Selling a home in Baton Rouge takes more than a sign in the yard. Louisiana has its own contract, its own disclosure rules and its own way of closing. This guide walks you through each step, from pricing to the Act of Sale, so you know what to expect before you list.
Questions About This Seller’s Guide?
Kevin is happy to walk you through any step. Call or text him at 225-229-0443.
Step 1: Know the Market Before Selling a Home in Baton Rouge
Start with the numbers. In August 2026, the Greater Baton Rouge Association of REALTORS® reported a median sales price of $274,900, up 1.1% from a year earlier. Homes spent a median of 70 days on the market, and inventory stood at 4.4 months of supply (GBRAR market report).
What does that mean for you? Buyers have choices, so they compare. A well-priced, well-prepared home still sells. However, an overpriced home tends to sit, and long days on market make buyers wonder what is wrong with it.
Step 2: Price It Right From Day One
Your list price is the most important decision you will make. Kevin builds every price from recent closed sales near your home, adjusted for size, condition, updates, lot and flood zone. Because he also completes Broker Price Opinions for asset managers, he prices homes the same way lenders and investors do: from data, not from hope.
For example, two houses on the same street can sell thousands of dollars apart because one has an updated kitchen or sits outside the flood zone. A good price reflects those details.
Step 3: Prepare Your Home
- Fix the small things. Leaky faucets, loose handles and burned-out bulbs signal neglect to buyers.
- Declutter and clean. Buyers need to picture their own things in the space.
- Boost curb appeal. Trim the yard, pressure-wash walkways and paint the front door if it needs it.
- Consider a pre-listing inspection. Finding problems early lets you fix them or price for them before a buyer’s inspector finds them.
- Gather your records. Keep receipts for the roof, HVAC, water heater and any flood or foundation work.
Step 4: Complete Your Louisiana Disclosures
Most Louisiana sellers must complete the Property Disclosure Document (PDD). It asks what you know about the home, including a detailed flood section: past flooding, flood zone, flood insurance, insurance claims and any FEMA or SBA assistance. Answer every question honestly and completely.
- Timing matters. If the buyer receives the PDD after making an offer, the buyer may cancel within 72 hours without penalty. Have it ready when you list.
- Older homes. If the home was built before 1978, you must also provide a lead-based paint disclosure.
- Past flood aid. If you received federal disaster aid that requires flood insurance on the property, you must tell the buyer before the sale.
Louisiana law also gives buyers a warranty against hidden defects, called redhibition (Civil Code art. 2520). The purchase agreement lets the parties choose how that warranty applies. A waiver only works when it is clear and brought to the buyer’s attention, and it never protects a seller who hides a known problem.
Step 5: Market and Show Your Home
Most buyers see your home online before they see it in person. That is why professional photos, a clear description and accurate details in the MLS matter. Once the listing is live, keep the home show-ready, make showings easy and step out while buyers tour.
Step 6: Review Offers and Negotiate
Louisiana uses a standard Residential Agreement to Buy or Sell. The 2026 version became mandatory on January 1, 2026 (LREC). When you compare offers, look past the price:
- Deposit: due within 72 hours of acceptance.
- Financing: the loan type and the buyer’s pre-approval.
- Inspection period: the number of days is negotiated, not set by the form. Shorter periods mean less uncertainty for you.
- Appraisal: what happens if the home appraises below the price.
- Closing date and seller concessions.
Kevin holds the Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) designation, so he negotiates price, repairs and terms on your behalf.
Step 7: Inspections, Appraisal and Repairs
After acceptance, the buyer usually orders an inspection. Expect a repair request. You can agree, offer a credit, or negotiate a middle ground. If the buyer is financing, the lender orders an appraisal. If it comes in low, the buyer and seller renegotiate or the buyer may be able to walk away, depending on the contract terms.
Step 8: Closing, the Act of Sale
In Louisiana, the closing is called the Act of Sale. It is usually handled by a title company and a notary. Under the standard agreement, the seller typically pays for tax and mortgage certificates, the seller’s closing fees and any prior-year taxes. Current-year property taxes are prorated. Your mortgage payoff comes out of your proceeds.
Married? Louisiana is a community property state. If the home is community property, both spouses generally must agree to sell it (Civil Code art. 2347), so plan for both of you to sign. If your situation is unusual, talk with an attorney.
Seller Costs to Plan For
- Real estate commission (always negotiable)
- Seller closing fees, tax certificates and mortgage certificates
- Prorated property taxes
- Repairs or credits agreed after the inspection
- Your mortgage payoff and any liens
Ask Kevin for a net sheet. It estimates what you will walk away with at your list price.
Ready to Sell? Start With a Free Home Value Review
If you are thinking about selling a home in Baton Rouge, Kevin can help. He is a REALTOR® with RE/MAX Professional serving East Baton Rouge, Ascension and Livingston parishes. Call or text 225-229-0443 for a no-pressure price review, or read more about Kevin.