First Time Home Buyer Louisiana: Programs and Grants for 2023

Welcome to our first-time home buyer Louisiana guide 😊! I am excited to share with you what you need to know to buy a home in Louisiana. 

Buying a house in Louisiana offers advantages for first-time home buyers, including lower home prices and a wide selection of down payment assistance programs. With these resources, eligible buyers can achieve homeownership sooner and with reduced upfront costs.

So let’s jump right in! 

What is a First-Time Home Buyer in Louisiana? 

Louisiana defines a first-time home buyer as someone who hasn’t owned a home in 3 years, granting them access to assistance programs. Eligible first-time buyers in Louisiana can access programs for financial assistance, down payments, and favorable rates.

Average Home Price in Louisiana	$249,900
3% Down Payment	$7497
20% Down Payment	$49,980
Average Credit Score in Louisiana	686

What are the requirements for First-Time homebuyers in Louisiana? 

You’ll need to have a minimum credit score of at least 580 and have a down payment of 3.5% of the purchase price. You should have a debt-to-income ratio under 50%  and purchase a home that is under the loan limits for your area. 

It is possible to purchase a home with lower credit scores if you are a veteran or active duty military or if you have 10% down. The lowest credit score allowed to purchase a home is 500.

First-Time Home buyer Income Requirements in Louisiana 

There is no minimum income requirement in order to become a first-time homebuyer in Louisiana. However, you do have to earn enough income to cover the house payment of the home you’d like to buy. 

Lenders use something called the debt-to-income ratio to determine how much you can afford to spend each month on your mortgage payment.  Your debt-to-income is a calculation of your monthly gross income and your monthly liabilities. 

The median home price in Louisiana is right around  $185,041 so you’d need to gross about $35,000 per year with no debt to purchase a home in that price range

Credit Requirements for First-Time Hombebuyers in Louisiana

• Credit requirements for first-time homebuyers in Louisiana vary depending on the lender and the specific loan program. While a higher credit score like a 740 and a larger down payment such as 20% can make the home buying process easier, there are options available for buyers with various credit backgrounds.
• Having a higher credit score can enhance your chances of securing favorable loan terms, don’t be discouraged if your credit is not perfect.
•  Many lenders are willing to work with first-time buyers and provide guidance on improving credit scores over time. It’s essential to maintain a good payment history, keep credit card balances low, and address any negative items on your credit report.

What Credit Score is Needed to buy a house in Louisiana? 

Most lenders in Louisiana will require you to have at least a 580 credit score. However, we can work with buyers who have a credit score of 500 or higher. Scores under 580 will usually require larger down payments. 

👉 What Credit Score Is Needed To Buy a House In Louisana?

First-Time Homebuyer Louisiana Down Payment Requirements 

There is no required down payment to buy a home in Louisiana.  There are programs such as USDA Rural Development and VA Loans, that don’t require a down payment. They are 100% financing.  You can also look into homebuyer grants, that will provide your down payment for a higher payment, or second mortgage. “

If you choose to use a program that does require a down payment, the minimum down payment ranges from 3% to 3.5%. Your down payment is going to depend on the loan program you choose, the area you want to purchase in, your credit score, and your income. 

👉 What Down Payment Is Required to Buy a House In Louisiana?

Down Payment Options for Louisiana First Time Homebuyers

When it comes to purchasing a home, one of the significant considerations for first-time buyers is the down payment. Fortunately, there are various sources from which your down payment can be derived. Here are some common options for down payment funds:

• Checking Account: Funds available in your checking account can be used for the down payment.

• Savings Account: If you have been diligently saving money, your savings account can serve as a source for your down payment.

• CD or Other Bank Accounts: Certificates of Deposit (CDs) or other bank accounts where you have accumulated funds can be tapped into for your down payment.

• Retirement Accounts: In some cases, you may be able to withdraw funds from your retirement accounts, such as an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or 401(k), for your down payment. It’s important to consult with a financial advisor and understand the implications of early withdrawal and potential taxes or penalties.

• Investment Accounts: If you have investment accounts, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds, you may consider selling some of these assets to generate funds for your down payment.

• Crypto*: Depending on the lender’s policies and acceptance of cryptocurrencies, you may be able to use digital currencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum as a source for your down payment. It’s essential to discuss this option with your lender and ensure it aligns with their guidelines.

