• Average home costs in New Orleans

    Louisiana Among Worst States for Home Resale Prices

    6 Min Read

    If you’re thinking about selling your home in Louisiana, you should know that many homeowners have had to drop their prices.

    A new study has revealed the states struggling to sell houses at their market value, naming Louisiana as the eighth-worst state with only 38.8% of properties sold at the listing price or above. The real estate market in New Orleans and elsewhere is the reason.

    The data, researched by real estate experts Agent Advice, used Zillow house price data for each state to see the regions with the most properties sold undervalue. The data looked at the most recent 950 properties sold to find the states with the highest percentage of those sold below the listed price.  

    The research found Florida was the state with the most properties sold undervalue at 69.4% of recent sales being bought below the listed price. Currently, Florida’s average house value stands at $399,807 according to Zillow, with this being an increase of 3.4% since last year.  Presently, the median list price as of April is $433,300 yet the average sale price is $368,33. Evidently, there is a disparity in the amount residents are willing to pay compared to what sellers want to receive. On average, it takes a property just 33 days to go into pending- the time it takes from listing to an offer being accepted without the deal being closed. 

    In second place is Montana, which sold 68.1% of homes undervalue according to the most recent data. In the last year, Zillow reported the average price of a home has gone up by 5.8%, resulting in the average house costing $463,645 which is unaffordable for many. As of April this year, the average time to pending took only 21 days. The average listed price stood at $519,633 but the average sale price was much lower at $447,167.  

    Coming in third is Wyoming. Wyoming saw 64.7% of houses sold undervalue according to the data, with the average listed price standing at $393,816 but the average sale price being $306,349.  On average, properties in the state took 23 days to go into pending and the current median house price is $344,250.  

    Sitting in fourth place with a rate of 63.4% of homes sold undervalue is Kentucky. Kentucky has one of the shortest times to pending on this list at just 10 days on average. Zillow currently lists the average house price at $207,548 which stands at a 5% increase from last year. On average, the median list price is $274,933 compared to the median sale price of $229,933.  

    With rates of 62.3% of properties sold under value, Wisconsin and Missouri come in joint fifth place.  Wisconsin saw a 5.6% increase in house prices in the last year, with the average house valued at $302,612. On average, it takes just 17 days for a property in the state to have an offer accepted, and the average sale price is currently $250,667.  

    As for Missouri, the state saw a 5% increase and has an incredibly fast speed of taking only 8 days for a property to go into pending. At present, the typical home is valued at $247,255 whilst the average sold price is $228,267 according to the latest data. 

    States with the most homes sold undervalue, ranked 

    Rank State Percentage sold undervalue  
    1 Florida 69.4% 
    2 Montana 68.1% 
    3 Wyoming 64.7% 
    4 Kentucky 63.4% 
    =5 Wisconsin 62.3% 
    =5 Missouri 62.3% 
    6 Arizona 62.1% 
    7 Texas 61.3% 
    8 Louisiana 61.2% 
    9 South Carolina 60.4% 
    10 Tennessee 60.0% 

    The state with the sixth highest rate of homes sold under value is Arizona, which saw 62.1% of houses sold below the listed price. Arizona is one of the pricier states and currently, the median house cost is $433,667, a 4.1% increase in the last year.  

    Texas ranks seventh in the list citing a rate of 61.3% of properties sold under the original listed price. The state saw just a 1% increase in house prices compared to last year, relatively low compared to other regions, with the average house now costing $307,038 and taking, on average, 25 days for an offer to be accepted.  

    Ranking eighth is Louisiana, with a rate of 61.2% of all recent properties sold undervalue. The southern state is one of a few areas that saw a decrease in the average house price, seeing a 2.6% lowering of the cost. At the moment, Zillow lists the average property as costing $202,392.  

    South Carolina comes next with 60.4% of properties sold under value according to the most recent data. In the last year, it has taken an average of 17 days for a property to go into pending, and house prices have risen 4.3% resulting in the average property costing $296,251.  

