Assumption Vs. Reality: A Case Study for Monsanto

What happens when luxury real estate bets go wrong?
Learn how to spot the signals before it’s too late.

Assumption Vs. Reality

The Common Belief:

“Buy near Headquarters, in a great area, and you will always appreciate.”

The Reality Check:

Appreciation is not guaranteed. Many executive sold at a loss within 3-5 years.

Why Do Some Homes Depreciate in Prime Markets?

One of the earliest signs of a shifting market was the collapse in builder confidence. As uncertainty grew, developers began offloading land instead of breaking ground, signaling a retreat from previously bullish expectations. At the same time, an influx of nearby budget-friendly construction created downward pressure on luxury home values, effectively undercutting the resale market. This trend was compounded by a wave of failed resale attempts—homes sitting on the market for months, relisted multiple times, or pulled altogether.

The result? A visible erosion in buyer confidence and a sharp decline in perceived neighborhood value. Together, these forces created depreciation, particularly in high-end markets once considered bulletproof.

Metrics That Matter

A Snapshot of a Florida Market

  • Expired Listings: Early warning system
  • Price-Reduced Listings: Lagging signal of distress
  • Builder Activity: Proxy for market optimism
  • Rental Vacancies: Tells you if people want to live there

Strategic Takeway

“When there’s blood in the streets… That’s when you buy.”

  • Focus on resale only – target 80% of peak prices
  • Avoid new builds if relocating
  • Failed listings = 🚩 for market weakness

We have proudly served Enterprise Rent-A-Car by assisting their transferees relocating to the United Kingdom, in addition to supporting numerous corporations with large-scale group relocations. Much like investors, these buyers need to “buy right,” as they often hold properties for only a few years.

Whether working with transferees or investors, we understand the importance of leveraging data to support sound financial decisions. With nationwide resources—and often international reach—we are well-equipped to meet the complex needs of investors across diverse markets.