How Tariffs and Deportations Are Raising Housing Costs in 2025

The Real Estate Education Podcast

In this episode of the Real Estate Education and Investing Podcast, Erin Spradlin and James Carlson break down how newly implemented tariffs and immigration policies are reshaping the housing market. Referencing a recent New York Times article, they analyze a case study showing that labor and material costs for a new home in Phoenix jumped by nearly 9%, mainly due to deportations affecting construction labor and tariffs inflating imported material prices like concrete and insulation. Erin highlights how even though not every buyer will purchase a new build, these increased costs will reduce supply and place upward pressure on prices across the market.

They also discuss how mortgage rates in April 2025 have hit a temporary low, providing a rare moment of increased buying power. With interest rates dropping from 7.25% to 6.5%, buyers can now afford more house—but the hosts caution that this window may be short-lived. James explains how first-time homebuyer challenges continue to mount, especially as affordability remains out of reach and rate fluctuations create uncertainty. While this could be an ideal moment to buy for confident, secure buyers, they warn that volatility may discourage others from jumping in.

The episode closes with a grounded conversation about whether now is the time to sell. Despite lower rates, Erin and James explain why they’re still holding—highlighting how real estate investing during political uncertainty calls for patience, not panic. If you're looking for data-driven, real-talk perspectives on the state of real estate in 2025, this episode has you covered.

Contact James: [email protected]

Contact Erin: [email protected]

For more information visit: https://www.jamescarlsonre.com/ https://www.erinandjamesrealestate.com/