I had a local real estate agent contact me last week asking for a update on Les Chenier Subdivision as there really hasn’t been much home sales activity in this development, but a development that has experienced some REO or foreclosure activity.

This development has puzzled me for several years as to how it climbed so high in home prices after Hurricane Katrina for these smaller homes. The Median Sales Prices from 2005 to 2010 climbed and then rightfully so corrected from $167,000, $186,000, $191,000, $195,250, $193,500, $180,000 and now one (1) distressed sale in 2011 for $155,000. It would appear that the $193,500 to $195,000 price range is high for Les Chenier, or about $117/sf. I’m just not sure that over $117/sf is really sustainable for Les Chenier interior lots (those homes not fronting McCrory Rd 1). And, I just posted a video report about the housing price corrections taking place in in this immediate market here: Ascension Parish Home Appraiser Charting Of Declining Housing Market 2008-2011

Total # 2010 Sales: 7
Average Sales Price: $191,964
Median Sales Price: $180,000
Average Sold Price: $111.60/sf
Average List To Sale Price Ratio: 98%
Average Days On Market: 85

FORECLOSURES.

Regarding REOs, 1 2010 sale was an REO and the 1 2011 sale was an REO or Real Estate Owned. According to Legal News, there have been 3 REO sales since 1/2010 being Lots 25, 29 & 90.

CURRENT LISTINGS: ZERO FORECLOSURES!

There are currently 6 listings from $179,900 up to $210,900 or $114/sf up to $126/sf, which some are priced high and certainly not priced according to the correction in home prices taking place in this market. In fact, if one examines the 2007 to 2009 highs in the market on that chart above, the average sold prices per sq. ft. were $116.51/sf, $119.53/sf and $115.38/sf. So, why in 2011, when the market isn’t as strong, are there homes listed above the previous highs, homes listed at $120/sf, $125/sf, $126/sf and $126/sf? Of all 6 listings, all are Active and none are Pending.

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NOTE: Based on information from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of REALTORS®\MLS for the period of January 1, 2005 to April 23, 2011. This information was extracted on 4/23/2011. YES, permission was granted by GBRMLS to use Subdivision Price Trends Chart Report!

Top Subdivision Entrance Photo Is Courtesy of Homes Of Baton Rouge Blog: http://www.homesalesofbatonrouge.com/

Author’s Bio:

Bill Cobb is Greater Baton Rouge’s Home Appraiser frequently called upon by banks, homeowners, and savvy real estate investors to assess property values. A home appraiser with 20 years experience, Bill Cobb brings a wealth of knowledge to the table as a home appraiser.

Bill’s company, Accurate Valuations Group, serves Greater Baton Rouge (East Baton Rouge Parish, West Baton Rouge Parish, Western Livingston Parish and Northern Ascension Parish).

Contact Bill Cobb and Accurate Valuations Home Appraisal Group for your next home appraisal:
Office: 225-293-1500, Cell: 225-953-0638
Fax: 1-866-663-6065
info@accuratevg.com
http://www.accuratevg.com/

ASCENSION PARISH

SOLDS:

5 from $67,000 to $229,900, Average Sales Prices $168,180 or $99.98/sf, Median Sales Price $185,000, Average Days On Market 41.  

LISTINGS:

Currently Actives Total: 744 $234,268 Average Listing Price and Median Price $198,200.

Currently Pending: 246 $194,128 Average Listing Price and Median Price $174,975.

New Listings: 40 With Average Listing Price of $195,992, Median Listing Price of $169,900

Pending Listings: 39 With Average Listing Price of $202,851, Median Listing Price of $189,000

Withdrawn Listings: 13 With Average Listing Price of $259,753, Median Listing Price of $224,900

Expired Listings: 7 With Average Listing Price of $155,673, Median Listing Price of $129,000

EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH

SOLDS:

42 from $21,900 to $575,000, Average Sales Prices $222,343 or $102.28/sf, Median Sales Price $187,000, Average Days On Market 123. 

LISTINGS:

Currently Actives Total: 2695 $247,876 Average Listing Price and Median Price $176,900.

Currently Pending: 613 $209,906 Average Listing Price and Median Price $167,900.

New Listings: 133 With Average Listing Price of $220,158, Median Listing Price of $175,000

Pending Listings: 102 With Average Listing Price of $203,939, Median Listing Price of $169,450

Withdrawn Listings: 18 Average Listing Price $184,066, Median Listing Price of $142,500

Expired Listings: 23 With Average Listing Price of $468,832, Median Listing Price of $214,900

WESTERN LIVINGSTON PARISH

SOLDS:

19 from $22,500 to $448,000, Average Sales Prices $124,242 or $74.59/sf, Median Sales Price $89,000, Average Days On Market 74.

LISTINGS:

Currently Actives Total: 778 $193,809 Average Listing Price and Median Price $159,900.

Currently Pendings: 171 $151,976 Average Listing Price and Median Price $148,000.

