Tariffs on Buying a Home? Not Quite, But it Could Matter More Than You Realize.

Tariffs on imported materials like lumber, steel, and aluminum can have a ripple effect on the housing market. When the cost of building materials rises, it increases the price of new construction and home renovations. This can lead to higher home prices overall, as builders and sellers pass those costs along to buyers. There is also speculation as to whether tariffs will increase costs of everything as consumers are forced to adjust to higher costs of some products.

Another unknown is whether rates will make any adjustments. Adjusting rates will also impact prices, although it’s impossible to say how. Many realtors will absolutely assure you decreased rates mean an increase in prices. This only holds true if rates adjust and buyer’s habits are the same.

For sellers, higher material costs may mean spending more on repairs or updates before listing a home, potentially reducing your profit margin. For buyers, fewer affordable new homes on the market could create more competition for existing homes, driving prices up.

If tariffs increase or continue, we could see ongoing pressure on home prices and renovation costs, which can make it even more important to plan strategically whether you’re buying, selling, or investing.

I’m here to help you navigate these changes and make confident decisions in any market!