T
he Northshore housing market remains stagnant, a lingering effect of the economic uncertainty that gripped the region in 2020. High interest rates and soaring insurance premiums have left many high-end homes unsold, with some even sporting sun-faded "for sale" signs.

    Home sales are at their lowest since the 2009 housing crisis, and experts warn that a recession looms on the horizon. To combat this, Northshore builders, real estate professionals, and homeowner advocates are looking to Baton Rouge and Washington D.C. for assistance. Michael Saucier, founder of Gulf States Companies, suggests that developing more businesses in the area could help stimulate growth.

    However, expansion has slowed significantly in St. Tammany and Tangipahoa parishes, with apartments making up only 11% of housing options - far below the recommended 25%. This lack of affordable housing is a major concern for young people getting out of college who can't afford to buy a home. Kentrell Jones, executive director of East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity, notes that resistance to higher-density developments and rising construction costs have made it difficult to build new affordable housing.

    Mike Cassesi, founder of Cassesi Construction, believes that the Northshore has done well in terms of urbanization over the past two decades, but acknowledges that the current economic climate is challenging. Andreanecia Morris, president of the Greater New Orleans Housing Alliance, is advocating for homeowners who are struggling with insurance costs due to the growing climate crisis.

    Morris and her organization are pushing for bills that would incentivize fortified roofing and provide tax cuts to help homeowners pay their premiums. However, she warns that political hurdles and short-sightedness are standing in the way of meaningful reform.