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Analysts and housing market observers caution, however, that the effects on home prices may be gradual and uneven. Housing economists note that national median home prices have been driven higher by a combination of low inventory, strong demand, rising construction costs, and state and local land-use policies that limit development. They say that while the new federal initiative may alleviate some constraints, it does not directly reduce the cost of land, labor, or materials — factors that account for a significant portion of housing costs.