Donald Trump’s return to the Oval Office is already making waves across markets, policy discussions, and even meme culture. After his inauguration as the 47th President of the United States yesterday—held indoors for the first time since 1985 due to the extreme cold—stocks and crypto markets rallied in anticipation of a business-friendly administration.

But for real estate developers and investors, Trump’s policies carry a mix of opportunities and uncertainties. With the fate of TikTok, potential tariff increases, and tax cuts dominating the headlines, here’s what we know so far and what it might mean for your business.

TikTok Drama: A Microcosm of Trump’s Business Approach

After a brief 12-hour shutdown, TikTok came back online for U.S. users yesterday, following Trump’s executive order to extend the app’s ban-or-divest deadline. However, as of last evening, TikTok was still missing from Apple’s and Google’s app stores, leaving its future uncertain.

While TikTok’s situation might seem niche, it’s emblematic of Trump’s broader stance on controlling foreign-owned enterprises and protecting domestic markets. For real estate investors, this signals potential volatility in foreign investment regulations and market sentiment. Developers relying on international capital should monitor these developments closely.

What’s Driving Market Optimism?

The markets celebrated Trump’s inauguration, with stocks and crypto surging on hopes of favorable business policies. Banks like JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs posted strong earnings last week, buoyed by booming dealmaking confidence.

However, not all reactions are positive. Executives are cautiously eyeing Trump’s proposed tariffs and increased deficit spending, which could spark inflation—something the U.S. has only recently managed to control.

Key Campaign Promises to Watch

1. Relaxed Regulations for Businesses

Trump’s SEC chair pick, Paul Atkins, is expected to usher in a more lenient regulatory environment. This could mean fewer FTC crackdowns on mergers and acquisitions, creating opportunities for developers and investors in large-scale real estate transactions.

2. Crypto as a National Priority

Trump has promised to make cryptocurrency a national focus, even proposing the creation of a federal “bitcoin stockpile.” This could spur greater institutional interest in blockchain technology, potentially benefiting sectors like property tokenization and decentralized real estate financing.

3. Tariffs and Trade Tensions

Proposed tariffs on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada could increase construction costs, particularly for materials like steel and lumber. Developers should prepare for higher project budgets and explore domestic sourcing options to mitigate the impact.

4. Tax Cuts for Business and Fossil Fuels

Trump plans to extend the 2017 individual tax cuts and reduce corporate tax rates for domestic manufacturers. While this benefits some industries, his proposed cuts to EV incentives could impact sectors like green building and renewable energy-focused developments.

The Impact on Real Estate Developers and Investors

Trump’s policies, if realized, could create a mixed landscape for real estate professionals:

• Opportunities: Looser regulations and tax cuts could spur investment and increase market activity. Developers may see expedited approvals for large-scale projects and fewer regulatory hurdles in financing.

• Challenges: Tariffs and inflation risks could drive up construction costs and operating expenses. Projects reliant on foreign capital might face additional scrutiny or delays.

The Takeaway

Trump’s second term brings both opportunities and uncertainties for the real estate sector. While his business-friendly promises could energize segments of the market, the specter of inflation, tariffs, and shifting priorities looms large.

For developers and investors, the next 100 days will set the tone for what’s ahead. As always, success will depend on staying informed, agile, and ready to adapt to changing market conditions.

About Daniel Kaufman Real Estate

At Daniel Kaufman Real Estate, we specialize in guiding developers and investors through the complexities of the real estate market. With a focus on data-driven insights and strategic planning, we’re here to help you navigate opportunities and challenges under this new administration.

📩 Contact Us:

• Visit: www.danielkaufmanre.com

• Email: daniel@kaufmanredev.com

Stay ahead of the trends—because in real estate, timing is everything.