21 FAQs on Home Buying & Selling in Baton Rouge in 2025

Hi, I’m Tyler Terrebonne, a local real estate advisor with Engel & Völkers right here in the heart of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. 

Whether you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, there’s a lot to consider—and you probably have plenty of questions. Below, I’ve compiled 21 of the most common searches and questions people like you are asking when navigating the Baton Rouge real estate market.

Feel free to explore, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need personalized advice or assistance. You can also find me on any social platform by searching

 “Tyler Terrebonne Realtor” or @agentterrebonne

I’m here to bring value to your journey and help however I can.

Thanks for stopping by and following along!

☺Should I Sell My Home in Baton Rouge in 2025?

The real estate market in Baton Rouge is expected to remain strong in 2025 due to low inventory and high buyer demand. If you’re thinking of selling, this could be a great opportunity to maximize your profits — especially if you’re looking to downsize or move up. Consider contacting a local Realtor for a market evaluation of your home’s current value, such as highly recommended local agent, Tyler Terrebonne, a trusted top agent at Engel & Volkers Baton Rouge.

👉YOUR HOMES CURRENT VALUE, FAST & FREE

☺What’s a Fair Commission for a Realtor in Louisiana?

Commissions typically range from 5% to 6% of the selling price in Louisiana — this is normally split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent. Some agents may negotiate their commission, especially for higher-priced listings or repeat clients. Always make sure you’re clear on what services you’re receiving in exchange for their commission.

☺How Much Do Cash Buyers Pay in Closing Costs in Louisiana?

Cash buyers in Louisiana typically pay lower closing costs — usually 2% or less of the selling price — since there’s no mortgage processing. This typically includes title insurance, transfer taxes, recording fees, and escrow payments. An escrow or title company can provide you with a detailed closing cost estimate in advance.

☺How Long Does It Take to Sell a Home in Baton Rouge?

The average time to sell a home in Baton Rouge typically ranges from 30 to 60 days, depending on pricing, condition, and market conditions. Proper pricing and strong marketing can help you sell faster — sometimes in less than a week if there’s high demand for your neighborhood.

☺What’s the Best Time of Year to Sell a Home in Baton Rouge?

The spring and early summer (March–June) typically bring the highest prices and faster sales in Baton Rouge. This is when families want to move before the new school year, and there’s normally strong buyer demand. However, pricing your home correctly and adding curb appeal can make a big difference at any time of year.

☺What Repairs Should I Make Before Selling My Home?

Consider addressing defects or maintenance issues that might appear in a home inspection — for example, leaky roofs, faulty air conditioning, or peeling paint. Updating your home’s curb appeal, adding a fresh coat of paint, and making sure everything is in proper working condition can make a big difference in your final selling price.

☺How Are Property Taxes Calculated in East Baton Rouge Parish?

Property taxes in East Baton Rouge Parish are based on the assesed value of your home, multiplied by the millage rate (currently averaging 0.145 or 145 mills) after applicable homestead exemption. Your Realtor can help you estimate your annual taxes and account for them when pricing your home.

☺What Disclosure Statements Are Sellers Required to Provide in Louisiana?

Sellers in Louisiana are required to provide a Residential Property Disclosure form which discloses known defects and issues with the home — for example, previous flooding, water damage, or problems with the foundation. Providing these disclosure forms honestly helps avoid future disputes and litigation.

☺How Do Appraisals Affect My Home’s Selling Price?

An appraisal sets a professional opinion of your home’s market value — usually for mortgage financing. If your appraisal comes in lower than your selling price, a buyer’s lender may require a price adjustment or additional cash from the buyer. This can affect your final selling price or cause a deal to fall through if not addressed promptly.

☺What Should I Expect During the Inspection Period?

During the inspection period, a licensed home inspector will perform a detailed examination of your home’s condition — looking at its structure, systems, and components. The buyer may request repairs or price concessions based on their findings. Often, sellers and buyers negotiate until they reach an agreement before proceeding toward closing.

☺How Do I Market My Home to Sell Fast in Baton Rouge?

Effective marketing includes high-resolution photos, a well-designed online listing, social media promotions, and pricing strategies to maximize appeal. Working with a real estate agent who understands your neighborhood’s selling points and pricing trends can make a huge difference in selling faster — often within days or weeks instead of months.

☺What’s the Difference Between Selling My Home FSBO and Listing with a Realtor?

