Half of U.S. Metros Rising, Half Falling. Here’s How Baton Rouge Compares

If you’ve read the latest housing headlines, you’ve probably seen some conflicting takes.

And when you zoom out, it makes sense as to why: A new Zillow report found that, in half of the country’s largest metros, home values rose over the past year. In the other half, they fell. 

So today, we’re breaking down what’s happening nationally, and more importantly, how it compares to what we’re seeing here in Baton Rouge.

National Market Trends

At the national level, home values have barely moved, rising just 0.2% over the past year. 

• Home values rose in 25 major markets, mostly in the Midwest and Northeast. Cleveland (+4.7%) and Hartford (+4.5%) led the pack.

• Home values fell in 25 markets, especially in the South and West. Tampa (-6.2%), Austin (-6%), and Miami (-4.6%) saw the steepest declines.

Aside from home prices, here’s what’s happening across the country:

• Sellers cut prices on 27.4% of listings, the highest rate since tracking began in 2018.

• Homes are lingering on the market longer, with a median 60 days on market, the slowest July in over a decade.

• Mortgage costs are down slightly, about $19 per month compared to last year, but still nearly $1,000 higher than before the pandemic. 

That means affordability remains a challenge, even in markets where buyers have the upper hand.

What’s Happening in the Baton Rouge Market.

National trends don’t always tell the full story. Here in the Baton Rouge Market:

• Median home price: 265k + 0.0%.

• Inventory: 3,402 units.

• Days on market: Homes here are selling in 74 on average, compared to the national 60-day median.

This means that sellers have to be very cautious as to how they price their home moving into the fall months. More inventory on the market means way more competition.

What It Means for Buyers

Nationally, buyers are seeing more homes sit longer and more price cuts. In the Greater Baton Rouge area, with the increase in inventory and stagnation of prices, buyer have options that they didn't normally have after Covid.

If you’re looking to buy, here’s my advice:

• Watch for price reductions. It’s a sign sellers are willing to negotiate.

• Get pre-approved so you’re ready to act when the right home hits the market.

• Don’t assume headlines about “falling prices” apply here. Check the local stats.

What It Means for Sellers

The national data is clear: Homes that are overpriced are sitting. Homes that are priced right are still selling.

If you’re thinking of selling, remember:

• Pricing competitively from the start is more important than ever.

• Buyers are savvy, with plenty of data at their fingertips.

• Making your home shine online with great photos, 3D tours, or floor plans can help you stand out.

The Bottom Line

Kara Ng, a senior economist at Zillow, summed it up best: “Perhaps more than ever, whether it’s a good time to buy depends on where you live.”

The housing market is split nationally, but what really matters is what’s happening locally. If you’re thinking of buying or selling in the Greater Baton Rouge area, the numbers show that strategy matters more than ever. 

Pricing, timing, and presentation will determine who wins in this market.