Baton Rouge Thanksgiving Events --> Near Your Next Home

As Thanksgiving rolls in, Baton Rouge comes alive with families gathering, kitchens warming up, and traditions unfolding all across the Capital Region. But beyond the turkey and the football, this season is also one of the best reminders of what makes this city special—community, connection, and the local traditions that bring us together.

If you're new to the area, planning a move, or just exploring neighborhoods, Thanksgiving is the perfect time to see what living in Greater Baton Rouge truly feels like. Here are the best Baton Rouge Thanksgiving events happening right around the corner from your next home.

🍂 1. Thanksgiving Feasts & Local Dining

Whether you’re skipping the cooking or just want a stress-free holiday, Baton Rouge offers amazing Thanksgiving menus.

Popular options include:

• Ruffino’s on Highland

• Juban’s

• Stab’s Prime in Ascension

• Beausoleil Coastal Cuisine

These spots are local favorites for families in South Baton Rouge, Prairieville, and Mid City, giving you delicious options right near home.

 🦃 2. Turkey Trots & Community Runs

The Turkey Trot Baton Rouge downtown is one of the city’s biggest Thanksgiving Day traditions. It’s fun, family-friendly, and a great way to meet neighbors.

Residents of Mid City, Spanish Town, Southdowns, and Downtown Baton Rouge love being able to walk or bike to this event.

🎄 3. Festival of Lights (Thanksgiving Weekend)

The official kickoff to Christmas in Baton Rouge!
The Festival of Lights lights up downtown the Friday after Thanksgiving with:

• Live music

• Fireworks

• Vendors

• Photos with Santa

• A huge Christmas tree lighting

It’s a major selling point for buyers wanting walkability in neighborhoods like Beauregard Town, Spanish Town, and The Garden District.

📍 4. Local Makers Markets & Holiday Pop-Ups

Thanksgiving weekend is prime time for supporting small businesses:

• Mid City Makers Market

• Denham Springs Antique Village

• Perkins Rowe Holiday Pop-Ups

These markets also help buyers get a sense of each neighborhood’s personality—from artsy Mid City to family-friendly Denham Springs.

🏈 5. LSU Thanksgiving Traditions

Whether LSU is home or away, the energy in Baton Rouge is unmatched during Thanksgiving weekend.

Neighborhoods like Southdowns, University Club, and Highland Road offer the perfect blend of holiday spirit and Tiger traditions.

🛶 6. Outdoor Thanksgiving Adventures

With the weather finally cooling off, locals take full advantage of outdoor spots like:

• Bluebonnet Swamp

• The LSU Lakes

• Comite River Park

• Greenwood Park

Perfect for families in Shenandoah, Zachary, Prairieville, and Bocage.

🏡 Why These Events Matter When Choosing a Neighborhood

Thanksgiving is the perfect reminder that real estate is about lifestyle—not just square footage.

When choosing your next home in Greater Baton Rouge, consider:

• Access to community events

• Walkability

• Proximity to parks, restaurants, and LSU events

• Whether you want a quiet suburb or an active, event-filled neighborhood

Understanding these seasonal traditions can help you find a home that truly fits your lifestyle.

🍁 Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving brings out the heart of Baton Rouge—family, food, community, and the comfort of home. Whether you're attending your first Turkey Trot or catching fireworks downtown, these traditions are part of what makes living here so special.

If you’re thinking about moving before or after the holidays, I’d love to help you find a home in a neighborhood that matches the lifestyle you want.

12 Creative Financing Ideas Helping Today’s Homebuyers (Despite Inflation & Weird Market Sentiment)

By Tyler Terrebonne, REALTOR® | Greater Baton Rouge

To Search Homes in your area, visit Hot Listings Link Here

If you’ve been paying attention to the 2025 real estate market, you already know the vibe:

Rates are still high, inflation is squeezing wallets, and the overall sentiment from buyers and sellers is… well… bizarre.

But here’s the good news:
Homebuyers today have more creative financing tools than ever before.
These strategies are helping people lower their monthly payments, reduce cash to close, unlock better terms, and move forward confidently — even when the economic mood swings feel unpredictable.

Below are 12 real-world financing ideas that buyers in Greater Baton Rouge (and across the country) are using right now.

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1. Seller- or Builder-Paid 2-1 Buydowns

A 2-1 buydown gives a buyer a 2% lower rate in year one, then 1% lower in year two, before settling into a normal fixed rate.
This helps ease into the mortgage while keeping early payments affordable — especially helpful on new construction, where builders use this instead of reducing price.

