody.cracknell@hifx.com

Web: http://www.hifx.com/personal.aspx



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The details expressed in this transmission and accompanying documents are for information purposes only and are not intended as a solicitation for funds or a recommendation to trade. HIFX Risk Management Inc accepts no liability whatsoever for any loss or damages suffered through any act or omission taken as a result of reading or interpreting any of the above information.

Jodi,
There are truly many Canadian, Britts, and Europeans tossing their hats into the Florida real estate market. It's no surprise with how attractive the area is to visitors. As far as where are they going....... Pick a place in Florida, that's where they are going.

The market is so appealing its a matter of identifying the best opportunity that matches their criteria. Boating, golfing, water view, beach front, tennis, etc. etc. etc.

If you are seriously considering the Florida market, now is the right time to make the move. The bottom is near and the tone will soon be changing. It's a great time to buy.

We would be happy to help.
The "Eckler Team"
Century 21 Almar and Associates
Venice, Fl 34285
ecklerteam@comcast.net
941-408-5363

Panama City Beach in Northwest Florida has been a popular winter get-a-way and vacation spot for Canadians and northeasterners for several years. We are due south with beautiful white sand beaches directly on the Gulf of Mexico. With our new international airport scheduled to open in 2010, travel to the area will become direct and more affordable. There is exciting new developments that will change the landscape of the region forever - there will be something for everyone!

We are currently experiencing a very strong buyers market so the Canadian dollar is going a long way towards wealth building investments. PCB offers Gulf-front condos and townhomes, beach cottages, detached single-family homes, golf communities and retirement neighborhoods.

We have had many sales in the last few months from Canadians. Not only is the market down but the dollar is down as well, which makes it even a better deal for Canadians.

There are many homes in North Port that are new or nearly new for under $150,000. We are less than 25 minutes from the beaches and the school system is rated one of the best in Florida.

If you are looking for a great place to invest be sure to look into North Port. I have many pages about the area on my website listed below.

Please call or email with any questions. Good luck with your search!

Shannon Moore, Realtor®, 941-276-8142
Roxanne Moore, Realtor®, 941-626-3926
Re/Max Anchor Realty
North Port/Port Charlotte http://www.TropicalFloridaProperty.com http://www.TwoMoores.com