New Listings: 37 With Average Listing Price of $186,735, Median Listing Price of $153,900

Pending Listings: 21 With Average Listing Price of $159,738, Median Listing Price of $146,900

Withdrawn Listings: 15 Average Listing Price $162,826, Median Listing Price of $147,500

Expired Listings: 17 With Average Listing Price of $170,894, Median Listing Price of $167,900

WEST BATON ROUGE PARISH

SOLDS:

1 for $179,700 or $127/sf, Median Sales Price $179,700, Average Days On Market 267.

LISTINGS:

Currently Actives Total: 109 $196,436 Average Listing Price and Median Price $186,300.

Currently Pending: 21 $186,897 Average Listing Price and Median Price $185,900.

New Listings: 3 Average Listing Price of $204,900, Median Listing Price of $134,900

Pending Listings: 2 Average Listing Price of $175,900, Median Listing Price of $175,900

Withdrawn Listings: 1 Average Listing Price $49,900, Median Listing Price of $49,900

Expired Listings: 1 With Average Listing Price of $195,000, Median Listing Price of $195,000

NOTE: Based on information from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of REALTORS®\MLS for the period of April, 16, 2011 to April 22, 2011. This information was extracted on 04/23/2011.

Author’s Bio:

Bill Cobb is Greater Baton Rouge’s Home Appraiser frequently called upon by banks, homeowners, and savvy real estate investors to assess property values. A home appraiser with 20 years experience, Bill Cobb brings a wealth of knowledge to the table as a home appraiser.

Bill’s company, Accurate Valuations Group, serves Greater Baton Rouge (East Baton Rouge Parish, West Baton Rouge Parish, Western Livingston Parish and Northern Ascension Parish).

Contact Bill Cobb and Accurate Valuations Home Appraisal Group for your next home appraisal:
Office: 225-293-1500, Cell: 225-953-0638
Fax: 1-866-663-6065
info@accuratevg.com
http://www.accuratevg.com/

Accurate Valuations Group (Home Appraisals) has completed an analysis of the West Baton Rouge Parish housing market from First Quarter 2010 versus First Quarter 2011. The results are below. CLICK ON IMAGE BELOW TO ENLARGE.

This study explores ALL Single-Family Residential home sales for the three (3) zip codes below. In Q1 2010 there were 27 home sales versus 28 in Q1 2011. So, for 2011, number of sales were up by 1 or approximately +3.7%.

70767 Port Allen. For Zip Code 70767, home sales volume was down 14%, Average Sales Price was down -0.7% and Average Sold Price Per. Sq. Ft. was down -5.5%.

70719 Brusly. For Zip Code 70719, home sales volume was up 50%, Average Sales Price was down -11.4% and Average Sold Price Per. Sq. Ft. was virtually unchanged at 0.4%.

70710 Addis. For Zip Code 70710, home sales volume was up 18%, Average Sales Price down -9.9% and Average Sold Price Per. Sq. Ft. was down -2.7%.

These declines are consistent with the CoreLogic report on national home prices falling for the 7th straight month, as reported on Thursday, April 7, 2011. This is the trend for much of Greater Baton Rouge home prices.

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Author’s Bio:
Bill Cobb is Greater Baton Rouge’s Home Appraiser frequently called upon by banks, homeowners, and savvy real estate investors to assess property values. A home appraiser with 20 years experience, Bill Cobb brings a wealth of knowledge to the table as a home appraiser.

Bill’s company, Accurate Valuations Group, serves Greater Baton Rouge (East Baton Rouge Parish, West Baton Rouge Parish, Western Livingston Parish and Northern Ascension Parish).

Contact Bill Cobb and Accurate Valuations Home Appraisal Group for your next home appraisal:
Office: 225-293-1500, Cell: 225-953-0638
Fax: 1-866-663-6065
info@accuratevg.com
http://www.accuratevg.com/

Accurate Valuations Group (Home Appraisals) has completed an analysis of the East Baton Rouge Parish housing market from First Quarter 2010 versus First Quarter 2011. The results are below. Click the chart to view in a larger size.

This is a lot of data to report on in one (1) article with “20″ zip codes. A short summary follows:

Number of Home Sales Decreased by 3% Over 2010! For the number of home sales, only 9 zip codes reported a smaller number of sales. And, Ten (10) Zip Codes experienced more sales in Q1 2011 than in Q1 2010, which is great news for our market. Still, in Q1 2010 there were 738 home sales versus 714 in Q1 2011, which is a difference of 24 sales or -3%.

Average Sales Prices Overall Decline! This is consistent with the CoreLogic report on national home prices falling for the 7th straight month, as reported on Thursday, April 7, 2011. Thirteen (13) of the 20 Zip Codes showed declining average sales prices versus only Seven (7) showing increases. Local home prices are continuing to correct.

