Sandy Ogburn Sandlin's Blog

36246 Cypress Way

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 06:29:49 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

36246 Cypress Way, Geismar, LA

Beautiful home in great neighborhood

4BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $350,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	2,544
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Huge treed lot in super neighborhood. Great schools and minutes from I-10. Fabulous family floor plan; private mother-in-law suite with bath. Spacious kitchen with cabinets galore; opens to light and airy breakfast area. Master suite overlooks treed backyard. Perfect home for a growing family.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor
- Living room	- Dining room	- Breakfast nook
- Dishwasher	- Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Dining Room	Breakfast Nook
Living Room

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 16, 2009, 3:12am PST

1711 S Park Ave

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 05:52:45 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

1711 S Park Ave, Gonzales, LA

Updated home in quiet neighborhood

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $140,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	1,539
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	4+
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Updated home in quiet established neighborhood in Gonzales. Updates include 6 month old roof, new patio cover and ceramic tile in kitchen and baths. Home has an open floor plan with large bedrooms, and lots of closet space throughout. The master bath has a walk-in shower. Enjoy the outdoors on the enclosed patio, whether it's rain or shine. The backyard is fenced with a shed that will remain at no value.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Tile floor	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Covered parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Living Room

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 15, 2009, 2:37am PST

A Holiday Shopping Guide for Baton Rouge Home Buyers and Sellers

Sun, 13 Dec 2009 10:26:31 -0600

With the holidays nearly here it may tempting to put your home buying or selling activities on hold. Whether you are buying or selling in the Greater Baton Rouge area, it is easy to make the assumption that real estate transactions hardly fit into the busy seasonal plans. This isn't necessarily true, and your real estate agent can show you how to make holiday home buying or selling work out just fine

Sellers:

You may be tempted to take you home off the market for a while, so you can enjoy the season without having to do quick clean ups for unexpected showings. Showing might also cut into gatherings you have planned. If you are preparing for a party and elbow deep in bread dough, that is the last time you want strangers dropping by.

The reality is your agent can schedule showings around your schedule and not authorize ones by other agents the day you are having your annual holiday open house.

This year, incentives for buyers (which include you if you planning to buy another home) are so great that there is reason to keep your home on the buyer's radar. You have a real opportunity to sell the home more quickly than in the past months.

The only way selling might otherwise inconvenience you during the holidays is that you still need to keep the decorations modest. If home usually resembles Chevy Chase's Christmas Vacation dwelling, dial things back a notch and go for a minimalist look inside and out so the beauty of your home shows through.

If you have a showing, your home will come off as warm and friendly if it smells of pine and bayberry and has a plate of cookies on the counter.

Buyers:

Just because it is the holidays doesn't mean you can afford to put off your house shopping until after New Year's. Especially at lower price points, homes are moving quickly. With the home buyer tax credits and low interest rates on your side, this can be your time to beat the rush most realtors expect in January.

It is likely more homes will come on the market after the holiday. With fewer other buyers out, the holidays are a great time to look at homes already on the market that may be a match for you. If you don't fall in love with one, you can move on to the new offerings in January.

If you've have been transferred, your lease is up, your family is expanding - you may need to find a great home quickly, Since fewer people are competing for homes during this time of year, you will have more chance of having a reasonable bid accepted on a home you love.

As a buyer, there are a couple of holiday rules you need to follow. First, though are in a rush, the sellers may not always be able to make the house available on short notice. Give them a little slack as they may have had plans before you called for the showing. You will probably not be welcome on Christmas Day or 9 am December 26 or January 1. Second, remember to look past the holiday décor when viewing the home. That Christmas tree won't always be in the living room or family room.

With holiday sales, Buyers can receive the wonderful gift of a Baton Rouge area house and sellers can unwrap the prized signed contract they have been waiting for.. Liven your holiday with a call to Sandy and her team. They can find you the perfect place to call home in the new year in Greater Baton Rouge area, including Baton Rouge, Prairieville, Gonzales, Denham Springs, Watson, Walker, Central, Greenwell Springs, Zachary, Baker, Port Allen, Brusly, Geismar, and St Amant. We can also you answer any questions you might have about the home buyer's tax credit - $8,000 for first time buyers or $6,500 for repeat buyers.

New FHA Rules May Change May Affect Praireiville Home Buyers

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 17:23:07 -0600

Prairieville home buyers, if you are planning on buy a home with FHA financing, listen up!

