More than half the survey respondents were from the Twin Cities, and overall, the construction firms expressed growing pessimism.
“Uncertainty has lingered,” said Erick Garcia Luna, the regional outreach director at the Minneapolis Fed. “There's been a net decline in activity. Residential and commercial construction were hurt the most, according to our respondents.”
More than half of respondents to the latest construction survey reported a drop in active projects from November 2025 to April of this year, compared with the same period 12 months prior.
Part of the problem is that the cost of materials remains high, Garcia Luna said. Inflation and tariffs contribute to those high expenses, and now oil price changes stemming from conflicts in the Middle East are driving up the costs of other goods.
“Not only on fuel but also on materials such as PVC and other plastic-based materials that are used in construction,” Garcia Luna said.
Those costs make houses more expensive to build, and consumers may not be ready to accept higher housing prices.
A house under construction on a cloudy day in Fargo on June 5. Construction activity fell in the first quarter of the year for the Fargo-Moorhead area.
Tadeo Ruiz Sandoval | MPR News
The growing cost of building homes
First-time homebuyers are among those consumers who are most sensitive to pricing; they typically want to buy affordable, already-built homes, but such homes are in short supply.
“Realtors will tell you things have gotten a little bit better earlier this year, but the market for existing homes in [an affordable] price range for starter homes is very tight,” said Steve Gottwalt, government affairs consultant for the Central Minnesota Builders Association.
Part of that is because many people who’ve already settled down in their homes have favorable mortgage rates, Gottwalt said. That means they’ll be less likely to risk paying higher prices for a new house.
That leaves first-time homebuyers with another option: buying a newly built home.
That’s less common in Minnesota, said Gottwalt, partly because there aren’t enough starter homes being built.
But in North Dakota, some cities like Fargo offer a tax exemption that incentivizes first-time homebuyers to buy newly built homes rather than existing ones.
Nevertheless, Brock Goossens, co-owner of Hawthorne Custom Homes in Fargo, said that with rising construction costs, those houses are more expensive to get.
Brock Goossens stands next to a model of a two-story house that'll be built in Fargo on June 5. Goossens' clients are typically second- or third-time homebuyers capable of affording higher-ticket items, but he's still hoping more first-time homebuyers can afford houses.
Tadeo Ruiz Sandoval | MPR News
“We're seeing affordability for that first-time home buyer still be a stretch,” Goossens said.
His clients can typically afford a more expensive house, but he said even they are proceeding with caution as of late.
“When you get to that top end, they still want to spend money, still know they're going to spend money,” Goossens said. “Maybe they don't have a budget on it, but they're watching their dollars and their cents more because (of) whatever's going on in the world. And it is affecting what they ultimately put in.”
Goossens, who is also president-elect of the Building Industry Association of the Red River Valley, said that in the first quarter of the year, construction in the Fargo-Moorhead region had a 11 percent decline in permits.
“It's a slower start than what we've seen years past,” Goossens said. “But we're amping up, we're seeing larger projects launch. So, meaning that maybe there are fewer new project starts, but we're seeing larger project starts.”
Construction crews discovered a robin that made itself comfortable at the construction site in Fargo on June 5. Brock Goossens christened the bird as the home's first tenant.
Tadeo Ruiz Sandoval | MPR News
Worker availability
Another factor causing hardship for construction companies is access to labor.
“Labor availability continues to be the story of the region,” Erick Garcia Luna of the Minneapolis Fed said. “Companies are just struggling to secure the labor that they need in order to remain competitive.”
According to the Minneapolis Fed’s latest construction survey, 10 percent of respondents reported that immigration enforcement actions earlier this year affected their labor availability.
In Minnesota, respondents flagged issues around the Paid Family Leave program. It allows workers to take paid time off for their own serious health condition or to care for a family member.
“The paid family leave was mentioned a few times by respondents in that it was making scheduling difficult for some companies,” Garcia Luna said.
That said, about 30 percent of respondents did say they increased headcount during the period in question, which, Garcia Luna said, “is not a bad number.”
An upside-down ladder leads to the basement of a house under construction in Fargo on June 5. The house is estimated to take about five months to build.
Major hotel companies have seen the value in investing in all-inclusive resorts in recent years, refreshing a formula that once felt tired. Thanks to their efforts, these properties routinely feature fresh, modern design, fantastic restaurants and curated experiences from snorkeling excursions to guided tours of historical sites, all for one reasonable price.
While Hilton’s all-inclusive portfolio is smaller than those of its competitors, its resorts pack a powerful, value-added punch. So, whether you’re a die-hard Hilton Honors member or a free agent just looking for a good deal, chances are there’s a Hilton all-inclusive for you.
Here are TPG’s favorite Hilton all-inclusive resorts to consider for your next warm-weather getaway.
Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort
CLINT HENDERSON/THE POINTS GUY
One of Hilton’s properties in Cancun, Mexico, this all-inclusive resort is a winner with its views and amazing restaurant lineup — as TPG found out when we checked in to the property. The Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort is just the place for you if you’re looking for a sunny getaway that earns top marks for service, has spacious rooms and suites, and keeps guests well fed.
All of the resort’s 540 guest rooms and suites come with balconies, and some suites even have private plunge pools. Modern furnishings with tropical flair, a complimentary minibar restocked daily, and either ocean or pool views are offered across all rooms and suites. If you’re in the mood to splurge, book an Enclave room or suite for a private lounge and pools, as well as special welcome amenities — some Enclave suites even feature direct beach access.
From the international breakfast buffet to poolside bites at Seasalt, the Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe keeps you well fed and hydrated all day long. We’re especially fond of Maxal, the resort’s Mexican fine dining restaurant. Of course, don’t forget to have fun in the sun: The resort features 13 swimming pools, kids and teens clubs, and a spa for those looking for a little more tranquility and rejuvenation in their getaway.
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When we sent a reviewer out a few months after opening back in 2021, one thing was immediately clear at the Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort: This place is wonderful for families.
About 20 minutes from Cancun’s Hotel Zone, this all-inclusive resort is in a shared complex with Hilton’s Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya. Both resorts occupy more than 100 acres, giving visitors plenty of room to stretch out while vacationing in Mexico.
At the 715-room Hilton Cancun, guests are treated to modern accommodations with at least 430 square feet of space and amenities like wardrobes and spacious bathrooms. Plus, most rooms and suites have balconies or patios. Book a swim-up room for an even more memorable experience so you don’t have to go far to cool off.
With 12 different restaurants, bars and specialty snack shops, nobody will go hungry. The Hilton Cancun’s restaurants have a much more upscale vibe than what you’d expect to find at an older-generation all-inclusive resort, with options ranging from an international buffet to a taqueria with a walk-up window to an open-flame grill serving sizzling steaks and seafood. Should you crave a sweet treat, there’s even an ice cream and churro shop.
During the day, visitors can swim in two infinity pools or post up at the beach, where activities like soccer and volleyball are scheduled at regular intervals. Families will particularly love that teens and kids clubs have various activities to entertain younger guests throughout the day. Hilton Cancun also specializes in immersive experiences like a Full Moon Dining Series, snorkeling excursions to Isla Mujeres and guided tours of Chichen Itza.
Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive Resort, Curio by Hilton
MANGROVE BEACH CORENDON CURUCAO ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT/FACEBOOK
The Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao begs travelers to grab a beach chair and enjoy the crystalline waters of the Caribbean. This resort, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, is another excellent family-friendly affair. It has a water park with a cobra-themed waterslide, four pristine swimming pools, a scuba diving center and sports like volleyball on the private stretch of sand. Kids can enjoy a playground and various daily activities specifically tailored to younger guests.
When we say this 399-room resort was built for families, we mean it, especially when you factor in that one of the room setups features a king-size bed plus two twins. But no matter what size of room you need, from a standard king to the two-bedroom presidential suite, expect modern decor with bold colors, private outdoor spaces and air conditioning.
There’s a restaurant to satisfy every palate, including Dushi Sushi Club, Ristorante Siciliano and Cor & Don’s BBQ Restaurant. Grab a drink at Pera Lobby Bar & Patisserie until midnight, while the Flamingo Beach Bar stays open 24-hours. Don’t miss The Don Cigar Lounge, where cigars and cognac are offered.
Guests can book a beachside massage in one of several thatched-roof cabanas to unwind. Bike rentals are also available for those who’d rather venture off-site to check out their surroundings.
Hilton’s first all-inclusive resort in Tulum, the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort has a wow factor, and our reviewer was impressed with the laid-back vibe, top-notch amenities and eco-sensitive design.
Across the resort’s 735 rooms and suites, all of which have balconies or patios, guests will find natural touches reflecting the property’s environment and modern amenities like high-definition TVs and ample storage space. For a more premium experience, reserve an Enclave-level room with access to a private lounge with food, drinks and a concierge; exclusive reservations and dining options; two private pool areas; and special fitness and wellness activities.
There are a whopping 13 bars and restaurants to enjoy, ranging from the chic La Luce Italian restaurant and must-have sushi at Noriku to an elegant steakhouse and a poolside seafood restaurant. If you prefer lots of options, be sure to visit Vela Norte, where a variety of international and Mexican dishes are available buffet-style.
Activities are seemingly endless at this Mexican resort. You can relax by the pools (one of which has a special splash zone for kids), hit up the neighboring Conrad’s spa for a treatment, take advantage of the kids and teens clubs, partake in a yoga class, learn about local art and so much more.