    Rounding off the list, Tennessee takes tenth place following a rate of 60% of houses sold below listed value. Now, the average property costs $321,755, an increase of 4.7% compared to last year.  

    Read our guide on how to buy rental property in Louisiana.

    On the other side of the study, Connecticut was found to be the state with the lowest number of properties sold undervalue at just 30.9%. According to Zillow data, the average house is valued at $399,242, an increase of 11.6% from last year. 

    Commenting on the findings, an expert from Agent Advice said:  “The real estate market is known for its fluctuations, often influenced by factors such as climate, location, and economic trends.  

    “It is interesting to note the current trend for a lot of southern states where properties are sold under value. Consistently, southern states have ranked low in terms of average wages, education and environment. Hopefully, though, these rankings are beginning to be overturned as more people recognize the opportunities living in the south can bring and we may well see a growth in popularity for the region as lawmakers bring about positive change. 

    “It is crucial for buyers and sellers to stay informed about the local market and what trends are occurring. Buying a house can be very exciting but it takes a lot of thorough research and good legal advice to ensure you are making the best purchase in yours and your family’s future home.” 

    Final Thought

    Buying a home in Louisiana can be a gamble, but that’s true everywhere.

    If your finances need work, make sure you try to raise your credit score so you are an attractive homebuyer.

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  • curb appeal New Orleans

    Selling Your Home? Here’s How To Boost Its Curb Appeal

    3 Min Read

    So you want to put your home up for sale on the market to see what it does. You can list it all you want, but if it doesn’t have curb appeal, you might not attract any potential buyers.

    What is curb appeal? It’s a cosmetic look of a home’s exterior that is pleasing to the eye.

    In this article, we’ll go over some ways you can increase your home’s curb appeal and ultimately get it sold.

    How To Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

    Could the walkway in front of your home benefit from a good power washing? Are there still leaves in your gutter?

    Take a good look at the front exterior of your home and write down all the things you can do to beautify the property and not bust your budget.

    1. Take Lawncare Seriously

    Your lawn is the first thing a prospective buyer may notice about your property. Always make sure your hedges, trees and shrubs are trimmed to compliment your home. The last thing a potential buyer wants to see are wayward vines and branches encroaching on the porch or walkway.

    Take the time to invest in some shears so that you can cut your shrubs and other things out of the way.

    3. Go With a Fresh Coat of Paint

    You may also consider painting the rooms inside or even the home’s exterior. Nothing illuminates a home’s beauty like a nice coat of paint. Not only can a fresh paint job be pleasing to the eye but it can increase your bottom line.

    Zillow analysis found that homebuyers would pay 1.6% more ($5,000 on a $290,000 home) for a bathroom with light blue walls.

    4. Opt for Modest Upgrades

    You don’t have to break the bank to get your home in selling shape. Consider making some modest upgrades that will attract buyers.

    New Orleans, Louisiana, presents some great opportunity for potential homebuyers who save up for a home, but like much of the country, high prices and mortgage rates will temper the market.

    Final Word

    It could cost you a lot of money if you missed out on the sale of your home just because you didn’t tidy things up around the property. In essence, clean up.

    The time and energy you spend into boosting your curb appeal will be more than worth it in the long run.

    New Orleans has one of the best real estate markets in the country, with affordable housing in every quadrant of the city. Large backyards, manicured parcels and strong neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for families and singles alike.

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  • How to save money for a home

    How To Save Money To Buy a House in Louisiana

    3 Min Read

    When you compare it to other states, buying a house in Louisiana is very affordable. Of course, it depends on where you decide to purchase. The New Orleans real estate market has some of the most pricey homes in the state. Meanwhile, rural parishes in the northern part of the state have some of the most affordable dwellings.

    In this article, we will cover how to save money for a house in Louisiana.