Average Sales Price Per Square Foot Overall Declines! This is consistent with the CoreLogic report. Fifteen (15) of the 20 Zip Codes showed declining average sales prices per sq. ft. versus only Seven (5) showing either no change or just slight increases.

Biggest Gainers. Zip Code 70807, the Scotlandville market, showed a 450% increase in number of home sales. Zip Code 70739, the Central or Greenwell Springs market, showed a +16.2% increase in Average Sales Prices AND +5.6% in Average Sales Price Per Sq. Ft.. Central is a “hot” market viewed by locals as having a favorable school district.

Largest Declines. Zip Code 70820, the market below LSU off Brightside, showed a -35.3% decrease in number of home sales. Zip Code 70802, the market in and around Central Business District, showed a -33.4% decline in Average Sales Prices AND -30.2% decline in Average Sales Price Per Sq. Ft..

Visit Baton Rouge Real Estate Buzz Here

Visit Baton Rouge Real Estate Buzz On Facebook

Author’s Bio:
Bill Cobb is Greater Baton Rouge’s Home Appraiser frequently called upon by banks, homeowners, and savvy real estate investors to assess property values. A home appraiser with 20 years experience, Bill Cobb brings a wealth of knowledge to the table as a home appraiser.

Bill’s company, Accurate Valuations Group, serves Greater Baton Rouge (East Baton Rouge Parish, West Baton Rouge Parish, Western Livingston Parish and Northern Ascension Parish).

Contact Bill Cobb and Accurate Valuations Home Appraisal Group for your next home appraisal:
Office: 225-293-1500, Cell: 225-953-0638
Fax: 1-866-663-6065
info@accuratevg.com
http://www.accuratevg.com/

We provide property tax appeal home appraisals for East Baton Rouge Parish, West Baton Rouge Parish, Western Livingston Parish and Northern Ascension Parish. Cities we cover are Baton Rouge, Zachary La, Baker La, Greenwell Springs La, Port Allen La, Brusly La, Addis La, Prairieville La, Gonzales La, Geismar La, Saint Amant La, Denham Springs La, Walker La, Watson La. Appeal your property taxes today.

NOTE: It’s Responsible To State Here That We’ve Found Less Than 13% Of Local Housing Is “Over-Assessed”. Over-Assessments ARE NOT A Major Problem Locally! Most Local Housing Is Fairly Assessed By Assessor Teams That Strive To Be As Accurate As Possible! See “VIDEO EXPLANATION” for Parish by Parish Results…And, In West Baton Rouge Parish, We’ve Found No Over-Assessments Year-To-Date! This is not a cheap shot directed at our public servants as this video is complimentary of them. Our Tax Assessors are fair and will generally make it right. Bill Cobb, Appraiser

Home appraisals for settling an estate is not an easy process after the death of a loved one, legally and emotionally, this presents different variables when taking control of all possessions left. From all the posterior decisions about the beloved one’s wealth, it is important to derive this precept, that a certified estate layer is the right person to assist and advice all the process involved in the distribution of property and possessions. Obtaining a home appraisal for settling an estate is the most accurate procedure when making decisions that affect family members, friends, and other associates. In this respect, estate appraisers in Baton Rouge are the best solution to obtain a home appraisal to make this process easier and fairer to all people involved.

Baton Rouge estate appraisers are a great deal of the estate settlement process since they accurately determine a property’s value. Given all the variables involved in the process such as emotions and speculation, estate appraisers Baton Rouge can provide detailed official documents concerning the value of an estate. Certainly, this appraisal is done through reliable and clear studies of the property so that there is no place for conjectures or disputes among heirs and/or tax agencies. Certainly, this will help to simplify all solutions about current taxes and to appraise inheritance tax liability, if necessary.

There are certain characteristics of property appraisals, of which the unknown factors significantly affect the estate settlement process itself. In this sense, estate appraisals are not absolute since there are certain characteristics out of the appraiser’s reach. Great affairs of state such as economic recession have shown how well-made appraisals can become imprecise or obsolete after some months or weeks. Nonetheless, estate appraisers Baton Rouge rely heavily on fundamental variables like lot size, property’s age, number of rooms, amenities, and geographic location. Subsequently, these variables are compared with other properties appraised in order to adjust values.

Baton Rouge estate appraisals always include detailed documentation concerning the settlement process of the given property. These documents clearly explain how the estate was valued by taking into account all its characteristics and variables. This process is followed through special standards, depending on the property and the reasons to appraise it, estate appraisals Baton Rouge follow the right one.

In relation to this, it may be suggested, that services from Baton Rouge estate appraisers provide amiable and effective estate appraisals. Baton Rouge home appraisals are important when settling estates simply because they serve as neutral mediators in the final settlement of a property’s value. This way, people involved will always get the fairest part of any estate left by someone. A good way to accomplish this process is to get the services of a certified local appraiser who clearly understands the area. In this case, Baton Rouge estate appraisers are the perfect choice when looking for home appraisals in this specific area.

