Breaking into international markets

Editor’s note: A version of this post originally appeared in the Halifax Chamber magazine.

Earlier this year, REALTORS® from across the continent flocked to Nova Scotia to learn about the province as part of an inbound trade mission. The delegation included representatives from the United States and Canada including Florida, Rhode Island, Utah, Georgia, Texas and the Maritimes.

The trade mission centred around the Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) Leadership Invitational—only the second CIPS event held outside of the United States. The CIPS designation provides knowledge, research and tools to help real estate professionals globalize their business. The event was hosted by the Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS® (NSAR).

“Throughout the week, REALTORS® focused on international real estate transactions and how to best serve home and property buyers from around the world, while also experiencing the vibrant opportunities Nova Scotia has to offer,” Matthew Honsberger, President of NSAR says.

Course participant, REALTOR® and Florida-based salesperson, Betania Valente Nassar, says her personal experience outside of the United States enticed her to take the CIPS certification, “I’m from Brazil and my husband is from Turkey and we have many international contacts,” she says, “I believe CIPS is a very good certificate to increase my credibility in other countries.”

Local real estate professionals participated as well. “There is a strong trend in foreign investment for land or recreational homes with a small increase in the European emigration market,” Nova Scotia-based salesperson and REALTOR® Stefan Sieber says. “Foreign investment brings a lot of spin-off business to the local market.”

A highlight of the week-long event was a Marquee Reception at the Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship (COVE) where Nova Scotia’s economic leaders, government officials and program participants came together to network and discuss potential trade opportunities for the province.

“Nova Scotia’s diversified economy and affordable real estate market for both home and commercial development is very appealing to international investors and those from across Canada,” says Honsberger. “The association recognizes it has a key role in partnering with the province and key stakeholders to grow Nova Scotia”.

Nova Scotia REALTORS® are committed to developing the enterprise and growth potential that exists within the province, as well as highlighting the importance of maintaining dynamic and open trading relationships with international partners that invest and trade with the province.

“As REALTORS® we see first-hand the vital role trade and economic development plays in creating jobs, supporting entrepreneurs, strengthening our communities and sustaining a strong and balanced real estate market,” says Honsberger.

There are significant opportunities for REALTORS® to enhance and diversify their business through international real estate sales. Tell us about your experience with global real estate in the Comment section below.