📌 How the Real Estate Market Is and Isn’t Affected by Recent Tariffs — and What You Should Do Now

By Mel & Zack Durham | Olympia, WA Real Estate Experts

Over the last few weeks, new tariffs have been announced that are shaking up markets—from goods to manufacturing and even construction materials. While this might sound like a red flag to homebuyers and sellers, we want to unpack what’s really happening here in the real estate world, and more specifically, what this means for you in Olympia and surrounding areas.

🎯 What Tariffs Are Actually Affecting

Let’s start with what is being impacted.

These new tariffs are largely targeting imported goods and raw materials—think steel, aluminum, lumber, and appliances. These are staples in new construction and home renovations, meaning:

• Builders may face increased costs for materials.

• Construction timelines could be affected.

• Renovation costs might rise slightly, especially for large-scale updates.

So, if you’re planning on building or flipping homes, this is something to keep an eye on.

🏡 What’s Not Being Affected

Here’s the good news: The existing housing market remains strong, and demand in Olympia has not cooled down. The bulk of buying and selling activity right now is happening in existing homes, not new construction, which means:

• Home values are stable and in some cases still rising.

• Interest rates remain competitive, offering excellent financing opportunities.

• Buyers are still eager, especially for well-maintained, move-in-ready properties.

In short: the average homebuyer or seller in our area is not feeling the brunt of these tariffs.

💡 How You Can Capitalize on This Moment

For Buyers: If you’re thinking of buying, now is the time to lock in a home before potential cost increases trickle into the market—especially on newer or recently remodeled homes. Prices on appliances or upgraded features may rise, so getting in now can save you money.

✅ Action Step: Book a consultation with us and we’ll help you find the right home that fits your goals and protects your budget.

For Sellers: This is a great time to list your home before buyer hesitation kicks in later. With demand still strong and inventory relatively low, you’re in a great position to get a competitive offer.

✅ Action Step: We offer free home value assessments and a strategic listing plan to help you maximize your sale.

For Investors: Think about scooping up properties now, before construction costs eat into profit margins. There’s opportunity in buy-and-hold strategies, rental markets, and light cosmetic flips that don’t rely heavily on imports.

✅ Action Step: Let’s talk about finding the right investment property and timing your renovations smartly.

👋 Final Thoughts from Mel & Zack

Tariffs may make headlines, but they’re not making a major dent in Olympia’s real estate pulse—yet. Being proactive, informed, and strategic is the key to navigating market shifts, and that’s exactly what we’re here to help you do.

📞 Have questions? Want to talk strategy? Reach out to us today — we’re always just a call or message away.

Let’s make your real estate goals a reality, Mel & Zack Durham Your Local Experts in Olympia, WA

360.481.2073

melandzack@pnwhomesgroup.com