For over 50 years, FHA has helped those with less than perfect credit buy homes by guaranteeing the loans, but recent announcements by HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan indicate that major changes are on the way for both consumers and lenders. Since the Great Depression, FHA has backed loans actually written through member banks. Over the years, it has provided an alternative financing process that some sellers looked down on because it took longer. In recent boom times, FHA was only called on to guarantee about 3% of all mortgages. Buyers got their loans with as little as 3.5% down and with 500 credit scores though most participating lenders required a score of 620 or more. Sellers could contribute up to 6% of the closing costs.

The recent mortgage crisis has affected FHA dramatically. Over the last few yours, FHA suddenly has been called upon to back 30% of mortgages and 20% of refinancing deals on homes up to $729,750. In an era when many homeowners have defaulted on loans, FHA cash reserves are at the lowest since 1994 and serious losses are projected for the next five years with over 71% of the losses coming from loans already on the books. FHA has been called upon to back not just loans on starter homes but on more costly move up homes as well. The defaults have hit them hard.

To prevent further losses, Donovan said the new plan would force potential buyers "to put more skin in the game" which would prevent further losses and stabilize the system. The new rules would require buyers to put up a 5% down payment, raise required credit scores to a yet undetermined level, and decrease the amount of contribution the seller can make to the closing costs. The agency is also considering whether to increase the monthly insurance fee borrowers pay.

HUD is also changing the rules for lenders, especially those who repeatedly make questionable loans. All lenders will be held accountable for losses, and will be ranked on a "lender's scorecard" of banks who make FHA loans. Lenders will have to submit annual financial reports and maintain higher net worth. Weak lenders will lose their ability to process FHA loans. The agency does not want to be the source of the next "subprime crisis" in lending.

Will making it harder it to buy a home have the desired effect of reducing future loses for FHA? The jury is out on this. Some critics of the new rules are more apt to blame unemployment and other disruptions in personal finance (i.e., divorce, death of spouse, illness or disability, unforeseen expenses) to cause people to get into mortgage trouble than how much down payment they paid.

FHA has not yet announced when the new rules go into effect but if the new down payment and credit score requirements would make a difference as to whether you could afford to buy a home now or not, waste no time in calling Sandy Ogburn Sandlin. She and her team will discuss your options with you as you consider your new home in Baton Rouge, Prairieville, Gonzales, Denham Springs, Watson, Walker, Central, Greenwell Springs, Zachary, Baker, Port Allen, Brusly, Geismar, and St Amant. We can also you answer any questions you might have about the home buyer's tax credit - $8,000 first time buyers or $6,500 for repeat buyers.

Mayers Estate Rd

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 20:59:43 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

Mayers Estate Rd, Prairieville, LA

Louisiana Paradise!!

81.3 acres Vacant Land

offered at $400,000

Lot Size

81.3 acres

DESCRIPTION

Own a piece of Louisiana Paradise! Over 80 acres located in Prairieville perfect for homesite with plenty room to hunt on too! Property backs up near Flat Lake

see additional photos below

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 8, 2009, 5:48pm PST

New Short Sale Rules Can Help Troubled Baton Rouge Homeowners in Shorter Time Frame

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 09:45:25 -0600

Short sales sound like they could be the answer to a distressed Baton Rouge seller's prayer, while offering buyers a great deal. They offer real promise to avert foreclosures. However, often the time to process them is lengthy and the ultimate success rate, low. Since the Making Home Affordable program came out in February, the Obama Administration has been announcing that new rules to make short sale s quicker and easier were on the way. Recently, the Treasure Department has released these new rules to expedite short sales

Basically, the new guidelines offer financial incentives for borrowers, mortgage companies, and investors to participate in the program.

$1000 to lenders for administrative costs
$1500 to sellers to cover closing costs or for moving expenses
Up to $3000 towards paying the junior lien holders to release their lien.

In order to qualify:

The property must be the home owner's principal residence.
The homeowner is delinquent on the mortgage or default looks likely.
The loan was made before Jan. 1 this year and is less than $729,750.
The borrower's total monthly mortgage payment exceeds 31 percent of before-tax income.