The Rif at Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive, Curio by Hilton
The Rif at Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao. FACEBOOK
If you feel like you’ve already read about Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive, Curio by Hilton above, you have. The Rif is that resort’s sister property, but with a more adult-leaning attitude (though technically it’s family-friendly).
The 384-room beachfront resort feels more intimate than some all-inclusives, with four restaurants and one centerpiece pool framed with palm trees and rows of sun beds. When The Rif guests want more dining options and family-friendly amenities such as a water park and playground, they only have to walk next door to the sister resort, Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao. Meanwhile, The Rif remains a haven of calm. The private beach, where guests sometimes swim with sea turtles, is a tropical paradise surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and lush mangrove forests. Thatched-roof cabanas and wood loungers with cushions are tastefully tropical. On-property restaurant options at The Rif include the Turkish restaurant Sofra and the colorful Mexican restaurant Maya, specializing in shareable small plates.
Many of The Rif’s bright, modern guest rooms have balconies or swim-up pool terraces. The resort is just over a mile from UNESCO-protected Willemstad, Curacao’s capital, known for pastel-colored colonial buildings and a 19th-century fort.
All 444 rooms and suites have balconies with ocean views. Each accommodation has a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, a minibar, a Nespresso machine and a smart TV to help you catch some z’s in comfort. Should you wish to upgrade your experience, book an Enclave room to receive a welcome amenity, nightly turndown service, a minibar with premium goodies, and access to the Enclave Lounge. Breakfast, coffee, snacks and happy hour beverages are served there daily.
Activities and amenities abound, but nothing tops sidling up to one of the two oceanfront infinity pools and grabbing an ice-cold margarita from the swim-up bar. The Eforea Spa deserves praise for its impressive treatment menu, plus rejuvenating hydrotherapy pools. For more action, participate in beach sports competitions or attend the resort’s nightly pool parties.
Make sure to bring a healthy appetite. Maxal is the place to go for authentic Mexican dishes, while La Luce will satisfy your craving for trattoria-style Italian fare. If you’d rather savor a mix of Southeast Asian flavors, check out Sunan. Not to be missed are the Mojito Lounge, where you can sip a cocktail from an indoor swing, and the chic Sky Bar.
Whether you’re traveling as a family or a couple without kids, know that there’s space for everyone. The resort has an adults-only wing and kids and teen clubs with age-appropriate activities.
DoubleTree by Hilton Bodrum Isil Club All-Inclusive Resort
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON BODRUM ISIL CLUB RESORT/FACEBOOK
Not all of Hilton’s all-inclusive resorts are in Mexico and the Caribbean; a handful can be found in Turkey, including in stylish, A-lister-approved Bodrum. One of the region’s best resorts is an all-inclusive take on the popular DoubleTree brand.
At the DoubleTree by Hilton Bodrum Isil Club All-Inclusive Resort, you can practice your backhand swing on a tennis court, play table tennis and lounge on the beach facing the Aegean Sea. Other highlights include a pool that looks out over turquoise waters and a kiddie pool with waterslides. There’s even an elevated spa with a full menu of treatments and a Turkish hammam.
When your stomach starts to grumble, you’ll have four dining outlets to choose from: an indoor-outdoor buffet open throughout the day, an Italian restaurant with beautiful outdoor seating, a seafood restaurant by the water, and a casual poolside spot for breakfast and snacks. The Sunset Lounge Bar is the most memorable of the three bars due to its location on a massive outdoor terrace.
Inside the 277 guest rooms and suites, you’ll find all you need for a restful night’s sleep. The predominantly white spaces come outfitted with minifridges, high-definition TVs, walk-in showers, and attached balconies or terraces, among other modern-day amenities.
Another great Turkish Hilton all-inclusive resort is on the Aegean in Mugla, east of Bodrum. The Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Resort & Spa also sits at the mouth of the Dalaman River, so the views are stunning.
At this 538-room resort, accommodations come in all shapes and sizes, from entry-level king guest rooms with balconies to luxurious Lake House villas with swim-up pool access, living rooms and soaking tubs. If you need to accommodate a large group, the three-bedroom presidential suite sleeps 10 and comes with butler service and round-trip ground transportation from the airport, plus a kitchen and four bathrooms.
Getting bored at the Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme is practically impossible. There are 10 pools to explore, waterslides to whiz down, a private beach, a kids club and a sprawling 24-hour fitness center. Adrenaline junkies can try water sports like kiteboarding and windsurfing. If relaxation is what’s calling, skip the adventure and plan a day of pampering at the Elysion Spa.
Food and beverage options range from an Instagram-cool teppanyaki restaurant and a glitzy Italian eatery to a piano bar and an international buffet. If you feel sluggish, head to Citrus Coffee & Bar for an authentic Turkish coffee pick-me-up.
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