Articles Tagged "Baton Rouge Neighborhoods"

The culinary scene in our corner of Louisiana always impresses! January 20th marks National Cheese Lover's Day and offers the perfect excuse to try out a new restaurant serving up cheesy favorites. Celebrate this delicious occasion with some of the best cheesy dishes in Baton Rouge. Our Realtors® suggest checking out some of these Baton Rouge eateries. 

• Bites & Boards - 8201 Village Plaza Ct. #1A, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Bites & Boards is a popular cheese boutique that serves cheese, meat, wine, and other charcuterie favorites. You can order cheese boards and boxes of various sizes and flavors to celebrate National Cheese Lover's Day at home or at your preferred gathering spot. Or, take a break from browsing Baton Rouge homes for sale and learn how to make your own delicious cheese board. Bites & Boards hosts private classes to teach you the tricks you need to know to make a memorable cheese board. These private sessions are an excellent alternative for a friend's night out or birthday gathering. 

• The Chimes - 3357 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  The Chimes Restaurant & Tap Room is a fine dining establishment that offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Bring the family after checking out Baton Rouge open houses for a meal full of flavorful, cheese-filled dishes. Start your meal with cheese fries layered with toppings or with an order of mozzarella cheese logs. The crawfish mac and cheese puts a Cajun spin on this popular cheesy dish. Or, try a bowl of tasty cheesy grits. In addition to Highland Rd., The Chimes also has a location at 10870 Coursey Blvd.

• Cheesecake Bistro by Copeland's - 6171 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  While Cheesecake Bistro by Copeland's is known for their cheesecake, this isn't the only thing on the menu perfect for marking National Cheese Lover's Day. Chicken parmesan, French onion soup, and crawfish ravioli are just a few selections that feature cheese. When you're ready to order dessert, you can pair a slice of original cheesecake with your choice of toppings, including brownies, strawberries, and white chocolate raspberry sauce. Chef-crafted cheesecake flavors, like red velvet, killed by chocolate, and black and white tuxedo, are also offered.

• Curbside Burgers - 4158 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  If you prefer to pair your cheese with a juicy hamburger. Curbside Burgers is the place to go. Several varieties include cheese, including the classic cheeseburger, the bacon cheeseburger, and the Smokin' Joe (adds fried onion strings and smoke sauce to a bacon cheeseburger). The spicy chicken sandwich also includes cheese. You can even customize your tots or fries with your preferred cheese topping, like pepper jack fondue or shredded cheese. 

• Our Mom's Restaurant and Bar - 250 West Lee Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70820
  Our Mom's Restaurant and Bar serves several dishes that incorporate cheese, including burgers, chicken sandwiches, and poboys. Begin your meal with one of their cheesy appetizers, like Your Mom's Cheese fries (includes bacon, jalapenos, and a blend of cheeses) or the chili mac fries (topped with Our Mom's Restaurant and Bar's homemade chili and mac and cheese). 

Ready to live near your favorite Baton Rouge restaurants? Contact us to get started!

What's better for you than a brisk walk outdoors? How about a walk with your devoted pet? Join our Realtors® in observing Walk Your Dog Month during January. Take a stroll with your beloved pooch at one of these great locations near Baton Rouge homes for sale.

• Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center - 10503 N. Oak Hills Pkwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  With 103 acres filled with plants and wildlife, Bluebonnet Nature Center offers much to see on every visit. More than a mile of gravel paths and boardwalks wind through the grounds that feature a number of different types of habitats. Snakes, turtles, rabbits, deer, and otters are only a few of the wildlife species that have been spotted, along with hundreds of bird species. Contact the center for information about Dog Days, when visitors may bring their pets along. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $3 for adults and $2 for ages 3-17.
  
  
• Milford Wampole Memorial Park - 901 Stanford Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Tucked alongside the LSU Lakes, Milford Wampole Memorial Park is a charming spot for the whole family. The park has undergone a number of recent improvements, including a new asphalt parking lot that allows for more green space. Benches and a water fountain have been added to complement the quarter-mile of walking trails. Wampole Memorial Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
  
  
• City-Brooks Community Park - 1515 Dalyrmple Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Fido loves you, but he likes to socialize with other pets as well. Give him some quality time at Raising Cane's Dog Park, the off-leash site at City-Brooks Community Park. Of course, the two of you can also enjoy walks together along the park's greenway trail that connects to City Park Lake, where bank fishing is permitted. Hours are sunrise to sunset, seven days a week.
  
  
• Burbank Dog Park - 12400 Burbank Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Burbank Dog Park, adjacent to the popular sports complex of the same name, consists of a spacious six-acre section where dogs can romp freely. There are separate areas for large and small dogs, along with pavilions. When you're ready for a break from the other pets, stroll down the quarter-mile dog walk. Take your pet for a spin through the washing station to get him squeaky clean before heading home. Burbank Dog Park is open from sunrise to sunset, Tuesday through Sunday.
  
  
• LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens - 4560 Essen Ln., Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  The LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens form an incredible natural oasis in the heart of Baton Rouge. Burton Woods, which makes up one-third of the center's 440 acres, features Trees and Trails and three miles of pathways that serve recreational and educational purposes. The trails also lead to the Barton Arboretum, home to the serene Palmetto Walk and the stunning Crowder Camellia Collection. Several specialty gardens include the interactive Children's Garden, the colorful Rose Garden, and the exotic Tropical Garden, filled with gingers, bromeliads, and plumeria. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the grounds, which are open daily from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Looking for a new home for you and your four-legged pal? Contact us at Latter & Blum for the latest information on Baton Rouge open houses. 

Can you believe that the Louisiana Marathon is already around the corner? Whether you've been training to participate in the race or you're looking forward to enjoying the festivities as a spectator, there's so much to look forward to with the Louisiana Marathon this year. Our Realtors® have exciting details on what to expect from the Louisiana Marathon in 2023.

Location: 660 N. 4th St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Dates: January 14-15, 2023

Admission: Free for Spectators, Race Entry Fees Vary by Distance

• Full Marathon
  The full marathon is the cornerstone of the whole race weekend for both spectators and the many runners who've been training for the Louisiana Marathon all year long. The course winds through downtown Baton Rouge, along the river, through the LSU campus, and through some of the most historic neighborhoods near Baton Rouge homes for sale. This marathon is also an official qualifier for the Boston Marathon, boasting one of the highest qualifying rates of any marathon in the country thanks to the flat, fast, and very runner-friendly course. The full marathon kicks off on January 15, 2023, at 7:00 AM.

• Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon
  If you've been training hard but don't quite feel ready for the full marathon, the Louisiana Marathon offers a variety of other race lengths that offer a fun, inviting challenge while helping you continue to develop your running skills. Both the half and quarter marathons follow similar paths to the main marathon, just shorter in length. The half marathon starts at the same time as the full marathon on Sunday, while the quarter marathon will be on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at 8:00 AM.

• Louisiana Marathon 5k and Kids "Marathon."
  The Louisiana Marathon features something for everyone, including shorter races ideal for newer runners or anyone who wants to get the whole family involved in the fun. Whether you're aiming to set a personal best or you just want to participate in the race weekend while enjoying the atmosphere, the fast, scenic 5k course is sure to please. The kids are sure to love participating in the kid's marathon, a one-mile run that ends with a trip to the fun Kids Zone. The 5k kicks off alongside the quarter marathon on Saturday morning, while the kid's marathon starts right after the 5k ends at 10:15 AM on Saturday.

• How to Sign Up or Donate
  If you're interested in participating in any of the races that we've covered, there's still time to sign up and secure your spot. You can easily sign up through the Louisiana Marathon website, with registration ending on the day of each race. You can also make a donation on the website toward the charitable causes supported by the Louisiana Marathon.

• Spectator Info for the Louisiana Marathon
  The Louisiana Marathon is a great event for spectators, too! There's no cost to watch the event, whether you're cheering on a specific participant or supporting every runner who passes by you. Check the course information for the Saturday Races and Sunday Races to find the best spots for spectating on each day, then head out early on race day to get the best views.

Are you searching for a home that allows you to enjoy excellent Baton Rouge events like the Louisiana Marathon all year long? Our local real estate team is here to help you find the perfect match with Baton Rouge open houses and so much more. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Baton Rouge, LA, area.

One of the best things about this season is all of the holiday movies. So many of them have this warming, comforting appeal that makes you want to curl up in your pajamas and snack on sugar cookies. Did you know there's actually a holiday dedicated to watching Christmas movies? National Christmas Movie Marathon Day is December 23rd, 2022. This is the perfect opportunity to host a watch party for your friends and family members. Our Realtors® have some tips to help you plan.  

• Explore Your Streaming Service
  Almost every streaming service offers holiday movies this time of year. So, there is no need to pay for a movie or sign up for an additional streaming service if you're on a budget. Before your party, explore the movies that your streaming services are offering. Make a short list of options – just three or four. When your guests arrive, you can discuss these options and pick one together that you want to watch. Narrowing down the options prior to your party will simplify the movie selection process.
  
  
• Make Snacks
  What would a movie party be without snacks? Some homemade holiday snacks are sure to make guests smile. Consider dipping some pretzels in melted chocolate and then decorating them with red and green sprinkles. Or, pop some popcorn and drizzle some melted white chocolate – tinted with red or green food coloring – over it. Of course, there's nothing wrong with making and serving a variety of sugar cookies, either.
  
  
• Set Up a Hot Chocolate Bar
  Sipping hot chocolate will make your movie-viewing experience warm and cozy. A hot chocolate bar gives your guests an opportunity to make their own warm drinks. Some great ingredients to include on your hot chocolate bar include crushed candy canes, mini marshmallows, red and green sprinkles, whipped cream, cinnamon, and chocolate chips.
  
  
• Decorate With Characters
  Look for decorations that feature characters from your favorite holiday movies. Perhaps you want Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer characters on your wall, or perhaps characters from Elf make your heart light up. You don't have to use characters from the same movie as the one you'll be watching at your party, although you certainly can.
  
  
• Send Ticket Invitations
  Handmade invitations will make guests smile before the party even starts. Why not make your party invitations look like movie tickets? Start with some cardstock, cut into long, ticket-shaped rectangles. Write "Admit One" at the top. You can also include the title of the movie if you have selected one. Then, add some holiday-themed stamps or stickers to make the invitation feel festive. Don't forget to also write down the date and time!
  
  
• Ask Guests to Bring Blankets
  Cuddling under a blanket makes watching holiday movies feel cozier, but chances are, you don't have enough holiday-themed blankets for all of your guests. So, ask them to bring their own. Just write "bring your own snuggly blanket!" on the invitations. Some guests might forget, so if you have extra blankets, get them out in preparation.
  
  
• Craft Signature Cocktails
  Think up a cocktail that goes along with the movie you've chosen. For instance, if you're watching Elf, you could make a World's Best Cup of Coffee Martini. Mix up a round halfway through the film.

Ready to start your search for a new home where you can host all your holiday gatherings? If you're still looking for a home for the holidays, contact us. Our agents will help you find the best Baton Rouge homes for sale and Baton Rouge open houses to attend.

Our Realtors® are proud to say that Baton Rouge has long been a hub for art and culture in Louisiana. And there's no better way in the city to experience live music and dance than with the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre. 

For more than 60 years, the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre has been presenting world-class productions and bringing talented artists to Baton Rouge. Let's take a closer look at the theatre's history and what we can expect in the year ahead. 

About the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre

The Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre was established in 1960 and has been a cultural force in Louisiana ever since. Hundreds of talented local dancers and choreographers have been trained and nurtured by the organization, which has been under the artistic direction of Molly Buchmann and Sharon Mathews since 1976. 

Every year, the theatre presents a season of three outstanding stage productions. The Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre is also known for its community outreach programs and contributions to dance education. 

Most performances of the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre take place at the River Center Theatre for the Performing Arts or the Manship Theatre at the Shaw Center for the Arts. Both are beautiful state-of-the-art facilities within minutes of many Baton Rouge homes for sale. 

Baton Rouge Ballet 2022-2023 Season

Every year brings new and exciting things to the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre. Here's what we can look forward to as the 2022-23 season gets underway: 

• The Nutcracker – A Tale from the Bayou (December 17-18, 2022)
  The original Nutcracker has been delighting audiences since 1892 and become a holiday favorite across generations. The Baton Rouge has created their own spin on this classic production with The Nutcracker - A Tale from the Bayou, which debuted in 1992 and has grown to be a beloved tradition of its own here in Louisiana. This year, the show will be held December 17 and 18 at the Baton Rouge River Center Theatre for Performing Arts, and it's a great way to not only celebrate the holidays but also mark the beginning of a great ballet season. 

• PILOBOLUS Big Five-Oh! (March 4 and 5, 2023)
  One of the most renowned dance ensembles in the world, Pilobolus has been touring the globe for a half-century now, performing at events ranging from the Olympics to the Oscars. In 2023, they're touring in celebration of their 50th anniversary, which will include a stop in Baton Rouge for two performances at the Manship Theatre at the Shaw Center for the Arts on March 4 and 5. 

• Dimensions in Dance (March 31, 2023)
  The final celebration of the 2022-2023 season, Dimensions in Dance promises to be a thrilling performance that celebrates dance from all angles. The full range of styles, approaches, and moods of contemporary and classical dance will be highlighted on March 31 at the River Center Theatre for the Performing Arts, including a grand performance of Paquita. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Baton Rouge. It's a truly unique place to call home, and if you're looking for the perfect home in Baton Rouge, our real estate agents can connect you with some amazing Baton Rouge open houses. 

Is professional hockey ready to make a comeback near Baton Rouge homes for sale? Three showcase games taking place at Raising Cane's River Center may help pave the way. Our Realtors® take a look at hockey's past and future in the Red Stick.

• History of Hockey in Baton Rouge
  In 1996, Baton Rouge gained its first professional hockey team when the minor-league Erie Panthers moved to town. As a transplant, the team initially remained in the East Coast Hockey League.
  
  A contest was held among fans to determine a new name. The winning entry was "Kingfish," chosen as a nod to Louisiana history as the nickname of former governor and U.S. Senator Huey P. Long. Raising Cane's River Center, then known as the Riverside Centroplex, served as home to the Kingfish, who were affiliated with the NHL's St. Louis Blues.
  
  Kingfish coaches included noted hockey figures such as Pierre McGuire, Dave Schultz, and Cam Brown, who pulled double duty as a player. The Kingfish spent most of their years in the Southwest Division, along with teams from Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and Florida.
  
  
• Federal Prospects Hockey League
  The Class A Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL) marks its 12th season in 2022-23. The league currently numbers 10 teams located throughout the Eastern and Southern United States. Two new teams, the Motor City (Detroit) Rockers and Mississippi (Biloxi) Sea Wolves are having their inaugural season. After a year's absence, Elmira (NY) is returning to the FPHL with a name change from Enforcers to Mammoth.
  
  FPHL management will be watching the upcoming Baton Rouge games closely. Based on the level of interest, Baton Rouge could be awarded an FPHL franchise for 2023. Each team in the fan-friendly league streams games on their own YouTube channel.
  
  
• Upcoming Hockey Games in Baton Rouge
  As part of their first season, the Mississippi Sea Wolves will be playing in all three games scheduled at Raising Cane's River Center. On Thursday, December 8, the Sea Wolves take on the Carolina (Winston-Salem) Thunderbirds. Their opponent on Thursday, December 15, and Monday, January 2, will be the Port Huron (Michigan) Prowlers. All three teams compete in the FPHL's Continental Division. Game time is 7 p.m., and tickets range from $10-$20 on Ticketmaster and at the River Center box office.
  
  
• Louisiana Ice Sports Association
  Not content just to watch? The Louisiana Ice Sports Association (LISA) is dedicated to providing the Baton Rouge community with high-quality facilities for youth and adult hockey, figure skating, and Learn to Skate programs.
  
  For the 32nd year, LISA will be holding their popular holiday event, Ice Skating on the River. Public skating sessions lasting 75 minutes each take place at the River Center between Friday, December 16, and Tuesday, January 3. Admission is $20, which includes skate rental. Visit the website for full schedule of times.

No matter what time of year, Baton Rouge homes for sale are always in season. Contact us at Latter & Blum for up-to-the-minute information.

