Effect of flooding on home values

[Will G.]

Hi all, I am reaching out, trying to understand what the future impact of the recent floods in baton rouge La. My mother lost the use of her home(which was not in a flood zone) in the la. flooding and we are trying to determine what the long term impacts of this event are on values. Will a potential buyer not even consider a home that has had 3 feet of water in it? Would that buyer expect to pay less, and by what percentage. Do prices recover after so many years? I know this varies based on many factors but I am hoping someone has some real world experience to share. Some idea of what to expect will help us greatly with our decisions on how to proceed. Thank you

[Mary Beth Groze]

I love Baton Rouge and am devastated that this has affected so many in our area.  It is truly

unbelievable to see so many flood victims belongings lining street after street. 

I think it is very important to make sure a flooded home is properly dried out and tested for moisture before you close up walls.    What we are seeing is that sheetrock and insulation are like wicks and will pull the water up behind cabinets and tubs and up higher in the walls than the water level of the flood.  I know many are anxious to get their homes restored but documentation of proper restoration would be wise to insure home value for future buyers of your home. (even if you don't for see selling soon).  There are professionals that will test for mold AND  their are inexpensive moisture testers to insure that your home is dry.