The new program standardizes paperwork and gives the lender 10 days to approve or turn down a request for a short sale. When it's done, the short sale must release the borrower from the debt. During the process, the lender cannot foreclose on the property or charge fees. The new rules come at a time when at least one major bank has adopted improved software to streamline paperwork for short sales. (Click here for the full text of the new rules.)

Mortgage servicers have 10 days to approve or disapprove a request for short sale, and when done, the transaction must fully release the borrower from the debt. The deadlines remove a lot of the uncertainty from short sales, a relief to buyers as well as the seller and their agents. Now sellers (and real estate agents) will have a clearer idea of how to proceed and buyers will know if they got the house in a timely manner too!

If you are at risk of foreclosure on your Baton Rouge home, Sandy can help you arrange a short sale.If you are looking for a home, Sandy and her team can also help you find a short sale property in the Greater Baton Rouge area, including Baton Rouge, Prairieville, Gonzales, Denham Springs, Watson, Walker, Central, Greenwell Springs, Zachary, Baker, Port Allen, Brusly, Geismar, and St Amant. We can also you answer any questions you might have about the home buyer's tax credit - $8,000 first time buyers or $6,500 for repeat buyers.

37065 Kathleen Ave

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 08:51:01 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

37065 Kathleen Ave, Prairieville, LA

Spacious 6 BR home with yard

6BR/3.5BA Single Family House

offered at $260,000

Year Built	2006
Sq Footage	3,182
Bedrooms	6
Bathrooms	3 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	10,500 sqft
HOA/Maint	$8 per month

DESCRIPTION

Need space? This home is perfect for a larger family, or for those that just want room to roam. If you like cooking you will love the kitchen with tons of cabinets and counter space. The kitchen is open to a large family room. All bedrooms are spacious with huge closets. Notice the extra large master bedroom and master bath with double sinks, jetted tub and separate walk-in shower. The children will love having their own space upstairs with 4 oversized bedrooms and 2 full baths. There is also a loft area perfect for an office or separate sitting area upstairs.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Living room
- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Dining Area	Living Room
Master Bedroom	Master Bath

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 8, 2009, 3:09am PST

37435 Cypress Alley Ave

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:19:42 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

37435 Cypress Alley Ave, Gonzales, LA

Custom designed home in great location

4BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $359,000

Year Built	2008
Sq Footage	3,019
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

THIS NEWLY CONSTRUCTED CUSTOM DESIGNED HOME IS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED MINUTES FROM INTERSTATE 10 IN CYPRESS COVE SUBDIVISION. THE LIVING AREA HAS BEAUTIFUL PINE WOOD FLOORS, RECESSED LIGHTING, CROWN MOLDING AND 12 FOOT CEILINGS IN THE DEN. THE GOURMET STYLE KITCHEN OFFERS AN OVERSIZED ISLAND COUNTER WITH CARVED WOOD TRIMMED CABINETS. THE KITCHEN HAS CERAMIC TILE FLOORS THAT EXTEND INTO A DINETTE AREA WITH A SECOND FIREPLACE AND WINDOWS ON BOTH SIDES OVERLOOKING THE BACKYARD. THE MASTER BATH HAS A JACUZZI TUB AND A HUGE WALKAROUND CLOSET.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Living room	- Dining room
- Breakfast nook	- Yard	- Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Living Room	Dining Room
Master Bath	Back

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 2, 2009, 5:26pm PST

37360 Mindy Way

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:06:15 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

37360 Mindy Way, Prairieville, LA

Beautiful home with heated pool!

3BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $315,000

Year Built	2004
Sq Footage	2,400
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	14,000 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This gorgeous home features high ceilings and crown molding throughout. A Bose surround sound system has been installed along with a recessed TV over the fireplace. The living room also boasts cabinets that extend to the ceiling. The kitchen has a large pantry,lots of cabinetry and counter space. The range and oven are gas but an electrical plug-in was installed to handle an electric range. All bathrooms have high quality fixtures. The master bedroom has a walk-in closet. There are 2 air conditioning units that support different areas of the home as well as 2 gas water heaters (1 for the kitchen and wash room and the other for the bathrooms). All wall insulation is high grade and was blown in prior to sheet rocking. There is a heated swimming pool. The pool is all automatic and is heat controlled by a gas heating unit. It also has fiber optic lighting and a large area of cool crete surrounding for cool walking. A bathroom also has an outside entrance for convenient pool usage. Enjoy a great view of the pool from inside.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Tile floor
- Living room	- Stove/Oven	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Yard	- Swimming pool
- Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