Whether you fancy becoming the next Van Gogh or you're simply looking for an exciting way to engage your creativity, visiting a paint studio is a fun way to spend a day. Baton Rouge offers a wide range of classes for all experience levels and artistic tastes. Our Realtors® have the details on 5 Baton Rouge paint studios that offer fun, creative experiences for you to enjoy.

• Mid-City Artisans – 516 Moore St., Ste. 101, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  If you enjoy creating art with different mediums, few studios offer more variety in their classes than Mid-City Artisans, all from a convenient location near Baton Rouge homes for sale. Classes here cover painting, drawing, paper arts, crochet, mixed media, resin, glass, pottery, clay, and even jewelry making. In addition to a wide variety of beginner classes and kid-friendly classes, Mid-City Artisans offers on-demand classes for more experienced artists.
  
  
• Painting with a Twist – 711 Jefferson Hwy., Ste. 3A, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  Painting, wine, and good times are the name of the game at Painting with a Twist, the perfect destination for a memorable, creative night out with friends. In addition to a busy schedule of regular classes, perhaps the best way to enjoy Painting with a Twist is by booking a private party. You'll get to choose from more than 8,000 works of art to find the perfect painting and leave with a wonderful work of art created by your own hands.
  
  
• The Hampton Canvas – 10066 S. Choctaw, Ste. B, Baton Rouge, LA 70815
  Owner Maia Anderson created The Hampton Canvas as a way for everyone, regardless of their artistic experience level, to express their creativity in an inspiring, welcoming setting. You will start with a pre-drawn, black & white sketch, then learn how to add color and customize it to suit your unique style. Regularly scheduled classes include Ladies Night, Date Night, Kids Corner, Guys Night, and Sunday Social. You can also schedule a private class, team-building event, or even an art-themed field trip.
  
  
• Throw Me Something – 257 Lee Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Interested in painting on something other than canvas? Throw Me Something offers pottery painting classes for all ages, where you pick out a blank ceramic sculpture or piece of pottery, then learn how to paint it in a way that expresses your unique creativity. After you're done, your ceramic art will be fired in a kiln, prepared for a week, then be ready to take home and decorate your shelves for many years to come.
  
  
• Painting and Pinot – 7248 Perkins Rd., Ste. B, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  As the name hints, classes at Painting and Pinot are all about having a great time. Painting classes here include everything from painting your own wine glasses to creating art on a blank canvas themed around all of your favorite holidays. There are also classes for kids and more traditional classes for adults where you'll learn to create your own versions of famous paintings. If you want to paint a particular picture, booking a group of 8 or more allows you to choose from any painting in the archive.

Fantastic studios are just the start of the many ways that you can exercise your creativity when you call Baton Rouge home, and our local team is here to help with everything from Baton Rouge open houses to closing on your next home. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Baton Rouge, LA area.

Our real estate agents are very attached to their dogs. This is why we're always on the lookout for new dog-friendly restaurants and shops around our area. From parks to pet-friendly cafes, you and your pup can easily have a fun day out. Here are some of the best dog-friendly destinations around Baton Rouge:

• La Divina Italian Cafe - 3535 Perkins Rd #360, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Grab a meal or a beverage at La Divina Italian Cafe, and order one of their famous Dog Gelato's for your pup. This great local spot has delicious foods, tasty beverages and is very pet friendly. Sit with your dog on their gorgeous outdoor patio and indulge in some tasty (and healthy) Italian-inspired cuisine. If you fall in love with this cafe, you might be interested in touring one of the fantastic Baton Rouge homes for sale just down the street.
  
  
• Raising Cane's Dog Park - 1442 City Park Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Looking for somewhere to let your pup run around and socialize with other dogs? Raising Cane's Dog Park is the perfect place. This 1.2-acre park has a section for small dogs and one for large dogs, plus a water supply, plenty of benches, and a pavilion for picnics. The park is also conveniently located right next to the Greenwood Community Park, so the whole family can enjoy a day outside.
  
  
• Cypress Coast Brewing Co. - 5643 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  If you're in need of a pet-friendly hangout spot with great food and beer, check out Cypress Coast Brewing Co. With plenty of beers on tap, indoor and outdoor seating, and a dog-friendly gathering space outside, this brewery is a great place to hang with friends on the weekends. After your meal, you'll definitely want to check out these Baton Rouge open houses.
  
  
• Highland Coffees - 3350 Highland Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  Pups are permitted in the outdoor seating area at this fantastic local coffee shop, which is located at the north gates of LSU. Highland Coffees has a charming outdoor patio area with lots of seating and greenery. It's a great place to recharge, so stop by and grab a cup of coffee and your favorite baked good. 
  
  
• The Overpass Merchant - 2904 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  The Overpass Merchant is a classy yet casual restaurant with great food and drinks; however, their outdoor patio, which is situated underneath an Interstate 10 underpass, is one of the main highlights of this restaurant. Plus, the patio is pet-friendly! It's one of the best hangout spots in town, especially when the weather cools off.

Life is better with your furry best friend by your side. It's easy to plan a whole day out on the town with your pup, thanks to our wide range of dog-friendly parks, cafes, and restaurants. Contact us today for more information on living in Baton Rouge. 

Louisiana has a rich history. One of the best ways to learn all about the state's 300 years of history is to visit one of its two amazing state capitol buildings in Baton Rouge.

The old and new state capitol buildings are two of the most spectacular buildings in the state, and each encapsulates the state's history and culture in different ways. Our Realtors® can spend an entire day touring each building. Here are some of the best ways to explore each one:

The New Capitol Building
The tallest US capitol building is Louisiana's new (and current) state capitol building which has 34 floors and stands 460 feet tall, and holds the capitol chambers for the Louisiana State Legislature. It's a beautiful building, and there are a few different ways to see it:

• Schedule A Tour - The new capitol building's staff host numerous guided tours throughout the year, which give you the chance to get an inside look at many of this building's features. Additionally, many of Baton Rouge's city tours, such as Red Stick Adventures or All About Baton Rouge, will take you by this amazing building.
• Visit The Observation Deck - The Louisiana State Capitol has a 27th-floor observation deck that offers stunning views of Louisiana, the Baton Rouge skyline, and the Mississippi River. You might even catch a glimpse of some of these beautiful Baton Rouge homes for sale while you're up there!
• Shop At The Top - The building's 27th floor is also home to a wonderful gift shop, where you can purchase Louisiana and Baton Rouge souvenirs, postcards, and more. 

The Old Capitol Building
Louisiana's former capitol building (also known as Louisiana's Old Capitol) is now a National Historic Landmark and is home to the Old State Capitol Museum of Political History. This building is often referred to as Louisiana's "castle-on-the-river" due to its beautiful Gothic and Victorian architecture. You can experience this building in many ways:

• Schedule A Tour - Louisiana's Old State Capitol offers guided and self-guided tours throughout the week. Tours are free; however, if you wish to view the immersive 12-minute "The Ghost of The Castle" film, there is an additional $3 charge.
• Explore The Museum - The Old State Capitol Museum of Political History features rotating exhibits that showcase local art, history, and culture. It's always worth stopping by to see and learn something new.
• Visit The Gift Shop - The Old Capitol Building also features a gift shop with souvenirs and works from local artists, stationery, fashion accessories, and more. 

If living near these beautiful buildings sounds appealing, there are some Baton Rouge open houses planned for this weekend.

Louisiana's Old and New State Capitols give you the chance to gain a new appreciation for the culture and architecture of our area. Learning about an area's history can be a lot of fun! 

Contact us today to explore Baton Rouge listings. 

If you're new to the Baton Rouge area, then allow us to introduce you to an awesome organization: BREC. BREC is an acronym made from the words "Baton Rouge" and "Recreation." This award-winning recreation agency not only maintains parks and entertainment facilities throughout the Baton Rouge area. They also host all sorts of fun activities throughout the year. Here are some of the top BREC activities our Realtors® recommend attending this autumn. 

• Swamp Haunted Hike: 10503 N. Oak Hills Pkwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Held at Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, the Swamp Haunted Hike is an exciting alternative to haunted houses. The event is scheduled for Friday, October 14th, from 6:00 - 9:00 pm. Participants will gather at the trailhead, then head down the trail to discover snakes, insects, and other critters in a spooky environment.
  
  There is a charge of $6 per person to attend the Swamp Haunted Hike. This event is appropriate for children of all ages, but all kids must be accompanied by a parent. Feel free to wear your costumes for the event.
  
  
• Tang Soo Doo: 7500 Independence Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  If you're interested in learning martial arts, register for Tang Soo Doo classes at Independence Community Park. There are classes scheduled for October 17th and 19th from 6 pm - 7 pm. Ages 6 and up are welcome, and there is a fee of $25 per month.
  
  Tang Soo Doo is a form of traditional Korean martial arts. In these public classes, the instructors will focus on teaching basic hand strikes, kicks, and blocks.
  
  
• Craft Corner at the Swamp: 10503 N. Oak Hills Pkwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Craft Corner at the Swamp is a fun event at the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center. It's scheduled for November 4th and 5th between 9 am and 5 pm. There will be a small on-site admission fee. 
  
  At Craft Corner at the Swamp, you can participate in creating a wide variety of crafts. Follow along and make them on-site, or take home a kit to work on at home. Most of the crafts have a nature theme. 
  
  
• Homage to a Hero: Jane Goodall: 6201 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  Take a break from looking at Baton Rouge homes for sale, and paint a chimp in its natural habitat. Homage to a Hero is scheduled for Saturday, November 5th, at 10:30 am. It honors Jane Goodall, a British primatologist known for her work with chimpanzees.
  
  This painting event, held at Milton J. Womack Park, is open to anyone age 8 or older. There is a $25 participation fee for residents of Baton Rouge. The painting should take about an hour and a half to complete. You do not need painting experience to participate.
  
  
• Fall Fun Fest: 200055 Old Scenic Hwy., Zachary, LA 70791
  Fall Fun Fest is an annual tradition and one of the best BREC events of the year. In 2022, it's scheduled for November 19th between 1 and 4 pm, and it will take place in Zachary Community Park.
  
  Stop by to enjoy carnival games, food, music, inflatables, and more. There will be lots of great prizes for the carnival games, and BREC is working to book some talented local musicians for the stage.

We hope you attend some of these events and come to love the Baton Rouge area as much as we do. If you're still looking for homes in the area, don't hesitate to contact us. Our agents will help you find the best Baton Rouge open houses and homes to consider.

If you're moving your family to the area, our Realtors® know educational opportunities are around every corner in Baton Rouge.

After a full day of looking at Baton Rouge homes for sale or attending Baton Rouge open houses, your little ones may be hankering for a break. Around here, you'll have plenty of options for an educational outing full of fun and excitement. Some of America's leading kids' museums are just minutes away.

Let's visit just a few of the Baton Rouge museums kids are sure to love:

• Preserve Louisiana – 502 North Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  Headquartered at the site of the Old Governor's Mansion, Preserve Louisiana is a nonprofit educational organization that helps to maintain and manage historic buildings throughout Louisiana. In that effort, it offers guided tours through the Old Governor's Mansion as the cornerstone of its campaigns. Volunteers also work to organize other events like lectures and historical recreations throughout the year.
  
  
• USS Kidd Veterans Museum – 305 South River Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  Open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every day, the USS Kidd Veterans Museum is a family-friendly way to learn about World War II by touring Baton Rouge's very own "Pirate of the Pacific." The USS Kidd is one of just four Fletcher class destroyers still extant today and the only one that has been preserved in its original World War II service configuration, making it a unique learning opportunity for children of all ages.
  
  
• Burden Museum & Gardens – 4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  Burden Museum & Gardens is a Louisiana State University facility with acre after acre of carefully tended gardens aimed at preserving the botanical uniqueness of the area. With 440 acres total, it is home to the award-winning LSU Rural Life Museum, plus the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens and the Windrush Gardens. LSU's Rural Life Museum was recently named one of the "Top 10 Outdoor Museums in the World."
  
  
• Knock Knock Children's Museum – 1900 Dalrymple Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Knock Knock Children's Museum was designed from the ground up to feature interactive exhibits that will entice young imaginations. Open every day, typically from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., it is the place to go for learning through play. There are 18 themed "Learning Zones," and you can come and go throughout the day whenever it's convenient for your family. Knock Knock even hosts children's birthday parties.
  
  
• Louisiana Art & Science Museum – 100 River Road South, Baton Rouge, LA 70801
  Louisiana Art & Science Museum is the state's flagship public museum and has one of the region's top art collections. "Family Hour Stargazing" is among the most popular attractions for young visitors, with Saturday sessions at the Irene W. Pennington Planetarium teaching children about the stars and their constellations. There are dozens of exhibits to choose from, including some featuring Sesame Street.

Ready to move to an area that the whole family is sure to love calling home? Contact us to learn more about Baton Rouge real estate opportunities.

Few states have produced more iconic foods than Louisiana. There are a lot of unique dishes to savor in the Baton Rouge area. One thing you simply can't pass up is an opportunity to try some authentic beignets. 

Beignets are a type of deep-fried dough pastry that originated in France before becoming a Louisiana staple. If you're in the area checking out Baton Rouge open houses, be sure to make a pit stop at one of these amazing local beignet shops.

• Rue Beignet - 18135 E Petroleum Dr, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  You can smell the unmistakable aroma of beignets being prepared for blocks around Rue Beignet every morning. Their bakers are up well before the sun, preparing each day's batch, which is one of the reasons this beloved establishment is one of the most popular places for fresh beignets near our Baton Rouge homes for sale. Rue Beignet also offers their signature treats with a wide range of toppings, from classic powdered sugar to cinnamon, Nutella, and caramel.
  
  
• Coffee Call - 3132 College Dr, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  The house-roasted beans at Coffee Call are some of the best in town, but this coffee shop isn't just one of our Realtors®' favorite spots for their morning joe. They also have a great selection of baked goods, and beignets are very much the stars of the show. In fact, Coffee Call has been one of the best spots for beignets and cafe' au lait in Baton Rouge since 1976, and they show no signs of slowing down! The beignets here have been called the best in Louisiana, beating out even the top spots in New Orleans.
  
  
• The Vintage - 333 Laurel St, Baton Rouge, LA 70821
  Now with two locations in Baton Rouge and New Orleans, The Vintage offers classic beignets as well as some unique twists on the old formula. Share a flight of beignets with various toppings, or try a savory beignet smothered with bacon gravy with a poached egg. The Vintage also makes some killer espresso drinks and serves an excellent selection of wines and cocktails to go with their lunch and dinner menus. 
  
  
• Beignet Done That - 14241 Coursey Blvd b1, Baton Rouge, LA 70817
  A popular family coffee shop as well as a student study spot, Beignet Done That is a great locally-owned beignet joint. In addition to classic beignets and slimmed-down beignet "fingers," they also offer a full range of hot and iced coffee and espresso drinks. Beignet Done That has a warm, welcoming atmosphere that will definitely make you look forward to visiting again. 
  
  
• The Ruby Slipper - 3535 Perkins Rd #375, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  A cheerful lunch and brunch spot in Baton Rouge's Highlands/Perkins neighborhood, The Ruby Slipper serves up Southern specialties like shrimp and grits, biscuits and gravy, fried green tomatoes, and seasonal beignets. The Ruby Slipper also makes out-of-this-world mimosas and bloody marys. Their menu includes a great selection of vegetarian, keto, and gluten-free options (the beignets, for the record, are vegetarian but very much not keto-friendly or gluten-free). 

Contact us today to learn more about living life to the fullest in Baton Rouge! If you're on the hunt for your dream home, our real estate agents are dedicated to helping you find it here in Louisiana!

After the school and work days are done, it's time to head out for some quality time together. Luckily, the Baton Rouge area offers a calendar full of fun events that the whole family will enjoy. Our Realtors® and their families love these entertaining events and activities around Baton Rouge homes for sale.

• Urban Nature Hike - Milford Wampole Memorial Park, 901 Stanford Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Baton Rouge may be a lively city, but there are plenty of green spaces to explore. Get some exercise while learning more about the great outdoors on an Urban Nature Hike. Enjoy a stroll through beautiful Milford Wampole Memorial Park as your guide shares facts about the park along with helpful tips about outdoor adventuring. Ages 6 and up are welcome. There is no fee, but pre-registration is required. The hike is scheduled for Tuesday, September 27, from 5:45 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.
  
