FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Most frequent questions and answers
What am I required to bring to closing?
- You will need a current driver’s license or current form of photo identification
- Cashiers Check or Wired Funds (required for any amounts over $2500.00)
- Any other information your lender instructs you to bring
How much will I need to bring to my closing?
The Good Faith Estimate provided by lender is only an estimate. However your lender or our office will furnish you with a Closing Disclosure / Settlement Statement prior to closing.
Why do I need title insurance?
If financing the purchase of your home, your lender will require that you purchase a Lenders Policy of Title Insurance. This protects the lender’s interest in the title to the property. Our office recommends that you purchase an Owner’s Policy of Title Insurance to protect your own interest in the property. This is a one time premium that protects your interest in the property as long as you remain in title. The simultaneous issuance of the Mortgage and Owners Policy of Title Insurance is given at a special discounted rate.
What if I am unable to attend the closing?
If unable to attend the closing, we will assist and prepare a Power of Attorney which is specific to your transaction. The Power of Attorney must be approved by your lender in advance.
How do I file for homestead exemption?
Homestead Exemption in the State of Louisiana can be granted on a home that is owned and permanently occupied as a domicile. The Homestead Exemption allows that the first $75,000.00 of the assessed value on an owner occupied home will be exempt from property taxes.
You will be responsible for filing your Homestead Exemption, depending on the parish in which your property is located. You will need to consult with the appropriate Tax Assessor’s Office to obtain the necessary information.
Jefferson Parish Assessor’s Office (Westbank)
200 Derbigny Street, Suite 1100
Gretna, LA 70053
(504) 362-4100
http://www.jpassessor.com
Jefferson Parish Assessor’s Office (Eastbank)
1221 Elmwood Park Boulevard, Suite 901
Jefferson, LA 70123
(504) 736-6370
http://www.jpassessor.co
St. Tammany Parish Assessor
701 N. Columbia Street, Suite 4
Covington, LA 70433
(985) 809-8180
https://stpao.org
Orleans Parish Assessor’s Office
1300 Perdido Street, City Hall Room 4E01
New Orleans, LA 70112
(504) 658-1300
http://nolaassessor.com
St. Bernard Assessor’s Office
2118 Jackson Blvd
Chalmette, LA 70043
(504) 279-6379
http://www.stbassessor.com
I am a first-time homebuyer. What do I need to know?
Being a first time homebuyer can be overwhelming. If not done correctly and in a timely manner a potential contract can be lost to another buyer. Learn more about how we can help first-time homebuyers.
I may not qualify for a traditional mortgage. Do I have other financing options?
For purchasers not going thru a traditional lender we offer a BOND FOR DEED, which gives prospective purchasers an alternative form of seller financing to close their transaction.