Don's Blog

Maurepas, LA: Three Rivers Island Waterfront Getaway

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 12:32:21 -0400

Don Stern | Coldwell Banker Mackey Co. | (225) 413-3624

21044 Diversion Canal Rd, Maurepas, LA

Waterfront Camp on the Diversion Canal

1BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $95,000

Year Built	2000
Sq Footage	548
Bedrooms	1
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	None
Lot Size	5,375 sqft
HOA/Maint	$50 per month

DESCRIPTION

Three Rivers Island Camp on the Diversion Canal. Has pier for fishing or mooring your boat. This camp is furnished and move-in ready. Three Rivers Island is a private retreat accessible by pedestrian traffic or golf cart.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Fireplace	- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Hardwood floor
- Living room	- Breakfast nook	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Washer	- Dryer
- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Swimming pool(s)

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- 2 loft areas can be sleeping areas

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Living room and stairs to
Loft 31	Screened Porch
Kitchen & Laundry	Master Bedroom has king-s

Contact info:

Don Stern

Coldwell Banker Mackey Co.

(225) 413-3624

For sale by agent/broker

Posted: Sep 1, 2010, 7:51am PDT

Baton Rouge, LA: Keninworth Subdivision Market Report

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 14:00:55 -0400

East Baton Rouge Parish Real Estate Market Report - Kenilworth Subdivision

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database on August 18, 2010. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

I have been working with some clients who are considering moving from the Kenilworth subdivision to a more rural area. I extracted historical sales data as well as data for currently active listings to give them some idea of what their current home might ultimately sell for and how the competition in their subdivision is currently priced. The following chart looks at the history of the selling price per square foot of living area over time and how current listings are priced.

We can see that recent sales have varied more than $40/sq.ft. from a bit less than $80/sq.ft. to a bit more than $120/sq.ft. There are currently four active listings in the subdivision. Three of the listings are priced between $103.75/sq.ft. and $109.76/sq.ft. and one is price at $88.88/sq.ft. Further investigation revealed that this home is part of an estate and there were no inside photos so one might suspect the condition of the interior.

The next chart shows that the average selling price in 2010 was $98.51/sq.ft., a drop of about 2% from the average selling price in 2009 and a drop of nearly 4% from the peak average of $102.46/sq.ft. achieved in 2007.

The next chart show average selling prices in the subdivision and we observe a large increase from 2009 to 2010. Given that the $/sq.ft. declined, one can conclude that, on average, larger homes have sold in 2010 than sold in 2009.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

East Baton Rouge Parish, LA: July 2010 Residential Real Estate Market Update

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:15:13 -0400

East Baton Rouge Parish Real Estate Market Report

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. Only data for detached single family (DSF) homes were used and represent sales through the end of July 2010. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

The following two charts show unit sales (closings) for a given month separated by year. The first chart represents unit sales for new construction and the second represents unit sales of previously owned homes.

Except for the month of May, unit sales of new construction in EBR parish was lower than in any of the previous five years. In the re-sale market segment the same held true except that April 2010 was slightly ahead of April 2009.

The next chart illustrates the downward trend in home sales within the parish since 2006.

Despite this softening in terms of unit sales, home values have been preserved as the next chart illustrates.

We can see that the average price per square foot of living area has not dropped. In fact, it is higher than in any of the previous five years.

The next two charts show the absorption rates for new construction and previously owned homes for the years between 2005 and 2010 broken down by the price range of homes.

We can see that, overall, there is a neutral market for new homes with a 6.5 month supply. During 2010, the highest velocity of home sales in the new home segment has been for homes priced between $200K and $300K. This price range has accounted for more than 50% of all new homes sold in the parish this year and in this range it is clearly a seller's market. On the other hand, there is nearly a 2-year supply of new homes priced between $350K and $400K.

