Investor demand for U.S. real estate remains high across nearly every major property type. According to global commercial real estate firm CBRE (Coldwell Banker Richard Ellis), almost 70 percent of institutional investors plan to expand their U.S. real estate exposure in 2025, with growing interest in multifamily, industrial, and logistics assets.
Global financial services firm J.P. Morgan reports that housing prices are expected to grow modestly in 2025, even as high mortgage rates slow down new construction. Low inventory and population growth are putting pressure on rental markets in many regions.
U.S. News & World Report identifies cities such as Tampa, Dallas, and Raleigh as top picks for real estate investors due to job growth, rental demand, and affordability.
These trends point to real estate as a strong candidate for E-2 visa applicants, provided the business model meets the visa’s legal requirements.
Why Real Estate Fits the E-2 Visa
The E-2 visa allows foreign nationals from treaty countries to invest in a U.S.-based business and direct its operations. The business must be active, not passive. Simply buying and holding property does not qualify. However, starting a property management company, development firm, or rental business can meet the criteria.
Real estate offers flexibility to structure a business that supports income generation and job creation. This makes it especially relevant for applicants who want a business that reflects market needs and visa standards.
What Does Not Qualify
Real estate investments that are entirely passive do not qualify for the E-2 visa. Examples include:
- Purchasing a single rental property with no business structure or staff
- Holding undeveloped land without an operating plan
- Flipping a house without active business involvement
- Owning real estate through a REIT (real estate investment trust) or other fund structure
The key issue is whether the investor plays a central, hands-on role and whether the business generates income and employment beyond the investor’s own needs.
Common Real Estate Models for E-2 Use
Examples of real estate businesses that may qualify include:
- Property management firms
- Small-scale development or renovation companies
- Vacation rental operations
- Residential or commercial maintenance businesses
What matters is that the investor has a controlling interest, capital is committed, and the business supports employment beyond the investor’s own family.
Final Steps
To move forward, investors should:
- Select a U.S. market with strong rental or development potential
- Form a legal business entity
- Build a business plan with staffing, expenses, and income projections
- Invest substantial funds into operations
- Apply with proof of ownership, investment, and a central role in the business
Sources
- CBRE. U.S. Investor Intentions Survey, Intelligent Investment 2025. https://mediaassets.cbre.com/-/media/project/cbre/shared-site/teams/united-states/ft-lauderdale/robert-given/2025_us_investor_intentions_su-%281%29.pdf
- J.P. Morgan. The Outlook for the U.S. Housing Market in 2025. https://www.jpmorgan.com/insights/global-research/real-estate/us-housing-market-outlook
- U.S. News & Money. Best Places to Invest in Real Estate. https://money.usnews.com/investing/articles/best-places-to-invest-in-real-estate