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This week’s news about sweeping new tariffs—10% on all imports, with even steeper taxes on goods from China and the European Union—could have real implications for homebuyers, sellers, and investors in Central Ohio, especially those looking to build or buy new construction homes, upgrade their current residence, or expand their real estate investment portfolio. Let’s break it down.
First, let’s talk new builds. While lumber was spared in this round of tariffs, materials like steel, aluminum, fixtures, and appliances are on the list. These are all critical to building a home—and that means new construction prices in Central Ohio are likely to rise. Some analysts estimate that the average cost to build a home could go up by $6,000–$10,000 or more, depending on how much builders rely on imported materials. That extra cost doesn’t buy you more square footage or high-end upgrades—it’s just the new baseline.
If you’ve been planning to build your dream home in areas like New Albany, Powell, Dublin, or Grove City, this is your window to lock in pricing before those increases are fully passed along. Homebuilders in Columbus and surrounding suburbs may still honor current pricing on homes under contract for now—but don’t expect that to last. And for those who may decide that new construction is no longer within reach, there’s a ripple effect worth paying attention to.
With construction costs on the rise, move-in ready homes in Central Ohio may look more appealing to buyers priced out of the new-build market. However, that doesn’t mean it’s time to throw any number on your list price and expect offers over asking—or any results at all. Buyers now are more cautious than ever. The covid-market chaos is over and interest rates are still high. Overpricing your home in this market is the fastest way to get ignored.
That’s why pricing strategy matters so much right now. As a Certified Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA), I specialize in helping homeowners price their properties for maximum return without risking a stale listing. My approach combines deep knowledge of the Columbus real estate market with real-time data and neighborhood-level insights. I’ll help you: understand current buyer behavior in your zip code, price your home to generate strong interest within the first two weeks, and avoid common pitfalls that lead to price drops or extended days on market. Whether you’re selling in Clintonville, Bexley, Westerville, German Village, or Dublin, the Central Ohio market rewards clarity—not guesswork.
So what if you’re not selling or buying for yourself, but investing? There’s strategy to that, too. The rise in material costs could slow down or postpone new multifamily development projects, especially smaller or locally backed ones. This puts pressure on an already tight rental market. If you’ve been thinking about purchasing a duplex, triplex, or four-unit building in Central Ohio, now is the time to act. Prices are still competitive, and the demand for rentals is strong due to steady population growth and housing needs.
Yes—the headlines might be loud and even a little scary. But while national news stirs up uncertainty, this moment calls for planning, not panic. The best real estate decisions aren’t made from fear—they’re made from strategy. If you’re buying new construction, building from scratch, upgrading your current home, or investing in rental property, this is the moment to reassess your timing and your team.
I’m here to help you: analyze your buying power in light of potential price shifts, price your current home for a high-ROI sale, identify new construction communities that still offer value, and explore smart, cash-flowing investment opportunities.
Let’s build a plan that turns this market’s uncertainty into your opportunity.