In the re-sale market segment, it is a buyer's market overall. It is a neutral market only for homes priced below $100K. The highest velocity of home sales occurs in this segment for homes priced between $100K and $200K.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Ascension Parish, LA - July Closings Down & New Contracts Up

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:01:03 -0400

Ascension Parish Real Estate Market Report

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

There was a sharp drop in the number of closings (unit sales) in Ascension parish during July as the following chart illustrates. During June there were a total of 142 detached single family homes transferred while in July only 63 DSF homes transferred. This is a drop of more than 55%! Clearly a significant number of closings during the first half of 2010 were attributable to the Home Buyer Tax Credit.

The next chart looks at new contracts negotiated for DSF homes during 2010. We can see that there was significant growth in the number of new contracts negotiated leading up to the April 30 deadline. Following that there was a significant drop in new contracts. While, as previously stated, there was a drop in the number of closings during July there was also a modest increase in the number of new contracts negotiated... from 85 in June to 96 in July, about a 13% increase. Improving but still a far cry from the 173 contracts negotiated in April.

The stacked bars represent the number of contracts for each status code recorded as of 8/10 when the data were extracted. Contracts with a status of Withdrawn or Active represent contracts which have fallen through since originally written. Thankfully, that number is rather small. Pending and contingent contracts have not yet closed and, hopefully, represent future sales.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Greater Baton Rouge Home Sales - Tri-parish Analysis by MLS Area

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 14:48:42 -0400

Tri-Parish Real Estate Market Report

The geography covered by the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors has been segmented into numbered areas. These areas are depicted on the following map.

An analysis of detached single family sales during 2010 was done in the tri-parish region (Ascension, East Baton Rouge, and Livingston) and broken down by MLS area. The next chart provides the results of that analysis.

The chart illustrates that the highest dollar volumes were achieved in northern Ascension parish and in southern East Baton Rouge parish. Unit sales followed similar patterns except that the Livingston parish areas of 81 and 83 exhibited relatively high unit sales. Another statistic is worth noting... homes in area 61 had the highest median sales price of any of the MLS areas.

A similar analysis was done but included only new construction. That chart is below.

We can see that area 90 in Ascension parish far exceeded any other area in terms of both unit and dollar volume. Area 83 in Livingston parish came in second.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

--Information on this report is not guaranteed. There is no express or implied warranty by MLS of the accuracy of information which should be independently verified.--
Copyright: 2010 by the Greater Baton Rouge Association of REALTORS® Multiple Listing Service
Prepared by STERN, DON of Coldwell Banker Mackey Ascn on Saturday, July 10, 2010 12:57 PM.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Ascension Parish, LA: Tax Credit Expiration Effects

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 17:44:57 -0400

Ascension Parish Real Estate Market Report - Effects of Tax Credit Expiration

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted. The data collected were for detached single family homes in Ascension parish which went under contract between January 1, 2010 and June 30, 2010.

In order to qualify for the $8,000 or $6,500 homebuyer tax credit, a homebuyer had to have an accepted contract in place on or before April 30, 2010. I wanted to quantify the impact of the expiration of that tax credit upon the real estate market in Ascension Parish. The expiration of the tax credit has, indeed, had a cooling effect on the market. Overall, there has been a drop of 36% in the average weekly number of accepted contracts since the expiration of the tax credit. The following chart illustrates that effect.

I separately calculated the effect for new construction and for re-sale homes. It appears that new construction benefited most from the tax credit. Since its expiration, the average number of new contracts per week dropped from 14.7/wk to 7.0 per week, a drop of 52%. For homes in the re-sale market segment, that drop was from 16.4/week to 13.0/wk or 21%.

