Louisiana is full of local character, from Acadiana to the river parishes to the north shore, and each place has its own habits when it comes to buying a home. If you are planning a purchase in 2027, this guide covers Baton Rouge, Lafayette, New Orleans, Bossier City, and Covington, the loan types we can help you compare, and the state housing agency that may be worth a look. Shay Yates and the True North Yates Group team are a small, Springfield, Missouri based team licensed to lend in Louisiana, and we answer the phone. You can also read our Louisiana page for a quick overview.
Where buyers are looking in Louisiana
Here is a quick tour of places we hear about often. This is not a ranking and not advice about where anyone should live. It is simply a starting point for your own search.
Baton Rouge
The capital and the center of a busy market in East Baton Rouge Parish, with established neighborhoods and growing suburbs across the river and in Livingston Parish.
Lafayette
The center of Acadiana, with a steady market and price points that tend to be more approachable than the New Orleans area.
New Orleans
A distinctive market with historic homes, shotguns, and condos, where flood zones and insurance come up in nearly every conversation.
Bossier City
Across the river from Shreveport and home to Barksdale Air Force Base, so military and Veteran buyers are a regular part of the market.
Covington
On the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain in St. Tammany Parish, with a mix of historic and newer neighborhoods.
Loan programs to know in Louisiana
Most Louisiana buyers end up choosing among a handful of loan types. We compare them side by side for your situation, with no pressure.
- Conventional loans. A flexible choice for buyers with solid credit, and often a good fit for larger purchases or second homes.
- FHA loans. Government insured loans designed with flexible credit and smaller down payments in mind, a common route for first-time buyers.
- VA loans. A benefit for eligible Veterans, service members, and some surviving spouses. Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier City and the state's Veteran community make VA loans a common topic.
- USDA loans. Many Louisiana parishes outside the larger metros may include USDA eligible areas, so check the address on the USDA map.
- First-time buyer programs. Help from LHC, covered below.
First-time buyer help from LHC
Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC) is the state agency behind homebuyer programs in Louisiana. LHC offers soft second mortgage programs and mortgage revenue bond options for eligible buyers, delivered through approved lenders. Some programs have property rules, such as flood zone limits, and eligible parishes differ by program, so ask us whether you may qualify.
Program details, limits, and which lenders take part are set by the agency and can change, so please check the agency's own site, LHC, for the latest. We do not want to promise anything the agency has not. What we can do is look at your situation and tell you honestly what to ask about.
A local thing worth asking about
Flood zones matter a lot in Louisiana. Some LHC soft second options also have property rules tied to flood zones, so ask us early about the address you are considering.
How we work with Louisiana buyers
The path is the same wherever you are buying. First comes a no pressure conversation about your goals and your budget. Next we look at loan options and, if it makes sense, get you pre-approved so your offer stands out. Once you are under contract, we keep you posted at every step, from the appraisal to the closing table, and we explain each document in plain English. If a question comes up at 9 at night, send a text.
Next steps
Not sure where to start? Start with a simple conversation. We will listen first, then map out a plan that fits your timeline. You can see where we lend on our states we serve page, read the Louisiana page, send us a note on the contact page, or start your application. Shay and the team are just a text away.
Frequently asked questions
Is Shay licensed to help with a home loan in Louisiana?
Yes. Shay Yates (NMLS 2172921) is licensed through Southwest Funding to originate loans in Louisiana. Licensing details are on our Louisiana page, and you can verify any loan officer at nmlsconsumeraccess.org.
Does Louisiana have help for first-time buyers?
Yes. The Louisiana Housing Corporation offers homebuyer programs through approved lenders, and eligibility varies by program and parish. Ask us whether you may qualify.
Why does flood zone matter?
It can affect insurance and, for some programs, whether a property is eligible. Share the address and we will help you ask the right questions.
Do I need to live in Missouri to work with you?
No. Our team works with buyers in Louisiana and other states by phone, text, and secure online tools, so you can apply and move through the process from home. Reach us any time on the contact page.
This post is general information, not financial advice or a commitment to lend. Programs and eligibility vary and are subject to credit and property approval. Talk with a loan officer about your situation.