An unpopular opinion about New Orleans real estate.

This may actually be one of the better buying opportunities we've seen in years.

Many buyers are sitting on the sidelines because of interest rates, but they're missing a point. As a move-up buyer, you can often negotiate a better price today than you could when rates were lower and competition was fierce. If rates decline later, you can refinance. What you can't do is go back and buy the same house at today's price once demand returns.

I see the same opening for investors. With fewer buyers competing, there are more distressed homes, renovation projects, and rental opportunities, and sellers who need to move are often willing to price aggressively. That's not to say every property is a good deal; buyers still need discipline and a clear read on the numbers. But the best opportunities usually show up when others are hesitant.