Copper, Lumber and Diesel Prices Surge: What It Means for Real Estate

Construction costs are rising again, creating a new challenge for the housing market. In this episode, Kathy Fettke breaks down why copper, lumber, diesel, aluminum, and other building material prices are surging in 2026 and what that could mean for home prices, housing affordability, and real estate investors. You'll hear why builders are struggling to price new homes, how higher construction costs could slow housing supply, and why rising replacement costs may actually benefit owners of existing properties. Kathy also explains how these inflationary pressures could keep mortgage rates elevated and what investors should watch when evaluating renovation budgets, development projects, and long-term real estate opportunities.

Source: https://www.wsj.com/finance/commodities-futures/the-housing-markets-latest-hurdles-copper-lumber-diesel-and-aluminum-70b45947?regwall=eafs