  
• Boo at the Zoo - Baton Rouge Zoo, 3601 Thomas Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70807
  Scare up some Halloween fun at Boo at the Zoo. A great day at the zoo becomes even more festive when you wear your favorite costumes. The fascinating animals found at the zoo include an Eastern black rhinoceros, emu, and jaguar. Be sure to get some Instagram-ready shots of the family posing alongside Fall and Halloween-themed structures found throughout the grounds. Participation is included in regular zoo admission fees, which are $8.75 for adults and teens and $5.75 for ages 2-12. Hours are 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. on the weekends of October 22-23 and 29-30.
  
  
• Live After Five - Rhorer Plaza, 10 S. River Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  Scientists say that sharing musical activities brings families closer together. Not that anyone really needs another reason to attend Live After Five and their wonderful lineup of concerts. Pack up some lawn chairs and blankets for comfy seats as you listen to top local performers. This year's acts include blues singer Jonathan Boogie Long and the 90s party tunes of The Mixed Nuts. Showtime is 5 p.m. every Friday night from September 16 - October 28, and admission is free.
  
  
• Baton Rouge Mini Maker Faire - Independence Park Library, 7711 Goodwood Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  Described as "science fair meets county fair meets farmers market meets Burning Man for families," the Baton Rouge Mini Maker Faire will jump-start anyone's creative juices. A diverse group of "makers" share their passion for hobbies, crafts, and pastimes ranging from robotics and 3D printing to ceramics and textiles. Live builds let participants try out their own maker skills. This year's event takes place from Sunday, October 9 through Saturday, October 15. Visit the website or follow them on Facebook for more information.
  
  
• Family Color Run - West Baton Rouge Parish Library, 830 North Alexander Ave., Port Allen, LA 70767
  On September 24, start your morning with a memorable family fun run at the West Baton Rouge Parish Library. The Family Color Run starts out bright and early with check-in at 9:30 a.m., and the actual run will start at 10 a.m. from the library. Entry is free, and all ages are invited to participate. Don't forget to wear white that way, the colors from the event show up prominently. Plus, this event is close to many great Port Allen homes for sale. 
  

Baton Rouge open houses are a perfect way to keep the whole family engaged in finding a forever home. Contact us to learn more.

The DIY approach is not only affordable but also gives you more control over your results. At various Baton Rouge open houses, we've seen some lovely DIY remodeling jobs and decor projects. So, how do you ensure your own DIY project goes well and yields beautiful results? Here are a few tips to help you avoid a bad DIY project.

• Know What You're Capable Of
  It's okay to challenge yourself a little with a DIY project, but you don't want to take on something so outside of your abilities that you end up doing a poor job. Before you take on a project, make sure you have the tools necessary to complete it. Also, make sure you have the skills necessary or can learn them easily.
  
  A good rule of thumb is that plumbing, HVAC, and roofing work should always be left to the pros. These fields require licenses and certifications for a reason; they're technical, and mistakes can be costly.
  
  
• Measure Twice, Cut Once
  Getting measurements wrong is one of the most common ways to mess up a DIY project. You don't want to cut an expensive piece of flooring or wallboard to the wrong size and have to start over!
  
  Those in the building industry use the phrase "measure twice, cut once." If you're someone who often makes mistakes with numbers, have a friend or family member check your work before you make the cuts.
  
  
• Prepare Your Surfaces Properly
  This is a common mistake homeowners make when painting. If you're painting, make sure you sand and prime the surface first. If you're putting down a floor, make sure the subfloor is level. Or, perhaps you're re-staining a deck. If so, you'll want to sand down rough spots and remove any oily residue before applying the stain. 
  
  Usually, finishing products like paints and stains will tell you how to prepare your surface prior to application. Read and follow these instructions closely.
  
  
• Use a Level
  When you walk into a Baton Rouge home for sale, you notice whether pictures are level and the furniture is sitting evenly. Of course, you want your own home to have this same balance. So, use a level when tackling any DIY project that involves hanging wall art, positioning furniture, and the like.
  
  If you don't have a physical level, there are level apps you can download to your smartphone.
  
  
• Have Your Paint Matched
  If you are painting something to match an already-painted surface, don't just go buy another gallon of paint you assume is the same color. Instead, bring a sample of the old paint with you to the paint store. The technicians can match it, so you end up with the perfect match.
  
  Pay attention to paint finishes, not just color. If the surface you're trying to match has an eggshell finish, for example, your new paint needs to have an eggshell finish, too.
  
  
• Use a Stud Finder
  So many DIY projects involve hanging or mounting things on the walls. When you do this, you need to make sure you're drilling into wall studs, not just into the drywall.
  
  There are a number of stud-finding tools you can purchase, and also some stud-finding apps for smartphones. Use them to locate wall studs so you can mount things to them securely.

If you follow these tips, you should have better luck with all of your DIY projects. Contact us if you're still looking for a new home to live in. Our Realtors® can help find you a place worthy of your DIY efforts. 

Baton Rouge has an incomparable culinary scene. Just minutes from Baton Rouge homes for sale, you'll find world-class restaurants in a medley of styles. Some are known throughout the U.S., while others are local favorites. Our Realtors® can introduce you.

Between Baton Rouge open houses, try these intriguing lunch spots:

• Milford's on Third – 150 3rd Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70801
  Although Milford's on Third is best known for its breakfast, the promise of classic delicatessen fare "without all the fanfare" means you can stop in any morning and appreciate the sandwiches and pastries all afternoon long. Lunch is served alongside breakfast from early in the morning until the 3 p.m. closing time, seven days a week. This family-owned spot also offers curbside and takeout service.
  
  
• The Chimes Restaurant and Tap Room – 3357 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  Offering some of the best Southern cuisine and soul food in a city known for it, The Chimes Restaurant and Tap Room is so popular that it has three nearby locations to choose from. For over 25 years, it's been a mainstay among students, faculty, and visitors to Louisiana State University. Offering Cajun and Creole cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere that welcomes families, it is lauded for its extensive list of spirits.
  
  
• Beausoleil Restaurant & Bar – 7731 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  Beausoleil Restaurant & Bar is the place to go for innovative coastal cuisine. Creative dishes with fresh, local ingredients run the gamut from the indispensable raw oysters to tuna tataki to the spicy crab and crawfish maki roll. In addition to the brunch and lunch every day, it offers lavishly appointed spaces for all your most memorable group events. Reservations are strongly recommended.
  
  
• Louie's Cafe – 3322 Lake Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  Louie's Cafe is beloved in the local area as an LSU tradition dating all the way back to 1941. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all available from open to close – that is, 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. seven days a week. Among the lunch offerings are the famous Louie's Combos, the legendary Big Louie Burger, and Louie's Super Club. The menu is updated regularly!
  
  
• Tony's Seafood – 5215 Plank Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70805
  Tony's Seafood bills itself as Louisiana's largest seafood market, with "Catering to Geaux" any time of the day and night. The most popular items to pick up in bulk include fresh-caught Louisiana blue crabs, Tony's signature broiled crawfish, and domestic wild-caught shrimp caught in local waters. Don't miss out on the Cajun boudin balls and fried whole catfish for a lunch you won't soon forget.
  
  
• Mason's Grill – 13556 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70817
  Mason's Grill blurs the line between lunch and brunch. Boldly calling itself Baton Rouge's Favorite Restaurant, it has something new every day of the week. You can enjoy the original Taco Tuesday, create your own burger with a huge range of buns, cheeses, and meats, or stop by for champagne brunch every weekend from 9 a.m. to 3 in the afternoon. There's simply nothing Mason's can't do.
  
  
• Zorba's Greek Bistro – 5713 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Zorba's Greek Bistro stands out as one of the top Mediterranean restaurants in Baton Rouge. The menu is packed with delectable finds centering on the cuisine of Cyprus Island. Lunch guests can savor a slew of appetizers, soups, salads, gyros, souvlaki, and specialty sandwiches – the lamb halloumi sandwich is the headliner here. Dinner will not disappoint, with plenty of large shareable plates and hearty entrees.

Contact us to discover more about Baton Rouge real estate.

The culinary delights of Baton Rouge are legendary, but a number of incredible restaurants fly under the radar. Our real estate agents share the secrets of their favorite hidden gems around the Capital City.

• Crown Bistro - The Royal Standard, 16016 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Treat yourself like royalty with a majestic meal at Crown Bistro. This charming restaurant is tucked inside The Royal Standard, a British-inspired lifestyle shop featuring a curated assortment of fashion accessories and home decor from around the world. Enjoy the sophisticated selection of soups, salads, and sandwiches at your table with a view of the lovely patio and lawn. Be sure to stop at the candy counter for some gourmet chocolates to go. Crown Bistro is open from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday. Brunch is served 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekends.
  
  
• Heather V's Cafe - The Foyer, 3655 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  With 75 merchants across 8,000 square feet, The Foyer is the perfect place to find furnishings, accessories, and artwork to fill Baton Rouge homes for sale. When you're ready for a break, grab a bite to eat at Heather V's Cafe. Order a classic muffuletta or a fresh salad with their signature lemon parmesan dressing, which is also available by the bottle. Follow Heather V's on Facebook for information about daily soup and sandwich specials. Hours are 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
  
  
• Waterfront Cafe - Greenwood Community Park, 13350 LA-19, Baker, LA 70714
  So it's a beautiful day in the Red Stick, and you're in the mood for an impromptu scenic meal near Baker homes for sale. Head to Greenwood Community Park for lunch at the Waterfront Cafe, located in the Dumas Memorial Pro Golf Shop. Dine on summertime favorites such as burgers, hot dogs, and deli sandwiches from your lakeside table. There's candy and soda for the kids, as well as ice-cold beer for the grown-ups. Waterfront Cafe is open 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
  
  
• Louie's Cafe - 3322 Lake St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  When a restaurant's clientele includes both college students and families, you know they're something special. Louie's Cafe has been a Baton Rouge institution since 1941. Over the years, Louie's has grown from a 10-stool diner to their current, more spacious building on Lake St. One constant has been proximity to the LSU campus. The comfort food-laden menu includes Eggs Louisianne, the cafe's take on Eggs Benedict, featuring locally-caught shrimp and crawfish. Louie's is open seven days a week from 6:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
  
  
• Smoke & Boil - Baton Rouge, LA
  Feel like a true insider when you attend one of the lively events from Cajun food vendor Smoke & Boil. They describe their pop-ups at various Baton Rouge locations as "social gatherings" celebrating the city's culinary, brewing, and artistic communities. During recent months, Smoke & Boil has served a crawfish boil at Cypress Coast Brewing Co., farm-fresh egg sandwiches at Agile Brewing, and gourmet hot dogs at Sugarfield Spirits. Follow Smoke & Boil on Facebook for details about their current schedule.

Fuel up at these great places while you're touring Baton Rouge open houses. Get the inside scoop when you contact us at Latter & Blum. 

Before you officially become a homeowner, the closing process is one of the last steps in the purchase process. Our real estate agents recommend that homebuyers understand what the closing process consists of so that they know what to expect. Here's what you need to know. 

• Closing is When the Property Officially Becomes Your New Home
  Closing is the portion of the home purchasing process where ownership of the property transfers from the seller to the buyer. After checking out Baton Rouge homes for sale, you'll make an offer to the seller. While you'll likely include earnest money with your offer to purchase the home, the home isn't officially yours until you close on the property. It usually takes between four to six weeks to close on the purchase of a home, though the process can take longer if an issue arises. For example, if the property doesn't appraise for the necessary amount, this may slow the purchase down. Or, if the home inspection returns with a lot of issues, it may take time for the buyer and seller to resolve this problem. 

• Your Closing Date is Included in Your Home Offer
  A property's closing date is included in the home offer that the buyer and seller ultimately agree to. It's customary for the buyer to propose the initial closing date, but the seller can propose a different closing date if desired. Some sellers may prefer a quick or prolonged period before they close on the home to better suit their own homebuying needs. During Baton Rouge open houses, home sellers may advertise their willingness to agree to a fast or extended closing period. 

• You Need to Complete Certain Tasks to Close on a Home
  Before your closing date, you need to confirm that certain tasks have been completed. Your mortgage lender will require an appraisal to confirm that they can fund the mortgage for the home. If the property's appraisal falls short, you'll need to renegotiate the deal with the seller or potentially make a larger down payment. A home inspection is highly recommended to make sure that the home doesn't have any expensive problems. Your lender will require you to submit forms verifying your assets and income to approve and fund your home loan. You'll also need to purchase homeowner's insurance for the property. Before your closing date, you'll complete a final walkthrough to confirm that the property is in the expected condition before your actual closing appointment. If you notice any issue with the home, you'll need to let your real estate agent know immediately. 

• Closing Requires a Lot of Paperwork
  There's a lot of paperwork required to purchase a home; you can expect to sign between 50 and 100 pages during your closing session. Take the time to go through each document so that you understand what you're signing and that the forms are consistent with what you're expecting. You'll also bring money to the closing appointment (usually in the form of a certified check or a wire transfer) to cover your down payment and closing costs. About three business days before your closing appointment, you'll receive a Closing Disclosure that details your closing costs and states who is paying for each item. 

Ready to begin your home search? Contact us today to get started!

Looking for a fun way to test your knowledge, enjoy a night out with friends, and maybe even take home some great prizes in the process? Some of the best bars, burger joints, and pizza parlors near Baton Rouge homes for sale offer regularly scheduled trivia nights where you can compete for prizes while enjoying great specials on your favorite menu items. Our real estate agents have all the details on where to find trivia nights around Baton Rouge.

• Mid Tap – 660 Arlington Creek Centre Blvd., Ste. D, Baton Rouge, LA 70820
  With 48 self-serve taps, a full-service cocktail bar, and a delicious menu of bar bites, Mid Tap offers everything you need to enjoy a night out with your favorite people. There's also a busy lineup of special events every week, starting with an all-day happy hour on Mondays which includes trivia night beginning at 7:30 PM.

• City Slice – 124 W. Chimes St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  The team at City Slice is known for serving up some of the best pizzas and craft brews in Baton Rouge. But did you know that they also offer delicious tacos? Tuesday Trivia N' Tacos is a regularly scheduled event at City Slice that kicks off every Tuesday at 6:00 PM. Test your knowledge to compete for City Slice gift cards and enjoy some delicious tacos while you compete.

• The Smiling Dog – 4215 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816
  For the classic Baton Rouge pub experience, it's tough to top the atmosphere at The Smiling Dog. This local pub features pool tables, darts, a dog-friendly patio where you can dine outdoors, and plenty of TVs to watch all of the biggest games. Every Monday at 8:00 PM you can participate in the Pub Olympics, where you will compete in rounds of trivia, darts, and pool to win outstanding prizes.

• Pluckers Wing Bar – 4225 Nicholson Dr. #101, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  While it doesn't feature a weekly trivia night like some of the other entries on our list, the Pluckers Wing Bar Facebook page will keep you up to date on all of their latest trivia nights. Past topics at Pluckers Wing Bar trivia nights include Star Wars, HBO, Disney, and Sitcom Night, so this is a great place to visit if you love pop culture trivia.

• Burgersmith – 3613 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Another great destination for pop culture trivia is Burgersmith, which features trivia at its Perkins Road location on Tuesday nights, and at its Denham Springs location every Wednesday evening. This summer will feature trivia themes related to some of your favorite classic TV shows, including The Office, Friends, and Seinfeld. Grab a gourmet burger and a cold drink, then let the fun begin.

• Rally Cap Brewing Company – 11212 Pennywood Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  Trivia Tuesday is the name of the game at Rally Cap Brewing Company, which hosts trivia every Tuesday night from 6:30 to 8:30 PM. It's free to play every week, and the top three teams will win prizes from the bar. Doors open at 3:00 PM, leaving plenty of time to sample the craft brews and tasty food on the menu here.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to enjoy all of the outstanding food and fun events around Baton Rouge? Our Baton Rouge open houses make it easy to find the right match. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Baton Rouge, LA area.

Looking for a house can be challenging under any circumstances. It's even more difficult when you're looking somewhere far away from the city where you currently live. There are plenty of Baton Rouge homes for sale, but how do you know which one is right for you when you're that far away? Here are a few tips for long-distance house hunting.

• Plan Ahead
  When you're looking locally, you have the time to browse casually and get a feel for what's available before you commit to anything. When you're hunting long-distance, you don't have that luxury. Make a comprehensive list of everything you're looking for in a house, including both your wants and your must-haves.
  
