New tariffs might inflate your construction costs—how will they impact your projects? Trade shifts impact prices and sourcing, rippling through trade, materials, and markets—leaving no easy answers. Read on. To understand the significance of tariffs, let’s examine the cost breakdown of a typical home courtesy of Dr. Eisenberg, an internationally acclaimed economist. The median home price in […]

With low lumber prices, many developers are moving towards wood-framed construction, where you will come across two main floor framing systems: I-Joists & Wood Trusses. Each floor system has its unique differences. The system you choose will significantly impact your project’s overall design and pricing. Both framing systems offer benefits and drawbacks. Read on to find […]

The December producer price index (PPI) report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) stated that construction materials prices fell 0.3 percent in the month, seasonally adjusted, the fourth monthly decline in a row. This is the biggest construction input prices drop since April 2020. I have a project I want to discuss!   In […]

A shortage of transformers and other electrical components like switchgear/switchboards and circuit breakers are increasing across the country, risking project delays. So, what’s happening with electrical equipment, and what can you do to avoid delays? Read on. Currently, this problem is critical in states like Arkansas and Florida due to the damage produced by Hurricane Ian. […]

Building codes have evolved significantly and become more rigid in recent years. These regulations shape our building designs and shift professional decision-making. But are these codes making your project more expensive? Read on. Regulation accounts for a large portion of apartment development costs, nearly 41% of total expenses. The National Association of Home Builders and the […]

Construction costs are high, and developers want to do everything they can to both save costs and maximize land use. Going higher to increase density seems like a smart move! However, adding additional floors can add considerable costs if a building gets classified as a “high-rise” by code. Read on to find out more. So, what constitutes a […]

The data is coming in! Most materials prices have leveled off. Some are consistently falling. However, there are a few outliers. According to a report on material pricing and supply chain volatility, cement and concrete prices have continued to climb recently, reflecting higher production costs, which were up about 14% year-over-year in the third quarter […]

As a developer, many things come to mind when coordinating a project, from the construction type to who will manage the project. With the current labor shortage and delays in construction, other critical items need to be considered. One prominent question is who will be the General Contractor (GC) on my project? Developers and builders are always looking […]

The National Multifamily Housing Council noted that the apartment market had recorded its sixth consecutive quarter of tightening conditions. Labor shortages, rising interest rates, and supply chain issues are currently affecting construction timelines. How have these challenges impacted the timeline to complete your Multifamily Project?  Read on! A project built in 12 months in 2013 now […]

Demand for building materials remains robust while the world continues to push through the pandemic. However, the lasting effects of the pandemic and the associated mitigation efforts, have impacted the production of materials and equipment through factory slowdowns, factory shutdowns, and quarantines. As a result, equipment and material lead times and cost increases have impacted the […]