• Gift Funds: Family members or close relatives may gift you the down payment funds. However, lenders often require documentation to verify the source of gift funds and ensure they are not loans that need to be repaid.

• Retirement Fund Loans: Some retirement plans allow participants to borrow against their retirement funds. However, it’s important to carefully consider the implications of taking a loan from your retirement account and understand the repayment terms and potential impacts on your long-term savings.

Sources Not Usually Accepted for Down Payments

It’s important to note that there are restrictions on the sources of down payment funds. The following sources are generally not accepted for down payments:

• Cash: Cash is typically not an acceptable source for a down payment, as it lacks a clear paper trail and documentation.

• Loans: You cannot use additional loans, such as personal loans or loans from friends or family, as a down payment source.

• Lender, Realtor, or Seller: None of these parties should provide down payments directly to the buyer or seller because doing so could lead to conflicts of interest and reduce transaction transparency.

Understanding your down payment options and ensuring you have a reliable and legitimate source of funds is essential. 

First Time Homebuyer Programs in Louisiana 

Loan Program	Down Payment	Credit Score Requirement	PMI Requirements
FHA Loan	3.5%	580 or higher	0.55 % of the Loan Amount
VA Loan	0%	500 or higher	None
USDA Loan	0%	580 or higher	0.35% of the Loan Amount
Conventional Loan	3%-20%	620 or higher	Varies

If you are a first-time homebuyer in Louisiana, you have many options available to you when it comes to financing your home. Only 13% of all homes purchased are purchased using cash,  so there is a good chance you’ll need to figure out which loan program is right for you. 

First-time homebuyers in Louisiana have many loan programs available to them. Choose your loan based on the amount of your down payment, credit score, and desired loan term. 

• If you have less than perfect credit, look at the government-backed options, such as FHA, VA, and USDA loans.
•  If you have ‘good’ credit, look at the conventional loan option.

No matter which loan you choose, there are attractive loan options that will help you buy your dream home. Let’s look at your options.

FHA Loans Louisiana

FHA loans have always had the reputation of being a ‘first-time homebuyer’s loan program’ mostly because of the low down payment requirement. 

Today, it’s a great option for anyone who doesn’t qualify for a conventional loan whether due to a low credit score, blemished credit history, or low down payment. FHA loans are ‘regular’ loans offered by traditional lenders but backed by the FHA. Because of the guarantee, lenders offer more flexible guidelines.

FHA lenders follow the FHA guidelines, but may add their own requirements too – it depends on the situation and lender. You make payments directly to the lender or servicer and the home buying process works just as smoothly as any other loan. 

How to Qualify for an FHA Loan

Here’s where FHA loans shine. You don’t need perfect credit or a large down payment. Here’s how to qualify:

• Minimum 580 credit score
• Minimum 3.5% down payment
• Maximum 50% total debt ratio
• Stable income and employment history for the last 2 years
• Proof that you’ll occupy the home as your primary residence
• 2 years from a Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharge
• 1 year from a Chapter 13 bankruptcy with trustee approval
• 3 years from a foreclosure

VA Loans Louisiana

Veterans Administration-backed VA loans are loans that are only available to former or current members of the military. Before we talk about qualifying for a VA loan, we must look at eligibility, as only certain people are eligible. You must:

• Be a veteran with at least 180 days served during peacetime or 90 days during wartime
• Current military member with at least 180 days served during peacetime or 90 days during wartime
• Be a surviving spouse of an eligible veteran who died in the line of duty or because of his time on duty

You secure a VA loan from a traditional lender. VA lenders follow the VA guidelines, and some have additional requirements depending on the situation. You make payments to the lender and/or loan servicer. The home buying process works the same as any other loan without any issues with sellers or the property itself.

How to Qualify for a VA Loan

Once you’ve established VA loan eligibility, you should determine if you qualify for a VA loan:

• No down payment required
• At least a 500 credit score
• Maximum 65% debt ratio 
• Meet the disposable income guidelines for your family size and location
• Provide your Certificate of Eligibility 
• Stable income and employment for the last 2 years
• Proof that you’ll live in the property as your primary residence
• 2 years from a Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharge
• 1 year since a Chapter 13 bankruptcy with trustee approval
• 2 years since a foreclosure 

USDA Loans Louisiana

The USDA program is for low to moderate-income families who buy a home in a rural area of Louisiana. The USDA’s definition of rural areas is much broader than you probably realize (it doesn’t just include areas surrounded by cornfields). 