  
• Be Flexible
  Keep in mind that your new area might not be like your old one. You may have your heart set on a particular style, but that style might not be as popular or widely available in your new city as it is in your current one. This is where your list comes in handy. It's important to know which features you absolutely need in your new home, and which ones you can compromise on.
  
  
• Browse Home Listing Sites
  Looking at house listings online is no substitute for actually being there in person, but they can still provide helpful insight into the area where you're searching. Online listings can give you an idea of what's available in the area and how much you can expect to pay for it. This will help you as you plan your budget, and allow you to house hunt more efficiently.
  
  
• Get a Good Agent
  This is important no matter where you're looking. But especially long-distance house hunting is something you shouldn't do alone. An agent who knows both the area and your needs can guide you through the process, helping you find places that meet your standards and fit your budget. That way, if you do manage to plan a brief trip to Baton Rouge, you can make the most of your time there.
  
  
• Plan a Trip
  Carve out at least a couple of days to experience the new area for yourself. Find out from your real estate agent what Baton Rouge open houses are going on, and see if you can visit a few of them while you're there. However, the trip is important, not just for the houses themselves, but for the neighborhoods. Where are the schools, grocery stores, and other amenities, and how easy are they to get to? What's the traffic like? These are the sorts of things you can only find out by visiting a place in person. Be sure to go in with a clear plan and a clear objective, to make efficient use of your limited time there.
  
  
• Understand What You're Doing
  Moving to a new city is a big step. It can also be a rewarding one, but make sure you're ready to do it before taking the plunge.

These are your first steps toward finding a new home in a new city. It's not an easy ordeal, but our real estate agents can help you through it. Contact us to get started.

 

Looking for something new to do this summer? Grab your friends and family and go play a round of disc golf! Disc golf is pretty similar to regular golf. The major difference is players throw a flying disc instead of using balls and clubs, and the objective is to land the disc in a basket instead of a hole.

Our real estate agents have been really getting into this fun summertime activity, so we're up to date on all the best disc golf courses around the great state of Louisiana. You'd be surprised at just how many great courses there are around:

• Bob Rodgers Memorial Disc Golf - 107 Sutherland Rd, Lake Charles, LA 70611
  Located in Sam Houston Jones State Park, the Bob Rodgers Memorial Disc Golf Course contains 21 challenging wooded holes spread out over 4,353 feet. Fees are $1 per person and loaner discs are available at the park office. The park also contains plenty of camping and rental cabins if you're planning to make a whole weekend out of it.
  
  
• Ward 3 Recreation Disc Golf Course - 3210 Power Center Pkwy, Lake Charles, LA 70607
  This 9-hole, 28-par disc golf course near Lake Charles is great for beginners. Ward 3 Recreation offers a mostly open course with a few obstacles that mostly consist of park amenities (playgrounds, picnic tables, etc.). Certain sections do have a few trees. The course is a lot of fun, and if you like the area, there are some great Lake Charles homes for sale just a few miles away. 
  
  
• City Park Disc Golf Course - 65 Diagonal Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124
  This popular disc golf course is 18-holes and contains many obstacles including live oak trees, lagoons, and bridges. The City Park Disc Golf Course is actually the only course in New Orleans. Located in City Park, each hole is a par 3, making it great for players of all skill levels. 
  
  
• LHC Disc Golf Park at Scotlandville - 3100 Monte Sano Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70807  
  You'll find a challenging and well-maintained 61-par course at LHC Disc Golf Park with 18 total holes (including two par 5's). It's actually the second-largest course in the state. The terrain is mostly flat, yet you will find your fair share of subtle rolling landscapes. The course is open from sunrise to sunset. 
  
  
• Highland Road Park Disc Golf Course - 14024 Highland Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Highland Road Park Disc Golf Course has two basket locations per tee (purple baskets are the short course, gold baskets are the long course). You'll find beautiful hilly and woodsy terrain, as well as a scenic creek that runs right through the course. There is even a tiny pro shop onsite making this location perfect for disc golf fans near Baton Rouge homes for sale. 

Have fun ringing those disc golf baskets, as it's one of the many fun things to do around Louisiana. If you're in the market for a new home, contact us today.

Since Baton Rouge formed around the Mississippi River, it's no surprise that many of the city's historical sites are close to the waterfront. Immerse yourself in the rich history around Baton Rouge homes for sale at these fascinating locations.

• Louisiana's Old State Capitol - 100 North Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70801
  When Baton Rouge was selected as the capital of Louisiana in 1845, plans began for an impressive Gothic-style statehouse equal to the city's new stature. Today, Louisiana's Old State Capitol is a National Historic Landmark that serves as a museum to promote education and awareness of the democratic process over the years. Exhibits include a look at the legacy of Huey Long and a gallery of Louisiana statehouses of the past. The museum also hosts a series of visiting exhibits on a variety of topics. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and admission is free.
  
  
• USS Kidd Veterans Museum - 385 S. River Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  Military history comes alive at the USS Kidd Veterans Museum. The ship is named for Rear Admiral Isaac Campbell Kidd, Sr., who lost his life while serving on the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor. First launched in 1943, the USS Kidd is the only remaining Fletcher-class destroyer restored to its original configuration. Visitors can see the dented helmet of an infantryman who participated in the D-Day invasion and read the names carved on the black granite walls of the Louisiana Memorial Plaza. The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Admission is $12.53 for adults and $8.36 for ages 5-12.
  
  
• Riverfront Plaza - 300 S. River Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  No matter how many times you visit Riverfront Plaza, there's always something new to see. This 5.4-acre greenspace, right on the banks of the Mississippi River, offers endless opportunities for historical exploration, physical activity, and live entertainment. Examine maps that depict the evolution of the Mississippi's course over the years and marvel at Frank Hayden's "Red Stick" sculpture that pays tribute to the city's namesake. Water pools and gardens, levee terraces, and a dock overlook provide a scenic backdrop. The park is accessible 24/7. Alternatively, you can explore this area on your bike when you travel along the Baton Rouge Mississippi River Levee Bike Path. The trailhead for this 4.31-mile path is located under the Mississippi Bridge and makes for a fun and active way to explore the area. 
  
  
• Beauregard Town - Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  Located just a few short blocks from the riverfront, Beauregard Town brings a charming European feel to the streets of Baton Rouge. The city's second-oldest neighborhood dates back to 1806 and follows French colonial architectural traditions. Thanks to the beautiful homes and "Catfish Town," a warehouse district separating the residential area from the riverfront, Beauregard Town was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

Let our real estate agents help you plan a tour of Baton Rouge open houses. Get started when you contact us at Latter & Blum.

Gardening is more than just a relaxing and enjoyable hobby. It's also a great way to improve your yard's appearance and boost your home's curb appeal. Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can put together an amazing garden by choosing plants that are easy for beginners to grow. Here are a few types of plants that our real estate agents recommend, carefully chosen for gardeners of all skill levels.

• Marigolds
  These cheerful flowers are frequently seen in the gardens of Baton Rouge homes for sale, and they have some great benefits, too, such as keeping pests out of your garden. Marigold seeds can be planted once the nights are over 50 degrees and will continue to bloom into late summer and even early fall.
  
  
• Pansies
  Pansies are also surprisingly easy to grow and come in a variety of colors and sizes. It's best to plant the seeds in the fall, but in a pinch, you can also plant in the spring, so right now is a perfect time to get those pansies started.  These flowers thrive in areas where the winters aren't too cold, so you'll often see them in gardens and planters at Baton Rouge open houses.
  
  
• Mint
  If you want a fragrant garden that's easy to care for, mint is perfect for you. Mint is a hardy plant that can grow in almost any soil and with almost any amount of moisture. If you want to control it, be sure to remove it from unwanted areas of your garden and harvest the leaves before the plant goes to flower.
  
  
• Basil
  While not quite as unstoppable as mint, basil is still easy to grow. The biggest thing to note with basil is that it doesn't hold up well to cold temperatures, so wait until the overnight temperatures are on the warmer side before planting and cover it in case of an unexpected frost. Because of this, basil is also a great herb to put in small planters so that you can bring it inside in bad weather.
  
  
• Sunflowers
  Sunflowers are majestic plants to have in your garden, and you have the added bonus of being able to enjoy their seeds at the end of the season, too. They're surprisingly easy to grow, too, as they are not very picky about the soil they're in. The one thing they do require is a lot of sunlight, so you'll want to plant them along a southern wall of your home, or somewhere they'll have sun all day long and won't throw shade on the rest of your garden.
  
  
• Zucchini
  If you're wanting the experience of growing not only herbs but also your own food, zucchini is a great place to start. Be sure to mark out a large space in a well-irrigated area, as zucchini plants take up a lot of space and suck up a lot of water. Make sure you pick them while they're small, too, or you may end up with more zucchini than you can eat!
  
  
• Potatoes
  Potato plants may not be pretty, but they'll satisfy your desire to grow some of your own food. Potatoes are hardy crops that are easy to start and care for and a perfect use for that bag of potatoes you forgot about until they sprouted. Plant in the spring, and you'll be ready to harvest your crop by midsummer.

Even if you're not an experienced gardener, you can dress up your home's landscaping with easy-to-grow plants like these. For more ideas on boosting your curb appeal before selling your home this summer, contact us today.

Mother's Day is around the corner, and now is the time to start planning a special gift for all of the wonderful moms in your life. Fortunately, Baton Rouge is home to some amazing florists that offer everything you need for Mother's Day this year, from simple yet beautiful arrangements to elegant gift baskets that are packed with items that mom is sure to love. Our real estate agents have the details on five local Baton Rouge florists where you're sure to find a great gift for Mother's Day.

• Heroman's Florist – 2291 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  With more than 140 years of experience selling flowers near Baton Rouge homes for sale, it's safe to say that the team at Heroman's Florist knows how to put together a truly memorable Mother's Day gift. You can do all of your shopping online with local delivery/in-store pickup or head to one of their two Baton Rouge locations to get help picking out your gift from the very knowledgeable staff. From lavish arrangements with four-dozen roses to blooming plants that mom can enjoy all year long, you're sure to find something special at this experienced florist.
  
  
• Billy Heroman's – 10812 N. Harrell's Ferry Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816
  Another well-known experienced local florist, Billy Heroman's has four locations around Baton Rouge, including the 10,000 square foot flagship Harrell's Ferry store. As the flagship location, the Harrell's Ferry store is staffed by some of the team's most experienced designers, who will be happy to help you pick or design just the right arrangement. You can even opt for the special "Flowers for a Year" gift, with new flowers delivered once per month all year long.
  
  
• Blushing Blooms Floral & Gifts – 3482 Drusilla Ln., Ste. G, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  In addition to a great selection of both custom and pre-made floral arrangements, Blushing Blooms Floral & Gifts offers a diverse selection of themed gifts to pair with your Mother's Day flowers. Gifts include fun home décor, special teas, LSU-themed items, and plenty of great baby gifts for the new moms in your life. Of course, there are also tons of beautiful floral gifts, including roses, tulips, lilies, orchids, hydrangeas, and dahlias.
  
  
• Trey Marino's Central Florist & Gifts – 13561 Hooper Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70818
  Now in its second generation of local family ownership, Trey Marino's Central Florist & Gifts offers both in-store shopping and convenient local delivery for its artistic, colorful floral arrangements. For Mother's Day, the team at Trey Marino's has put together two special floral packages, with the Mother's Day Designers Choice and Premium Designer's Choice arrangements. These arrangements are sure to be popular, so ordering ahead of time is recommended.
  
  
• Comeaux's Florist – Prairieville, LA 70769
  Proudly owned and operated by an all-women team, Comeaux's Florist is an online, delivery-only florist located in Prairieville which offers delivery throughout Baton Rouge. If you're shopping for a mom who loves to garden or care for houseplants, this is a great place to shop. They offer herb planters, dish gardens, and a wide variety of traditional houseplants, along with their extensive selection of custom, hand-crafted floral arrangements. Find their full selection online, or give them a call to discuss your custom arrangement before Mother's Day.

Searching for your next home in Baton Rouge? Our team is here to help, starting with Baton Rouge open houses to help you find the perfect home. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Baton Rouge, LA area.

When choosing a place to live, easy access to high-quality, locally roasted coffee is always a priority for our real estate agents. When coffee is roasted locally, it's guaranteed to be fresh and flavorful -- and once you start drinking great coffee, it's difficult to accept just any alternative. 

One of the many great things about Baton Rouge is our vast number of amazing coffee shops all around town. These shops roast locally and also source the finest beans from all over the world. If you'll only drink the very best coffee in the morning, we recommend checking out some of these Louisiana coffee destinations:

• River Road Coffees - 11569 Investor Dr #4261, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  One of our favorite coffee brands is headquartered just down the street from these beautiful Baton Rouge homes for sale. River Road Coffees sources the finest Arabica beans and roasts them using the perfect temperature while monitoring for the appropriate color. Then, they perform in-house cuppings every Friday for quality assurance. The Baton Rouge blend is one of the most popular choices. You can find River Road Coffee across dozens of local Baton Rouge grocery stores.
  
  
• Congregation Coffee - 240 Pelican Ave, New Orleans, LA 70114
  One of New Orleans' best coffee brands is Congregation Coffee, which roasts high-quality beans at its roastery on Tchoupitoulas Street. You can order coffee online, sign-up for a monthly subscription, or stop by Algiers Point, their flagship cafe. After buying your beans, be sure to swing by these amazing New Orleans home for sale just around the corner. 
  
  
• Flamjeaux Coffee - 2012 Jefferson St, Mandeville, LA 70448
  Named for the flames used during many Mardi Gras parades and celebrations, Flamjeaux roasts all beans locally in Old Mandeville. Order your coffee online or stop by the store to pick up your order and try some samples. If you visit during a roasting, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the wonderful smell. If you like the area, you might be interested in exploring some of these Mandeville homes for sale.
  
  
• Orleans Coffee - 3445 Prytania St Suite B, New Orleans, LA 70115
  Orleans Coffee has been roasting coffee every morning in New Orleans since 1985. This shop sells dozens of premium blends and often features monthly specials. You can also find tea and other merchandise. Purchases can be made online, or you can stop by their espresso bar, which is located not too far from these Kenner homes for sale. 
  
  
• Abita Roasting Co. - 1011 Village Walk, Covington, LA 70433
  For some of the best local coffee at a reasonable price, check out Abita Roasting Co. The beans are roasted locally and brewed at their local cafe in Convington, where you'll also find great breakfast foods and a comfortable atmosphere. If you're on the go, you can also head through the drive-thru. After purchasing some beans and enjoying a cup of coffee, make sure to check out these nearby Covington homes for sale. 

For many of us, access to good coffee in the morning is non-negotiable. For more recommendations, contact us today.

Indoor rock climbing has become a hot trend in recent years, and climbing gyms are popping up all over the country. That includes several awesome climbing and bouldering gyms right here in Louisiana. While there aren't many mountains to explore in Louisiana, indoor rock climbing gyms allow you to have a similar experience without leaving the state. 

Our real estate agents are excited to share our favorite indoor rock climbing gyms in Louisiana. That includes some great places to climb near these Lafayette homes for sale.

• Southern Stone Indoor Climbing - 109 Grand Ave, Lafayette, LA 70503
  Lafayette's premier rock climbing facility, Southern Stone Indoor Climbing offers routes for beginners and experienced climbers alike. From bouldering and top roping to auto belays and spot climbing, there are facilities here to support all rock climbing styles. This gym is one of Louisiana's oldest rock climbing facilities, having served Lafayette for 20 years as Rock Haus before re-opening as Southern Stone in 2016. With a convenient location minutes from these Lafayette open houses, it's open to climbers of all ages and experience levels, and walk-ins are always welcome. 
  
  
• Uptown Climbing - 10505 Coursey Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70816
  Louisiana's largest indoor rock climbing gym, Uptown Climbing, is the premier rock gym in Baton Rouge. This place is a giant playground for climbing fanatics, offering a 90-foot long bouldering wall and more than 60 rope stations up to 35 feet tall. This state-of-the-art facility also includes a dedicated sport lead climbing wall, speed wall, and six auto-belay stations. Affordable membership rates are available, and first-timers can also walk in any time and climb with a day pass. 
  
