3 Real Estate Trends Coming in 2018
LOUISIANA REALTORS • November 15, 2017
This is the time of the year when experts take a look in their crystal ball to see what the future may hold. Whether its major changes, new developments, or simply a continuation of things from the current year, having an idea of what is around the corner can help you plan for success and avoid unexpected challenges. Here are a few things that you should expect in 2018.
Smart Home Automation
Just as smartphones have replaced cell phones, smart automation in homes is taking priority. A typical security system is no longer a differentiator. Offering platforms that can keep a homeowner connected and in control everywhere is going to be high on a buyer’s
list. Shading, light, and A/C automation to control costs, along with surveillance and cloud access can all be vital in garnering consideration.
Generation Z
As the calendar turns another year, we get closer to a new generation entering the home buying market. This year that will start to become Generation Z. Anyone born between 1995 and 2014 falls into this category, meaning the original Gen Zer’s will be turning 23, graduating from college, and beginning the home buying process. In the coming years this will be a bigger part of the shopping market.
Focus on Specialization
For real estate agents
it is becoming more difficult, and more important to differentiate yourself. Fortunately there are more tools than ever before to help you carve out your own niche. Social media, web presence, and networking can all help you attract the types of clients that you want. These platforms can also help you be found by buyers and sellers
that are looking for a certain type of service level.
CONTACT US
While these are only a few of the expected trends coming in 2018, they offer you a good place to start and get prepared for what should be a great year.

From the Louisiana Department of Insurance: Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple announced today that the Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) continues its work to develop a regulation creating benchmark discounts for Fortified roofs in Louisiana. The LDI is working with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) to develop the benchmark discounts using Louisiana-specific data, hurricane modeling and actuarial considerations. “With over 11,000 Fortified roofs in Louisiana and two years-worth of insurer experience with rating for those roofs in our state, now is an appropriate time for the LDI to establish benchmark discounts for homeowners insurance companies operating in our market,” said Commissioner Temple. “These benchmarks are being thoughtfully developed to help consumers receive the discounts they deserve for fortifying their homes while making sure insurers know the benchmarks reflect how much Fortified roofs actually mitigate their exposure to risk across Louisiana.” Like in Alabama’s Fortified benchmark discount structure, the LDI regulation would require Louisiana insurance companies to either meet the minimum benchmark discount established by the LDI or provide actuarial justification for why the company’s discount does not meet the benchmark. Louisiana is the fastest growing state for Fortified roofs in America. To date, over 11,000 Fortified roofs have been installed in Louisiana, including over 4,100 through the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program.