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2. “Pick Your Payment” Packages From Builders

Some builders now let buyers choose between:

• Temporary rate buydown

• Permanent buy-down

• Closing cost assistance

• Upgrade credits

It’s essentially a customizable financing menu.

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3. Seller Credits Used to Buy Down the Rate

Instead of asking for price reductions, buyers are negotiating 2–3% in seller credits and using that money to permanently lower their interest rate.
Buying points can often reduce the rate by 0.25% per point, creating long-term savings.

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4. DSCR Loans for House Hackers

Debt-Service-Coverage-Ratio loans, typically used by investors, can benefit buyers who want to purchase a duplex, triplex, or fourplex.
The lender uses the property’s projected income to help qualify the buyer — a huge perk when affordability is tight.

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5. Combining Down Payment Assistance With Seller Credits

Many buyers don’t realize this is allowed.

• DPA covers the down payment

• Seller credit covers most closing costs

This dramatically reduces cash needed at closing and keeps purchasing power alive.

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6. Renovation Loans That Build Instant Equity

Instead of overpaying for a fully updated home, buyers can purchase a dated property and use:

• FHA 203k, or

• Conventional Homestyle

These loans wrap renovation costs into the mortgage and can create instant equity once improvements are complete.

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7. Lease-to-Own With a Locked Interest Rate

Some lenders now offer rent-to-buy programs where buyers:

• Rent for 6–12 months

• Lock a purchase rate now

• Apply a portion of rent toward the down payment

Perfect for buyers who need time to improve credit or save more cash.

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8. Assumable Mortgages (One of the Biggest Opportunities Right Now)

Many FHA and VA loans from 2020–2022 came with 2–4% interest rates.
Buyers today can assume those loans — meaning take over the existing rate.
The main challenge is covering the equity gap, but for the right buyer, the payment savings can be massive.

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9. Shared-Equity Programs With Parents or Employers

A growing trend:
Parents or companies help with the down payment in exchange for a small share of future equity.
This reduces debt, lowers the payment, and creates support without traditional co-signing.

(And Baton Rouge companies with 40+ employees sometimes offer these programs — great tie-in with local lender partnerships.)

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10. Non-QM & Bank Statement Loans for Self-Employed Buyers

When inflation eats into profits, many self-employed buyers struggle with traditional income documentation.
Bank statement loans allow qualification using 12–24 months of deposits, making homeownership possible for contractors, gig workers, and small business owners.

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11. “Buy Now, Refinance Later” With Free or Discounted Refis

Many lenders are offering free or low-cost refinances within 2–3 years.
This mitigates the fear of buying at today’s rate, knowing you can adjust the payment when market conditions improve.

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12. Using a HELOC to Fund the Down Payment

Buyers with equity in their current home can utilize a HELOC to cover the down payment on a new purchase.
This avoids having to sell first — especially useful in a market where many sellers are hesitant to list until they find their next home.

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Why Creative Financing Matters in Today's Market

Today’s housing market requires strategy.
Affordability is tight. Inflation is real. Sentiment is shaky.
But the dream of homeownership is very much still alive.

Creative financing gives buyers options — and options create confidence.

If you want help navigating any of these strategies or want a personalized game plan based on your budget, goals, and timeline, I’d be happy to walk you through it.

Visit my Website & Contact Me Here

Tyler Terrebonne

RE Advisor

Tyler.Terrebonne@evrealestate.com

225 341 0081

 

Born and reaised in Louisiana. Over a decade of entrepreneurial expertise, I bring a profound understanding of delivering value to clients. As a seasoned small business owner, coupled with hands-on involvement in property investing and management, I embody a potent blend of insight that proves efficient in meeting the needs and goals of my clients.

Baton Rouge Window Tint Experts: Inside Auto Evolution

Auto Evolution — Baton Rouge

Name: Auto Evolution
Location: 3655 Oneal Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70816 
Phone: (225) 241-2687 
Website: AutoEvolutionLA.com Auto Evolution

Origins & History

Auto Evolution has deep roots in the Baton Rouge community, going back to 1996, according to their About page. Originally, the founder, Russell Bourgeois, focused on working with car dealerships — installing electronics, spoilers, stereo systems, leather kits, and more. Auto Evolution

In 2004, Russell shifted the business toward retail — launching window tinting and accessory work for individual customers. Over the decades, Auto Evolution has grown into one of the most respected tint and accessory shops in the 225 area, building a reputation for quality, integrity, and craftsmanship. 

According to BBB records, their business is currently run by Russell, who remains a full owner. 

