Resources
We’ve gathered helpful tools and links to make your closing experience as seamless and informed as possible.
Client Portal
Securely upload documents, track your closing, and communicate with our team in real time. You’ll receive a secure login once your closing is opened.
Utilities & Local Services
We recommend setting up or transferring utilities at least 2–3 days prior to closing to ensure a smooth transition into your new home.
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Entergy Louisiana
https://www.entergy-louisiana.comDEMCO
https://www.demco.org -
Baton Rouge Water Company
https://www.brwater.comIn Ascension, Livingston, and West Baton Rouge, water is often provided through local districts or municipalities.
Zachary, La.
CityofZachary.org -
Atmos Energy
https://www.atmosenergy.com
Delta Utilities
https://deltautilities.com/ -
Trash service may be provided by your parish, municipality, HOA, or a private provider.
Republic Services
Waste Management
City of Baton Rouge
https://www.brla.govAscension Parish
https://www.ascensionparish.netLivingston Parish
https://www.livingstonparishla.govWest Baton Rouge Parish
https://www.wbrcouncil.org -
Search property values, ownership, and homestead exemption status:
East Baton Rouge Parish Assessor→ https://www.ebrpa.org
West Baton Rouge Parish Assessor→ https://www.wbrassessor.org
Ascension Parish Assessor→ https://www.ascensionassessor.com
Livingston Parish Assessor→ https://www.livingstonassessor.com
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Access property records, mortgage filings, and official documents:
East Baton Rouge Parish→ https://www.ebrclerk.com→ https://www.ebrclerk.com/online-access
West Baton Rouge Parish→ https://www.wbrclerk.org→ https://www.wbrclerk.org/services/public-records
Ascension Parish→ https://www.ascensionclerk.com
Livingston Parish→ https://www.livclerk.org→ https://www.livclerk.org/search
Before Closing Checklist
A few simple steps to help ensure everything is in place before your closing:
• Set up or transfer utilities (electric, water, gas, trash)
• Secure homeowner’s insurance and provide it to your lender
• Review your Closing Disclosure prior to your appointment
• Confirm wire instructions directly with our office
• Schedule your final walkthrough with your agent
• Bring a valid photo ID to closing
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A few trusted options to help make your move seamless:
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Louisiana Secretary of State (Business Filings)
https://www.sos.la.govLouisiana Tax Commission
https://www.latax.state.la.usFEMA Flood Maps
https://msc.fema.govCity of Baton Rouge / Parish of East Baton Rouge
https://www.brla.gov
Real Estate Glossary
Real estate has its own language. We’re here to make it feel simple, clear, and approachable.
Act of Sale - The final, signed document that transfers ownership of property from seller to buyer. In Louisiana, this is executed before a notary and witnesses and recorded in the public records.
Appraisal - A professional opinion of a property’s value, typically required by a lender.
Clear to Close - Confirmation that all loan conditions have been satisfied and the transaction is approved for closing.
Closing - The final step where documents are signed, funds are disbursed, and ownership transfers.
Closing Costs - Expenses associated with the transaction, including title fees, lender fees, and recording costs.
Closing Disclosure (CD) - A document outlining final loan terms and all costs associated with the loan.
Deposit - Funds provided by the buyer to demonstrate good faith in the transaction.
Escrow - Funds or documents held by a neutral third party until conditions are met.
Homestead Exemption - A property tax benefit available to homeowners on their primary residence.
Lien - A legal claim against a property for an unpaid debt.
Mortgage - A loan secured by real estate.
Note (Promissory Note) - The borrower’s promise to repay the loan under agreed terms.
Owner’s Title Insurance Policy - Protects the buyer’s ownership rights against hidden title defects.
Lender’s Title Insurance Policy - Protects the lender’s interest in the property.
Property Taxes (Prorations) - Taxes are divided between buyer and seller based on ownership during the year.
Survey - A map showing property boundaries and improvements.
Title - Legal ownership of property.
Title Examination - A review of public records to confirm ownership and identify issues.
Title Insurance - Insurance protecting against title defects not discovered during examination.
Underwriting - The lender’s process of reviewing and approving a loan.
Usufruct - (Louisiana-Specific)A right allowing someone to use and benefit from property owned by another.
Vendor (Seller) - The current owner transferring the property.
Vendee (Buyer) - The person purchasing the property.