From Sept. 16 to 20 REALTORS® from across the continent learned 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 event was hosted by the Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS® (NSAR). Matthew Honsberger, President of NSAR says, “Throughout the week, REALTORS® focused on international real estate transactions and how best to serve home and property buyers from around the world, while also experiencing the vibrant opportunities Nova Scotia has to offer.”
Course participant and Florida REALTOR®, Betania Valente Nassar, says what enticed her to take the CIPS certification was her personal experience outside of the United States, “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 REALTORS® participated as well. “There is a strong trend in foreign investment for land or recreational homes with a small increase on the European emigration market,” REALTOR® Stefan Seiber says. “Foreign investment brings a lot of spinoff 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 Nova Scotia.
“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 that trade and economic development plays in creating jobs, supporting entrepreneurs, strengthening our communities and sustaining a strong and balanced real estate market,” says Honsberger.
The Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS® represents over 1,500 members who subscribe to a high standard of service and a strict code of ethics. We act as one voice for real estate in Nova Scotia and serve our members through a wide variety of education programs, training,
advocacy and administration of the MLS® system in Nova Scotia.
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