In brief, estate appraisers in Baton Rouge have the knowledge, experience, and impartiality required to yield accurate estate settlements. Given the fact that they have nothing to gain or lose in any estate settlement process, all individuals involved in the process will obtain more benefits.

Biil Cobb, with Accurate Valuations Group, is Greater Baton Rouge’s Home Appraiser frequently called upon by banks, homeowners, and savvy real estate investors to assess home values. A home appraiser with 18 years experience, Bill Cobb brings a wealth of knowledge to the table as a home appraiser in East Baton Rouge Parish, West Baton Rouge Parish, Western Livingston Parish and Northern Ascension Parish.

Tags: Baton Rouge Appraisers, Baton Rouge Home Appraisers, Baton Rouge Housing Market, Baton Rouge Real Estate, Baton Rouge Real Estate Appraisers, Baton Rouge Estate Appraisers, Baton Rouge Estate Settlement Appraisers, Baton Rouge Estate Settlement Appraisals

I recently completed a refinance appraisal assignment off Sharp Rd and witnessed a trend I wanted to bring your attention to. This is still the recovering Post Hurricane Gustav market of MLS Area 42, zip code 70815, generally Broadmoor and Sherwood Forest areas. I say Post Hurricane Gustav because Gustav’s damage in 9/2008 disrupted this housing market more than most realize. I believe the 2 weeks it took to restore utilities had a psychological impact on this market as home sales prices dipped, see chart below. Chart represents home sales from $100K to $300K in 70815 from 1/1/2007 to present.

As a home appraiser appraising in any local market that is now NOT always increasing every year as in prior years, it’s now crucial to know where the market has been, where it is now and where it might be in the future.

Cautions On Interpreting Market Data Post Federal Tax Credit Expiration. This post below illustrates that just because the Federal Tax Credit artificially elevated home sales and possibly home prices, doesn’t indicate an always favorable appraised value for your home. The word favorable is a favorable value in the home owner’s mind, not necessarily market reality. The areas listings inventories or homes for sale, has been building or increasing for months now while at the same time home sales have been slowing. This could be attributable to the national economy finally catching up with the local economy, more difficulty now in qualifying for a mortgage and/or the shift within the Greater Baton Rouge housing market toward more affordable housing, ie., closer to $100/sf versus $135/sf to $160/sf.

Appraisal Assignment: 38 year old 2,850sf living area home, 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Baths, off Sharp Rd in between Broadmoor and Sherwood Forest areas.

MLS Search Parameters

3 to 5 Bedroom Slab Homes in Area 42 Between $150,000 to $275,000, Zip Code 70815, 10/4/2008 to 10/7/2010, Ages 16-20 to Max Age, 2500sf to 3100sf.

Sold Results: Median Sales Prices!

Sold results indicate an increasing median sales price since 10/4/2008 of +11% and +7.5% over the past year.

Sold Results: Average Sold Price Per Sq. Ft.!

Sold results indicate an increasing average sold price per sq. ft. since 10/4/2008. In Broadmoor, the increase has been $4/sf or +5.3%. In Sherwood Forest, the increase has been $2/sf or +2.7%.

HOWEVER, The current market conditions, the Fannie Mae 1004MC or Market Conditions Form describes a different market condition THAT MUST BE ANALYZED AND RECONCILED BY THE APPRAISER.

COMPETING HOME SALES ARE DECLINING – From 18 to 3!

ABSORPTION RATE IS DECLINING – From 3 Sales Per Month Down To Just 1!

TOTAL COMPARABLE ACTIVE LISTINGS IS INCREASING – Inventory Is Growing!

MONTHS OF HOUSING SUPPLY IS INCREASING – FROM 5 TO 22!

NOTE: When the top right 4 boxes are checked for Declining, Declining, Increasing and Increasing, that’s not a good market indication!

Chart Showing Slowing Home Sales!

Conclusion.

When appraising local Greater Baton Rouge Homes, it’s important for both the appraiser and the homeowner to know that ALL market conditions are examined and reconciled to arrive at a value conclusion. In the above market examination, YES, the median sales prices and average sales prices per sq. ft. were increasing, but were also still recovering. If one examines the very first chart in this post, you’ll find that this market still hasn’t fully recovered to the $180K median sales prices of 2007/2008 prior to Gustav.

And, it’s very important to lenders underwriting the loan if there’s only 1 competing home per month selling resulting in a 22 month supply of competing housing, declining absorption rate (declining number of homes within the large inventory being removed from that inventory), increasing number of months on the market and increasing number of listings being added each month.

I do hope locals can now better understand part of the appraisal process. Home appraisals in 2010, with the newer 1004MC form and more and more requirements being added each month it seems, take much longer to complete now with much more investigation and reporting requirements.

REO OR FORECLOSURE RATE!