- Secured entry

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Living Room
Kitchen	Master Bedroom
Pool	Yard

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 25, 2009, 3:57pm PST

11110 Boardwalk Dr 54

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:44:09 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

11110 Boardwalk Dr 54, Baton Rouge, LA

Condo in great gated community

2BR/2BA Condo

offered at $175,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	1,565
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$165 per month

DESCRIPTION

Gated entrance with fountain and loads of green area. Even has a pet park! The Rampart is an exciting plan with an enormous wrap-around bar separating the living room, kitchen and dining room. Both bedrooms are large enough to be called master suites, but the one overlooking the private rear courtyard offers a deluxe bath with separate jetted tub and shower, double vanity and spacious walk-in closet. Private study tucked away, offering a great retreat or home office. Gated, double rear load garage, every home features an interior courtyard.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Laundry area - inside

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking	- Lake	- Gated property
- Secured entry

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Living Area	Dining Area
Master Bedroom	Porch

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 25, 2009, 10:55am PST

11110 Boardwalk Dr #4

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:26:26 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

11110 Boardwalk 4, Baton Rouge, LA

3 BR condo with great floorplan

3BR/2.5BA Condo

offered at $225,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	1,900
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Gated community, 2 lakes, and grand entrance with fountains and lots of park like green areas. Even has a pet park!!! The St. Landry is full of “wow' spaces and surprises, starting with an entrance that provides a glimpse of the interior courtyard. When you swing open the front door, you are greeted by soaring ceilings, skylight dormers and a corner fireplace. The kitchen is truly the heart of this home with a central island, pantry and a wall of windows overlooking the private courtyard. The master suite has its own view of the courtyard, plus a bath with dual vanities, separate tub & shower, linen and walk-in closet. Two upstairs bedrooms share a hall bath and study space overlooking the dramatic, two story staircase. Convenient to I-10 & Airline Highway. Home is move in ready!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor
- Laundry area - inside

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

- Secured entry

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Living Room	Keeping Room
Master Bedroom	Sitting Room

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 25, 2009, 12:31pm PST

11110 Boardwalk Dr #13 - Under Contract

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:56:59 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

11110 Boardwalk Dr 13, Baton Rouge, LA

Single-level living at it's best

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $200,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	1,618
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

For pure comfort and convenience, the Dauphine offers single-level living at its best. Inside the front foyer, the large great room with fireplace leads to a dining space filled with light from a triple window and a kitchen that's a cook's dream. The master suite is tucked off the rear foyer leading to the courtyard and garage. Two bedrooms, a compartmentalized bath and laundry create a perfect guest suite or home office. Signature Homes latest community. Gated with view of 2 lakes. Grand entrance with fountain and lots of park like green area. Even has a pet park! Convenient to Interstate.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Fireplace	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Dining room	- Laundry area - inside

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

- Lake

- Secured entry

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Dining Area	Living Area
Lake	Fountain

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 25, 2009, 10:05am PST

Home Buyer's Tax Credit Offers New Hope to Sellers

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:16:33 -0600

Even in Greater Baton Rouge where home prices have not fallen as much as elsewhere, some who would like to move have put their plans on hold until things are a little better for sellers. In a buyer' s market, a real estate agent often has to deliver the bad news that the seller has to lower their asking (and selling ) prices a bit to be in line with the market. The new Home Buyer's Tax Credit promises to shake things up for sellers as well as buyers.

The Home Buyer's Tax Credit offers you a chance to reassess your position. Now, repeat buyers who have lived in their home for at least five of the last eight years qualify for a $6,500 tax credit. If you have been thinking of making a change the credit allows you to do that. Why?

First of all, if you have a home priced under $250,000 in most parts of the country, your home is on the radar screen of many first time buyers. True first time buyers who have never owned a home tend to be younger and not as affluent, for them, so an affordable home might be just want you want to sell. In, home at these price points are selling much faster than last year. If you want to sell, you might not only find a buyer, you might get multiple bids on your home.

Second, if you have been wanting to move, the $6,500 might give you the help you've need. This will offset the closing costs, partly compensate you for any loss in value, or give you some working capital for projects in the new house.