  
• New Orleans Boulder Lounge - 2360 St Claude Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117
  New Orleans Boulder Lounge is an awesome resource for the NOLA area climbing community. It's also a very beginner-friendly gym, with climbing that's suitable for all skill and experience levels. New Orleans Boulder Lounge is open to members and guests, and the friendly and experienced staff is always great when it comes to helping newcomers find their footing. With a sole focus on bouldering, the Boulder Lounge has no ropes or harnesses but instead offers free climbing at shorter heights that require no specialized equipment. 
  
  
• 318 Climb - 731 American Way, Shreveport, LA 71106
  With more 80-plus top rope routes, 60-plus boulder problems, and nine auto belays, it's safe to say that you won't quickly run out of new climbing experiences at 318 Climb. This exciting indoor rock climbing gym in Shreveport also introduces new top rope and boulder routes weekly and often hosts parties and glow-in-the-dark climbing events. 318 Climb also offers climbing classes and private lessons for all ages, including instruction on top rope and belay climbing. Affordable day passes are always available, but consistent climbers can save big with a monthly membership. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Louisiana! If you're looking for your dream home in Lafayette and the surrounding areas, our real estate agents are here to help every step of the way. 

There are a lot of things our real estate agents love about life in Baton Rouge. It's a unique cultural city and the capital of Louisiana, with distinctive music and food scenes. Just as importantly, it's a prime jumping-off point for outdoor adventures. 

Providing access to the Mississippi River and several other waterways, Baton Rouge is the perfect place to begin a fishing and boating trip in Louisiana. If you're looking for just the right place to get out on the water, be sure to check out these great boat launches in the Baton Rouge area:

• Glass Beach Boat Launch -  River Rd S, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  The only free, public boat launch on the Mississippi River in Baton Rouge, the Glass Beach Boat Launch is located just south of the I-10 bridge, just minutes from downtown. There are no developed facilities here; just a no-frills boat ramp and parking area for vehicles and trailers. The spot gets its name from the rounded pebbles of smooth "beach glass" that were used to pave the landing. The Glass Beach Boat Launch is just minutes from many Baton Rouge homes for sale.
  
  
• Floyd's Morley Marina - 7675 Choctaw Rd, Brusly, LA 70719
  Just a few miles west of Baton Rouge and close to Brusly homes for sale, Floyd's Morley Marina has been a popular local boat launch since it was established in 1992. The marina overlooks the Port Allen Lock, a canal system that connects the Mississippi River to the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway and the Gulf of Mexico. Floyd's Morley marina is a great starting point for boating and fishing trips and is also known as a local hot spot for food, drink, and entertainment. 
  
  
• Kayak Launch at Highland Road Community Park - Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Spanning a little over 144 acres, Highland Road Community Park is one of the best places in Baton Rouge for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor recreation. It also features a kayak launch on Bayou Fountain, a meandering stream that is part of the Atchafalaya Water Heritage Trail. It's a great place to go for an afternoon paddle after visiting these Baton Rouge open houses. Although Bayou Fountain is typically a calm, slow-moving stream, it has numerous downed trees and other hazards that require caution from paddlers. 
  
  
• Broussard Landing - Plaquemine, LA 70764
  There's not much to see at Broussard Landing, a bare-bones boat launch in Plaquemine, just a few miles south of Baton Rouge. Located just off Louisiana State Route 988, Broussard Landing is little more than a gravel road that dead-ends at the Mississippi River, but it's an effective if somewhat under-developed launch site that offers plenty of room for vehicles with boat trailers to park. There's also a stretch of open bank here where anglers can fish from shore. 
  
  
• Bayside Bait Shop & Marina - 18795 LA-16, Port Vincent, LA 70726
  A favorite among anglers in the Baton Rouge area and conveniently close to Port Vincent homes for sale, Bayside Bait Ship & Marina is a great place to begin your next fishing trip. Located along the Amite River southeast of Baton Rouge, Bayside Bait Ship & Marina offers boat ramps and a full line of fishing and boating gear and supplies. There's also a campground onsite for tents and RVs. The Amite River is a great place for catfish fishing and is easily navigable by larger motorboats as well as small craft like boats and kayaks. 

Contact us today to learn more about planning your adventures in the Baton Rouge area! And be sure to ask our real estate agents about how we can help you find your dream home in Louisiana. 

Located at 100 Lafayette Street in the heart of Downtown Baton Rouge, the Shaw Center for the Arts deserves a place on anyone's must-see list. It's one of our real estate agents' favorite spots in the city, and we're excited to shed a spotlight on this unique institution!

About the Shaw Center for the Arts

The Shaw Center for the Arts is a major hub for art, culture, and theater in Baton Rouge. Encompassing 125,000 square feet, this massive museum, venue, and education center first opened its doors in 2005. It received the American Institute of Architects Gulf States Honor Award for architecture the year it opened. 

Several unique art spaces and venues collectively make up the Shaw Center for the Arts. Located just minutes from many Baton Rouge homes for sale, these are some of the can't-miss highlights of the Shaw Center:

• Manship Theatre
  Arguably the centerpiece of the Shaw Center for the Arts, the Manship Theatre is the premier non-profit theatre venue in Baton Rouge. The Manship Theatre seats 325 and is an intimate space with state-of-the-art sound and lighting, hosting the finest in theatre, music, film, dance, and the performing arts.
  
  
• LSU Museum of Art
  Operated by Louisiana State University, the LSU Museum of Art is the only museum in Baton Rouge dedicated exclusively to art. The museum's permanent collection includes a comprehensive overview of Louisiana art, as well as unique works from all over the world. In addition to their permanent collection, the LSU Museum of Art also features ever-changing exhibitions by local, regional, and international artists. 
  
  
• Glassell Gallery 
  The Glassell Gallery is one of the most compelling spaces within the Shaw Center for the Arts. The Glassell Gallery is part of the LSU School of Art, and features rotating selections of student art, works from the art school faculty, and exhibitions by artists from around the world. The gallery is always open to the general public free of charge. 
  
  
• The River Terrace
  Offering one of the best views in Baton Rouge, The River Terrace is an indoor and outdoor space perched at the top of the Shaw Center for the Arts. It's mostly known as an incredible wedding venue, capable of wowing up to 400 guests with its views of the Mississippi River from its outdoor sculpture garden and terrace. 

Dining at the Shaw Center for the Arts

Between visiting Baton Rouge open houses and exploring the Shaw Center for the Arts, there's a good chance you might get a little hungry. Fortunately, there are several great dining options within the Center for the Arts:

• Capital City Grill
  Steak and seafood are the stars of the show at Capital City Grill, a classic American eatery with a healthy dash of Creole spice. Everything is made from scratch in-house, and many of their ingredients are locally sourced. 
  
  
• Tsunami
  Tsunami is the Shaw Center for the Arts' in-house sushi restaurant, and everything here is fresh, flavorful, and artfully presented. In addition to sushi, Tsunami also offers small plates and craft cocktails, and their indoor and outdoor spaces offer a great view of the Mississippi River. 
  
  
• PJ's Coffee Shop
  You're never far from a great coffee in Baton Rouge, thanks to PJ's Coffee Shop. This beloved local chain has several locations in and around the city, including one on the ground floor of the Shaw Center for the Arts.

Contact us today to learn more about life in Baton Rouge! Our city is the heart of Louisiana art and culture, and our real estate agents are dedicated to helping you find your dream home in Baton Rouge. 

Baton Rouge homes for sale are known for all kinds of advantages. One of them is the amazing dining scene, packed with an array of Creole and Cajun treats. But no matter if you're in the mood for surf, turf, or lighter breakfast fare, you can enjoy it all at a Baton Rouge brunch spot. There are so many to choose from, you will never really run out of options.

Let's take a closer look at just a few of the best brunch spots in the Capital City:

• Milford's on Third – 150 3rd Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70801
  Milford's on Third is a classic delicatessen with a long history in Baton Rouge. On the grounds of the historic Watermark hotel, it's a little slice of New York City in the middle of Louisiana. Whether you want a hearty bowl of oatmeal, a breakfast sandwich, or warm pastries, Milford's has you covered.
  
  
• Tallulah Crafted Food & Wine Bar – 7000 Bluebonnet Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Tallulah Crafted Food & Wine Bar, led by Executive Chef Andy Papson, is all about indigenous cuisine of the Baton Rouge area. Visit around breakfast time and you'll find tables replete with signatures like catfish boil benedict, beignets Tallulah, shrimp and grits, and – yes – avocado toast.
  
  
• Soji Modern Asian Restaurant & Bar – 5050 Government Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  Who says you can't have Asian food for brunch? Soji Modern Asian Restaurant & Bar is a delightful place to sate your cravings for signature raw fish or small plates like kung pao bao, dumplings, lemongrass edamame, salt, and pepper calamari, and even your choice of ramen bowls.
  
  
• Bistro Byronz – 8200 Village Plaza Court, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Bistro Byronz has a little bit of everything, so you never need to worry that you might be missing out. Lunch, dinner, famous Sunday brunch, a complete kids' menu, and a wine list all await you. You won't want to miss the corn and shrimp soup, which attracts visitors from miles around.
  
  
• The Gregory – 150 3rd Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70801
  The Gregory is a diverse and luxurious dining spot that epitomizes the best of haute cuisine. Local, sustainable ingredients combine with deep insight into southern cooking to give you a truly unique experience. Big plates like garden ravioli, chicken piccata, duck, and redfish are among the stars.
  
  
• Another Broken Egg Cafe – 2531 Citiplace Court, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  With two locations to choose from, Another Broken Egg Cafe boasts an expansive menu of more than 130 items. In addition to the traditional selection of brunch favorites, the cafe offers a full gluten-free menu, signature cocktails, and seasonal specialties with fresh local ingredients.
  
  
• Beausoleil Coastal Cuisine – 7731 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  Beausoleil Coastal Cuisine is a place to eat, drink, and enjoy a variety of cuisines with local and global inspiration. You'll have the chance to sample a wide range of chef-driven Louisiana favorites as well as sushi, a full raw seafood bar, and much more. 

Contact us to discover more of what Baton Rouge has to offer.

When you think of home improvement projects, stressful renovations that cost lots of time and money may come to mind. But many projects that can improve the look and/or function of your home can be completed in just a weekend. You might be surprised at the number of easy projects that can make a big impact with a relatively small investment of time.

Whether you're planning on staying in your home for a while or are planning on listing it soon, our real estate agents suggest the following weekend home improvement projects:

1. Create an inviting entrance to your home.
   A spruced-up entrance can boost your home's curb appeal and make it more inviting for guests. Paint your front door a bold color like one from the red family and add some spiffy new hardware. Add some potted plants near the entrance for a touch of color and greenery, and replace your welcome mat with one you've painted yourself or buy a new one that makes a statement.
   
   
2. Add crown molding.
   Almost any room can look better with the addition of crown molding, but this is especially true for rooms that have high ceilings. The molding creates a unifying effect that makes the ceiling feel like part of the room's overall design. And if you have just a few hours, adding crown molding is a good project, even if you don't have any woodworking experience.
   
   
3. Replace the light fixture in your eating area.
   A fresh light fixture can create a new look in your eating area. Choose one that has the look you want and emits the right amount of light, so you have the right combination of design and function. To replace your existing lighting, turn off the power at your home's breaker box and connect the wires.
   
   
4. Add a window box.
   Add a window box to your home's exterior and fill it with colorful annuals, perennials, or succulents. Best of all, you can enjoy the flowers outside or inside your home, since the tops of plants and flowers will be visible above the window frame. Buy a window box ready-made and add plants, or make your own. Some home improvement stores sell materials in pre-cut sizes, but if not, most will cut the materials for you, so you don't have to.
   
   
5. Replace your cabinet hardware.
   Choose hardware for your cabinets and drawers that reflects your personal taste. Simple metallic hardware is also a good choice, but if you're looking for a unique hardware, check antique shops.
   
   
6. Install a new showerhead.
   If you don't have a low-flow showerhead, install one to save money on your water bill. Even if you already have one, it may not have the features you want. Many new versions are more efficient than previous ones and have features like multiple spray styles, pivoting angles, and temperature settings.
   
   
7. Update your walls with paint or wallpaper.
   Paint and wallpaper are easy ways to transform the look of a room. You can use both if you'd like and freshen your walls with paint while using wallpaper on a single feature or accent wall. You'll also find paintable wallpaper available, with raised details and a wide variety of texture effects and designs.

Looking for Baton Rouge homes for sale? Stop by one of our Baton Rouge open houses or contact us to get the help you need.

Oysters, crawfish, and po' boy sandwiches are mainstays of Louisiana Creole cuisine, and our real estate agents know just where to find them. Fresh seafood is just one more reason why Baton Rouge homes for sale are so popular.

Here's a handful of local restaurants where the catch of the day is always worth trying:

• Parrain's Seafood Restaurant – 3225 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Parrain's Seafood Restaurant offers a delectable combination of surf and turf, including what it touts as the freshest seafood in town. Steak and chicken dishes complement crawfish, shrimp, seafood gumbo, and more. You can order up a succulent grilled duck breast or a whole fried hen to go with specialties like catfish perdu and crawfish etouffee.
  
  
• The Original Krab Queens Baton Rouge –  5260 Corporate Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  The Original Krab Queens Baton Rouge bills itself as the home of the best butter sauce you'll find in Baton Rouge. You'll be using plenty of it when you order up the boiled seafood platters from this classic crab shack. The popular "Just Crab Platter" delivers on the name with two snow crabs alongside fixings: Corn, egg, sausage, and potatoes make for a hearty meal.
  
  
• Phil's Oyster Bar and Seafood Restaurant – 4335 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, LA 7080
  Phil's Oyster Bar and Seafood Restaurant has a history dating back to 1950 and remains family-owned and operated. It features brunch, lunch, dinner, and a full bar menu, as well as catering and hosting for private events. Entrees run the gamut from po' boys on local French bread, barbecued shrimp fettuccine, trout almondine, and – of course – heaping fried or grilled crab cakes.
  
  
• The Juicy Seafood Restaurant & Bar – 3132 College Drive Suite B, Baton Rouge, LA 7080
  With new specials every day, The Juicy Seafood Restaurant & Bar always has something new to tempt your taste buds. Starters, sides, veggies, and seafood are the mainstays here, in a space that's casual but always hip and happening. Blue crab, crawfish, shrimp, snow crab legs, sea scallops, and other delights from the sea come fully dressed in corn, potatoes, and optional boiled egg.
  
  
• Drusilla Seafood Restaurant – 3482 Drusilla Lane D, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  Coming to you from the heart of Baton Rouge for nearly 40 years, Drusilla Seafood Restaurant has a full selection of your favorite fried, boiled, and blackened seafood dishes. Its goal is to serve the most authentic Louisiana cuisine in the city and has been named "Best Seafood in Baton Rouge" by a number of local critics and publications. The famous seafood gumbo anchors a mouthwatering menu.
  
  
• Drago's Seafood Restaurant – 4580 Constitution Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  The claim to fame for Drago's Seafood Restaurant is the original charbroiled oyster. With six locations, including one in Baton Rouge, it is a true Louisiana success story. In addition to the half dozen or dozen charbroiled oysters, you can choose raw oysters on the half shell or fried oysters Voisin. Other house specials include the sautéed alligator, seafood pasta, and shrimp and eggplant stack.
  
  
• John's Seafood – 2750 Scenic Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70805
  You'll have plenty to choose from at John's Seafood, where reviews acclaim both the hot wings and the oysters. Besides the usual po' boys, chicken, oysters, and shrimp, you'll discover a number of unexpected treats. It's a great way to enjoy a little bit of everything for lunch or dinner.

Contact us to find out more about Louisiana real estate or stop by one of our Baton Rouge open houses.

There's so much to see, do, and experience when you're new to Baton Rouge that it can be hard to decide where to start. So why not let a local expert be your guide? Whether you're interested in history, food, drink, culture, or the great outdoors, there's a local tour with your name on it. Our real estate agents have all the details on some of the best Baton Rouge tours to help you get familiar with your new home city.

All About Baton Rouge Tours – 750 Florida St. Unit #4644, Baton Rouge, LA 70801

If you're looking for a diverse selection of different tours close to Baton Rouge homes for sale, then All About Baton Rouge Tours is the perfect place to start. They offer a tour for every interest, with expert guides who will take you to see some of the city's most fascinating destinations.

• Baton Rouge City Tour
  For a general overview of some of the interesting places around the city, the Baton Rouge City Tour is a great option. This guided and narrated tour is perfect for getting to know Baton Rouge.
  