The next chart plots the same data but shows the mix of new construction contracts vs. re-sale contracts as a percent of the total for a given week.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

French Settlement, LA: Waterfront Camp on Coylell Bay

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:42:05 -0400

Don Stern | Coldwell Banker Mackey Co. | (225) 413-3624

19946 Colyell Bay Dr, French Settlement, LA

Secluded Waterfront Property

2BR/1+1BA Single Family House

offered at $189,900

Year Built	2009
Sq Footage	1,003
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	4 Covered spaces
Lot Size	5,000 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Secluded waterfront hideaway near the end of a dead end road. The owner added extensive decking and concrete giving an expansive area to enjoy the cypress lined banks of Colyell Bay. Private dock and boat slip. Inside you'll find an open floorplan where the kitchen, living room and dining area have views of the river. Covered parking for four cars or storage.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- High/Vaulted ceiling
- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor	- Living room
- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Covered parking

- Guest parking

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- On the River

- Boat Dock

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4
Photo 5	Photo 6

Contact info:

Don Stern

Coldwell Banker Mackey Co.

(225) 413-3624

For sale by agent/broker

Click Here for the Virtual Tour

Posted: Jun 28, 2010, 10:17am PDT

Ascension Parish, LA: New Construction Paradigm Shift

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Sat, 08 May 2010 17:23:20 -0400

Ascension Parish New Construction Paradigm Shift

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database and represent sales of detached single family homes from January 2005 through April 2010. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

My past few blog posts about the Ascension parish real estate market have referred to a change in the make-up of what buyers of new construction are purchasing. I believe that the next three charts illustrate that paradigm shift. Each vertical line in the charts represents the percent of total unit sales for each of the ranges (price, $/sq.ft. and size) for each month between January 2005 and April 2010 inclusive.

The first of the charts show purchase trends by price range. It clearly shows the recent trend toward homes priced under $200K. In April 2010, homes priced under $200K accounted for nearly 80% of the new construction market in the parish. There were no sales at all for new homes priced over $350K during April.

Between the beginning of 2004 and September of 2007 we can see that homes priced over $130/sq.ft. enjoyed an increasing market share. After that, market share for these homes generally declined. At the same time, sales of new homes priced over $140/sq.ft. have all but disappeared.

The next chart clearly shows that new home buyers have been buying smaller homes. In April 2010, new homes with less than 2000 sq.ft. of living area accounted for more than 90% of the new construction market.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Ascension Parish, LA: Real Estate Market Update for Jan-Apr 2010

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Sat, 08 May 2010 15:53:11 -0400

Ascension Parish Real Estate Market Report

Unit sales in the parish were down a bit in April from unit sales in March. Both new construction and re-sale market segments were down. On the other hand, unit sales in April 2010 was higher in both segments than in April of 2009.

New construction unit sales in the period from January through April 2010 was higher than the same periods during 2008 and 2009. The re-sale segment for the January through April 2010 was higher than in 2009 but lower than in the years 2005 through 2008.

Overall $ sales volume was up. While volumes in 2006 and 2007 were higher, 2010 volumes were higher than in 2005, 2008 and 2009.

The average sales price of new construction continued to fall in the parish but the average sales price of previously owned homes during the first four months of the year was substantially higher than in any of the previous five years.

The average selling price per square foot of living area for new homes declined slightly as the trend toward smaller homes with fewer amenities continued. The price per square foot of living area for homes in the re-sale market segment increased slightly.

The last chart shows the history of $/sq.ft. between January 2005 and April 2010. One can see that in April 2010 there was virtually no difference between the new construction and re-sale segments. The last time that occured was in November of 2005 after which the selling price per square foot of living area for new construction rose substantially. It remains to be seen whether this event in April is significant.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Maurepas, LA: 48372 Amite River Rd

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 16:46:10 -0400

Don Stern | Coldwell Banker Mackey Co. | (225) 413-3624 / (225) 647-880

48372 Amite River Rd, Maurepas, LA

Amite River Camp with nearly 95 feet of water frontage with a pier.

2BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $114,900

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	850
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	8,100 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Waterfront camp on the Amite River. This property has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. About 94 feet of Amite River water frontage with a dock. Minutes from the Diversion Canal. The house sits on two lots. A third adjacent lot is available and being offered separately but can be bundled as a package deal.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Hardwood floor	- Living room
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Laundry area - inside

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Waterfront

- Pier

- Open Living Area

- Additional lot available

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4
Photo 5	Photo 6

Contact info:

Don Stern

Coldwell Banker Mackey Co.

