The 2026 State of Building: An Interview with Wausau Home Builder Jones & Jones
As we move through the spring of 2026, the Wausau housing market is in a unique spot. While existing home inventory remains tight, more families are looking toward custom builds to get exactly what they need. However, with fuel prices trending upward and the "new normal" of material costs, the conversation around building has changed.
We interviewed our team to get perspective on navigating these challenges and what Wausau homeowners should be prioritizing in 2026.
Q: The market has shifted significantly over the last few years. How are you helping clients navigate the "hard reality" of 2026 construction costs?
It’s a reality we all have to face - as the price for existing homes has gone up, so have building materials and labor. Current fuel prices are another factor driving up the bottom line.
We tackle this by being transparent and strategic. We make specific recommendations to "shave down" costs without sacrificing quality. Sometimes that’s a floor plan tweak to increase structural efficiency; other times, it’s using our expertise to pick the best materials that offer an economical price point. Because of our volume of builds, we’ve earned better pricing on materials, which allows us to remain a very competitive custom builder in Marathon County.
Q: Wisconsin winters aren't getting any shorter. What’s your "secret sauce" for an energy-efficient home in 2026?
We always recommend going above and beyond the minimum code requirements. Specifically, we suggest:
High-Efficiency Heating: Investing here pays for itself quickly.
Closed-Cell Foam: We use this in "box sills" (joist ends) to stop drafts where they usually start.
The Air Seal: We’re big believers in aggressive caulking during the insulation stage to create a true air seal, paired with an Air Exchanger to keep the indoor air fresh and healthy.
Q: We’re hearing a lot about the "Right-Sized" home. What features are actually trending with your clients right now?
The "pocket office" is a huge one. People realized they don't need a massive executive suite; they need a quiet, functional nook. We’re also seeing a lot of love for hidden walk-in pantries. It’s a "cool factor" feature that keeps the main kitchen looking pristine while providing massive storage.
Q: How is Jones & Jones handling the labor and supply chain hurdles that have defined this decade?
It comes down to who you know and who you trust. We have a close venture partnership with Ott Development and Construction, which allows us to provide a streamlined experience. We aren’t "outsourcing" many carpenters; when we do, we have tight, long-standing relationships with our trade contractors. We don't find ourselves fighting for resources because our partners know we're reliable.
Q: If someone is building their "forever home" in Wausau today, what will they regret skipping five years from now?
Three things stand out:
Accessibility: We highly recommend zero-entry layouts and 3-foot wide doors. If it’s your forever home, you want it to be livable for every stage of life.
Infrastructure: Even if you don't have an EV yet, pre-wiring for electric vehicle charging is a smart move for future or for resale value. The same goes for pre-wiring speakers for home audio - it’s much cheaper to do it now than to tear into drywall later.
Insulation: It’s not "flashy," but bumping up your insulation values is a guaranteed ROI if you’re going to live in the home long term; it can also carry a resale value if advertised. You’ll feel it in your wallet every single month.
Ready to build a new home?
Contact us to discuss your vision and get a realistic look at your project’s potential.