Third, when you are house shopping, you will also have the "buyer's market advantage" on your side and be able to get more house for your money. If you are looking for a bigger, better house, the seller may have lowered the price to meet the market. With low interest rates currently offered , you might be able to find your dream at such a deal you fell less pain at how much you had to lower your price.

Fourth, the credit is called a move-up credit, but you don't have to buy a more expensive home to qualify for the $6,500. If you are looking to downsize due to retirement or a lifestyle choice to simplify, you find a new place that costs less and still get the tax credit.

Fifth, if you've been wanting to turn your home into a rental, this could be your chance. Current interpretations of the new law do not prohibit you from keeping your current home as investment property any buying another for yourself as the primary residence.

Sixth, this credit could give you a chance to revisit a prior decision. Say you moved north for a job, but now, a few years later, you realized you miss the Prairieville or want to be closer to your kids. If you have rented for more than three years, you can use the First Time Home buyer's Credit to buy a new home or condo up North. If you bought and have lived in your home at least five of the last eight years, you can sell and buy elsewhere with the $6,500 bonus. You can even turn your current home into vacation home status, buy a primary residence and claim the credit. (For some of these trickier scenarios, make sure to consult your tax adviser.)

The purpose of the new credit to is to stimulate the housing market at all levels, although homes that sell for over $800,000 won't qualify. Since the credit is expected to cost the government $10.8 billion in lost taxes (plus $10 billion for the first phase), it is highly unlikely that it will be renewed. As the time lines roughly correspond to when interest rates are likely to remain low, this next five + months are the perfect example of a "once in a lifetime opportunity" for you as a seller to move your home.

The new credit can work for you! Let Sandy and her team show you a wide selection of beautiful new and pre-owned homes in the Greater Baton Rouge area, including Baton Rouge, Prairieville, Gonzales, Denham Springs, Watson, Walker, Central, Greenwell Springs, Zachary, Baker, Port Allen, Brusly, Geismar, and St Amant. We can also you answer any questions you might have about the home buyer's tax credit - $8,000 first time buyers or $6,500 for repeat buyers.

13233 She Lee Place Rd - Under Contract

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 06:01:30 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

13233 She Lee Place Rd, Gonzales, LA

Cozy home in a great location

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $137,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	1,197
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Covered spaces
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

No Carpet! This precious house has wood laminate floors in the living room, hallways and all three bedrooms. Brand new roof! Covered patio and nice sized backyard is ready to enjoy!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Walk-in closet
- Hardwood floor	- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven
- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Covered parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Living Room	Patio
Back	Exterior

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 18, 2009, 8:49am PST

Housing Getting Hotter in Baton Rouge

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 22:50:04 -0600

At the beginning of 2009, Baton Rouge was 9^th on Housing Predictor's midyear list of the 10 hottest housing markets for buyers. It is now was ranked 7^th on the list by midyear. Things are getting hotter and for good reason!

Housing prices in some sections of the country have been a roller coaster ride for buyers and sellers. This has caused buyers to hold off buying as they thought the prices would decline further and caused sellers to put off selling or grit their teeth and price their property low. In Baton Rouge and a few cities around the country, this has not been the pattern. They may have felt some impact of the housing recession, but the economy has generally been strong.

As previously noted in our blog Baton Rouge Area Economy Growing in Midst of Recession, Baton Rouge area housing prices have remained stable in the 9 parishes that make up the Greater Baton Rough area. Though housing sites like Trulia show that prices are down at the moment, the area is viewed as a market where prices will rise. In mid November, the average listing price of a Baton Rouge home is $259,189, with a median selling price of $167,250.

Unlike other markets, Baton Rouge has not been battered by foreclosures that would leave the landscape flooded with bank owned homes. Per the Brookings Report, there was 1 bank owned home per 1,000 mortgages. More conservative lending prices in past shielded the city from much of the housing crisis felt elsewhere.

Bask in the heat of the Baton Rouge housing market! Let Sandy and her team show you a wide selection of beautiful new and pre-owned homes in the Greater Baton Rouge area, including Baton Rouge, Prairieville, Gonzales, Denham Springs, Watson, Walker, Central, Greenwell Springs, Zachary, Baker, Port Allen, Brusly, Geismar, and St Amant. We can also you answer any questions you might have about the home buyer's ttax credit - $8,000 first time buyers or $6,500 for repeat buyers.

