Housing

It’s the first time the home improvement retailer posted gains in two years. This is partly because homeowners are renovating instead of shopping for a new home.

A survey from the National Association of Home Builders found contractors’ expectations fell to their lowest level in more than a year.

Tariffs and higher mortgage interest rates are at the top of the list.

“It’s like we’re back in our dorm in college,” said Kirsten Harrison, a resident of a senior housing community in Minnesota.

The rule is designed to stop the cycle of flood damage, but it’s leading to opposite outcomes in two Louisiana towns.

“This is one area where there does appear to be convergence between Democrats and Republicans,” said UChicago professor Mike Albertus.

Shelter played a key role in January’s higher-than-expected consumer price index. A dwindling supply of apartments could add to that effect.

Home insurance premiums are 52% higher than they were in 2020, and the average homeowner is now putting about a third of their monthly payment to taxes and insurance.

In 2021, Sarah and Brandon Jones moved to a floating cabin on Lake Fontana in western North Carolina. Even after renovations, living on the water was cheaper than land.

Homeowners can speed up the process by paying for private debris removal, but that can cost tens of thousands of dollars.