Does anyone have any insight on the housing market near Fort Polk?

2016-05-19T10:22:04-04:00

I've been stationed here renting off post for about seven months now. My lease ends in five months, and I've been considering the possibility of buying a house off post. I know most military personnel don't buy houses off post here, but for those who do: I'm interested in information about how easy it is to sell a house later down the road, or alternatively how easy it is to rent it out.

Response by LTC Kevin B. made May 19 at 2016 10:25 AM

2016-05-19T10:25:32-04:00

Renting would probably be easier than selling. I'd recommend looking down in the DeRidder area if you're planning to purchase. It's definitely a little further out than Leesville, but it's also a much nicer community (much fewer pawn shops, bars, strip joints, seedy hotels, etc.).

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2016 10:27 AM

2016-05-19T10:27:56-04:00

Look at websites like Realtor.com. It will tell you rental rates vs purchase rates, and will tell you how long most of the houses have been on the market. If most (good condition houses) are 90+ days, the market is moving slow. Some areas renting is currently cheaper than purchasing, but that means you may be paying to rent it out down the line. So compare rent rates to mortgage rates on similar properties.

Response by CPT Tom Monahan made May 24 at 2016 7:42 AM

2016-05-24T07:42:47-04:00

When I was there I became convinced that Century 21 signs were the State tree. Unless you plan on getting out and living there for 10 years don't buy. There is no industry, interstate highway, airport, or dynamic population. Go out and count how many houses are for sale and check how long they have been for sale. Zillow is a good start.