And, for those that would like to know to know the REO or Foreclosure rate for this assignment, the chart is below showing only 2 “MLS” foreclosures for homes 2500sf to 3100sf since 10/4/2008. There could have been several more take place outside of these 2 listed in MLS as many national lenders today choose not to list their REO inventories in the MLS anymore….up to 70%. In my report, I stated, ” It’s also stated here that a recent article (The Landmines Within by Michael Tarabotto http://activerain.com/blogsview/930436/The-Landmines-Within ) stated that as much as 70% of REOs never make it into the MLS – Meaning that it might be impossible to know or state the exact # of competing REOs if
they’re not being listed. MLS is reporting 2 comparable REO listings.”

Data was used with permission of the GBRMLS, search dates 1/1/2007 to 10/07/2010, extracted on 10/7/2010.

Solds In Westdale from 1/2010 to 9/28/2010 revealed:
Average Sales Price: $204,983
Average Sold Price Per Sq. Ft.: $128/sf
Median Sold Price: $194,450
Number of Sales: 6 (18 Total in 2009)
Average Number of Days On Market: 80
Low To High: $138,500 to $282,500
Number of Sold REO/Foreclosures Noted In MLS: 1
Current # Listings: 10, 2 Are Foreclosures
Current Listings Prices: $149,900 To $510,000

NOTE: When I refer to Westdale below, this includes Westdale, Westdale Heights, Westdale Woods and Westdale Terrace. From 1/1/2005 to 9/28/2010, there were 89 total sales from $121,600 to $685,000. The peak of the median sales price took place in September 2007 at $235,000. NOTE: The median sales price has increased by +4.89% since 9/2009.

This data was used with the permission of GBRAR, extracted on 9/28/2010 from 1/1/2005 through 9/28/2010.

Tags: Baton Rouge Estate Minute, Baton Rouge Home Appraisers, Baton Rouge Homes, Baton Rouge Housing, Baton Rouge Housing Market, Baton Rouge Real Estate, Baton Rouge Real Estate Agents, Baton Rouge Real Estate Appraisers, Baton Rouge Realtor, Baton Rouge Realtors

I was in Walker on Saturday performing home appraisals and noticed these unfinished spec homes. From the appearance of the properties, it appeared they had been vacant and unfinished for some time now. Was it that construction stopped when the builders discovered the market wasn’t paying enough to justify building higher end homes in the Walker market any longer? The reason for the question is the last photo below. This home has 2,285sf living area, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms with slab granite counters in Kitchen and Bathrooms, custom millwork, a 90 x 185 lot and sold in August 2010 for $229,000 or only $100.22/sf….and MLS doesn’t state this home was an REO, Foreclosure or a Distressed Sale.

]]> http://www.batonrougerealestateappraisal.com/2010/09/walker-louisiana-home-appraiser-photos-from-the-field-unfinished-high-end-homes-a-sign-of-the-times/feed/ 0 http://www.batonrougerealestateappraisal.com/2010/08/summary-of-baton-rouge-real-estate-appraisal-rule-changes-in-dodd-frank-act-2010/ http://www.batonrougerealestateappraisal.com/2010/08/summary-of-baton-rouge-real-estate-appraisal-rule-changes-in-dodd-frank-act-2010/#comments Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:36:44 +0000 Baton Rouge Real Estate Appraisal http://www.batonrougerealestateappraisal.com/baton-rouge-real-estate-appraisal/summary-of-baton-rouge-real-estate-appraisal-rule-changes-in-dodd-frank-act-2010/ http://www.batonrougerealestateappraisal.com/ – Bankrate.com: Summary Of Real Estate Appraisal Rule Changes In Dodd-Frank Act 2010. These are the new rules that apply to Greater Baton Rouge Home Appraisals!

I have provided a few snippet paragraphs from this two page article below. Read the full article here: Real Estate Appraisal Rules Changing

“According to Lucien Salvant, a spokesman for the National Association of Realtors, or NAR, in Washington, D.C., the law is intended to:

*Strengthen appraiser independence.
*Sunset a problematic industry agreement known as the Home Valuation Code of Conduct, or HVCC.
*Regulate appraisal management companies.”

“Buyers, sellers can inform appraisers

That said, the end of the HVCC should help to clear up widespread confusion over who can present information — including data about recent sales — to an appraiser.

“The intent of the HVCC was to put a firewall between the lender and appraiser, but it put up such a big wall that everybody was afraid to talk to appraisers,” Salvant says. “The (new law) does say that Realtors and sellers and buyers can talk to (appraisers).”"

“Appraisal management companies

The new law also regulates appraisal management companies, or AMCs. AMCs aren’t new, but they have gained more control over real estate appraisers and appraisals in the 15 months since the HVCC was implemented.

The financial reform law requires federal oversight of AMCs controlled by federally regulated financial institutions. It also requires state registration of all other AMCs, according to the Appraisal Institute.”

