Buyers

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.