Answers to your Top 100 Real Estate Qs in the Greater Baton Rouge, Louisiana Market

Top 100 Real Estate Questions in Baton Rouge — Answered by Tyler Terrebonne

If you’ve ever thought about buying, selling, or investing in Baton Rouge and surrounding areas, you probably have a lot of questions. I’m Tyler Terrebonne, your local real estate expert, and I’ve compiled the 100 most common questions I get from clients and online searches — with short, actionable answers.

Jump to a section:

• Buying a Home (1–10)
• Selling a Home (11–20)
• Financing & Loans (21–30)
• Home Inspections & Appraisals (31–40)
• Home Maintenance & Renovation (51–60)
• Investment & Rental Properties (61–70)
• Neighborhood & Lifestyle (71–80)
• Closing, Legal & Title (81–90)
• Local Market Tips (91–100)

Buying a Home (1–10)

1. Is now a good time to buy a home in Baton Rouge?
It depends on your finances and goals, but interest rates and inventory make it a great time for prepared buyers.

2. How much should I save for a down payment?
Typically 3–20% depending on loan type. First-time buyer programs may reduce upfront costs.

3. What credit score do I need to buy a home?
Most conventional loans prefer 620+, but FHA loans can start lower around 580.

4. How do I know what I can afford?
Start with your monthly budget, then talk to a lender to pre-qualify for a loan that fits your finances.

5. What’s the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?
Pre-qualification is an estimate; pre-approval is a lender’s commitment and carries more weight with sellers.

6. How long does it take to buy a home?
From offer to closing, typically 30–60 days, depending on inspections and financing.

7. What’s earnest money?
It’s a deposit showing you’re serious about the home. It goes toward your down payment at closing.

8. Should I use a buyer’s agent or go directly to the seller?
Using a local agent like me ensures negotiation power and access to off-market listings — at no extra cost to you.

9. What neighborhoods are best in Baton Rouge?
It depends on lifestyle and priorities — schools, commute, amenities. I can guide you to the best fit.

10. How do I make my offer stand out?
Strong pre-approval, fair price, and flexible terms often help — I can craft a winning strategy.

Selling a Home (11–20)

11. How do I know my home’s value?
A CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) is the most accurate; Zillow/Zestimates can be misleading.

12. Should I stage my home?
Yes — staged homes often sell faster and for higher prices.

13. How long does it take to sell a home?
Average Baton Rouge listings take about 30–60 days, but pricing and condition are key.

14. What’s the best time to sell in Baton Rouge?
Spring and early summer usually have higher buyer activity.

15. How do I choose a listing price?
We look at comparable homes, market trends, and your goals to set a competitive price.

16. Do I need to make repairs before selling?
Minor repairs help, but over-improving may not return value. I can advise on cost-effective fixes.

17. What are seller costs?
Typically 6–8% total for commissions and closing fees, plus any repair or staging costs.

18. Should I sell FSBO (for sale by owner)?
You can, but studies show homes sold with an agent often sell faster and for more money.

19. How do I market my home effectively?
Professional photos, online listings, open houses, and local marketing all work together.

20. Can I negotiate with buyers?
Yes — I guide sellers through counteroffers and strategy to maximize net proceeds.

Financing & Loans (21–30)

21. What types of loans are available?
Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo — each has pros and cons depending on your situation.

22. Do low rates mean lower monthly payments?
Not always — fees, down payment, and loan type impact your total payment.

23. What is a fixed-rate vs adjustable-rate mortgage?
Fixed stays the same, adjustable can change after a set period — stability vs potential savings.

24. Can I buy with no money down?
VA loans or certain USDA loans allow it if you qualify.

25. What’s PMI?
Private Mortgage Insurance protects the lender if your down payment is less than 20%.

26. Can I get a loan if self-employed?
Yes — but lenders will look at taxes and income history carefully.

27. How much can I borrow?
Lenders use income, debts, credit, and local property taxes to calculate your max loan.

28. What’s the difference between prepayment and refinancing?
Prepayment reduces principal early; refinancing replaces your current loan with a new one.

