Tariffs, Trade & Real Estate: What U.S. Policies Mean for Canada’s Property Market

At Future Assets Group, based in Surrey, BC, we understand that real estate is never just local—it’s shaped by national and even international forces. One major player? The United States. As Canada’s largest trading partner, U.S. tariffs and trade policies have a ripple effect that reaches deep into our property markets, from Vancouver to the Fraser Valley and beyond.

Let’s explore how shifts in U.S. economic policy can influence housing prices, mortgage rates, investor confidence, and even the cost of building a home right here in British Columbia.

Tariffs and the Rising Cost of Building Materials

When the U.S. implements tariffs—especially on imports like steel, aluminum, or softwood lumber—it can raise the price of these materials globally. This has a direct impact on Canadian builders and developers, who often rely on cross-border trade for construction supplies.

Increased construction costs often lead to higher home prices. In competitive markets like Surrey, Langley, and Delta, where affordability is already a challenge, this can slow down development or shift buyer demand toward resale homes rather than new builds.

Trade Disputes and Investor Confidence

Shifting trade agreements, such as the transition from NAFTA to USMCA, often bring uncertainty to markets. Foreign investors, who play a key role in cities like Vancouver and surrounding areas, tend to look for stability. U.S. policy changes can make Canada either more attractive—or more risky—depending on how the market perceives future growth.

At Future Assets Group, we’ve observed that when global uncertainty rises, real estate can serve as a safe-haven investment—particularly in stable regions like Metro Vancouver and Surrey, which have shown long-term growth.

Interest Rates: A Cross-Border Chain Reaction

When the U.S. Federal Reserve adjusts its interest rates to deal with inflation or economic turbulence caused by trade issues, the Bank of Canada often follows suit. This affects mortgage rates here at home.

A rise in rates can reduce buying power, slowing down the market. On the other hand, if the Canadian dollar weakens in response to trade tensions, foreign investors may see real estate here as a more affordable opportunity—especially in gateway cities like Surrey, Burnaby, and Coquitlam.

Industrial and Commercial Impacts in the Fraser Valley

Tariffs and trade wars don’t just touch residential properties. Commercial and industrial real estate often feel the impact first. For instance, shifts in global supply chains can increase demand for warehousing and logistics facilities in the Lower Mainland.

As a real estate group operating in one of BC’s fastest-growing cities, Future Assets Group has seen growing interest in Surrey's industrial zones from investors and businesses looking to navigate changing trade routes.

What Buyers & Sellers in Surrey Should Know

Whether you're buying your first home, selling an investment property, or building a new development, understanding these trade-related factors is key.

• Buyers should keep an eye on mortgage rates and material costs when making a move.
  
  

• Sellers and developers should consider how shifts in U.S. policy might influence timelines, pricing, and demand.

At Future Assets Group, we’re committed to helping our clients stay informed and make smart, strategic real estate decisions—even in a complex, ever-changing environment.

The connection between U.S. policy and Canadian real estate is closer than most think. From construction costs and mortgage rates to foreign investment and market confidence, international trade dynamics directly impact real estate in Surrey, BC and across the country.

Future Assets Group is here to help you navigate these challenges and opportunities with local expertise and global awareness.