Buyers

My Buyer Goals

Explore all options for homes that meet your criteria
Negotiate the best possible price based on current market conditions
Work seamlessly with your home buying team of lender, inspector, appraiser and title attorney to complete the process

Buyer Interview

Regardless of where you are in the buying process, just starting to think about it or possibly found THE ONE, please take a few moments to complete this form.

Buyer's Guide

Whether you are a brand-new buyer or it's been a few years, this guide covers every step of the process! But please know that it is my job to be your partner and real estate expert. If you decide not to read a single page, it's ok. I'm here!

Quick Reference Resource List

Loan Application Checklist

Real Estate Glossary

MLS Area Maps

Buyer Tidbits

Flood Zones

Flood zones are important to know in Louisiana. Which homes are in a flood zone and what flood insurance expenses might be required are important variables in our real estate market. This site can help you explore current flood zone status by address in Louisiana. If in a flood zone other than X, an elevation certificate of that specific property will be required before a flood insurance quote can be issued.
Click Here to Check an Address
Monthly Payment Calculator
Trying to figure out what your monthly payments would be or what you can possibly afford to fit your budget?
Click Here to Run Your Numbers
Tips:
- To calculate your annual property taxes in Lafayette Parish, multiply the home value by 0.0085. If also within city limits, add 0.0098 of home value for estimated total of city and parish taxes. If this will be a primary residence and you take advantage of a homestead exemption, you can reduce $75,000 from the home value before making these calculations.
- For an estimated homeowner’s annual insurance payment on a 5 year old home or younger, you can multiply the square footage of living area (not under roof) by 0.6. For older than five years, use the rule of thumb of $100 per square foot.
What I Can Do For You
- Discuss agency relationships with you so you understand how I will represent you exclusively.
- Help you find a preferred lender to get pre-qualified for a mortgage.
- Interview you to determine your housing needs and special requests.
- Discuss the home buying process with you.
- Review all documents and provide sample copies to you.
- Constantly search the market for houses that meet your special needs and requests.
- Show you the properties that meet your requirements and price range.
- Write an offer with your best interests in mind and negotiate on your behalf until an agreement is reached.
- Review and discuss all disclosures with you.
- Guide and assist you through the due diligence process of inspections, insurance, etc. and any re-negotiations that may be necessary.
- Discuss the closing process with you and assist you in choosing a title company/attorney to close the transaction.
- Provide you with a list of licensed and bonded vendors in our area.
- Do a final walk through prior to closing to assure that the home is in the condition you expected based on prior negotiations.
- Follow up after closing.
What I Can't Do For You
- Make any decisions for you. You are the boss!
- Guarantee to help you buy property for less than market value.
- Hide or misrepresent material facts or defects about a property, even if I listed it.
- Discriminate in any way or violate Federal Fair Housing Laws.
- Collect any kickbacks or accept any rebates without your full knowledge and awareness.
- Choose the neighborhood or community you should live in.
- Tell you if the area is "safe" or what schools are "better" than others.
- Guarantee what the town planning and zoning commission will do OR the flood zone classifications.
I CAN provide you with resources that will help you make informed decisions.

“Arla is very knowledgeable and personable. I could always count on Arla to follow through on any concerns or questions I had. It’s clear to me why she is a consistent top performer in her company. I found Arla by searching for agents on Realtor.com; her ranking was #1 in the ‘most recommended, results (she beat the second-highest rated agent by a wide margin), so it’s not just me who has given Arla a high rating. Do yourself a favor. Call Arla!”

Darrel M., May 2020
“Good advice and communication. Very responsive.”

Albert B - Church Point, LA, February 2021
“Arla is very present for her clients. You never are made to feel like a number, a paycheck, or a bother. She really wants the best for her clients and it shows in her attitude and warmth. She is professional and knows her business well! ”

Alicia R., January, 2020
“We have used Arla for two home purchases, one home sale and negotiated a rental house. She is very professional and I always refer my co-workers as they move into this area to use Arla. They have always conveyed to me their satisfaction with her ability to find what they are looking for.”

Alva W., November, 2019
“Arla is fantastic. My husband and I were house hunting from across country, which put me on edge initially. Once we started working with Arla, I was out at ease. She understood what our goals and dreams were for our house and helped us land our forever home. She communicated with the seller to get our house at a better deal and got the construction done that we wanted. She has followed up with us before, during, and even after our move. I would recommend Arla to anyone, hands down!”

Amanda G., November, 2019
“Well Informed, Good In Depth Knowledge of the Area and Very Pleasant and helpful who goes out of her way to help. I greatly appreciate her.”

Amer R., November, 2019
“Dealing with such a capable and caring realtor as Arla made our experience a great one. Arla was highly recommended to us, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her to any friends or family. I was very impressed by both her professionalism and her knowledge of the real estate market. She was always accommodating and quick to respond if we had questions or concerns. She made the whole experience a very positive one. Working with Arla was truly a pleasure.”

Amy C - Church Point, LA, February 2021
“Arla was extremely knowledgeable and always very professional ; I felt completely confident with her guidance throughout the whole process. I always appreciated her quick response to any of our questions or concerns. I wouldn’t hesitate to call on her again or recommend her to friends and family. Working with Arla was a pleasure.”

Amy - Church Point, LA, October 2020
“Arla has a pleasant personality. She worked with me and had my best interest in mind. She is an asset to your company.”

Annalee A., February, 2020
“ARLA is simply the best, Thank you ARLA for making the sale of the townhouse such an easy process. It was a pleasure getting to know you!”

A & S Elhelou - Lafayette, LA, November 2021