It’s a big week for the economy as markets await fresh data from both sides of the border. On Tuesday, August 19, investors are watching two key reports:
- U.S. Housing Starts & Building Permits (July)
- Canada’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) Inflation Report
Together, these numbers could influence everything from mortgage rates to real estate affordability in Florida, Canada, and across North America.
U.S. Housing Starts and Permits: A Window Into Supply
Housing Starts and Building Permits data provide an early look at how much new inventory is coming to market.
- A rise in permits could signal more housing supply ahead, which may help cool prices in overheated areas.
- A decline in starts may point to builders pulling back due to high construction costs, labor shortages, or economic uncertainty.
For Florida buyers, this matters because limited supply keeps prices elevated, even when demand cools. More construction could open new opportunities for first-time buyers and investors.
Canada CPI: Why Inflation Matters for Cross-Border Buyers
Canada’s CPI report will show whether inflation is easing or remaining sticky. July’s reading is expected to soften slightly to 1.7% from 1.9% in June.
Why does this matter for Florida real estate?
- A softer inflation print could increase pressure on the Bank of Canada to lower interest rates, making it easier for Canadians to tap financing for U.S. property purchases.
- Since Canadians are among the largest foreign buyers in Florida, any shift in borrowing power directly impacts demand in markets like Miami, Orlando, and Naples.
Market Reaction So Far
- The U.S. Dollar Index is holding steady around 98.00.
- U.S. stock futures are down about 0.2%, showing cautious investor sentiment.
- USD/CAD is moving sideways near 1.3800 as traders wait for Canada’s inflation release.
Currency swings matter for Canadians eyeing Florida property — a stronger U.S. dollar makes U.S. homes relatively more expensive, while a weaker dollar offers a buying opportunity.
What It Means for Buyers and Investors in Florida
With both U.S. housing and Canadian inflation data in focus, here’s what to watch:
- If U.S. housing permits rise → expect more new homes and potentially stabilized prices.
- If Canadian inflation eases → Canadian buyers may find it easier to finance Florida homes.
- If mortgage rates hold near 6.8% → affordability challenges remain, but refinancing opportunities may emerge if cuts arrive later in 2025.
How Lendworth USA Helps You Navigate Market Shifts
At Lendworth USA, we connect global economic trends to real-world mortgage solutions. Whether you’re a U.S. resident, a Canadian snowbird, or a foreign national investor, we offer:
- FHA, USDA, and VA loans for U.S. borrowers
- Foreign national mortgages — no U.S. credit history required
- Equity-based lending for investors seeking flexible approvals
- Refinancing options to adjust as rates change
📞 Call Lendworth USA today to discuss how U.S. housing trends and Canada’s inflation outlook could impact your next purchase, refinance, or investment in Florida real estate.