Why You Shouldn’t Be Alarmed by Tariff Talks in Home Building

We want to make it clear from the start that this blog is not about taking a political stance or pushing an agenda. Our goal is simply to inform and bring peace of mind to potential homeowners considering building a home.

Lately, there has been a lot of discussion about tariffs and potential price increases on building materials like lumber, steel, and other essential supplies. While we understand that hearing about these changes can be concerning, we want to reassure our clients that Buffum Homes is committed to keeping construction costs as low as possible without compromising quality.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that any potential tariffs or material cost increases often take time before they go into effect—sometimes months or even years. The home-building industry constantly experiences price fluctuations, but these shifts don’t happen overnight. Buffum Homes keeps a close eye on these developments and works hard to mitigate any impacts on our clients.

Another key point: Buffum Homes operates on a fixed-price contract model. That means the price you sign your construction contract at is the price you pay—period. Some builders use cost-plus pricing, where material increases during your build could mean a higher final price for you. That’s not how we do business. Once your contract is signed, your home’s cost is locked in, no matter what happens with the price of building materials.

For example, if the cost of lumber, windows, or drywall were to jump 20% after you’ve signed, Buffum Homes absorbs that increase. We don’t pass unexpected costs onto our clients because we believe in providing a straightforward and trustworthy building experience. That’s part of offering a high-quality home and taking care of the people who put their trust in us.

Our focus is always on delivering the best homes at the best value. We work with trusted vendors and suppliers to keep pricing as stable as possible, and our team constantly looks for ways to maximize efficiency without cutting corners.

So, while tariff talks may be making headlines, you can rest easy knowing that Buffum Homes has your back. If you’re thinking about building a home, now is still a great time—because when you build with us, you can count on transparency, quality, and a price that won’t change after you sign.

Ready to start planning your dream home? Contact us today, and let’s talk about how we can bring your vision to life.