“Questions to ask (editor’s note: should be rephrased “Questions AMC’s should be asking those appraisers they intend on hiring for the appraisal order”)

If there is an upside to the confusion over appraisals, it’s that homebuyers, sellers and homeowners are now more aware of these issues, says Richard Koestner, a partner at Koestner, McGivern & Associates, an appraisal firm in Davenport, Iowa. He says they are more likely to ask questions about the appraiser’s experience and expertise and calls the development “encouraging.” He also offers a few examples of questions buyers and sellers might want to ask:

How long have you been an appraiser?
How many appraisals have you completed?
How often do you appraise homes in this area?
How familiar are you with the local market?
Where do you get the data that you use in your appraisal reports?”

Read the full article here: Real Estate Appraisal Rules Changing

Tags: baton rouge, baton rouge real estate, real estate baton rouge, riverbend subdivision, lsu, baton rouge homes, baton rouge houses, baton rouge appraisers, baton rouge fha appraisers, accurate valuations group, baton rouge home appraisal, baton rouge home appraisals, baton rouge mls area 52

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I appreciate all my clients and colleagues who made 2009 a fantastic year. This has been a trying year for the appraisal industry in light of HVCC and the extra work that is now required on home appraisals which has added almost 2 hours to each appraisal order. However, I am very grateful nonetheless for all the good things that happened this year. Merry Christmas AND Thank you for your support in 2009!

1.) St. Jude Dream Home: I’ve been fortunate to have appraised the St. Jude Dream Home every year since 2000. The folks at St. Jude Children’s Hospital, their local Baton Rouge operations, have really blown me away in terms of how much they really care about their cause – helping Children. Over the years, I’ve also discovered how BIG a heart a local builder, developer and real estate broker has, that being Carlos Alvarez and Family! The 2009 Dream Home was a splendid success, helping raise money for St. Jude and bringing the Greater Baton Rouge Community together for community involvement. Be sure to follow Baton Rouge St. Jude Dream Home on Twitter for the 2010 Dream Home Event by clicking on the home photo. Here’s a video I made of the Dream Home.

2.) Vicknair Builders Buying Up Previously Expensive Lots in Former High-End Subdivisions and Lowering Overall Sold Price Per Sq. Ft.: This year while appraising a home in Acadiana of Ascension Subdivision, a once former high-end development in the mid $350K range located in Northern Ascension Parish, I made a discovery. The discovery was that since the $73,000 to $83,900 lots weren’t selling, and that since some of new high-end spec homes weren’t selling, that a large bulk package of these lots sold to Vicknair Builders and/or partners in a deal for $36,000 each and $53,900 each for lake lots. The once $136/sf sold prices will be joined by anticipated sales prices in the $96/sf to $109/sf range. It’s estimated that approx. 88% of this development will be finished out with Vicknair homes. If 88% of the homes in a development sell for less than the previous high-end homes did, then the overall prices in that development will be probably be lowered. This is also taking place in Denham Springs’ Juban Parc, where Vicknair Builders purchased a bulk large lot package and anticipated sold prices per sq. ft. will be significantly lower than the $128/sf buyers paid up to the time of the bulk lot purchase.

3.) Copper Mill Golf Community, Zachary LA: Zachary LA is a beautiful place to live and visit. In 2006-2007, Woody Jenkins wrote an article about the “10 Reasons Why Zachary Louisiana Is A Great Place To Live!”….and I agree. In 2009, I had the pleasure of appraising several homes in upscale Copper Mill Golf Community and shooting the listing video for the home on Royal Troon below. The home photo to the right is of a high quality home that looked a little like a “castle”. I appraised one home on Royal Troon that was half built in 2006-2007, abandoned, bought by an individual from the bank who finished the home. I think it’s the different architectural styles that set the homes in Copper Mill apart from some of other upscale developments within Greater Baton Rouge.

4.) An Excess Of Vacant Subdivision Lots in Greater Baton Rouge In General: In my home appraisals in general throughout the Greater Baton Rouge market, I have to estimate the value of the lot or site of the home. As I drive around, one memorable aspect about 2009 is the oversupply of vacant, very expensive residential lots on the market. That’s why they’re just sitting there vacant because they’re priced too high. In the photo, you see the Newly Developed 72 Lot Isabella Lakes Subdivision Remains Vacant Possibly Due To Very High Pricing Of Lots Within What’s Supposed To Be The “More Affordable” Walker Louisiana Housing Market From $37,400 up to $56,400. Understandably, The 72 Lot Listings Expired Unsold. The $37,400 Lots Are Tiny 50×135 In Size For Starter Homes In The Minimum 1,400sf range up to 1,600sf range. The estimated home prices would be in the $140K to $170K range. To put this into proper perspective, the lots in Collins Place sold from $40K up to $49,900 where the predominant values were in the mid $250K range. This Again Appears To Be An Example Of How The Market Is Shunning Overpriced Lots and Overpriced New Homes In This Move To The Desire Of Afordability. This is Why “Vicknair Builder Homes” are selling so well in this market. This appraiser won’t be at all surprised to see Vicknair Builders buy Isabella Lakes Subdivision and build more affordable homes for this affordable homes market.