(225) 413-3624 / (225) 647-880

For sale by agent/broker

Posted: Apr 27, 2010, 1:22pm PDT

Zachary, LA: Real Estate Market Report for First Quarter 2010

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 15:21:07 -0400

Zachary Real Estate Market Report

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

The data used represent sales of detached single family homes in Zachary, LA.

Unit sales of new construction in March dropped for the third consecutive month. The re-sale market segment, however, enjoyed an enormous increase in unit sales during March. A total of 17 previously owned homes sold in March and only 12 sold during January and February combined.

Most of the re-sales during March were in the $251K-$300K range although there were sales ranging from $53K to $520K. For the first quarter of 2010, the highest velocity of home sales in the new construction segment was in the $201K to $250K range. In the re-sale market segment the highest velocity of home sales was in the $251K-$300K range. At first quarter absorption rates there is an oversupply of homes. The new construction segment has a 7.5 month supply while the re-sale segment has a 10.6 month supply.

The average price per square foot of living area is, on average, higher for the first quarter of 2010 than the annual average for 2009. The re-sale segment, on the other hand, has seen a drop of about 6% during the first quarter from $109.37/sq.ft. to 102.88/sq.ft.

Looking at monthly trends, it appears that $/sq.ft. is trending upward for new construction, although we do observe a drop in the average for two consecutive months. If the absorption rate of new construction continues to drop off that will put downward pressure on pricing. In the re-sale segment, pricing weakness is observed. This is probably due to an oversupply of homes.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Livingston Parish, LA - Residential Real Estate Market Update - First Quarter 2010

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 10:38:42 -0400

Livingston Parish Real Estate Market Report - 1Q2010

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

The data presented herein represent sales of detached single family homes in Livingston parish.

In previous blog posts, I shared how unit sales in Ascension parish were up in both new construction and re-sale market segments and that in EBR parish both segments were down in terms of unit sales. In Livingston parish, first quarter results for 2010 show an increase of more than 16% in unit sales in the new construction segment while the re-sale market segment dropped by almost 9%.

Average home prices in both market segments also dropped.

Looking at the average selling price per square foot of living area, it appears that the drop in new construction prices is due primarily to buyers purchasing smaller homes as the price per square foot has not changed appreciably. The drop in average re-sale home price, however, does seem to be related to a drop in the average $/sq.ft. price.

We'll continue to monitor the market trends and report back to readers.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

East Baton Rouge Parish, LA: 1st Quarter 2010 Residential Real Estate Market Update

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 10:07:26 -0400

East Baton Rouge Parish Real Estate Market Report - 1Q2010

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

The data presented herein represent sales of detached single family homes in East Baton Rouge parish.

2010 first quarter unit sales were disappointing and are lower than in any of the first quarter results for the previous five years.

When projected through to the end of the year, without substantial increases during the peak selling months we can see that both new construction and re-sale market segments will fall far short even when compared to 2009 which, itself, was disappointing.

The good news, however, is that home values have remained stable. The next chart shows that the average selling price per square foot of living area in the parish has remained relatively flat for the past few years. Homeowner equity has been preserved.

If we look at average selling prices, we can see that the average price of a new home has declined. Given a steady price per square foot that indicates that new home buyers are purchasing smaller homes. The average price of a re-sale home, on the other hand, is currently higher than in any of the previous five years.

Finally, if we look at inventory levels with respect to absorption rates in various price ranges we can see that a Seller's Market exists for new construction priced between $200K and $300K in EBR parish. The highest velocity of new home sales during the first quarter of the year has been in the $251K-300K range with 7.3 homes per month being sold. As has been the case for some time, a severe oversupply of homes priced over $400K exists in both the new construction and previously owned market segments. With absorption rates of 2.3 and 13.7 homes per month, however, we can see that there still is a significant demand for high-end homes but not enough of a demand to balance with the supply.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Pelican Point Real Estate Market Analysis - 2010 1st Quarter Report

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 15:17:00 -0400

Pelican Point Real Estate Market Report - First Quarter 2010

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

The average selling price in Pelican Point in the re-sale market segment saw a substantial increase during the first quarter of 2010. Only a single newly built home sold during the first quarter so no conclusions can be drawn vis a vis any trend in the new construction market segment.