  
• Baton Rouge Food Tour
  Sure, food is the focus of this tour, but you'll also experience plenty of other unique things along the way. The Baton Rouge Food Tour seamlessly blends food, art, culture, and history to give you a local's view of the city.
  
  
• Haunted Tour
  Feeling brave? This fun, quirky tour will take you to see some of the spookier historic places around Baton Rouge.
  
  
• Swamp Tours
  Travel beyond the city to experience the vast natural beauty, native plants, and local wildlife that make Louisiana such a special place to call home.

Enjoy Baton Rouge Walking Tours – Baton Rouge, LA 70802

All you need to participate in Enjoy Baton Rouge Walking Tours is your own two feet and a desire to explore the city. Food tours tend to be the most popular offerings from this tour company, but they also offer plenty of other ways to experience Baton Rouge. Try a historical tour, an art tour, or take a sightseeing tour to get acquainted with local landmarks. Enjoy Baton Rouge Walking Tours has no physical location, but you can easily schedule your tour in advance online.

Three Roll Estate Distillery Tour – 760 Saint Philip St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Three Roll Estate Distillery is an award-winning producer of fine spirits located in the heart of Baton Rouge. You can enjoy the Three Roll Estate Distillery Tour every Thursday through Sunday to learn more about how the distillery creates its spirits from sugarcane that's grown and pressed on-site. The tour includes a look behind the scenes at the distilling process from start to finish and ends with a tasting.

Tin Roof Brewery Tour – 1624 Wyoming St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Known for its taproom, outdoor dining space, and commitment to producing some of Louisiana's most distinctive craft brews, Tin Roof Brewing Co. is more than worth the trip for any beer enthusiast. Every Friday, the team here hosts the Tin Roof Brewery Tour. During the tour, you'll get to see the art and science that goes into creating every unique beer at Tin Roof.

Still searching for your next home in the city? Our local team has you covered. Visit one of our Baton Rouge open houses, or simply contact us to buy and sell homes in the Baton Rouge, LA area.

If you have a beloved four-legged friend in your house, you know that it's not really your house. It's their house. You just live there... and pay the mortgage. 

Our real estate agents know what it's like to share space with a canine or feline companion. We understand the rewards and also the challenges. It's not always easy to create a pet-friendly home that offers everything your pets require. 

One of the most common things our clients always ask for when they're looking for Baton Rouge homes for sale is a place that's pet-friendly. Here's what to look for in a pet-friendly home and how you can make your place more accommodating. 

• Consider the Stairs. Some pets take stairs like a champ. Others, not so much. If you have a senior dog, for example, maybe a 5th-floor apartment with no elevator isn't for you. A single-family home where your pooch can live like a queen on the first floor might be more your speed. 
  
  
• Color Code Your Space. Interior designers use colors in countless creative ways. Pet owners use them to disguise their pets' constant shedding. When it comes to furniture and flooring, choose colors that are close to the tone of your pets' fur. If you have dark floors and a white dog, you're going to see little white tumbleweeds everywhere. 
  
  
• Don't Overlook Wall Texture. Furry walls are a real thing, and many homeowners fail to consider them. Highly textured walls are like fur magnets, so paint with a satin or semi-gloss finish that repels fur instead of attracting it. 
  
  
• Give Them a Boost. Some pets have a hard time getting up on beds and couches. Assuming yours are allowed up there, arrange the room with a smaller piece of furniture, like an ottoman, nearby that they can use to make the leap more easily.
  
  
• Choose Hardwood Floors. Hardwood is infinitely easier to clean compared to carpet, and it doesn't absorb pet odors the way carpet does. Tile and linoleum are pretty good too. If you do get carpets or area rugs, look for colors that match your pets' fur.
  
  
• Create a Pet Storage Space. Pet toys, treats, and accessories have a way of ending up... well, everywhere. Cleaning them up and keeping them organized is a never-ending battle, but a smart storage solution can help. A ground-level basket for toys, an out-of-reach bin for treats, and hooks for hanging leashes and collars will help keep the mess in check. 
  
  
• Offer a Place to Rest. A plush, comfortable dog bed is a staple of any canine household. Look for one that's well-made, comfy, and matches the overall decor in your home. 
  
  
• Stow Bowls and Litter Boxes. Choose a litter box location where you don't have to see (or smell) it. Laundry rooms and garages are perfect. If you don't want to always see your pet's food bowls, they too can be placed out of sight or even designed to slide in and out of your kitchen cabinets at mealtime. 

Explore Pet-Friendly Homes in Baton Rouge

Check out these exciting upcoming Baton Rouge open houses to explore your next pet-friendly paradise in Louisiana. Baton Rouge also has a reputation as an amazingly pet-friendly city, with numerous dog parks, doggy daycares, pet-friendly restaurants, and top-notch veterinarians. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Baton Rouge, and be sure to ask out real estate agents about how we can find your pet's next great home. Don't worry, you can live there too. 

If you're looking at Baton Rouge homes for sale, you should also pay a visit to the Louisiana Art & Science Museum. It's a great place to bring your family once you move to the area. Here's some of what it has to offer.

About the Museum

It's the goal of the Louisiana Art & Science Museum to provide the public - especially students - with a greater understanding and appreciation of art and science and foster creativity and discovery. The museum is located at 100 River Road South Baton Rouge, LA 70802, in a rebuilt railroad station in the heart of downtown, on the bank of the Mississippi River.

Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, the museum is open Wednesday through Friday, 10 am to 3 pm, Saturday 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, 1 pm to 5 pm. Admission is $12 for adults or $10 for children and seniors. There are also group rates available, as well as special rates for students, educators, military personnel, and first responders. The first Sunday of every month, admission is free to everyone.

Exhibits

One of the most popular attractions at the museum is the Irene W. Pennington Planetarium - a large, domed theater that shows the wonders of space in crystal clear 4K video and 5.1 surround sound. The planetarium has scheduled a variety of different shows throughout the week, exploring things like Saturn's rings, planets beyond our solar system, and even the inner workings of the human brain.

Apart from the planetarium, the museum has several other space-themed exhibits. The Planet Tower contains enormous scale models of the sun and the planets. The Solar System Gallery displays images from the Hubble Telescope - along with a 239-pound Triceratops skull named Jason. And the Universe Gallery contains the OmniGlobe - a 3D model of the Earth with a digital screen that can demonstrate heliophysics, ocean science, atmospheric conditions, and more.

Space isn't the only place visitors can explore, though. The Ancient Egypt gallery shows artifacts dating back to 323 B.C., including a fully preserved mummy. There's plenty of information in the gallery on the mummy's discovery, as well as on the general time period and what life was like at the time.

Interactive Events

Another thing the Art & Science Museum is known for is hands-on exhibits. The Science Station allows children to conduct experiments in sound, light, and motion, as well as demonstrate nanoscale in science and engineering. For younger children, the Discovery Depot has everything from building blocks to train sets to puppets.

Unfortunately, the interactive exhibits are currently closed due to the pandemic. In the meantime, the museum has provided a virtual museum, with a series of activities that children of all ages can do at home, either with their parents or on their own. These activities include printable coloring book pages, crafts like making your own rain stick, experiments in force and motion, and much more. There are also virtual tours available of the galleries that are currently closed to in-person visits.

You can also host your child's birthday party at the museum, which includes a number of hands-on activities, and even a gift registry through the Museum Store. The museum can be booked for grown-up events as well, including wedding receptions and cocktail parties.

The Art & Science Museum is just one of the many cultural and educational institutions you can explore with your family in the Baton Rouge area. Especially if you're in the area for one of our Baton Rouge open houses. Our real estate agents can help you get to know the neighborhood better. Contact us to help you find the perfect home for your needs.

Whether for exercise, exploration, or your daily commute, Baton Rouge is a bike-friendly city with ample options for getting around on two wheels. There are plenty of bike paths, both paved and off-road, along with a great collection of bicycle clubs that make it easy to connect with other riders. Our real estate agents have the key info on some of the many ways that you can enjoy biking in Baton Rouge.

• Baton Rouge Levee Bike Path – Between River Rd. and Mississippi River, Baton Rouge, LA
  We start with a trip along the riverfront on one of the more popular bike paths located near Baton Rouge homes for sale. The Baton Rouge Levee Bike Path travels from downtown Baton Rouge past Tiger Stadium, with great views to enjoy while you ride. The bike path is 4.31 miles long, and offers a wide variety of local attractions where you can stop along the way. There are plans to expand this bike path significantly, with a Downtown Greenway that will connect all of the downtown parks.
  
  
• LSU Lakes Loop – 901 Stanford Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  For another pleasant ride along the water, try a trip around the LSU Lakes Loop which can be accessed from Milford Wampold Memorial Park. The park itself has about .25 miles of paved trails, but the LSU Lakes Loop stretches considerably further than that. Sandy beaches along the lakes make for the perfect place to stop and take in the view, especially around sunset and sunrise.
  
  
• Perkins Road Community Park – 7122 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  A trip to Perkins Road Community Park offers a variety of options for biking. The park is connected by a series of paved trails open to bikers, skaters, runners, and walkers, ideal for a leisurely ride. Perkins Road Community Park is also home to the BMX Raceway when you're in the mood for something more adventurous. There's even a velodrome, a 333-foot paved track that allows cyclists to reach speeds that wouldn't be possible on other trails. These attractions are free and open to the public, with the BMX Raceway and velodrome requiring helmets to enter.
  
  
• Hooper Road Park – 6261 Guynell Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70811
  Mountain biking is on the menu in Baton Rouge as well, thanks to the trails at places like Hooper Road Park. This 200-acre, wooded park is home to more than 5 miles of mountain bike trails and is open from sunrise to sunset. This is a great place to get a taste of local natural beauty without leaving Baton Rouge.
  
  
• Comite River Park – 8900 Hooper Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70818
  Another popular place for getting in touch with nature, the 5.5-mile mountain bike trail at Comite River Park is located along the edge of the Cypress Bayou and Comite River. This is a more advanced trail, perfect for mountain bikers looking for a fun challenge.
  
  
• Baton Rouge Bike Club – P.O. Box 253, Baton Rouge, LA 70821
  There are quite a few bike clubs around the city as well, and the Baton Rouge Bike Club has been connecting local riders for more than 50 years. Become a member to enjoy a busy schedule of events and plenty of other perks.

Ready to find a home that makes it easy to explore your favorite city on two wheels? Our local real estate team is here to help. Visit one of our Baton Rouge open houses or contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Baton Rouge, LA area.

Baton Rouge and live music go hand-in-hand. It's one of the things our real estate agents love most about life in this historic city overlooking the Mississippi River. Baton Rouge has always been at the intersection of American music traditions, and it remains that way today. 

These days, the best live music venues in Baton Rouge host everything from national touring acts to promising up-and-comers. You might see a hot new indie rock band or a local blues legend, sometimes on the same stage on the same night. 

• The Texas Club - 456 N Donmoor Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  One of the premier venues in Baton Rouge, the Texas Club is known for hosting major country and rock acts while maintaining an intimate atmosphere. This 1,000-capacity music venue provides a truly unique musical experience, and legends ranging from Garth Brooks to the Allman Brothers Band have graced its stage. Located a stone's throw from these Baton Rouge homes for sale, the Texas Club is, without a doubt, one of the best places in town to catch a show. 
  
  
• Boudreaux & Thibodeaux - 214 3rd St # 2D, Baton Rouge, LA 70801
  Just two blocks from the banks of the Mississippi River, Boudreaux & Thibodeaux is a hotbed for live, local music in Baton Rouge. This hopping bar and nightclub includes two spaces on two floors that offer live music, drinks, and food. On many nights, there's an acoustic happy hour band up on the balcony, followed by a bigger dance band downstairs. This is one of the best places around to see local Cajun and blues bands, and there's never a cover charge. 
  
  
• Mid City Ballroom - 136 S Acadian Thruway, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  There's no other venue in Baton Rouge quite like the Mid City Ballroom. Located in an old church that's been renovated and re-opened as a live music venue, the Mid City Ballroom has incredible acoustics and offers performances by local, regional, and national touring acts in a relaxed, intimate space. The ballroom also shares its space with Pop Shop Records, a great local record store where you can browse new and vintage vinyl. 
  
  
• Teddy's Juke Joint - 16999 Old Scenic Hwy, Zachary, LA 70791
  Nestled among the fields and farmlands on the outskirts of Baton Rouge and near Zachary homes for sale, Teddy's Juke Joint is the type of place you could easily miss if you didn't know what you were looking for. Opened in 1979, the juke joint is a labor of love for owner Teddy Johnson, a musician himself, who often performs here on the weekends and DJs during the week. Teddy's Juke Joint is an amazing hole-in-the-wall where you can hear authentic Louisiana music, including a regular Tuesday night blues jam. The beer is always cold, and the kitchen turns out amazing traditional Southern soul food. 
  
  
• Red Stick Social -1503 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  You'll find Red Stick Social inside Baton Rouge's renovated Electric Depot building, and live music is just one reason to visit this unique space. Equal parts bar, bowling alley, event space, and music venue, Red Stick Social presents live music every Friday and Saturday night on indoor and outdoor stages. It's a great place to hang out, grab drinks with friends, bowl a few rounds, and enjoy a killer live band.

Looking for more information about life in Baton Rouge? Our real estate agents are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about finding your dream home and living life to the fullest in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. 

A delicious meal is a key part of the holiday celebration for most people. But what if you're not in the mood to cook? Perhaps you just moved and your kitchen still isn't unpacked. Whatever the reason, it's okay to skip cooking for the holidays. Baton Rouge has lots of lovely restaurants you can order from instead. Here are a few our real estate agents recommend for a special holiday meal.

• The Little Village: 14241 Airline Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70817
  The Little Village is an Italian restaurant that first opened in 1945. A staple of the Baton Rouge area, they take great pride in their ingredients and their creations. This would be a great place to visit with a family on the holidays as the menu truly offers something for everyone.
  
  Anyone in the mood for pasta will love the baked lasagna, linguine, and clams, or pasta Pomodoro. The Little Village also makes a wonderful chicken piccata and a selection of veal dishes including veal piccata, veal Sorrentino, and veal osso bucco.
  
  
• Tallulah Crafted Food and Wine Bar: 7000 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Nothing says holiday dining like a perfectly paired glass of wine. At least, that's the spirit at Tallulah Crafted Food and Wine Bar. This upscale, yet approachable restaurant is located inside the Rennaissance Baton Rouge Hotel and would be the perfect choice if you're meeting some out-of-town guests for a holiday dinner.
  
  Tallulah usually releases a dedicated holiday menu closer to the occasion. But some of the top choices on their ordinary menu are the pecan wood smoked chicken and the shrimp pasta. 
  
  
• Acme Oyster House: 3535 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  If you're in the mood for some classic Cajun and Creole cuisine, then Acme Oyster House is the place to go. Their Baton Rouge location is open on Christmas Eve.
  
  Some favorites here include the char-grilled oysters, craw puppies, and seafood etouffee. Guests also love the New Orleans Medley, which comes with gumbo, jambalaya, red beans & rice, and smoked sausage.
  
  
• Mason's Grill: 13556 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70817
  Another great choice for families, Mason's Grill is known for its American cuisine with a southern twist. They offer plenty of local beers on tap and have won numerous awards for their tasty cuisine.
  
  The Cajun ribeye is a must-have at Mason's Grill. You can order it with a side of crawfish etouffee or Cajun shrimp if desired. Guests also enjoy the chicken and waffles, the seafood platter, and the grilled ahi tuna platter. There's even a kids' menu with options like fried shrimp with fries, and ham and cheese sandwiches.
  
  
• Hunan Chinese Restaurant: 4215 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816
  If you love Chinese cuisine, then Hunan Chinese Restaurant is a great place to dine for the holidays. They were recognized by The Advocate and are widely acclaimed for their incredible dishes.
  
  A favorite at Hunan Chinese Restaurant is the hot and sour pork. It's tender and bursting with flavor. They also serve Peking Duck, a feast befitting of a holiday celebration. 

Baton Rouge's restaurant scene is always a fantastic option! If you're still looking for Baton Rouge homes for sale, feel free to contact us. We can tell you more about our professional real estate services.

Whether you're already a dedicated long-distance runner or you're brand new to the sport, here's some news you'll be excited to hear: The Louisiana Marathon will be in town next month. This upcoming event is scheduled for January 15th and 16th. And yes, there will also be a half marathon, quarter marathon, and 5k race for those who aren't big fans of the 26.2-mile distance.