5.) A Slow Continued Letting Out The Air Of The High-End Home’s Balloon, A Continued Oversupply, Builders Saying “This Market Is Killing Us” and Buyer Moves To More Affordable Homes: I recently reported on the high-end home values decline and oversupply in N Ascension Parish based on a recent appraisal, see: http://bit.ly/6qSogQ . In my post, I noted a -6% decline in median sales price, 66 competing listings and a 43 month supply on the market. A similar situation is verifiable for the Zachary Copper Mill market where the 2008 versus 2009 median sales price has declined almost 5%. A couple of sales in Copper Mill in 2009 took over 700 days to sell.

I’ve met a couple of builders at homes in 2009 where the first words out of their mouths are, “This market is killing us!”. And, I think to myself that they just don’t get it. The land, materials, labor….it’s all just too expensive. The average home buyer generally can’t afford to pay $136/sf to $160/sf+ for a new home. But, that’s the pricing a builder needs to make a decent profit. So, what happens? The $136/sf new construction housing market is essentially either shutdown or at a major slowdown because there are only so many people that can afford that high priced housing. The builders don’t get the fact that the high-end pricing of new homes isn’t coming back any time soon, so they better not hold their breath. Contrast all of this with what I’ve stated above and the fact that in the past year or so, Vicknair Builders has purchased approximately $10,000,000 in vacant lots in the N Ascension Parish market and their more affordable homes are selling…..and selling well. Vicknair Builders homes are selling well in both Ascension and Livingston Parishes. In the meantime, the other local builders are hoping for a return of the good old days of late 2005 to early 2008, but they won’t return any time soon. The builders that are realizing that this market has turned more affordable and that are serving that need are the builders that are surviving fairly well.

6.) Dilapidated Fourplex In Gardere Lane Area And Discovery Of Fraud Involved In That Market: This property, and several others like it I appraised in 2009, was interesting because of the gross extent of what appeared to be “black mold” growing inside. In some cases, the ceilings were falling in, Again in 2009. However, some of these 4 Plexes were just appraised very, very high in 2006 and 2007 based on private sales, not based on the many MLS sales which indicated a much lower value. The conditions noted in the appraisals was “Average” when in reality, the conditions were much less than average. Some California Investors, lured in because of the relatively low cost and higher ROI than int he California market, purchased these investment properties only to have them go into foreclosure in 2009.

7.) Fraudulent Fourplex Into Condo Coversion Gone Awry: Somewhere in the Greater Baton Rouge market, there was a condo-conversion of a “single 4 plex” on a street and in an area where there were primarily just 4 plexes. The 2007 appraisal I reviewed stated the condition was “Average”, however, the true condition looked very similar to the photos above of the mold, including exterior rotten wood and a roof that leaked so bad, it caused the mold issues. It was obvious from the street view that the roof needed replacement. These 4 units each sold in the mid $70s when they were really only worth $35K to $38K each. The piece of paper that stated this fourplex was under a condo conversion was supposed to warrant each unit to be worth $36,000 more than they were actually and verifiably worth. What else was interesting about this transaction was that the corporate address of the Condo Association, per the La Corporations Database, was in the same office complex as the lender that did the loan(s).

8.) Upscale Camp Goes Into Foreclosure: I’ll be honest. I don’t generally appraise homes or camps beyond Highway 63 as I’m really not a rural appraiser. I have 3 local appraisers I refer about 15% of the orders that come into my office and they don’t mind rural work. In the first quarter 2009, business was a little slow, so I took this Foreclosure assignment in Springfield, LA and wished I had not. This was a high quality camp located on a large lot with canal access, which had sold in late 2006 in the $400s. Due to the slower and rural market, there weren’t enough MLS sales or listings to adequately value this property. So, further research at the courthouse plus obtaining MLS sales info from the Tangipahoa MLS from an appraiser friend, Larry Wilson, was necessary. This assignment took a total of two full days and I learned my lesson not to accept these types of assignments. But, it was nice to be near the river and to see some of the beautiful high-end camps in that area.

9.) Divorce Appraisals: I perform some appraisal work for home owners and their attorneys during a difficult time of life. I was thankful to provide excellent service for home owners in need this year and at least make the appraisal process smooth in the midst of challenging situations.

10.) Pre-Listing Appraisals for Individuals and Local Real Estate Agents:

I am very thankful for both local Real Estate Agents and local Individuals that hired me to provide them with “Pre-Purchase” or “Pre-Listing” appraisals in 2009. Despite HVCC, this year I had more referral work from Real Estate Agents and that was a wonderful thing!!! I am also really grateful to be more connected to some stellar local real estate agents on Facebook and Twitter as well!!! Below is a video I made for an individual selling their home by owner (FSBO). A Free Video Both Created And Submitted To YouTube Is Standard With My Pre-Listing Appraisal Pricing!