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Services Offered

Auto Evolution specializes in automotive window tinting and leather upholstery/interior work. Here’s a closer look:

Window Tinting

• They use premium films, backed by a lifetime warranty — meaning no fading, bubbling, or peeling over time. 

• Their film selection is robust: they have stained (dyed) films, ceramic films, and even high-performance “ceramic+” films. 

• Shade options range from light (80%) to very dark (5% limo-style), giving customers flexibility in terms of privacy, style, and heat rejection. 

• Their ceramic film reportedly offers up to 76% infrared (IR) heat rejection, while their “ceramic+” film can reach 96% IR rejection. 

• Thanks to their experience (30+ years in the auto restyling space), many tint installs are quick: some take just 30–60 minutes. 

• Pricing: full-vehicle tinting starts around $229.99, per their website — competitive given the quality of film and installation.      

• Upholstery / Leather Work

While most of their public-facing marketing centers on tinting, Auto Evolution also lists leather upholstery among their specialties. This means they can handle interior upgrades, re-trimming, or leather kit installations, though their website focuses more heavily on tinting.

Customer Experience & Warranty

• Installers: Their team (Russell, Gavin, James) brings 40+ years of combined experience. 

• They emphasize precision craftsmanship — careful edge work, clean cuts, and proper fitment. 

• Customer service: They pride themselves on being friendly, transparent, and honest. 

• Guarantee: They stand behind their work with a satisfaction guarantee. 

Reputation & Community Trust

• Google / Reviews: Auto Evolution has 500+ 5-star reviews according to their own website, signaling consistent customer satisfaction. 

• BBB Profile: The BBB lists them as having “years of professional automotive experience” and notes they are the “highest rated window tinting shop” in Baton Rouge. 

• Nextdoor: On Nextdoor, local residents consistently recommend them, citing their high-quality work and fair pricing. 

• Longevity: Having operated (in some capacity) since 1996, they’re one of the more established specialty auto shops in the area.

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Why Auto Evolution Matters to Baton Rouge

1. Local Legacy: Not many auto accessory shops last nearly 30 years in the same market — their longevity speaks to trust and consistent quality.

2. Premium Service: Their use of high-grade films and lifetime warranty means customers are investing in a long-term, durable solution — not just a cheap tint job.

3. Expertise & Experience: With decades in the business and skilled installers, they offer craftsmanship that many newer shops may not match.

4. Community Connection: Because they’re locally owned and have deep roots, they understand the Baton Rouge driver’s needs — like dealing with intense heat, road conditions, and local regulations.

5. Value: Their transparency on pricing, combined with the quality of their materials, gives customers a compelling value proposition — not the cheapest, but likely among the best for what you get.

   
   
   

Final Thoughts

Auto Evolution isn’t just another window tint shop — it's a longtime Baton Rouge institution. For drivers who want more than just a cosmetic upgrade (think heat rejection, UV protection, durability), Auto Evolution stands out for its experience, materials, and commitment to doing the job right.

What Customers have Said 

"Love this shop and their work is excellent! They have great customer service and are willing to work you in to the schedule when you need … definitely recommend.” — C. Shaidaee 

“I have had three vehicles tinted at Auto Evolution and highly recommend them! Super fast, great communication, and always a great end product. The ceramic tint makes a world of a difference in summer.” — M. Bloch “Russell and his team have been taking care of my vehicles for years, and they’ve always done a fantastic job. … If you’re looking for someone who truly pays attention to detail and treats every job as if it were their own, Auto Evolution is the place to go. Highly recommend!” — G. Fletcher

“Friendly, knowledgeable, great service and a great product!” “Russell was so knowledgeable. Super quick. I was in and out all in my lunch break. Tint looks great!” 

“Quick, easy, and good work done. Friendly staff. They make sure you understand what options are available and what’s best for you.” 

“James did an amazing job on my windows! … Great outcome, and he was able to replace my tint while not damaging my rear defrost at all!!” 

“I was there this morning to get my new car window tinted. … Gavin is very knowledgeable. … they can be flexible and get my car done in less than 30 m with a reasonable price. 5 star for sure!”                    

Louisiana Has About $1 Billion Sitting Unclaimed — Here’s How to See If Any of It Is Yours

Did you know the State of Louisiana is holding over $1 billion in unclaimed money for residents, businesses, and even people who have moved away? It’s true — and according to the Louisiana State Treasurer, 1 in 6 Louisianans has unclaimed property waiting to be claimed.

           

If you’ve ever moved, changed jobs, switched banks, or even received a refund check you forgot to cash… there’s a real chance the state is holding something with your name on it.

