At 158 permits, the Baton Rouge metro area had more residential development in February than it did at the same time last year in a healthier economy. In February 2008, there were 130 single-family permits. The strongest numbers were reported in East Baton Rouge Parish with 86 residential permits, and Livingston Parish with 30. Last month’s permits were also up from 130 permits in January.
Joe Didier, chairman of the board of the Capital Region Builders Association, attributes much of the growth to historic low interest rates, as well as lower materials and labor costs. Based on what he’s observed from other builders, Didier says some of permit growth is in spec houses. Didier, owner of Didier Home Builders, expects the growth to continue, especially in high-growth Livingston Parish where he’s building a spec house. “I think people who are ready for the market will do well,” he says. “I’m betting on it. Smart money moves now.”—Anna Thibodeaux