Baton Rouge Area Economy Growing in the Midst of Recession

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 20:38:37 -0600

Business Week recently named Baton Rouge one of the U.S. Metro's Least Touched by Recession as well as placed it as No. 8 on the magazine's list of Top 10 Metros in the U.S. Based on a Booking's Institute's assessment of the economic health of 100 cities with populations over 600,000. Baton Rouge fared well in the four areas studied: job growth, gross metro product, unemployment change, and home price change.

As the capitol of Louisiana, Baton Rouge has a stable base of government employment plus a strong, expanding energy sector and a strong educational sector. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the vibrant economy in Baton Rouge has been sparked in part by a construction boom. Thousands of displaced families arrived in Baton Rouge after Hurricane Katrina and temporarily doubled the population.

Not everyone stayed, but the influx of people, as well as rampant property destruction, spurred demand for services and activity in the residential and commercial construction. Currently, there are $5.1 billion of commercial construction projects underway, which includes Katrina repair and corporate expansion. ExxonMobil (XOM), for example, is building a new chemical plant, while the French company SNF is building a new plant in the area.

This activity has made for good job growth and lower than average unemployment. Baton Rough unemployment is currently 7.1%, a good 3% lower than the national average. Wage growth has been weak.

It has also maintained the gross metropolitan product (GMP), which measures the value of all goods and services produced in the area. Baton Rouge peaked in 2009 and hasn't declined much. This indicates that demand has remained stable, despite the recession.

In the Baton Rouge area, housing prices were up 3.3% in through June 30, 2009 according to the recent report mentioned in BusinessWeek, and have remained stable in the 9 parishes that make up the Greater Baton Rough area. Though housing sites like Trulia show that prices are down in the city of Baton Rouge at the moment, the area is viewed as a market where prices will rise.

The Greater Baton Rouge area includes nine parishes - Ascension, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberville, Livingston, Point Coupee, St. Helena, West Baton Rouge, and West Feliciana.

Beat the recession blues! Buy a new home in Baton Rouge! Let Sandy and her team show you a wide selection of beautiful new and pre-owned homes in the Greater Baton Rouge area, including Baton Rouge, Prairieville, Gonzales, Denham Springs, Watson, Walker, Central, Greenwell Springs, Zachary, Baker, Port Allen, Brusly, Geismar, and St Amant. We can also you answer any questions you might have about the home buyer's tax credit - $8,000 first time buyers or $6,500 for repeat buyers.

15454 Summer Trace Dr

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:17:04 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

15454 Summer Trace Dr, Prairieville, LA

Great home with beautiful kitchen

4BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $293,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	2,285
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	10,500 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This home has it all! Four bedrooms, 3 baths with keeping room and a triple split floor plan. The chef of the family will love the gourmet kitchen! It features slab granite countertops, stainless appliances, gas stove, built in wine rack, and a Butler’s pantry. There is also Cypress cabinets and a large island/breakfast bar. Extensive millwork throughout. Living room has tons of built-ins, beautiful hardwood floors, cozy gas fireplace, and a wall of windows overlooking back yard. The master suite has an oversized walk-in closet, his and her vanities, corner Jacuzzi tub, and a separate shower. The exterior has a covered and extended open patio – perfect for entertaining guests.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Living room	- Stove/Oven
- Granite countertop	- Stainless steel appliances	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Living Room	Breakfast Nook
Master Bath	Patio

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 12, 2009, 11:34am PST

37196 Audubon Park Ave

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:33:33 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

37196 Audubon Park Ave, Geismar, LA

Magnificent home with fenced backyard

4BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $230,000

Year Built	2005
Sq Footage	1,950
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	15,000 sqft
HOA/Maint	$350 per month

DESCRIPTION

MAGNIFICENT 4 BD/ 2 BA HOME IN PARKS OF DUTCHTOWN. BACK YARD HAS PRIVACY FENCE ALL THE WAY AROUND W/ HUGE COVERED PATIO. OPEN FLOOR PLAN WITH CROWN MOLDING, STAINLESS APPLIANCES, ISLAND IN KITCHEN, COZY BREAKFAST NOOK, DARK MAPLE WOOD FLOORS, AS WELL AS CARPET AND CER.TILE, AND GREAT DECORATOR COLORS. MASTER BATH HAS A SEPARATE SHOWER AND JAZUZZI TUB W/ SEPARATE HIS & HERS SINKS AREAS AND OVERSIZED CLOSET. WORKSHOP IN BACKYARD IS FINISHED OUT INCLUDING ELECTRICITY, SHEETROCK, MOLDING, FLOORING, LIGHTING, AND CABLE. THERE IS ALSO COMMUNITY POOL W/ PARK FOR KIDS