If you are a real estate agent or home owner, what was the best experience you had this year with an appraiser? If you are a real estate appraiser reading this post, what were some of your favorite or most memorable assignments this year?

Author’s Bio:

Bill Cobb, CREA, is Greater Baton Rouge’s favorite and most reputable home appraiser frequently called upon by banks, homeowners, and savvy real estate investors to assess property values. A home appraiser with 18 years experience, Bill Cobb brings a wealth of knowledge to the table as a home appraiser.

Bill’s company, Accurate Valuations Home Appraisal Group, serves Greater Baton Rouge (East Baton Rouge Parish, West Baton Rouge Parish, Western Livingston Parish and Northern Ascension Parish).

Contact Bill Cobb and Accurate Valuations Home Appraisal Group for your next home appraisal:

Office: 225-293-1500, Cell: 225-953-0638

Fax: 1-866-663-6065

fastvalue2@cox.net

http://www.appraisersinbatonrouge.com/

Office: 225-293-1500 or 1-888-678-3544

Fax: 1-866-663-6065

Staff Email: fastvalue2@cox.net

Bill Cobb, Accurate Valuations Group Appraiser, has operated as a home appraiser for 18 years now primarily in the Greater Baton Rouge, Louisiana market. Bill performs Conventional, FHA and RD/Rural Development home appraisals. For more information on Accurate Valuations Home Appraisal Group, visit FHA Appraisers in East Baton Rouge, West Baton Rouge, Ascension & Livingston Parishes.

Our Service Areas: All of East & West Baton Rouge, Western Half of Livingston Parish (Denham Springs, Walker, Watson & Livingston) and Northern Ascension Parish (Prairieville, Gonzales, Geismar, Saint Amant, Sorrento)

]]> http://www.batonrougerealestateappraisal.com/2009/12/baton-rouge-certified-fha-home-appraisers/feed/ 0 http://www.batonrougerealestateappraisal.com/2009/11/certified-fha-home-appraisers-in-the-city-of-baton-rouge/ http://www.batonrougerealestateappraisal.com/2009/11/certified-fha-home-appraisers-in-the-city-of-baton-rouge/#comments Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:54:14 +0000 Baton Rouge Real Estate Appraisal http://www.batonrougerealestateappraisal.com/baton-rouge-real-estate-appraisal/certified-fha-home-appraisers-in-the-city-of-baton-rouge/ http://www.fhaappraisersbatonrouge.com/ – Certified FHA Home Appraisers in the City of East Baton Rouge

Office: 225-293-1500 or 1-888-678-3544

Fax: 1-866-663-6065

Staff Email: fastvalue2@cox.net

Bill Cobb, Accurate Valuations Group Appraiser, has operated as a home appraiser for 18 years now primarily in the Greater Baton Rouge, Louisiana market. Bill performs Conventional, FHA and RD/Rural Development home appraisals. For more information on Accurate Valuations Home Appraisal Group, visit FHA Appraisers in East Baton Rouge, West Baton Rouge, Ascension & Livingston Parishes.

Our Service Areas: All of East & West Baton Rouge, Western Half of Livingston Parish (Denham Springs, Walker, Watson & Livingston) and Northern Ascension Parish (Prairieville, Gonzales, Geismar, Saint Amant, Sorrento)

In my email this morning is a new Inman News article regarding home appraisals. Here’s a snippet from the email:

“It’s the hottest topic in real estate today: The Home Valuation Code of Conduct, or HVCC, is so hot that it’s not just inflammatory. It’s on fire.

The HVCC is a new set of appraisal-related practices that lenders must follow with respect to loans they want to sell to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. These new practices are intended to reduce the incidence of appraisal fraud and prevent inappropriate pressure being placed on appraisers to inflate home valuations in home purchase and loan refinance transactions.”

It was about 1.5 years ago that I starting saying that we the U.S. Taxpayers would be bailing out FHA. After the mortgage meltdown, when FHA became the “Savoir” of the mortgage market, I began to receiving an increase in calls from the same slimy national mortgage brokers that I had already turned down doing appraisal work for because they seemed to always need $10,000 to $20,000 more than the homes were worth. They didn’t want home appraisals; they wanted a target value hitter. EXCEPT, NOW THEY WERE USING FHA LOANS FOR THEIR DIRTY (UPSIDE DOWN) LOANS. I knew then and there that FHA was in for problems.

From Appraisal Scoop, FHA, Active Rain, Inman News and the list goes on and on….Now the flood of news since yesterday reveals rumblings within FHA that losses are increasing and that FHA is implementing Appraisal Standards similar to HVCC. This is and will get more interesting as time progresses. Remember what I said above about the “slimy mortgage brokers”? Why is FHA reacting with stricter appraisal policy when it’s the slimy mortgage brokers that are wolves wearing sheep’s clothing? I’m not saying that ALL mortgage brokers are “slimy” or unethical. I have worked with reputable mortgage brokers and still do to a more limited extents these days.