    How To Save Up For a Home in 4 Steps

    Saving up for a house requires careful planning and discipline. How to afford a home is a challenge this year as economic factors loom. Here are some ways you can save up for your future home:

    Set a Savings Goal

    Determine how much money you need to save for a down payment and other homebuying costs. This will give you a target to work towards.

    Consider taking on a part-time job or freelance work to boost your income and accelerate your savings.

    Put any unexpected windfalls, such as tax refunds or bonuses, directly into your house savings account.

    Create a Budget

    Review your income and expenses to identify areas where you can cut back and save more money. Allocate a portion of your income specifically for your house savings goal.

    Regularly review your savings progress and adjust your budget and savings plan as needed to stay on track.

    Get Out Of Debt

    Look for ways to reduce your expenses, such as eating out less, cutting cable or subscription services, and finding cheaper alternatives for everyday items.

    Pay off high-interest debt, such as credit card balances, to free up more money for savings. This will also improve your credit score, which is important when applying for a mortgage.

    Open a Dedicated Savings Account

    Open a separate savings account specifically for your house fund. This will help you track your progress and avoid spending the money on other things.

    Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your house savings account each month. This will make saving easier and more consistent.

    Final Word

    Saving up for a home can be a big task, but with hard work, dedication and a lot of patience, you can do it. The key is to stay motivated.

    Keep your goal of homeownership in mind and remind yourself of the benefits of saving up for a house, such as financial security and stability.

    And before you choose a lender, make sure you read the reviews.

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  • Find a home inspector in New Orleans.

    How To Find a Home Inspector In New Orleans

    4 Min Read

    So you want to buy a home.  Your next step to hiring a home inspector.

    If the home inspection uncovers any issues, you can use this information to negotiate with the seller. You may ask them to make repairs before closing or to lower the price of the home to account for the cost of repairs.

    In this article, we’ll cover what you need to know about getting a home inspection and why it’s important.

    How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?

    The cost of a home inspection can vary depending on several factors, including the size and location of the home, as well as the complexity of the inspection. On average, a home inspection may cost between $300 and $500 for a typical single-family home. However, prices can range higher or lower based on these factors.

    It’s important to note that while cost is a consideration, the quality and thoroughness of the inspection are also crucial. It’s generally recommended to hire a qualified and experienced home inspector who will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the property, even if it means paying a slightly higher fee.

    When budgeting for a home inspection, it’s also important to consider the potential savings or negotiation leverage that a thorough inspection can provide. Uncovering major issues with the property can allow you to negotiate repairs or a lower purchase price with the seller, potentially saving you money in the long run.

    How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?

    The amount of time a home inspection takes depend on several factors, including the size and condition of the home, as well as the thoroughness of the inspection. On average, a typical home inspection for a single-family home can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to complete.

    However, larger or more complex homes may require more time to inspect thoroughly, while smaller or simpler homes may take less time. Additionally, if the inspector identifies significant issues during the inspection, they may need additional time to assess the severity of the problems or to gather more information.

    Why Is a Home Inspection So Important?

    Getting a home inspection before buying a home is important for several reasons:

    Identifying Potential Problems

    A home inspection can uncover any issues with the property that may not be visible to the naked eye. This can include structural problems, safety hazards, or issues with the electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems.

    The inspector should assess the insulation levels and ventilation in the attic and crawl spaces to ensure energy efficiency and prevent moisture problems.

    A good home inspector will also look for any safety hazards, such as exposed wiring, trip hazards, or other issues that could pose a risk to occupants.

    Finding Out the True Condition of the Property

    A home inspection provides a detailed report on the condition of the property, giving you a clear understanding of what you’re buying and any repairs or maintenance that may be needed.

    Budgeting for Future Maintenance

    Even if the home is in good condition, the inspection report can help you plan for future maintenance and repairs, allowing you to budget accordingly.

