International buyers in the U.S. represented 70 countries, up from 53 in the previous survey. For the fourth year in a row, Canada was the top country of origin for foreign buyers, with 23 percent of sales. China was the second most popular country with 9 percent of sales. Mexico, the U.K., and India tied for third with seven percent.

Home ownership is attractive to foreign buyers for a variety of reasons. Homes in the states are generally less expensive than comparable foreign properties, and homes in this country are also viewed as secure investments with long-term appreciation potential and rental opportunities