USDA loans have flexible guidelines, making it easier for low-income families to secure a home, especially if you haven’t owned a home before. 

Before you determine if you qualify for a USDA loan, you must determine your eligibility. The USDA bases it on your household income – not just the borrower and co-borrower’s income. You can use this tool to determine if your household meets the requirements. In general, if your total household income is less than 115% of the area’s average income, you may be eligible.

How to Qualify for a USDA Loan

If you’ve established that you’re eligible for a USDA loan, here’s how to qualify:

• Minimum 640 credit score
• Maximum 43% total debt ratio
• No down payment is necessary (they provide 100% financing)
• Stable income and employment for the last 2 years
• Proof that you’ll occupy the home as your primary residence
• Proof that you don’t qualify for any other financing
• 3 years since a Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharge
• 1 year since a Chapter 13 bankruptcy with trustee approval
• 3 years since a foreclosure

Conventional Loans Louisiana 

Conventional loans are the ‘traditional’ mortgages most people know. They have the strictest underwriting requirements but have favorable terms.

Conventional loans are backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, so lenders must follow their guidelines, and may add their own too. It’s not as hard as many people think to get a conventional loan in Louisiana, though. 

How to Qualify for a Conventional Loan

While the underwriting requirements are ‘stricter’ they aren’t impossible to meet.

• Minimum 620 – 680 credit score depending on the lender
• Maximum 50% total debt ratio
• Minimum 3% down payment for first-time homebuyers (5% if you’ve owned a home before)
• Stable income and employment over the last 2 years
• 4 years from a Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharge
• 2 years from a Chapter 13 bankruptcy discharge
• 2 years from a foreclosure discharge date

First Time Home Buyer Grants In Louisiana 

Capital Area Finance Authority (CAFA) 

The CAFA home buyer grants are programs offered to first-time homebuyers to assist with down payments and closing costs. 

These programs are designed to provide homebuyer assistance to first-time homebuyers in Louisiana to purchase homes in the state. 

The grant can range from 4–7%, depending on which program and lender you use. The funds can be used to cover your down payment, closing costs, or prepaid items. 

CAFA Requirements: 

• Minimum Fico of 640 
• Debt to Income Ratio up to 50% 
• Must meet income limit (80% of Parish Median Income Limit) 
• Loan amount must be less than current loan limits 

Some of the programs provided by CAFA allow the grant to be forgiven if you stay in the home for at least seven years. Others will require you to take a higher interest rate on the primary loan in order to receive the down payment assistance. 

Louisiana Housing Corporation 

The Louisiana Housing Corporation administers federal and state funds through programs designed to help working families obtain affordable housing. 

Their mission is to ensure that every Louisiana resident is granted the opportunity to obtain safe, affordable, and energy-efficient housing. 

The Mortgage Revenue Bond (MRB) Assisted Program 

THE MRB program helps home buyers who are at 80%AMI or less and don’t have enough money to meet down payment and closing cost requirements.  It offers below market interest rates as well. 

MRB Benefits:

 A Homebuyer grant is a  program targeted at Louisiana first-time homebuyers to help them cover the cost of their down payment and/or closing costs. 

Not all grant programs are free and most come with either a second mortgage attached to your primary mortgage or an increased interest rate on your primary mortgage. (Down Payment Assistance) 

• Down Payment Assistance between 5%-9% of the loan amount. 
• Reduced Mortgage Insurance on Conventional Loans 

MRB Requirements: 

• Must be a first-time homebuyer
• The property must be in Louisiana 
• Must meet income requirements
• Minimum credit score of 640

The MRB down payment assistance program is a “soft” second lien attached to your home. The amount of the lien is equal to 4% of your mortgage loan amount. 

Market Rate GNMA Program 

The Market Rate GNMA Program offers 30 year fixed rate mortgages using FHA, VA or USDA Rural Development Loans. 

Market Rate GNMA Program Benefits: 

• First-time and repeat home buyers allowed
• Up to 4% assistance available 
• No origination or discount fees
• No additional bond documents or compliance package

Program Requirements: 

• Single Family Home
• Property must be located in Louisiana 
• Household income under 115% of AMI
• Minimum credit score of 640

The Market Rate GNMA is not a soft second program which means repayment of the grant will come in the form of a higher interest rate on your primary mortgage. 

Delta 100 Program

The Delta 100 Program is a $2 million parish specific program designed to help first-time home buyers in Louisiana delta parishes.  