    Top Home Inspectors In New Orleans

    Although this is a partial list, we’ve really heard great things about these New Orleans home inspectors.

    1. House Call Home Inspection
    2. NOLA Home Inspections
    3. HomeScope Inspection Services
    4. Guardian Inspection Services
    5. Inspection Connection New Orleans

    Final Word

    It’s important to choose a qualified and experienced home inspector who will take the time needed to conduct a thorough evaluation of the property.

    Things are expensive right now. The average cost of a home continues to increase. And the cost of land is high as well. Buying land in Louisiana has its own pitfalls, literally.

    Want to learn more?

    Read our guide on the best real estate companies in New Orleans. 

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  • How to buy a home in New Orleans, Louisiana

    New Orleans Among Top Cities With High Denial Rate For Black Homebuyers

    2 Min Read

    If rental property is not your thing, the dream of homeownership is elusive for millions of Americans, but it’s something else in New Orleans, Louisiana.

    According to LendingTree, the New Orleans is in the top five cities when it comes to the number of black Americans being denied the purchase of a song.

    What Is The Mortgage Denial Rate For Black People In New Orleans?

    The report from LendingTree states that the denial rate for Black homebuyers across the 50 largest U.S. metros is an average of 5.30 percentage points higher than that of other mortgage borrowers.

     In New Orleans as well as Detroit and Miami, the average denial rate for Black borrowers is 20.70% — more than double the average denial rate of 10.19% across Salt Lake City, Kansas City and Minneapolis.

    Though denial rates for Black borrowers can vary across the nation’s 50 largest metros, they’re higher than 10.00% in all but one — Salt Lake City, with a denial rate of 9.24%.

    LendingTree analyzed housing data to find the largest spread between mortgage denial rates for Black borrowers and the overall borrower population.

    Here are the cities where mortgage denial is the highest among black Americans:

    • Buffalo, NY
    • Raleigh, NC
    • Boston, MA
    • San Francisco, CA
    • New Orleans, LA

    Can I Afford A Home In New Orleans?

    Determining whether you can afford a home in New Orleans depends on various factors, including your financial situation, income, credit score, down payment amount, and the current real estate market in the area. Here are some steps to help you assess your ability to afford a home in New Orleans.

    Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: Contact a mortgage lender to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you a clear idea of how much you can borrow and the interest rate you qualify for based on your financial situation.

    Read our guide on how to get pre-approved for a mortgage.

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  • real estate companies in New Orleans

    Best Real Estate Companies In New Orleans

    3 Min Read

    When it’s time to sell or buy a home, working with trusted companies is vital to your wallet. There are many real estate companies operating in New Orleans, ranging from large national franchises to smaller locally-owned businesses.

    Choosing the right real estate company is a crucial step in your home-buying journey, especially in this real estate market. Take your time to research and consider multiple options, ask questions, and select a company that aligns with your goals, needs, and preferences.

    Here are some things to consider before hiring a real estate company:

    What To Consider Before Working With A Real Estate Company

    Compatibility and Trust: Building a relationship of trust and rapport with your real estate agent is important. Schedule an initial consultation or interview with a representative from the company to assess their approach, communication style, and whether you feel comfortable working with them. A good fit between you and the real estate company will make the home-buying process more enjoyable and successful.

    Fees and Contracts: Understand the fees and commission structure of the real estate company. Real estate commissions are typically paid by the seller, but it’s important to clarify any potential costs or fees you may be responsible for as a buyer. Review the terms of the agency agreement or contract carefully before signing and ensure you are comfortable with the terms.

    Referrals and Recommendations: Seek recommendations and referrals from trusted sources such as friends, family, or colleagues who have had positive experiences with real estate companies. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights and help you narrow down your options.

    Here are some of the top real estate companies in New Orleans:

    Keller Williams Realty

    Keller Williams is a national real estate franchise with several offices throughout New Orleans.