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher
- Stove/Oven	- Microwave	- Stainless steel appliances
- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Yard
- Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking	- Swimming pool(s)	- Lake
- Playground

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Living Room
Dining Area	Back
Bath	Pool

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 11, 2009, 10:24am PST

11575 Beco Rd

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:06:49 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

11575 Beco Rd, St Amant, LA

Beautiful home with many great features

3BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $250,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	2,026
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Covered spaces
Lot Size	87,120 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

What A Find! 2 Acres, plus huge storage, extra concrete and wood decking. Custom built-in shelving, new flooring & freshly painted.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Laundry area - inside

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Covered parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Interior	Deck
Yard

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 11, 2009, 10:10am PST

Basics of the Newly Revised Home Buyer Tax Credit for Greater Baton Rouge Buyers

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:34:45 -0600

As you may have read in our recent blog Put on Your Shopping Shoes, Ascension Home Buyers!, the homeowners tax credit has not only been expanded but been made better. Greater Baton Rouge, including Ascension Parish and East Baton Rouge Parish, have economies that are doing better than many places and so offer a stable place to settle. If take a look at the pictures in we include here, you will notice that the area is also a beautiful place to call home.

Who is eligible for this tax credit?

First home buyers and repeat buyers are eligible for a credit.

First time buyers, which includes those who have not owned a home for three years or more.
Current homeowners who have owned and lived in a home a primary residence for at least five of the past eight years prior to purchasing the new home

Which homes qualify for the tax credit?

Any home that will be used as a principal residence will qualify for the credit, provided including single-family detached homes, attached homes like townhouses and condominiums, manufactured homes (also known as mobile homes) and houseboats. However...

The purchase price must be less than $800,000
You must use the home as your principal residence -no vacation homes or investment property
You cannot buy a home from a relative or spouse

Does the tax credit have to be repaid?

NO - this is a tax credit that does not have to be repaid.

How is the tax credit figured?

The tax credit is 10% of the home's purchase price, up to $8,000 for first-time home buyers and $6,500 for buyers having already owned a home.

When must you purchase the home?

To qualify for the home buyer tax credit, the principal residence must be purchased on or after January 1, 2009 and before April 30, 2010. However, you have until June 30, 2010 to close.

Is eligibility based on the home buyer's income?

Yes. Single taxpayers must have income of $125,000 or below to qualify while married couples income must be $225,000 or below. This is an increase from the previous bill.

How does the homeowner figure their tax credit?

The credit will come to you as a refund once you have filed your taxes. You must complete IRS Form 5405 to figure the amount of credit you will receive and claim it on your income tax form.

You must provide documentation that you purchased a home.

You can also check these government sites about the Home Buyer Tax Credit for more details:

Sandy and her team can help you answer any questions you might have about the tax credit and then show you a wide selection of beautiful new and pre-owned homes in the Greater Baton Rouge area, including Baton Rouge, Prairieville, Gonzales, Denham Springs, Watson, Walker, Central, Greenwell Springs, Zachary, Baker, Port Allen, Brusly, Geismar, and St Amant.

6740 Stoneshire Dr

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 06:32:55 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

6740 Stoneshire Dr, Central, LA

Spacious home with large workshop

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $215,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	3,169
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Covered spaces
Lot Size	30,625 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

WOW! Mechanics dream house with a 30X32 shop! This oversized completely fenced in yard also offers a large patio great for entertaining! This spacious house is very well kept and in great condition. The three bedroom are all oversized and you must check out the huge master bathroom that features a whirlpool tub and unbelievable closet space. The guest bath is also oversized and even has a garden tub in it! This house has plenty of room throughout and has a breakfast area and formal dining room. The large living room has a wall of windows overlooking the backyard, wood laminate floors that are in mint condition and a fabulous fireplace. There is storage space and closets everywhere! The laundry room has lots of cabinets and extra counter space for folding clothes. This house was custom built with lots of extras! Make your appointment to see it today!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Living room	- Dining room	- Breakfast nook
- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Covered parking