The Delta 100 offers 100% financing and up to 3% in closing cost assistance to eligible homebuyers. 

Where are the Delta Parishes? 

The Delta Parishes are Caldwell, Catahoula, Concordia, East Carroll, Franklin, Madison, Morehouse, Pointe Coupee, Richland, Tensas, West Carroll, And Ouchita (Excluding Monroe). 

Delta 100 Program Benefits: 

• Mortgage Insurance not required 
• Up to 3% for closing costs and prepaid items 
• Max loan amount of $242,000
• Household Income up to 80% of AMI
• Fixed 30 year loan with a 2% interest rate

Delta 100 Program Requirements: 

• Must purchase a home in the Delta Parishes 
• The borrower must produce 1% of purchase price or $1500 whichever is less 
• No minimum credit score 
• Homebuyer education required

The Delta 100 program is a great program if you are a low-income household in the Delta parishes. Unlike the other programs on our list, this loan will cost you less than a traditional loan. 

Mortgage Credit Certificate Program

The LHC Mortgage Credit Certificate is a $5million statewide program that is designed to assist first-time homebuyers in Louisiana in purchasing a home in designated areas. 

The MCC program allows eligible borrowers to take a federal tax credit fo up to 40% of their annual mortgage interest payments for the life of their loan.  

MCC Program Benefits: 

• Available to low and moderate-income families
• Take up to 40% of annual mortgage interest payments as a tax credit on their federal income tax return. ( Capped at $2,000 per year) 
• Credit continues as long as you occupy the home 
• Can be used in conjunction with LHC’s down payment assistance programs
• Available Statewide 

The MCC is designed to increase the borrower’s monthly disposable income by providing income tax credits. 

Is a Louisiana First-Time Home Buyer Grant Right for You?

If you are a first-time home buyer in Louisiana, you may have heard about the availability of various grant programs designed to assist individuals in achieving homeownership. 

These grants can provide financial assistance, often in the form of down payment and closing cost assistance, to help make purchasing a home more affordable. 

While these grants can be beneficial, it’s important to assess whether they are the right fit for your specific circumstances. 

👉 5 Steps to Become a Louisiana First Time Home Buyer

Here are some factors to consider:

• Eligibility Requirements: First and foremost, determine if you meet the eligibility criteria for the grant programs. Each program may have specific requirements related to income limits, credit scores, property types, and other factors. Research the eligibility guidelines to see if you qualify for the grant.
• Financial Situation: Evaluate your financial situation and determine if you need additional financial assistance to cover the down payment and closing costs. If you have sufficient savings and resources to cover these expenses without the need for a grant, you may not require the additional assistance.
• Grant Amounts: Consider the amount of grant funds available. Some grants may provide a significant portion of the down payment or closing costs, while others may offer a smaller amount. Assess whether the grant funds would make a substantial impact on your overall home buying expenses.
• Repayment Terms: Understand the repayment terms associated with the grant program, if applicable. Some grants may require repayment over time or may be forgiven after a certain period of time. Evaluate if the repayment terms align with your long-term financial goals.
• Program Limitations: Be aware of any limitations or restrictions associated with the grant program. Some grants may have specific property location requirements, usage restrictions, or limitations on the types of mortgage loans you can use in conjunction with the grant.
• Application Process: Familiarize yourself with the application process for the grant program. Determine if you are comfortable with the documentation, paperwork, and timeline involved in applying for and receiving the grant funds.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue a Louisiana First-Time Home Buyer Grant depends on your individual circumstances and financial goals.

How Much Does it Cost to Buy a House in Louisiana? 

When it comes to buying a house in Louisiana you are going to have two different costs to consider. 

1. Monthly Costs: This is your mortgage payment which includes taxes, insurance and interest. 
2. Closing Costs: These are your upfront costs that include your down payment and closing costs. 

Let’s take a look at each of these on their own: 

Understanding Your Mortgage Payment Breakdown: PITI

• Principal: The principal portion of your mortgage payment goes towards repaying the amount borrowed to purchase the home. It gradually reduces the outstanding loan balance over time.

• Interest: The interest portion is the cost of borrowing money from the lender. It is based on the interest rate and the remaining loan balance. In the early years of the mortgage, a larger portion of the payment goes towards interest.

• Taxes: Property taxes are an essential part of homeownership. The amount of property taxes you pay depends on the assessed value of your home and the local tax rates. Property taxes are typically divided into monthly installments and held in an escrow account by the lender to ensure they are paid on time.

