What's Happening?
The U.S. housing market is experiencing a significant scarcity of homes, with inventory levels remaining below pre-pandemic figures. This shortage has kept home prices high, even as sales have slowed over the past year. In this context, online house hunting
has become a crucial tool for prospective buyers. According to a 2021 report by the National Association of Realtors, 97% of homebuyers utilized online platforms to search for homes. Recent data from Realtor.com highlights a trend where individuals from various U.S. metropolitan areas are showing interest in purchasing homes in Rome. The data, which covers cross-market demand as of the third quarter of 2025, reveals that Atlanta, Georgia, leads with a 46.3% view share of Rome properties, followed by New York, Chicago, and Miami.
Why It's Important?
The interest in Rome properties by U.S. homebuyers underscores the ongoing challenges within the domestic housing market, characterized by limited supply and high prices. This trend may indicate a growing willingness among Americans to consider international real estate options as viable alternatives. The high demand from major metros like Atlanta and New York suggests that residents in these areas are particularly affected by the current market conditions. This could have broader implications for the U.S. real estate industry, potentially prompting a shift in how real estate agents and developers approach marketing and sales strategies. Additionally, the trend may influence economic relations between the U.S. and Italy, as increased American investment in Italian real estate could foster closer economic ties.
What's Next?
As the U.S. housing market continues to grapple with inventory shortages, it is likely that more Americans will explore international real estate opportunities. This could lead to increased competition in foreign markets, potentially driving up prices in popular destinations like Rome. Real estate professionals in the U.S. may need to adapt by offering more comprehensive services that include international property searches. Additionally, policymakers might consider measures to address domestic housing shortages to retain potential buyers within the U.S. market. The ongoing interest in Rome properties will likely be monitored by both U.S. and Italian real estate sectors to assess its long-term impact.