And checking takes less than 60 seconds.

https://unclaimedproperty.la.gov/

What Counts as “Unclaimed Property”?

People hear the phrase and assume it’s land or houses — but that’s not what this program is.

Louisiana’s unclaimed property typically includes:

• Uncashed refund checks

• Utility deposits

• Dormant bank accounts

• Insurance payouts

• Payroll checks

• Royalties or dividends

• Tax refunds that never made it to your mailbox

The state does not hold real estate or vehicles under this program.

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Why So Many People Have Unclaimed Money

A lot of this money comes from simple situations — things like:

• Moving without updating your address

• A check being mailed to the wrong place

• Changing employers

• Closing a bank account and forgetting a small balance

• Not claiming a tax refund

• A business sending you money that gets returned as undeliverable

It doesn’t matter if the amount is $8 or $8,000 — if it’s yours, the state is required to hold onto it until you claim it.

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How to Check If You Have Unclaimed Property

Louisiana makes it very simple. You can search two ways:

Option 1: Use the Official Website

Visit the Louisiana Treasury’s unclaimed property search and type in your name. The search is instant and free.

https://unclaimedproperty.la.gov/app/claim-search

Option 2: Check Through the LA Wallet App

If you use LA Wallet, there’s a built-in feature that links directly to the state’s database.

This is especially convenient because the app already verifies your identity.

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What If You Received a Letter From the Department of Revenue?

Sometimes, unclaimed tax refunds are transferred to the unclaimed property division. If LDR sends you a notice, you can claim it through their system (LaTAP) or via a voucher they provide.

Louisiana recently announced that millions in tax refunds will soon be moved to unclaimed property if taxpayers don’t claim them. So if you get a letter—don’t ignore it.

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How to File a Claim

If you find something under your name:

1. Start a claim on the website or through LA Wallet

2. Verify your identity

3. Submit documentation if requested

4. Receive your check once approved

The process is 100% free — the Treasurer’s Office warns against any service that tries to charge you to “recover” your money.

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Why You Should Check Every Year (Especially Right Now)

Between tax refunds, insurance payouts, and old employer checks, new unclaimed property is added constantly. It makes sense to check at least once a year, and especially if you’ve changed addresses or jobs recently.

Plus, with the recent government shutdown, tax delays, and state-level processing backlogs, there’s an even higher chance refunds or payments were re-routed into the unclaimed property system.

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Final Thought

It’s rare that the government tells you, “Hey, we owe you money.” But that’s exactly what this program is.

Take 60 seconds to check for yourself, your business name, and even past addresses — you might be surprised what shows up.

https://unclaimedproperty.la.gov/app/claim-search

Why Would Anyone Move During the Holidays? (Actually, More People Do Than You Think.)

Every year around this time, someone asks me, “Tyler, who would move in November or December? Isn’t the market dead until spring?”

Homes For Sale in Your Area

It’s a fair question — between LSU football, family gatherings, and Christmas lights going up all over Baton Rouge, moving might sound like the last thing anyone would want to do. But here’s the truth: the holidays can actually be one of the best times of year to buy or sell a home.

🎁 Less Competition, More Opportunity

While most people are waiting until January to list, smart sellers know the buyers out shopping right now are serious. These aren’t “just-looking” buyers — they’re ready to make decisions before the year ends. That means fewer showings to deal with and more qualified offers when they do come in.

For buyers, fewer competing offers can mean better negotiating power, faster closings, and in some cases, even price flexibility from sellers who want to start the new year with a clean slate.

🏡 The Emotional Side of “Home”

There’s something magical about closing on a home right before Christmas — decorating a new living room for the first time, hosting family in a fresh space, or just knowing the new year will start in a place that’s truly yours.

For families with school-age kids, the timing can also make perfect sense. Moving during the holiday break means no classroom disruptions and a smooth transition before the spring semester.

🌟 Real Estate Doesn’t Stop for Santa

Even with the holiday slowdown, life keeps moving — job relocations, growing families, and new opportunities don’t take time off. And with government-backed loan programs back on track after the recent shutdown, buyers using FHA, VA, or USDA loans are finally seeing progress again.

So while the rest of the world is sipping eggnog, some Baton Rouge families are unlocking new front doors — and starting their next chapter.

Search the Newest Listings in Your Area Here

Thinking about making a move before the year ends?
Let’s build a plan that fits your holiday schedule — and maybe have you in your new home before the gumbo pot hits the stove.

📞 Tyler Terrebonne
Engel & Völkers Baton Rouge
📧 tyler.terrebonne@evrealestate.com
📱 225-341-0081