The cost of construction materials — things like lumber, steel, wood paneling, flooring and joint compound — has collectively risen close to 13% over the last year, the largest annual spike since 2008.
The ripple effects for the real estate industry from such a sudden cost increase are vast: Projects are getting delayed and development timelines are lengthening, and developers are considering strategy shifts to avoid using the material most in demand, lumber. Ultimately, the costs will lead to higher rents and higher prices for real estate.
Housing prices increased 12% in February alone, according to S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index, the largest single-month gain in 15 years after an 11% increase in January.
Click here to read the rest of the article written by Jarred Schenke over at Bis Now