When you sell For-Sale-By-Owner (FSBO), you’re responsible for everything from pricing, marketing, negotiating, and paperwork — without a real estate expert’s guidance. Listing with a Realtor means you’re represented by a professional who handles these tasks for you, helps maximize your selling price, and guides you through potential pitfalls.

☺Do Homes Sell Faster With a Realtor?

Yes — homes listed by a Realtor typically sell faster and for a higher price than FSBO listings. According to the National Association of Realtors, agent-assisted listings sell for nearly 20% more on average than FSBO sales. This is due to greater market reach, pricing expertise, negotiation skills, and marketing resources that a Realtor brings to the table.

☺What Are The Costs of Selling FSBO vs Using An Agent?

While selling FSBO lets you avoid commission fees, it can come with additional expenses and responsibilities, including:

✅ Photography, marketing, and sign costs
✅ Inspection repairs without expert guidance
✅ Title and closing process complications
✅ Possible lower selling price due to limited market reach

Using a Realtor typically involves a commission (around 5–6% and is completely negotiable especially with what is given to the buyer agent), but this is often offset by a higher selling price and faster closing.

☺Is FSBO a Good Idea in a Market Like Baton Rouge?

While you certainly can sell your home FSBO in Baton Rouge, it's a complex process with many legal and financial details. The vast majority of sellers find working with a Realtor helps maximize their profits, reduce stress, and avoid costly mistakes — especially in a competitive or fast-changing market.

☺How Many Homes Are Sold FSBO vs. With an Agent?

Across the U.S.:

• 6–7% of homes are sold FSBO (For-Sale-By-Owner) — an all-time low 

• around 90% of homes are sold with agent representation .

This market share has steadily declined from over 20% in the 1980s to the single digits seen today.

☺What About Baton Rouge Specifically?

While there’s no publicly available FSBO data specific to Baton Rouge, it’s very likely that the local market mirrors national trends:

• Expect around 6–7% FSBO, with 90% listed with agents.

• FSBO is slightly more common in rural areas (up to 8%), and slightly less in big cities (as low as 3–6%) 

• In Baton Rouge (a mid‑sized city with suburban and rural areas), FSBO likely ranges between 5–8%.

☺How Do I Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage in 2025 in Baton Rouge?

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a crucial first step when buying a home in Baton Rouge. Here’s how you do it:

✅ Gather your financial documents (tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and identification).
✅ Contact a mortgage lender (your bank or a mortgage expert in Baton Rouge) and submit your application.
✅ The lender will review your financial profile — your income, credit score, and debts — to determine how much you’re eligible to borrow.
✅ Once you’re pre-approved, you’ll receive a pre-approval letter to aid your home search and show sellers you’re a serious, qualified buyer.

☺How Much Is My Baton Rouge Home Worth?

Your home’s value depends on a combination of factors, including:

✅ Recent sales of similar homes in your neighborhood (comps)
✅ The home’s condition, square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms
✅ Market conditions, interest rates, and competition at the time you list
✅ The desirability of your neighborhood — for example, schools, nearby parks, or convenient access to I-10 or LSU
✅ An expert real estate agent can perform a comparative market analysis (CMA) to provide a realistic pricing range.

☺What Are Typical Closing Costs in Louisiana, and Who Pays Them?

Closing costs in Louisiana typically range from 2%–5% of the selling price of your home.
Some common closing costs include:

✅ Title search and title insurance
✅ Recording fees
✅ Appraisal fees
✅ Inspection fees
✅ Attorney’s fees
✅ Credit report charges

Usually, buyers pay most closing costs, while sellers may pay for transfer taxes, title policy, or other negotiable expenses.
Your Realtor can help you break down these costs and maximize your profits.

☺What Should I Look for When Buying a Home in Baton Rouge?

When searching for a home in Baton Rouge, consider these key factors:

✅ Location — Is it close to your workplace, desirable schools, shopping, and entertainment?
✅ Safety and flood zone — Check flood maps and neighborhood safety statistics.
✅ Property condition — Look for structural issues, a well-functioning roof, updated plumbing, and a strong AC system (critical in our climate).
✅ Space and layout — Do you need a large yard, multiple bedrooms, or a home office?
✅ Resale value — Is the neighborhood growing or improving, which can aid future resale?
✅ Always work with a Realtor who understands the local market and can guide you toward a strong investment.

LINK: TO CONTACT MYSELF FOR A FREE HOME VALUE OR FOR ANY QUESTIONS OR PROPERTY SEARCHES