The following chart shows the distribution of the selling price per square foot of living area since January of 2004. There has, perhaps, been a minor decline after it peaked in the years immediately following hurricane Katrina but has more or less been holding steady.

New construction sales have fallen way off. As indicated earlier, a single newly constructed home has sold so far in 2010. The resale market segment, however, has shown tremendous growth as the next chart indicates.

The next chart illustrates that, for the first quarter of 2010, the absorption rate for previously owned homes in Pelican Point has rebounded to a level not seen since hurricane Katrina.

That's the good news... The bad news is that there are still more homes for sale than can be absorbed even at the higher absorption rates. More than a third of existing inventory is in the over $400K price range. At an absorption rate of only 0.7 homes per month, there is a sixteen and a half month supply placing this price range clearly in the Buyer's Market category.

The next chart shows the average selling price per square foot of living area for previously owned homes separated by the street. As 2010 wears on, these numbers will become more meaningful. A total of eleven homes sold during the first quarter which is insufficient to draw any street level conclusions for 2010 at this time.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Ascension Parish, LA Real Estate - Market Update for 1st Quarter 2010

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:05:55 -0400

Ascension Parish Real Estate Market Report 2010Q1

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted and represent detached single family home sales.

Unit of detached single family homes in Ascension parish were up about 24% in March of 2010 when compared to sales in March of 2009. Both the new construction and the re-sale market segments showed growth.

First quarter sales, likewise, show growth in 2010 when compared with 2009. In the re-sale market segment first quarter unit sales in 2010 are similar to those of 2007 and 2008.

The average selling price per square foot of living area is down marginally in both market segments for 2010 as the next chart demonstrates.

The following chart indicates that the decline may have bottomed out. In fact, there are some indications of improvement but it is too early to say for sure. We'll continue to monitor this closely.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Ascension Parish Real Estate - "Where's the Beef?"

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 13:32:02 -0500

A client recently called me to discuss building their new home in Ascension parish. They are planning to build a home valued between $500K and $600K and are looking for advice on where to build. They are wisely looking to the future possibility of selling that home and would like to be in the mid-range what that time came.

I generated the following information. This first chart looks at homes selling for $500K since 1/1/2007.

The next chart shows a count of homes in this price range within a particular subdivision.

This chart also shows the number of homes priced below $500K.

The Pelican Point subdivision had more home sales over $500K than any other Ascension subdivision since 1/1/2007 but those homes represented a fairly small portion of the total number. Manchac Plantation was close but there are no building lots currently listed for sale.

Looking at the map in the first figure we can see that the largest concentration of $500K+ homes exists in the Bluff Rd/Perkins Rd area. We're currently looking at lots in a new gated subdivision, LaSalle Pointe, as candidates for this new home. The price point of the lots, coupled with their location, size and the fact that this is a gated subdivision make this an attractive alternative.

A Good Mom

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 15:51:57 -0500

Ascension Parish Real Estate - An Open House Experience

I've been holding one of my listings open today and, despite there not being a lot of traffic, I did run into a great mom.

I was walking through the back yard when suddenly a bird started screeching at me from the ground. As it turns out, she was sitting on an egg.
She ruffled out her tail feathers
and when I didn't leave, she left the egg feigning injury so I'd follow her and leave the egg. What a good mom!

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Livingston Parish, LA - Residential Real Estate Market Update February 2010

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 12:34:22 -0500

Livingston Parish Real Estate Market Report

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

Despite the fact that unit sales of new homes were up 25% in the first two months of 2010 as compared with the same period in 2009, overall unit sales were down due to a 14.3% drop in unit sales of pre-owned homes. The next chart illustrates this. Unit sales in 2010 are very similar to what they were during the first two months of 2005.

