CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS PRICES POST RARE YEAR-OVER-YEAR DIP IN JULY; PRICES OF FINISHED BUILDINGS INCREASE MODESTLY FOR MONTH AND YEAR-TO-YEAR

WASHINGTON, D.C. – August 14, 2012 – (RealEstateRama) — The cost of key construction materials dropped for the third consecutive month in July, pushing down year-over-year prices for the first time since 2009, according to an analysis of producer price index figures released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. However, association officials warned that recent spikes in diesel fuel and steel prices may drive up the cost of construction again, and they urged lawmakers to invest in needed infrastructure projects promptly while prices remain low.