Put on your running shoes and experience Baton Rouge in a whole new way! Get to know more about the Louisiana Marathon with the information below and consider signing up for this upcoming event.

• History of the Event
  The Louisiana Marathon was founded in 2012. The goal of the marathon was to encourage physical activity and a healthier lifestyle throughout the community. Over the years, the race has also become a way to celebrate Louisiana's culture, food, music, and many other traditions. The Baton Rouge community gets very involved in the race, with spectators lining the streets to cheer on the runners. With a course route that weaves through the downtown area, and through the LSU campus, runners get to fully see and experience Louisiana's capital city.
  
  
• Race Details
  The full marathon itself is scheduled for January 16, 2022. The gun will go off at 7:00 am, and the course will remain open until 2:00 pm, meaning runners must finish within 7 hours in order to have their official time recorded. The half marathon starts alongside the full marathon at 7:00 am, with the course remaining open until 2:00. Both the quarter marathon and the 5k take place one day earlier on January 15th. Both races start at 8:00 am with the finish line remaining open until 10:30. On January 15th, there will also be a marathon for kids beginning at 10:15.
  
  
• Rules and Amenities
  The Louisiana Marathon does plan on having pacers for both the full and half marathons. These pacers should be visible in the start corral, and participants are asked to cede themselves between the pacers based on their projected finishing times. Strollers, rollerblades, and bikes are not allowed on the course, but runners will be allowed to wear headphones if they so desire. There will not be a virtual option for the race in 2022.
  
  
• Registering for the Race
  Take a break from looking at Baton Rouge homes for sale, and sign up for the race! It should only take a few minutes. The easiest way to register is to visit the Louisiana Marathon website directly. The registration fee for the full marathon is $150, and the fee for the full marathon is $140. You can also enter the quarter marathon for $55 or the 5k for $35.
  
  
• Course Details
  The full and half marathon course starts and finishes in Arsenal Park. Runners then travel through downtown to Louisiana State University. After running past the stadium, they travel around the lake. Half marathon runners then work their way back to the start, and full marathon runners run a few more miles through downtown before heading north back to Arsenal Park. The Louisiana Marathon is known for its flat, fast course. Many choose it as their Boston Qualifier for this reason! 

Baton Rouge is a beautiful city, and our real estate agents know that running the Louisiana Marathon is a great way to experience this beauty. If you decide you want to move here, contact us to learn about our real estate services.

Baton Rouge is a vibrant area with plenty to do all year long! This is especially true during the holiday season when so many traditions fill up the calendar. Opportunities abound to explore the neighborhood, feel festive, and maybe even meet new people. Here are five things you'll love about Baton Rouge during the holidays.

1. Meet Santa - Santa Rocks the Rowe - 10000 Perkins Rowe, Baton Rouge LA 70810
   Santa Rocks the Rowe has taken this holiday tradition and turned it into an event with something for everyone. On Saturday, December 11th, starting at 5 pm, Santa will be at Perkins Rowe shopping mall for photo opportunities. Plus, there will also be live music, face painting, letters to Santa, games, and more. It's a fun, fantastic, free event that the whole family can enjoy near Baton Rouge homes for sale.
   
   
2. Catch a Christmas Parade - 2021 Cortana Kiwanis Christmas Parade - Downtown Baton Rouge
   The Cortana Kiwanis Christmas Parade is an annual Baton Rouge tradition. Sadly, it had to be put on hold last year, but this year it's back, in all of its holiday glory! The event starts on December 11th with a Battle of the Bands at 4 pm, featuring local marching bands displaying their talents. Then comes the parade itself, where beautifully designed floats represent some of the local businesses and organizations in the area. The parade will be broadcast on TV throughout the season, but it's much better live - and a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
   
   
3. Perfect Your Holiday Baking - Leisure Classes at Louisiana Culinary Institute - 10550 Airline Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70816
   One of the best parts of the holiday season is all the fantastic food! Book a leisure class at Louisiana Culinary Institute and take your holiday menu to the next level. Current class offerings include Warm Winter Breads, Cider-Braised Chicken Dinner + Dessert, and Holiday Buche de Noel. Find a class that works for your schedule or gift a cooking class for friends and family to partake in the fun.  
   
   
4. Festive Local Shows - The Nutcracker - A Tale from the Bayou - 275 South River Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
   Baton Rouge offers many chances to enjoy a live theater performance. Add some holiday fun to your calendar when you check out this performance from the Baton Rouge Ballet! This Christmas tradition from the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre brings Louisiana style and flavor to the beloved holiday classic. The Nutcracker - A Tale from the Bayou, performs on December 18th and 19th at the River Center Ballroom. This dynamic, multimedia performance is a must-see for any ballet lover.
   
   
5. Shop Local - Holiday Mini Market - 1509 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
   We love to shop local whenever possible and the Baton Rouge area is home to many talented makers and crafters. Each Saturday leading up to Christmas the Holiday Mini Market will be offering one-of-a-kind finds made right here in Louisiana. Be sure to stop by, support local businesses, and score memorable gifts for everyone on your list. 

This is just a taste of what Baton Rouge has to offer during the holidays. Our real estate agents can help you get familiar with the area and show you where some of the other fun events are this season. Contact us if you're ready to make Baton Rouge your new home, and let us help you find your dream house in time for the holidays.

Serving baked treats over the holidays is a festive, welcoming touch, but it's hard to find the time to create all the goodies you'd like to offer. And you won't be able to create the variety of flavors and designs you can get at a local Baton Rouge bakery.
  
Our real estate agents suggest visiting the following bakeries for some sweet holiday treats:

• The Ambrosia Bakery - 8546 Siegen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Whether you're looking for an impressively delicious cake to serve to your holiday guests or want some small treats to set out on a platter, The Ambrosia Bakery has it covered. A Fall Cupcake Wreath makes a beautiful Thanksgiving display, with dozens of cupcakes arranged in the shape of a wreath and finished with fall decorations. Or try a selection of petit fours decorated with a whimsical scarecrow, pumpkin, and fall leaf designs in icing. If the cupcake wreath is a hit on your Thanksgiving table, you'll also want a Christmas wreath version with vibrant green icing on the cupcakes and a red ribbon made of icing. 
  
  
• Cupcake Junkie - 12240 Coursey Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816  
  As you might expect, Cupcake Junkie sells many of these treats - both full-sized and mini versions - in a wide variety of flavors. But your choices certainly aren't limited to these sweets, since the bakery also offers cake slices, whole cakes in several different sizes, brownies, lemon bars, and cookies in flavors including chocolate chip and caramel pecan. Cupcakes come in vanilla, chocolate, and salted caramel, and cakes come in an almost endless list of flavors like brown sugar cinnamon, almond, red velvet, and more. You can also choose from different icing and filling options. 
  
  
• SmallCakes Cupcakery - 18135 E. Petroleum Dr. Suite D, Baton Rouge, LA 70809  
  At SmallCakes Cupcakery, it's all about the cupcakes and ice cream. Their cupcakes have been featured on the daytime talk show "The View" as well as the Food Network's "Cupcake Wars." Each morning 18 creative signature flavors of cupcakes are baked and frosted from scratch using quality ingredients, with seasonal flavors like pumpkin and maple bacon included. If you'd also like to offer your holiday guests - or even yourself - an extra treat, order some ice cream. They're based on the cupcake flavors, and 15 flavors of small-batch ice cream are made each day.
  
  
• CounterspaceBR - 3753 Perkins Rd., Suite D, Baton Rouge, LA 70808  
  CounterspaceBR bakes treats like cakes, pies, breads, whoopie pies, and cookies from scratch at its location in the heart of Baton Rouge. Order the take-and-bake cinnamon rolls for breakfast or lunch and give your guests or your family a weekend treat. Or offer a variety with an assorted box of salted chocolate chip cookies, cinnamon roll blondies, lemon oat bars, black-and-white cookies, and chewy gingerbread cookies. After Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, set out a Mississippi Mud Pie or Aunt Elnora's Pecan Pie.
  
  
• Brew Ha-Ha - 711 Jefferson Hwy. Suite 2-A, Baton Rouge, LA 70806  
  Opened as a coffee shop in 2004, Brew Ha-Ha added cake balls to its menu in 2006. It then expanded to a full bakery serving cake balls in various sizes and a long list of flavors including caramel apple, banana pudding, carrot, and chocolate mint. This allows you to mix and match and serve your holiday guests a wide variety of flavors. The bakery also offers a cake ball cake, puff pops, and Oreos.

Local businesses are one of the many features that make life in Baton Rouge extra sweet, especially during the holiday season! Contact us to see Baton Rouge homes for sale or to sell your home in the area, and we'll put our skills, expertise, and market insights to work for you! 

If you're new to the Baton Rouge area, our real estate agents can help you find all the best things to see and do in the area. For instance, the Greater Baton Rouge State Fair is a tremendously fun event for both individuals and families, and locals look forward to it.

Last year, the fair was, unfortunately, canceled due to COVID. This year, however, it's back, running Thursday, October 28th through Sunday, November 7th. Anytime you go will be fun, but certain shows and attractions only run on certain days. Here's some of what you can expect, so you can plan your trip to the fair.

Pricing

The first thing to know is how much a trip to the fair will cost you. Due to the nature of many of the rides at the fair, admission is based on height. Anyone under 48 inches gets in free. For fairgoers 48 inches and above, it's $5 Monday through Thursday, or $10 Friday through Sunday. Parking is free.

Once inside, however, in order to go on the rides, you'll need ride coupons, which are sold separately from admission tickets. Ride coupons are $1 each, but some rides may require multiple coupons to get on. Or, you can purchase a wristband for $25, which allows you unlimited rides on any attraction at the fair. Being that the fair has over 40 rides for all different age groups if thrills are your thing, this is probably the best option.

All stage shows, concerts, and other non-ride attractions at the fair are included in the price of admission.

Shows

Many of the shows and attractions will be at the fair every day. Magician Tim Spinosa performs hand magic with a variety of everyday items, though his skills at illusion and charisma in front of an audience ensure that no two shows are alike. Meanwhile, Washboard Willy performs unique rhythm and music, with the help of his audience. There's also a petting zoo, piglet racing, and more.

There are also a few concerts you'll have to plan ahead for. Bands like Careless Whisper, Old Sole Band, Justin McCain Project and Groupon Sensacion will be playing on the first weekend. Blue Crab Redemption, Rusty Yates Band, and others will be performing on different days throughout the week. 

Food

One of the biggest draws at any fair is the food! The GBRSF has a variety of food stands and food trucks to choose from. Corky Westmoreland has rolled ice cream and slushies in two locations around the fair, while Jeremy Westmoreland has funnel cakes, nachos, corn dogs, and more, in three locations. And Roger Westmoreland has all the decadent fair food you've come to love and expect, from deep-fried Snickers, Twinkies, and pecan pie to turkey legs, pork chops on a stick, and more.

If you want to check out the food trucks, Smokin' Like Ya Like It has barbecue sandwiches, wraps, tamales, and their brand new Smokin' Spaghetti. Allo Girls Catering has golden chicken, hurricane fries, and banana pudding. And Jambalaya by Shake has gumbo, boudin balls, etouffee, and more!

And that's just a taste of the different food items the fair has to offer this year.

Want to live right near all the fair festivities? There are plenty of Baton Rouge homes for sale right near the fair. Contact us to help you get settled into the perfect home for you.

The cooler fall weather means we can turn the air conditioner off in the mornings, fling the windows open, and enjoy some fresh air. What's more, the change of seasons gives homeowners permission to launch some stunning decor changes inside and outside the home.

If you're listing your home among Baton Rouge homes for sale, you might want to look into some decorating ideas to help potential buyers see your home at its best. Welcome the fall season with these decorating tips. 

1. Welcome Fall at the Front Door
   Start your fall decorating at the front door by putting out a falling leaves-themed welcome mat and some container plants with bright fall chrysanthemums in yellow, rusty red, and orange. Don't forget the wreath of dried leaves, pumpkins, pine cones, small apples, and pomegranates. 
   
   
2. Boost Your Curb Appeal with Fall Flowers
   Once the weather cools down in October, Baton Rouge front yards come alive with cheerful pansies and violas in a rainbow of colors. Mix yellows, oranges, whites, violets, and maroons, or plant a swath with purple bordered by yellow. Plant them in flower beds or containers.
   
   
3. Change Your Entryway Rug
   Out with the bold summer colors, and in with the striking hues of autumn for your entryway rug. Choose an accent rug with blocks of colors: rust, gray, orange, and brown. 
   
   
4. Bring out the Autumn Scents 
   You want to avoid strong scents while showing your home, but subtle essential oils or candles are fine. Citrus, cucumber, thyme, and rosemary are good. Pine and cinnamon are two fall scents that potential homebuyers generally respond favorably to.
   
   
5. Set out Your Copperware
   Fall's a good time for showing off your copperware in your kitchen. Hang pots and pans from a heavy-gauge copper-finished chandelier rack. Copper vases are also a nice touch. Make sure to polish, so it shines!
   
   
6. Clear out Clutter
   If you're listing your house and getting it ready to show, take a good look in every room and minimize all those personal items, like photos and anything that might be construed as clutter, such as a rack full of magazines, stacks of books, or clusters of pillows. Minimalist is the way to go. It is, however, just fine to put out a couple of fall accents, such as a simple fall arrangement on a coffee table or entry table. Go easy on the pumpkins -- but a couple of unique choices would not be amiss: experiment with navy blue or white wooden pumpkins and some dried foliage.
   
   
7. Spruce up the Patio or Deck
   Potential buyers viewing your home will, of course, want to see the patio or backyard entertainment area. Drape a fall blanket on a chair or chaise longue for a cool evening. Got an extra mum or two? Set them on outdoor tables. The backyard entertainment area is also a nice setting for decorative fall gourds and, yes, even a pumpkin or two. 

Even if you're not selling your home, these tips will help you greet the fall season in style. If you are listing your Baton Rouge house for sale, our real estate agents can help. Contact us today. 

No matter how much you love your cat, you have to agree — their litter box is not as cute as they are. Rather than keeping the litter box out in the open, many cat owners turn to various techniques and tactics to hide their litter boxes. Here are some options to keep in mind as you look at Baton Rouge homes for sale. 

• Cat Door in a Cabinet
  You could turn a lower cabinet, perhaps in the laundry room, into a litter box haven. Put a cat door on one side of the cabinet. This way, your kitty can have easy access. Plus the door closes behind them, keeping odors and litter inside.
  
  
• Wicker Basket Litter Box
  Look for a large, wicker basket. You want the type with a fold-back lid. Ideally, it should be at least two feet wide and three feet long, so there's lots of room for a litter box inside. Cut a hole in one side of the wicker, and line up a small cat door into the hole. Your cat can access the litter box via this hole, and you can swing the top of the basket open to clean the litter box.
  
  
• Under-Sink Litter Box With a Curtain
  One of the simplest ways to hide a litter box is to place it under your sink. Remove the cupboard doors, and instead, mount a curtain to the underside of the cabinet. The curtain will keep the litter box out of view, but your cat will be able to push past it easily, to access their litter.
  
  
• Skirted End Table Litter Box
  If you can manage to find a small, square end table, push it up against a wall, and then drape a curtain over it. You could even use a shower curtain for this purpose. Then, add something heavy to the top of the table to hold the curtain in place. A potted plant or decorative figurine works really well here. Place the litter box under the end table. Your cat can easily access it through the curtains, but it will remain out of sight.
  
  
• Entryway Bench Litter Box
  Covered benches are really popular in entryways. If you put a hole in one end of a covered bench and put the litter box inside, you'll have a very covert litter box setup. People can still sit on the bench as they put their shoes on and such. This solution works well in smaller homes where you really need to use space efficiently.
  
  
• Litter Box Cube
  If you or someone you know is handy and can make a basic wooden box, then this idea works well. The box will need a lid that you can lift, along with a hole in one side. You can lift the lid to clean the litter box, and your cat can access it via the hole in the side. Since this is a custom-made cube, you can paint or stain it any color you want to match your decor.

Cats are lovely pets, but their litter boxes aren't fun to deal with. When you don't want your litter box displayed out in the open, then one of these clever hiding techniques is sure to come in handy. Contact us if you and your kitty are still looking for a house to call home. Our real estate agents are ready to help guide your search.

