Ruder Discusses Impact of Canadian Lumber Tariffs on Kansas City Housing Market

This week, Will Ruder, EVP of the KCHBA, sat down with KMBC reporter Matt Evans to discuss the growing concern over potential tariffs on Canadian lumber and the uncertain impact these tariffs could have on the local housing market. Ruder highlighted that these tariffs, along with market volatility, could affect the rate of homebuilding in the Kansas City area this year.

Despite these challenges, Ruder emphasized that the demand for housing in the region remains strong. “I will say, however, that given the fact that we are thousands of housing units short every year, the demand for homes is still there,” he explained. “Even in the face of persistently high interest rates and the uncertainty surrounding trade issues, the need for housing in our area is undeniable and remains intense.” Ruder’s comments underscore the ongoing pressure on the housing market and the critical need for more construction to meet the growing demand in Kansas City.

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