How Tariffs Are Reshaping the Real Estate Conversation in NYC and Miami

As a broker who lives and breathes new development in two of the most dynamic markets in the country—New York City and Miami—I’ve been having more conversations than ever with clients who are asking a different kind of question: How will tariffs impact my real estate plans?

The short answer? Tariffs are already making waves in our world—and not in a subtle way. I'm seeing increasing questions from both buyers and sellers about tariffs, particularly regarding construction materials and home improvement projects.

In the past, buyers might have been laser-focused on location, views, and finishes. Now, they’re digging deeper—asking about material sourcing, cost projections, and how long it will actually take for that gleaming new tower to be move-in ready. Sellers, too, are more cautious, wondering whether buyers will hesitate or stall as uncertainty looms around rising costs.

And then there are our developers. They’re on the front lines. Our developers have already signaled that we will need to increase pricing to offset the cost of building materials.

This is a reality check: From steel to glass to lumber, tariffs on imported goods are driving up the base cost of construction. For buyers, that means you may start to see higher price tags on units in upcoming buildings. For sellers of existing homes, that might sound like a good thing—after all, if new developments are more expensive, resale inventory may become more attractive. But it’s not that simple.

Buyers today are value-driven and strategic. They’re factoring in not just price, but long-term investment potential and the impact of inflation on their purchase. Many are asking how price increases might delay project timelines or shift a developer's delivery strategy. Buyers seem to be especially concerned about how price increases might affect new construction timelines and costs.

And they’re right to be. Projects that were once expected to launch in 18 months might now take 24, due to material delays, cost overruns, and shifting financing models. For developers, this means recalculating risk. For brokers, it means guiding clients through an increasingly complex web of variables.

So what can buyers, sellers, and developers do right now?

For buyers: Lock in prices early. If you’re purchasing in a new development, consider pre-construction opportunities where you can still take advantage of current pricing before increases hit. Ask questions about contingency plans, delivery schedules, and material sourcing.

For sellers: Leverage the moment. If you own in a market where new construction is facing upward pricing pressure, your resale home may be more competitive than ever—especially if it’s turnkey. Make sure your pricing strategy reflects this.

For developers: Transparency is key. Buyers want to know what’s happening behind the scenes. Being upfront about costs and how you’re adapting builds trust and keeps deals moving forward.

The NYC and Miami markets have always adapted to change—and this moment is no different. If you have questions about how these changes might affect your property decisions, let’s talk. The market is moving—and understanding the details now can mean real advantages later.