Trump’s 2025 Housing Agenda: What It Could Mean for Buyers and Sellers in Lake Geneva and the Geneva Lakes WI Area

By Jade Goodhue

As President Donald Trump embarks on his second term in January 2025, the U.S. housing market—and by extension, local markets likeLake Genevaand theGeneva Lakes WI area—are poised for significant changes. Here’s a look at how his policies could shape opportunities and challenges for buyers and sellers in this sought-after region.

1. Executive Order on Housing Relief

On his first day back in office, President Trump issued an executive order aimed at reducing housing costs by cutting regulations that contribute to high consumer prices. This move is intended to make housing more affordable across the nation.

For buyers:Reduced regulations could lead to more housing options and potentially lower prices in theLake Geneva WIarea.

For sellers:An increase in housing supply might mean more competition, necessitating strategic pricing and property enhancements to attract buyers.

2. Deregulation and Housing Supply

Continuing his focus on deregulation, Trump aims to streamline zoning and building restrictions to increase housing supply. This could benefit developers inLake Geneva WIby making it easier to undertake new projects.

For buyers:More new homes in the area could mean additional options, particularly for those seeking modern builds or homes in new developments.

For sellers:Increased competition from new construction could affect pricing power, particularly for older properties or those needing updates.

3. Tariffs and Construction Costs

The administration’s consideration of tariffs on countries like Mexico and Canada could impact the cost of imported construction materials, potentially driving up building expenses.

For buyers:Higher construction costs may push up the price of newly built homes, making existing properties more attractive.

For sellers:Rising costs may boost the value of existing homes, especially turnkey properties that don’t require renovations.

4. Interest Rates and Economic Policies

Trump’s economic policies, including potential tax cuts and increased infrastructure spending, could influence inflation and, subsequently, interest rates.

For buyers:A rise in mortgage rates could reduce affordability for lakefront and luxury homes, encouraging buyers to act sooner rather than later.

For sellers:Lower affordability might shrink the buyer pool, particularly for higher-priced homes, making strategic pricing more critical.

5. Public Housing and Noncitizen Residency

The administration has proposed policies affecting noncitizen residency in federally assisted housing, which could shift rental demand in the broader market.

For buyers:Investors may see increased opportunities to acquire properties for long-term rental demand if public housing options diminish.

For sellers:Sellers of investment properties might benefit from increased buyer interest in rental-income opportunities.

6. Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) Rule

The potential rollback of the AFFH rule may slow efforts to diversify housing types in the Geneva Lakes WI area.

For buyers:Limited diversification could maintain the area’s luxury appeal but may make affordable options harder to find.

For sellers:Luxury homes are likely to remain in demand, but sellers targeting mid-market buyers may face a smaller pool of potential buyers.

7. “Freedom Cities” Initiative

Trump’s proposed “Freedom Cities” aim to spur innovation and reduce living costs through new urban developments.

For buyers:New federal land development might create opportunities for nearby investments if “Freedom Cities” come to Wisconsin.

For sellers:Existing homes in desirable areas likeGeneva Lakes WImay retain or even increase value as they compete with new urban developments elsewhere.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers in Lake Geneva and Geneva Lakes WI

The Geneva Lakes WI area, with its luxury homes, lakefront properties, and thriving vacation rental market, remains a hotspot for real estate. Forbuyers, it’s critical to stay ahead of potential financing changes and act quickly in an evolving market. Forsellers, understanding how national policies shape local demand will be key to pricing and marketing effectively.

Stay informed with updates on how federal policies impact the housing market in Lake Geneva and the Geneva Lakes WI area to make smarter buying and selling decisions.