In terms of pricing, new construction has remained approximately the same for the Jan-Feb period during the past three years. In the resale market segment, pricing has dropped about 1% from 2009 levels but is down more than 10% from the peak of nearly $100/sq.ft. which occured in 2008. The next chart illustrates this.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

East Baton Rouge Parish, LA: February 2010 Residential Real Estate Market Update

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:53:32 -0500

East Baton Rouge Parish Real Estate Market Report

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

As the following chart illustrates, unit sales are down significantly in the parish. New construction is down by more than 41% for the first two months of 2010 as compared with the same period in 2009. In the resale market segment unit sales are down by almost 17%.

The good news for homeowners, on the other hand, is that the average selling price per square foot of living area has remained essentially the same thereby preserving home values.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Ascension Parish, LA Real Estate - Market Update for February 2010

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 11:58:07 -0500

Ascension Parish Real Estate Market Report

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

Overall unit sales for the first two months of 2010 are up when compared with the first two months of 2009. New construction is down by a single unit while resale homes are up by four units as the following chart illustrates.

The price per square foot of living area has declined once again for new construction indicating that the shift toward more affordable homes with fewer amenities continues. The average selling price/sq.ft. of previously owned homes has declined by nearly 2% as well.

The next chart shows the top selling subdivisions for new construction in Ascension parish. It clearly demonstrates that new home buyers are opting for smaller homes with fewer amenities which result in a lower price/sq.ft. Of particular interest in this chart are the pending sales numbers. With 25 and 17 pending sales respectively, Jamestowne Court and Keystone of Galvez subdivisions are clearly outpacing other subdivisions.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Pelican Point Real Estate Market Analysis - 2009 Year-end Report

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 13:44:20 -0500

Pelican Point Real Estate Market Report

This report summarizes and compares the Pelican Point housing market in 2009 and compares it with previous years. In terms of unit sales, approximately the same number of homes sold in 2009 as did in 2008. While down slightly from 2008, the re-sale market segment remains ahead of pre-Katrina levels. New construction, on the other hand, is way down from years preceding 2008.

Looking at absorption rates, it is definitely a buyer's market in the subdivision. There are significantly more homes for sale than demand supports. Home buyers are likely to find bargains while home sellers should set themselves apart from the competition.

Since Pelican Point is comprised of a number of different filings, each with it own unique characteristics, when examining pricing it is useful to look at individual street addresses. The following chart examines pricing in the resale market segment in terms of the price per square foot of living area. We can see that there has been a softening of prices in many areas. This is, in my opinion, due to the buyer's market condition that exists. In general, prices in Ascension parish as a whole have held for the resale market.

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

MarshallBond.TheHomeVendor.com

East Baton Rouge Parish, LA: September 2009 Residential Real Estate Market Update

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:18:43 -0400

East Baton Rouge Parish Real Estate Market Report

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

Sales of homes in the new construction and re-sale market segments are down a bit from the previous month but that is probably just the effect of seasonality that we historically observe.

Unit sales of homes in both market segments are expected to be lower in 2009 than in any of the previous five years.

The average selling price is down slightly in both market segments but that is due to a shift toward more affordable homes.

We can see that the average price per square foot of living area is up slightly in both market segments indicating that home values have not diminished and owner equity has remained relatively constant.

The next two charts examine absorption rates for new construction and for the re-sale market segments. We can see that overall, new construction has a 5.4 month supply of inventory given the year to date average absorption rate. The re-sale market segment has a 5.5 month supply. Segmenting this information further by price range, we can see that with respect to new construction, it is a seller's market for all price ranges below $350K. (Below $100K a 54 month supply shows. This I believe, is anomolous because homes in this price range just came onto the market and weren't available for most of the year leading to the low absorption rate of 0.1 homes/month.) The supply of homes priced over $350K exceeds the demand. In these price ranges there is about a years supply. While there is over 10-months supply of new homes priced over $400K, at 6 homes sold per month more than 15% of homes sold in the parish are in this price range.