• Insurance: Homeowners insurance provides coverage for potential damages to your property due to unforeseen events, such as fire, theft, or natural disasters. The cost of homeowners insurance varies depending on factors like the home’s location, size, and the coverage amount. Like property taxes, insurance premiums are often collected and held in an escrow account by the lender.

Together, these components make up your total mortgage payment, commonly referred to as PITI. It’s important to consider the full PITI amount when determining your budget for a home purchase. 

Keep in mind that additional costs, such as mortgage insurance (if applicable), HOA fees, and any special assessments, should also be considered when estimating your monthly housing expenses.

By understanding the breakdown of your mortgage payment, you can better plan and manage your finances to ensure you can comfortably afford your new home in Louisiana.

Use Our Louisiana Mortgage Calculator to See What Your Payment Is

How Much Are Closing Costs in Louisiana? 

👉 Louisiana Closing Costs Guide

The cost of buying a home in Louisiana can vary depending on several factors, including the location, size, condition, and amenities of the property. 

Here are some key expenses to consider when budgeting for a home purchase in Louisiana:

1. Home Price: The price of homes in Louisiana can range widely depending on the city, neighborhood, and housing market conditions. Research the local real estate market and determine the average home prices in the areas you are interested in.

2. Down Payment: The down payment is a significant upfront cost that you need to consider. While the exact amount will depend on the purchase price and your financing options, a common rule of thumb is to aim for a down payment of 20% of the home’s purchase price to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI). However, there are also options available for lower down payment amounts, such as FHA loans with a minimum down payment of 3.5%.

3. Closing Costs: Closing costs include various fees associated with finalizing the home purchase transaction. These costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price and can include fees for appraisals, inspections, title insurance, attorney fees, and lender fees. It’s important to budget for these expenses in addition to the down payment.

4. Mortgage Loan: If you are financing your home purchase with a mortgage loan, you need to consider the costs associated with the loan, such as the interest rate, loan origination fees, and ongoing mortgage insurance premiums, if applicable.

5. Homeowners Insurance: Homeowners insurance is essential to protect your investment and provide coverage for potential damages or losses. The cost of homeowners insurance can vary based on factors such as the home’s location, size, and value. Obtain insurance quotes to estimate the monthly or annual premium.

6. Property Taxes: Property taxes in Louisiana can vary depending on the parish and city where the home is located. Property taxes are typically calculated as a percentage of the home’s assessed value. Research the property tax rates in your desired area to estimate this ongoing expense.

It’s important to note that these costs can fluctuate based on individual circumstances, market conditions, and specific loan terms. 

👉 How Much is a Home Inspection in Louisiana?

Who Pays Closing Costs In Louisiana? 

The buyer is ultimately responsible for covering their closing costs, in addition to their down payment. This figure is known as your cash to close, and you must prove you have enough money to cover these costs. However, there are a couple of different options to paying either all or part of your closing costs with seller or lender paid credits.

What percentage of the cost can the seller pay? 

• FHA: 6% of the closing costs
• USDA: 6% of the closing costs
• VA: 4% of the closing costs
• Conventional: 3% to 6% of the closing cost depending on the down payment

It is fairly common for homebuyer to get between $5000 to $7,000 of their closing costs covered by the seller.  The only loan program that may not allow the seller to cover all of your closing costs is Conventional. If you put less than 10% down on a conventional mortgage, the seller can only contribute up to 3% in closing costs. 

👉 Moving to Louisiana: Complete Guide

Buying a Home in Louisiana’s Major Cities

When it comes to buying a home in Louisiana’s major cities, each location has its own unique real estate market. Let’s take a closer look at the top five cities in the state:

1. New Orleans

👉 First Time Homebuyer New Orleans

As the most well-known city in Louisiana, New Orleans boasts a vibrant culture and rich history. The median list price of homes in New Orleans was $349,000 in March 2023, with a 5.7% year-over-year decrease, according to Realtor.com. 

For first-time homebuyers in New Orleans, down payment options for a home at the median price might range from $10,475 (3% down payment) to $69,800 (20% down payment). 