29. Can I use down payment assistance?
Yes, Baton Rouge has local programs; I can connect you with qualified lenders.

30. Should I pay points to lower my rate?
Depends on how long you plan to stay — it can save money over time, but upfront costs are higher.

Home Inspections & Appraisals (31–40)

31. What is a home inspection?
A thorough review of the property’s condition by a licensed inspector.

32. Are inspections required?
Not legally, but highly recommended to avoid costly surprises.

33. What is an appraisal?
A lender-required estimate of the home’s market value.

34. How do inspections and appraisals affect closing?
They can impact loan approval or contract terms if issues or low value arise.

35. Should I attend the inspection?
Yes — it’s your chance to ask questions and see potential issues firsthand.

36. What common issues do inspectors find in Baton Rouge homes?
Roof leaks, HVAC problems, plumbing, and drainage issues are frequent.

37. Can I negotiate after the inspection?
Yes — you can request repairs, credits, or adjust the sale price.

38. Who pays for the inspection?
Typically the buyer, though sellers can pre-inspect for faster sales.

39. How long does an appraisal take?
Usually a few days, depending on the lender and market.

40. What if the home appraises low?
You can renegotiate price, increase down payment, or challenge the appraisal with comps.

Home Maintenance & Renovation (51–60)

51. Should I renovate before selling my home?
Minor renovations like fresh paint or updated fixtures can increase appeal, but major renovations don’t always give a full return. I can help prioritize cost-effective upgrades.

52. How often should I maintain my HVAC system?
At least once a year for inspection and cleaning; it keeps your system efficient and helps prevent costly breakdowns.

53. Do I need a termite inspection in Baton Rouge?
Yes — termites are common in Louisiana, and an inspection protects your investment.

54. Should I replace the roof before selling?
Only if it’s near the end of its life. Otherwise, disclose the age and condition — buyers can negotiate.

55. What upgrades add the most value?
Kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal improvements usually provide the best return on investment.

56. How do I stage a home myself?
Declutter, depersonalize, and arrange furniture to highlight space; neutral colors and good lighting help.

57. Should I repaint my home before selling?
Yes — a fresh, neutral paint job can make a huge difference in first impressions.

58. How do I improve curb appeal on a budget?
Trim landscaping, clean the exterior, add fresh mulch, and paint the front door.

59. Should I replace old appliances before selling?
Not necessarily; if they work, highlight them. Focus budget on visible, high-impact upgrades.

60. How do I make my home energy-efficient?
Seal leaks, add insulation, and consider energy-efficient lighting or appliances — buyers love long-term savings.

Investment & Rental Properties (61–70)

61. Is Baton Rouge good for rental properties?
Yes, with a mix of students, families, and professionals, rental demand is strong in many neighborhoods.

62. Should I invest in single-family or multi-family rentals?
Single-family homes are easier to manage; multi-family units can produce higher cash flow.

63. How much rent can I charge?
Check comparable local rentals; I can provide a detailed analysis for Baton Rouge.

64. What are common rental property expenses?
Taxes, insurance, maintenance, management fees, and occasional vacancy costs.

65. Do I need a property manager?
Not always, but they save time and handle tenant issues, making rentals easier for busy investors.

66. Can I finance an investment property like a primary home?
Investment loans have higher rates and stricter requirements; planning ahead is key.

67. Should I buy a rental in a college area?
College rentals have steady demand but can have higher tenant turnover — consider management needs.

68. How do I screen tenants?
Credit checks, rental history, employment verification, and references help you pick responsible tenants.

69. Should I allow pets in my rental?
It can widen your pool of tenants, but may increase maintenance or require a pet deposit.

70. How do I handle tenant disputes?
Clear leases, communication, and legal guidance help; I can connect you with experienced local property attorneys.

Neighborhood & Lifestyle (71–80)

71. Which B