In the re-sale market segment, nearly 80% of all homes sold in the parish are priced below $250K. The highest velocity of home sales is for homes priced between $151K and $200K. Over 17-months supply exists for homes priced over $400K.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Ascension Parish, LA Real Estate - Market Update for September 2009

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 15:03:06 -0400

Ascension Parish Real Estate Market Report

The data used in this report were extracted from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors MLS database. The data are presumed accurate but are not warranted.

As 2009 comes to a close the real estate market in Ascension Parish is continuing to resist the gloom haunting other markets in the country and is, in fact, showing signs of growth. The following chart shows monthly unit sales for the past several years. For September 2009, sales of previously owned homes exceeded sales in that market segment in both July and August of this year and approached sales in June 2009 which was the highest so far this year. While new construction unit sales didn't perform as well as the previously owned market segment for September 2009, it significantly outperformed new construction sales in September 2008. This is not surprising since both the new and re-sale market segments were hard hit by the devastation caused by hurricane Gustav last year. That said, new construction unit sales last month outperformed all other months in 2008 except for the month of July.

Using the average absorption rates observed so far this year, unit sales of the new construction market segment is projected to exceed 2008 levels. Unit sales for the re-sale market segment is projected to be only slightly less than that of 2008. Clearly, while less robust than the boom post-Katrina times, the real estate market in Ascension parish is showing remarkable signs of health despite the current difficulties we face in acquiring credit.

The next two charts show historical trends of average selling price and average selling price per square foot for both market segments.

We can see that in the resale market segment, neither the average price nor the average price per sq.ft. have changed substantially from 2008 levels. This indicates that the equity in our residential real estate investment has weathered the economic downturn quite well. In the new construction segment, however, we see a downward shift toward more affordable housing... a trend previously reported on toward smaller homes with fewer upgrades and amenities.

The next two charts show the absorption rates and inventory levels for the two market segments. In the new construction segment, there is only a 3.3 month supply of new homes overall. This is a Seller's Market. A Buyer's Market condition exists only for homes priced over $400K. The highest velocity of home sales exists in the $150K-$250K price range which accounts for 65% of all new homes sold this year.

The previously owned market segment shows the highest velocity of sales in the same $150K-$250K price range which accounts for 51% of home sales. In fact, home sales under $250K accounted for 73% of all homes sold. Overall, it is a neutral market with 6.4 months supply but there is a great variation in this figure as we look at various price ranges. Previously owned homes over $400K have sold at a rate of 1.6 homes per month. With 60 homes on the market, at this rate it will take more than three years so sell off this inventory. At the other end of the spectrum, homes priced under $250K are enjoying robust sales and it is a Seller's Market in these price ranges.

As always, I appreciate hearing from readers and I welcome any comments or suggestions for improvement that you may offer.

(225)413-3634 phone (866)723-5477 fax

Waterfront Getaway on Three Rivers Island

Don Stern ~ Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate (Realty Executives South Louisiana) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 14:17:09 -0400

Don Stern | Coldwell Banker Mackey Co. | (225) 413-3624 / (225) 647-880

21132 Diversion Canal, Maurepas, LA

Waterfront Getaway

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $174,900

Year Built	2004
Sq Footage	1,158
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	5,375 sqft
HOA/Maint	$25 per month

DESCRIPTION

Waterfront Jewel!! This home is loaded with amenities and features so you can enjoy the privacy and benefits of waterfront living in style. What a great first or second home or investment income property.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C

- Central heat

- High/Vaulted ceiling

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Swimming pool(s)

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Golf Cart Access

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Waterfront Living

Views from Oversized Deck

Contact info:

Don Stern

Coldwell Banker Mackey Co.

(225) 413-3624 / (225) 647-880

For sale by agent/broker