2. Baton Rouge

Baton Rougage First Time Homebuyer

As the capital city of Louisiana, Baton Rouge offers a thriving community and diverse opportunities. The median list price of homes in Baton Rouge was $260,000 in March 2023,

showing a 6.1% year-over-year increase, according to Realtor.com. For first-time homebuyers looking to purchase a home at the median price in Baton Rouge, down payment options may range from:

• $7,800 for a 3% down payment
• $52,000 for a 20% down payment

3. Shreveport

Located in the northwest region of Louisiana, Shreveport combines Southern charm with a relaxed atmosphere. The median list price of homes in Shreveport is $182,000. 

For a home at the median price, down payment options might range from $5,460 (3% down payment) to $36,400 (20% down payment). 

4. Lafayette

👉 Lafayette First-Time Homebuyer Guide

Known for its vibrant Cajun and Creole culture, Lafayette offers a unique blend of tradition and modern living. The median list price of homes in Lafayette was $222k as of April 2023. 

For a home at the median price, down payment options might range from $6,660 (3% down payment) to $44,400 (20% down payment). 

5. Lake Charles

👉 Lake Charles First Time Homebuyer Guide

Situated along the Calcasieu River, Lake Charles captivates residents with its natural beauty and thriving community. The median list price of homes in Lake Charles was $181,955 as of April 2023. 

For a home at the median price, down payment options might range from $5,459 (3% down payment) to $36,391 (20% down payment). 

When considering buying a home in any of these cities, it’s essential to research the local market, understand your budget and financing options, and work with experienced professionals who can guide you through the process.

Are You Ready to Buy a House in Louisiana? 

The path to becoming a first-time homebuyer in Louisiana is filled with promise and opportunity. With affordable housing options, generous down payment assistance programs, and favorable mortgage rates, you’re well-positioned to embark on this exciting journey. By arming yourself with knowledge, seeking guidance from professionals, and taking advantage of the resources available, you can confidently navigate the home buying process and make your homeownership dreams a reality.

Congratulations on taking this significant step towards homeownership in Louisiana. Enjoy the journey, savor the moments, and create lasting memories in the place you’ll proudly call home.

First-Time Home Buyer Louisiana FAQ’s

What Are The Steps To Buying a House in Louisiana

• Understand your budget and determine how much you can afford.
• Get pre-approved for a mortgage to know your purchasing power.
• Find a reliable real estate agent who specializes in the Louisiana market.
• Search for homes, attend showings, and make an offer.
• Complete the home inspection and appraisal process.
• Finalize your mortgage application and secure financing.
• Close on the home, sign the necessary paperwork, and receive the keys.

What Are The Requirements to Buy a House In Louisiana?

• Proof of income and employment stability.
• Good credit score and history.
• Sufficient funds for a down payment and closing costs.
• Meet the lender’s debt-to-income ratio requirements.

What is a Good Credit Score to Buy a House Louisiana?

While credit score requirements may vary among lenders, a good credit score generally falls in the range of 670 or higher. However, it’s advisable to aim for a score of 700 or above to increase your chances of securing favorable mortgage terms.

What Do You Need to Be a First-Time Home Buyer In Louisiana?

Typically, being a first-time homebuyer means you haven’t owned a home in the past three years. However, specific eligibility criteria may vary depending on the loan program and assistance programs you’re considering.

How Much Is A Down Payment On A House In Louisiana?

The down payment amount can vary depending on factors such as the loan program and your financial situation. Conventional loans often require a down payment of 3% to 20%, while government-backed loans like FHA and USDA may offer options as low as 0% to 3.5%.

What Is The Average Mortgage in Louisiana?

The average mortgage in Louisiana can vary based on factors such as home prices, interest rates, and individual borrower qualifications. As of February 2023, the average mortgage in Louisiana was $1073

Are Property Taxes High in Louisiana?

Louisiana’s property tax rates are generally lower compared to many other states in the U.S. However, property tax rates can vary by parish and municipality within the state. It’s important to research and understand the specific property tax rates in the area you are considering. Louisiana also offers a homestead exemption for the first $75,000 in Value.

Does Louisiana Offer a First Time Home Buyer Program?

Yes, Louisiana offers various programs and assistance options for first-time homebuyers. These programs can provide down payment assistance, favorable loan terms, and other benefits. Research and consult with local housing agencies or lenders to explore the programs available in your area.

What is The First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit In Louisiana?

Louisiana does not have a specific first-time homebuyer tax credit program at the state level. However, you may be eligible for federal tax credits or deductions related to homeownership, such as mortgage interest deductions or credits for energy-efficient home improvements.