Trump's tariffs made California's housing crisis worse: A 'perfect storm of the wrong kind'
WASHINGTON -- President Donald Trump’s tariffs have created the “perfect storm” at the wrong moment for the housing industry, California builders say.
The California Building Industry Association estimates tariffs have driven up the cost of an average-size new home by $20,000 to $30,000.
That comes from tariffs on appliances, certain counter tops and other miscellaneous items that “at the end of the day, really add up,” according to Dennis Fitzpatrick, owner of Fitzpatrick Homes in Modesto.
The industry was already struggling, particularly in California, because of increased costs. They face rising fees from local governments and a shortage of space and labor to build. The added cost and uncertainty of tariffs have pushed it that much further, builders say.
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