- Wheelchair access

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Dining Room	Bath
Patio	Workshop

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 8, 2009, 3:19am PST

1745 Lombard

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 10:47:41 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

1745 Lombard, Baton Rouge, LA

Great location and ready to move in

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $117,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	1,271
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Covered spaces
Lot Size	9,275 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

GREAT LOCATION! Brand new roof, clean home and ready to be moved into! Fenced in yard with an extra covered patio area that is great for relaxing outside! Home has had some updating including wood laminate flooring, new paint and tile floors too!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Tile floor
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Laundry area - inside

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Covered parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Interior

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 7, 2009, 7:36am PST

17622 Gray Moss Ave

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 10:16:51 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

17622 Gray Moss Ave, Baton Rouge, LA

Spacious home in beautiful neighborhood

4BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $361,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	2,673
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	9,310 sqft
HOA/Maint	$250 per month

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Fireplace	- Walk-in closet
- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Microwave	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Swimming pool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Primary	Kitchen
Living Room	Bath
Patio	Grill

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 7, 2009, 7:28am PST

Put on Your Shopping Shoes, Ascension Home Buyers!

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:46:11 -0600

If you have slowed down your efforts find your new Ascension Parish home because you figured that you could not complete your sale in time to qualify for the $8000 first time homebuyer tax credit, put on your shopping shoes! Not only is the credit extended till next April, it's now offers some new provisions that will help you as a first time buyer and also help existing homeowners who want to move by offering a $6,500 tax credit. The redesigned credit allows you to make more money and still qualify ($125,000 for single, $225,000 for married, phase out of credit for incomes up to $20,000 higher.) For repeat buyers, the only consideration is that they must have used their current home as a primary residence for 5 of the last 8 years.

By extending the credit to more potential buyers, the credit will help everyone. First time buyers typically buy homes at the lower end of the price spectrum, while current homeowners often are ready for a more expensive house when they are making their second or third purchase. Some folks who are ready to move have been put off by the prospect of a slow sale, so have put their moving plans on hold. With the new credit available, there will be a renewed interest in both starter and move-up homes.

Right now in Ascension Parish, the average home price hovers around $217,500 for new homes and $208,782 for resales. There is a 3 month supply of homes under $100K and about a 5 month supply of homes up to $250,000. For homes in the $351-400K range, the inventory is 18 months, while homes over $400 have a 40 month supply. The new credit is likely to open up more buying opportunities for entry level buyers and encourage the sellers to buyer properties that are likely to be more costly. It is good on properties up to $800,000.

Though the new credit is good through April 30, 2010, you are only required to have a contract in place, but the closing need not be complete until July 1, 2010. Currently, the credit that was due to expire on November 1 required the closing to be complete by that date. Given that the whole loan-appraisal-closing ritual now takes longer, some buyers were likely to be clogged in the pipeline as the credit expired, while others put off the purchase figuring they would make it through in time. With the new credit, buyers with contracts have three months for the process to be completed. This means you can buy in confidence right up to April 1, with the knowledge you will be able to claim the credit.

This is also good if you want to buy a newly built home. Even if you are just looking at the floor plan today, you have plenty of time to buy one of the beautiful homes now under construction in Prairieville, Gonzales, Sorrento, or Geismar. Builders have tended to construct model and a small quantity of homes so they are not left with unsold inventory, but could easily build more to accommodate buyers like you New home sales are on course to approach 500 homes in the parish this year.

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin and her team at Re/Max Excellent Properties can explain all the details of the new credit to you, as well as show you the best new and resale homes in Ascension Parish as well as neighboring cities in the Greater Baton Rouge market. It's likely that homes will move quickly with the new incentives in place, so contact Sandy's Team today to jumpstart your housing search!

17186 Jo Boy Rd - Under Contract

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:08:08 -0600

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin | RE/MAX Excellent Properties | info@sandyco.com | (225) 677-7653

17186 Jo Boy Rd, Prairieville, LA

Elegant home in great neighborhood

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $165,000

Year Built	Unspecified
Sq Footage	1,365
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Covered spaces
Lot Size	27,213 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Owner/Agent

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Tile floor	- Laundry area - inside

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Covered parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3

Contact info:

Sandy Ogburn-Sandlin

RE/MAX Excellent Properties

info@sandyco.com

(225) 677-7653

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 4, 2009, 9:55am PST