    RE/MAX

    RE/MAX is another large national real estate franchise with several offices in the New Orleans area.

    Latter & Blum

    Latter & Blum is a locally-owned real estate company that has been operating in New Orleans since 1916.

    Gardner Realtors

    Gardner Realtors is a locally-owned real estate company that has been serving the New Orleans area since 1943.

    Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

    Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has several offices in the New Orleans area and is known for their high-end luxury real estate services.

    French Quarter Realty

    French Quarter Realty is a locally-owned real estate company that specializes in properties located in the historic French Quarter.

    Coldwell Banker

    Coldwell Banker has several offices throughout the New Orleans area and is known for their expertise in the luxury real estate market.

    Final Word

    These are just a few of the many real estate companies operating in New Orleans. It’s important to do your research and consider several different options before choosing a company to work with.

    A reputable and experienced real estate company can provide expert guidance, support, and resources to help you find your dream home for you and your family or even to rent for cheap.

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  • cheapest rents in New Orleans

    New Orleans Has Some Of The Cheapest Rents In U.S., Study Says

    2 Min Read

    The affordability factor has become a major concern among many Americans. In one city — New Orleans — rents are cheaper than they’ve been in a while and continue to decrease.

    A study from Rent.com shows that the Crescent City is among the big cities where rents have decreased.

    Why Are Rents Decreasing Across The U.S.?

    One major reason why rents are falling is because the construction industry is finally sufficiently rebounding from the COVID-19 pandemic.
    New rental units being built continue to make a difference as well as the fact that Louisiana happens to be one of the most affordable states in America.

    Where In The U.S. Are Rents Falling?

    According to Rent.com, these metro areas have experienced the greatest decreases in rent prices over the past year.

    Final Word

    Read where the cheapest apartments are in New Orleans.

    While New Orleans is not one of the most expensive rental markets, you still need some strategy to score some cheap rent. Look for ways to reduce expenses and save more of the money you make.

    Tired of renting? Here’s how to save for a home.

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  • Average home costs in New Orleans

    How Much Does The Average Home Cost In New Orleans?

    3 Min Read

    After a brief upward trajectory, pending home sales continue to drop a tad across Louisiana and Greater New Orleans. The trend is part of a national wave of lower home prices spurred by rising interest rates.

    After steep increases in home prices in New Orleans and nationally over the last two years, the market is starting to soften in large metropolitan areas.

    You may be curious to know how much an average New Orleans home costs in the current real estate market.

    What Is The Average Price Of A Home In New Orleans?

    The average home costs $349,000 in New Orleans, which is up 6% compared to last year, according to recent figures.

    The average home in New Orleans consists of:

    • 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
    • A one-quarter acre lot
    • Central air and heating unit

    In Louisiana, the average home value is about $182,595, according to Zillow. The Pelican State has experienced about a 2.3% increase in home values over the last 18 months.

    Are Home Prices Dropping In New Orleans?

    In New Orleans, home prices are starting to cool after a string of months that saw gains across all types of units. Even the cost of land is high in Louisiana now.

    Here are the average home prices across some top New Orleans neighborhoods, according to Zillow.

    Is It Better To Rent Or Buy A Home In New Orleans?

    As to whether it’s better to rent or buy a home in New Orleans, a lot has to do with your personal goals and your financial situation. Apartment rentals are higher than they’ve ever been in New Orleans.

    There are pros and cons in renting or buying. a home, but how you want to live has a lot to do with it.

    Renters are being priced out of the city as real estate prices continue to restrict demand. Here’s how to find a cheap New Orleans apartment.

    Final Word

    Home prices in New Orleans have been rising steadily over the past two years, but things are starting to trend in the other direction.

    Although home values have dipped a bit, areas around New Orleans that used to have $10,000 properties just 10 years ago, gentrification has quickly shot prices through the roof.

    Keep up with what’s going on in the Louisiana real estate scene. Check out these cheap apartments.

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