Moving from the vibrant streets of New Orleans to another city involves much more than packing boxes; it’s about transitioning your life, your family, and often, selling one of your biggest assets: your home. Whether you’re leaving behind the sounds of jazz for a new adventure or relocating for work, understanding the housing market you’re leaving and the one you’re entering is crucial. This guide is here to help, pulling together expert insights from sources like The NeighborhoodScout and Care.com to ensure your move is as smooth as the Mississippi.
Understanding the New Orleans Housing Market
Before you put up that “For Sale” sign in New Orleans, let’s dive into what makes this market unique. According to The NeighborhoodScout, New Orleans is a significant coastal city known for its rich culture and, notably, its real estate market. While being on the pricier side within Louisiana, it doesn’t hit the peak of American real estate values. However, a vital piece of information for sellers is the city’s appreciation rate. Over the last decade, New Orleans has seen an average annual home appreciation rate of just 4.78%. This rate is lower than 80% of communities in the U.S., making it crucial for homeowners looking to sell to understand their property’s current value and market dynamics.
Tips for Families Moving Out of New Orleans
When you’re looking to move, especially with a family, planning becomes your best friend. Experts from Care.com recommend starting your search for a new home at least six months in advance. This foresight is particularly important if you’re aiming to avoid the logistical challenges of moving during the cold winter months or in the midst of the school year.
Choosing a Real Estate Agent
Finding the right real estate agent can make a significant difference. Look for someone who not only has a deep understanding of the market but also listens and responds to your family’s needs. In New Orleans, companies like We Buy Houses New Orleans can also offer alternatives if you’re looking to sell quickly. Whether you’re purchasing a house in New Orleans or selling one, this professional guidance, along with specialized services, is invaluable.
Research and Planning
Your due diligence should include a thorough investigation of potential neighborhoods in your new city. Consider the quality of local schools, daycare services, and even the proximity to offenders listed on the national sex offender list.
These steps are about ensuring not just the right house, but the right environment for your family’s growth and well-being.
Property Features and Location
When evaluating potential homes, think about what will ease your daily life. Maybe it’s having laundry facilities close to where the chaos of dirty clothes unfolds (aka the bedrooms) or ensuring the backyard is neither too vast to manage nor too cramped for play. And if public transportation is a staple in your daily routine, its accessibility from your new home can’t be overlooked.
Visiting and Trusting Your Instincts
If possible, visit homes with someone local to the area, adding another layer of insight to your impressions. And amidst all the logic and planning, don’t forget to trust your instincts. If something feels off about a home or neighborhood, it’s worth taking that gut feeling seriously.
Selling Smart in New Orleans
In a city as unique as New Orleans, where the appreciation rate has lagged behind the national average, selling your home requires strategic thinking. Ensure your home stands out in the market. Given the city’s unique position, emphasizing the cultural and lifestyle benefits of living in New Orleans can attract buyers looking for more than just a house but a piece of New Orleans’ soul. Sell your home fast in New Orleans by highlighting its connection to the city’s rich history and vibrant community life.
Moving with your family from New Orleans to another city is a journey filled with challenges and opportunities. By understanding the local real estate market, planning ahead, choosing the right real estate agent, and focusing on what truly matters for your family’s new chapter, you can navigate this transition with confidence. Remember, this move isn’t just about relocating; it’s about setting the stage for the next exciting phase of your family’s story.
My name is Andrea Thompson and I’m a home based freelance writer. I’m 23 years old, married to my best friend, and mother to a wonderfully independent and opinionated 3 year old girl and step-mother to a sweet seven year old boy. I live in a tiny, little town in Kentucky, where I spend my free time fishing with my kids.
Writing has always been my passion, which I followed through high school, and for a while in college. Life happened, and once I discovered we were pregnant, I switched directions; opting for the healthcare industry because of the stability.
Finally, years later, I was in a place where I could leave the day job that never truly made me happy, and pursue my dreams. I’ve built, and am still building, my writing career from scratch. But, I’m passionate and I’m good at what I do. And, in the end, I can prove to my daughter that she can do anything she wants with this life.
