The Rising Cost of Home Repairs: What Homeowners Need to Know
Over the past year, homeowners across the country—especially in high-demand markets like San Diego—have noticed a frustrating trend: home repairs are getting more expensive. From fixing leaky roofs to updating kitchens, the cost of maintaining and upgrading a home has surged due to a combination of economic factors.
Whether you're planning to stay in your home for years or looking to sell soon, here’s why repair costs have climbed—and what you can do about it.
🔧 Why Are Home Repair Costs So High?
1. Material Prices Have Skyrocketed
The cost of basic building materials like lumber, drywall, copper, and concrete has increased significantly since 2020. Supply chain issues, global shipping delays, and high demand for new construction and remodeling have all contributed to higher prices at the hardware store.
Lumber prices, for instance, more than doubled in early 2021 and remained volatile
Copper wiring, essential for electrical work, saw a 30%+ jump year-over-year.
These costs trickle down to homeowners, making even small repairs feel like a major investment.
2. Labor Shortages in the Trades
There’s a nationwide shortage of skilled tradespeople—from plumbers and electricians to roofers and general contractors. Many workers left the industry during the pandemic, and fewer young people are entering the trades. This shortage drives up labor rates, and it often takes longer to schedule repairs.
3. Inflation Is Pushing Everything Higher
With inflation reaching levels not seen in decades, general costs for services, fuel, and equipment have increased across the board. Contractors are raising prices just to keep pace with their own overhead costs.
🏠 What This Means for Homeowners
If you're planning to:
Sell your home, be prepared for higher pre-sale repair and renovation costs.
Stay and maintain, consider setting aside a larger budget for routine maintenance than you may have in previous years.
Delay repairs, beware—putting off issues like leaks, electrical problems, or HVAC maintenance can lead to even more expensive damage down the line.
💡 Pro Tips to Navigate High Repair Costs
Get multiple quotes: Prices can vary widely between contractors—don’t accept the first bid.
Plan ahead: Contractors are booked further out than ever, so schedule repairs early, especially for big jobs.
Bundle repairs: If you're hiring a pro, it’s more cost-effective to knock out several projects in one visit.
Consider a home warranty: If your systems are aging, a home warranty plan may help offset major repair costs.
🚪Thinking of Selling? Avoid Repairs Altogether
With home repair costs soaring some homeowners are choosing to sell their homes as-is to avoid the time, money, and stress of renovations. Cash buyers in markets like San Diego are offering competitive prices with no need for repairs, inspections, or showings.
If you're weighing your options, it might be worth comparing the cost of fixing your home vs. selling it in its current condition.
Final Thought:
The rising cost of home repairs is more than just a blip—it's part of a larger shift in how homeowners budget and plan for upkeep. Being proactive, informed, and flexible can help you make the smartest financial decisions in this evolving market.