Everyone has a few tried and true favorites — restaurants you visit again and again because you love them so much. But sometimes, instead of visiting a restaurant you know, it's fun to try something new. Although 2021 has been challenging for the restaurant industry, there are some enticing new places to eat in Baton Rouge. Stop by one of these new restaurants while you're looking at Baton Rouge homes for sale.

• Rio Tacos & Tequila: 333 Third St., Baton Rouge, LA 70801
  Rio Tacos & Tequila is a new Mexican restaurant in the downtown area. They're open daily for lunch and dinner, offering dishes and drinks made from fresh, quality ingredients.
  
  Start your meal at Rio with an appetizer to share. The queso, made with hatch chiles, is a top option. Guests also love the pork empanadas. When the time comes to order entrees, you can't go wrong with the fajitas or the sizzling chicken. And don't forget to pair your meal with a cocktail, like the Rio house margarita or a strawberry Mexican mule.
  
  
• Rêve Coffee Lab: 8211 Village Plaza Ct. Bldg. 4 Ste 1A, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  If you're looking for a quick place to stop for some coffee and a pastry or a quick lunch, then Rêve Coffee Lab is a perfect choice. This new cafe has a modern atmosphere with large, sunny windows and green plants.
  
  In addition to a selection of espresso beverages and cold brew, which guests love, Rêve offers a selection of sandwiches and small plates for lunch. The Drunken Goat Cheese Dip is a favorite, as is the New School Caesar Salad. 
  
  
• Leola's Cafe and Coffee House: 1857 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  Leola's Cafe and Coffee House is a new restaurant serving weekday lunch and weekend brunch. If you stop by on a weekday, you'll be greeted with a lovely menu of salads and handhelds. The Adultish Grilled Cheese, made with cheddar and brie, is a fan favorite.
  
  If you visit Leola's for weekend brunch, you'll be greeted with more breakfast options. Try the bagel and lox or the Crustless Vegetarian Quiche. If you're in the mood for something more savory, the Turkey and Brie sandwich is a great choice.
  
  
• Maker's Greek & Mediterranean Cuisine: 216 Lee Dr. Suite D, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  If you're in the mood for something different, then Maker's Greek & Mediterranean Cuisine is a great new restaurant to try. They blend modern ideas with traditional Middle Eastern and Lebanese cuisine to create unique and satisfying dishes.
  
  One favorite at Maker's is the Seared Halloumi, which is flambéed cheese with garlic sauce and tomatoes. Guests also love the beef shawarma salad and the beef kabobs. Make sure you don't leave without enjoying some baklava. 
  
  
• Kolache Kitchen: 15168 Airline Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70817
  Kolache Kitchen has been a Baton Rouge mainstay for a few years, but they recently opened this new location. Kolaches are a stuffed, doughy snack traditional in Central Europe, and Kolache Kitchen serves them in many varieties.
  
  Favorites here include the classic sausage and cheese kolache, the ham and cheese kolache, and the mushroom, red pepper, and provolone kolache. Don't forget to finish your meal off with a cinnamon roll and maybe a frozen Vietnamese coffee.

There are always fun and delicious new restaurants opening in Baton Rouge. It's one of the reasons our real estate agents love the area so much. Contact us if you're moving to Baton Rouge and need a real estate agent to guide your home search.

It's no secret that design trends come and go. One that was extremely popular in the 1950s was the popcorn ceiling. Since then this trend has fallen by the wayside, or shall we say, popped. If you're ready to update the look of your ceiling, removing a popcorn ceiling is a potential DIY project.

Our real estate agents know that properties without popcorn ceilings appear more updated and attractive to prospective buyers. Here are some helpful tips to assist you with this DIY project. 

1. Confirm That Your Ceilings are Asbestos-Free
   Before you get started, test your ceiling to confirm that it is free of asbestos. Some ceilings in older homes may pose an asbestos risk. You can test the ceilings yourself with a kit from your local hardware store, or you can hire a professional to conduct the testing. Should you decide to do the testing yourself, wear protective gear, including gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask. If your ceiling tests positive for asbestos, you'll need to hire a professional to handle the removal. 

2. Assemble Your Tools Before You Start
   Once you've ruled out potential hazards, you should gather the tools that you'll need to remove the popcorn ceiling before you begin the project. This includes drop cloths to protect the surfaces and floors in the room, a sprayer, a putty knife, painter's tape, protection, and a ladder. 

3. Get the Room Ready
   Once you start removing the popcorn ceiling, the ceiling will get all over the room. Protect the walls and floors by taping up plastic sheeting or drop cloths. Remove any ceiling fans and light fixtures in the room; use painter's tape to cover and protect the electrical boxes. If possible, remove the furniture from the room. Removing a popcorn ceiling is an insanely messy job, and you don't want to worry about your furniture getting dirty. It's also easier to move your ladder and supplies if you don't have to work around furniture. 

4. Wet the Ceiling Before You Start Scraping
   It's often easier to remove popcorn texture when it's wet. Use your garden sprayer to wet a small section of the ceiling. Wait 15 minutes and then scrape the popcorn texture away using your putty knife. Don't wet too large of a section, or the water will dry before you get a chance to scrape the ceiling. 

5. Watch How You Maneuver the Putty Knife
   When you're scraping with the putty knife, make sure that you don't damage the ceiling. If your putty knife has sharp or jagged edges, file them so that they're smooth and not as sharp. 

6. Have a Plan in Place for Your Ceiling
   Once the popcorn texture is removed, you'll need to paint it. Fill any damaged portions of the ceiling with joint compound. Then, sand the ceiling so it's smooth. Apply primer to your ceilings according to the instructions. Once the ceiling is properly primed, you can paint it your desired color. 

Ready to sell your home? Contact us today to start learning more about Baton Rouge homes for sale!

Late summer and early fall are busy times for special events around Baton Rouge, with a variety of fun, local activities geared toward every taste. Whether you're interested in cooking, art, music, or fun activities that the kids will love, you will always have something fun to look forward to when you live in Baton Rouge. Our real estate agents have the exciting details on 5 upcoming Baton Rouge events that you won't want to miss.

Local Events to Check Out in Baton Rouge

• Summertime Peaches Leisure Class – Aug. 12, 2021 – 10550 Airline Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70816
  Enjoy a fun, unique cooking class close to Baton Rouge homes for sale when you attend the Summertime Peaches Leisure Class at the Louisiana Culinary Institute. This class celebrates the peach season by teaching you how to create some truly tasty dishes with peaches as the main ingredient. Settle in for an evening of teaching and delicious dining with chef Jeanne Mancuso, then bring home some recipes that you can use to celebrate peach season every summer.
  
  
• Louisiana's Lionhearted Ladies: Championing the Right to Vote – Every Weekday through Dec. 17, 2021 – 100 North Blvd. at River Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70801
  The fascinating Louisiana's Lionhearted Ladies: Championing the Right to Vote will be on display at Louisiana's Old State Capitol for the rest of the year, to mark the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment being passed. The exhibit delves deep into the experience of the many brave women in Louisiana who helped advance the cause of suffrage, dating back many years before the 19th Amendment was passed. Learn more about that history through fascinating stories, unique historic artifacts, and a variety of special programs at the museum.
  
  
• The Boneyard: Ceramics Teaching Collection – Every Weekday through Oct. 15, 2021 – 100 Lafayette St., Fifth Floor Shaw Center for the Arts, Baton Rouge, LA 70801
  The LSU ceramics teaching program consistently ranks as one of the best in the country. The Boneyard: Ceramics Teaching Collection is a rotation exhibition that takes you behind the scenes of the creative process of visiting artists, ceramics instructors, and talented student artists. The Boneyard refers to the many collected works of bisque pottery used for teaching at the Shaw Center for the Arts, and this special exhibit features more than 200 bisque works for visitors to enjoy.
  
  
• Shark Feeding at Blue Zoo – Every Wednesday (4:00 PM) & Saturday (2:00 PM) – 6401 Bluebonnet Blvd., Suite 1123, Baton Rouge, LA 70836
  Blue Zoo Baton Rouge is a great, family-friendly attraction located at the Mall of Louisiana, with Wednesday and Saturday afternoons being the perfect time to visit. Those are the days that Shark Feeding at Blue Zoo events take place, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with some of the aquarium's most fascinating creatures. This recurring event will be taking place for the rest of the year and is free with admission to the aquarium.
  
  
• Baton Rouge Blues Festival – Sept. 18, 2021 – Downtown Baton Rouge, Baton Rouge, LA 70801
  A fast-growing blues festival that is now attended by more than 50,000 visitors annually, the Baton Rouge Blues Festival is one local event that music lovers definitely won't want to miss. The event is free for everyone to enjoy, with performances from both local blues legends and internationally known touring artists. This year's festival is headlined by local legend Robert Finley, with performances from more than 20 other artists spread throughout the day.

Are you searching for a home that makes it easy to enjoy all of the amazing events in Baton Rouge all year long? Let our local real estate team help you find the perfect home. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Baton Rouge, LA area.

If you're anything like our real estate agents, you can't resist a plate of savory chicken wings. Order to your heart's content on Thursday, July 29 as you celebrate National Chicken Wing Day at one of these favorite restaurants near Baton Rouge homes for sale.

• Empire Wingz - 9402 Burbank Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Crispy on the outside, melt-in-your-mouth on the inside: that's how fans describe the main attraction at Empire Wingz. With more than a dozen different sauces to go with the regular and boneless wings, you'll keep returning to try them all. Do you dare to go with the appropriately named Danger, or will you choose the popular spicy garlic Parmesan? Hours are 11 a.m. - midnight, every day but Sunday.
  
  
• Sauce & Bones - 2696 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816
  Experts agree that Sauce & Bones are key factors in the tastiest wings, and this restaurant nails the basics. Wing combos come in three to 15 pieces with your choice of a traditional side, such as mac & cheese, baked beans, and potato salad. There's a wide range of sauces on the menu, but customers particularly love the sweet heat of the signature Bones sauce. For a twist on French fries, order the PotatoSaurus topped with bacon, sour cream, cheese, butter, and chives. Add chicken or other BBQ meat for an additional charge. Sauce & Bones is open daily from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., with extended hours until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
  
  
• Valley Wings - 2679 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  When someone refers to a restaurant's wings as "life-changing," you know they must be doing it right. Valley Wings is a relatively new player in the Baton Rouge restaurant scene, but in less than a year they've developed a devoted following. All of the sauces can be added to French fries, and the loaded fries are a meal by themselves. The daily special of five wings, fries, grilled Valley Bread, and a can of soda is bargain priced at $9.50. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
  
  
• TJ Ribs - 2324 S. Acadian Thruway, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  From day one, TJ Ribs has been on a quest to set themselves apart from standard Louisiana BBQ. In the late 1980s, founder TJ Moran created his own unique recipe for baby back ribs, something that was relatively rare in typical BBQ joints. Today they offer a full selection of brisket, beef, pork, and other BBQ meats, along with two types of chicken wings. In addition to Buffalo-style wings, TJ Ribs serves crispy Southern fried chicken wings that are also available as an option in their family pack to-go meals. Hours at TJ Ribs are 10:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
  
  
• BullChicks - 11135 Coursey Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816
  Burgers and wings are two of the more crave-able foods around, making them the primary focus of BullChicks. Up to four people can eat well with the combos of five to 25 wings, served plain or flavored with one of 12 sauces. All combos include fries, toast, and dipping sauce. Hours are 7 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.

Incredible restaurants are just one benefit of living in Baton Rouge. Contact us at Latter & Blum to learn more. 

Raised garden beds can be a great way to garden. They are often more successful because of factors like better drainage and soil quality, and they're easier to work in. Plus, they look tidy and attractive, which is an added bonus if you're getting ready to list your home in Baton Rouge homes for sale. Here are a few tips for starting a raised garden bed.

1. Decide how many raised beds you need.
   Keep in mind that raised beds enable you to plant a little closer together, so you're maximizing your available gardening space by raising the bed. Most casual gardeners will only need one or two raised beds. If you're planning to grow a lot of your own vegetables, or if you're planting sprawling or vining plants such as squash and melon, you might need more space.
   
   
2. Choose the best location.
   Plan the location of your raised beds very carefully, noting which areas of your yard get the best sunlight throughout the day. Most vegetables need about eight hours of sunlight, and many, such as tomatoes, do best if they get a lot of morning sun rather than afternoon sun. How it looks is a secondary concern, but it's still important, especially if you're planning on selling the house. Raised beds and well-planned landscaping looks great to potential buyers, according to our real estate agents.
   
   
3. Choose the depth.
   In general, the deeper the bed, the better it is for your plants (and your back). Deeper beds will retain moisture and need less watering, but they'll also drain better so that they don't just become a pool of standing water. Of course, a deeper bed may not always be ideal because of the cost of the dirt to fill it. If you have soil underneath the raised bed, you can get away with a shallower raised bed, but if you are building the bed over a concrete or another hard surface, you'll need as deep a bed as you can get.
   
   
4. Prepare the ground underneath.
   If you're building the raised bed on top of a regular yard, be sure to prepare the surface. You'll need to weed and get rid of the grass, and you can actually give your plants' roots more growing room by breaking up the dirt underneath your raised bed. If it's an extremely weedy or grassy area, you can stop existing plants from taking over your bed by laying down cardboard underneath, but you'll lose some of that root real estate.
   
   
5. Build the bed to last.
   Especially if you plan on using the bed for multiple years, it's important to do a good job of building your raised bed. You can buy pre-packaged raised beds that are ready to install, or you can find a plan online to build one yourself. Just make sure you give some thought to preventing the bed from shifting over time. Many gardeners recommend a stake midway down each side to help stabilize the walls.
   
   
6. Get the right soil.
   You've already put a ton of planning, energy, and probably some money into these raised garden beds, so make sure they'll succeed by filling them with high-quality soil. A mix of compost and topsoil will ensure proper drainage and sufficient nutrients.

With a couple of raised garden beds and a trip to the nursery for some plants to fill them with, your yard will be transformed. For more ideas to improve your curb appeal before selling your home, contact us today.

Does summer vacation mean cries of, "Mom, there's nothing to do?" Our real estate agents share some great summer programs around Baton Rouge homes for sale where kids can participate in fun activities and even learn a few things along the way.

• Piano Pathways Summer Camps - 9270 Siegen Lane #304, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
  Playing a musical instrument is a skill that provides creative expression while boosting self-confidence. Piano Pathways Summer Camps offer sessions for students of all levels. Beginners can learn the basics, while more experienced students can challenge themselves by playing in competitions and ensembles. There's even a camp that combines music with science, technology, engineering, and math. Camps run through July 23. Private lessons are available for students who want to continue developing their abilities.
  
  
• Kid-Possible Summer Camps - Jefferson United Methodist Church, 10328 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  Youngsters can develop mind, body, and spirit at Kid-Possible Summer Camps. Each one-week session features a balance between art, science, and physical activities, focusing on a specific theme with a mission to be solved. The highlight is a field trip corresponding to that week's theme, such as "Adventure to the Animal Kingdom." Sessions run through August 6 and fee is $190. Lunch and pre-and post-care are offered for an additional fee.
  
  
• Painting and Punch Summer Camps - Painting and Pinot, 7248 Perkins Rd., Ste. B, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Every child has a creative spark that makes them unique. Painting and Punch Summer Camps allow them to nurture their individual personality through a variety of art projects. Each day's agenda explores the style and period of a noted artist. Campers then use the inspiration to create their own piece with watercolors, chalk, and other media. At the end of the week-long session, campers hold an art show where their work is displayed for parents. Groups are divided into K-4th and 5th-9th. Sessions are scheduled through July 23 and fees are $135-$150, which includes supplies and snacks.
  
  
• Episcopal Summer Camps - Episcopal School of Baton Rouge, 3200 Woodland Ridge Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816
  Is your child a budding Bobby Flay or J.K. Rowling? Episcopal Summer Camps cover an amazing variety of interests, from musical theater to sewing and fashion to creative writing. Inventive weekly themes include, "Desserts, Desserts, Desserts," "The Mathematical Mind: Fractals," and "Go for the Gold," in which campers stage their own Olympic Games. Sessions run through July 29 and each one is geared toward a different age group from K-10th. Fees start at $175.
  
  
• YMCA Summer Camps - Various locations
  The YMCA may be the gold standard for family-friendly activities, and they really ramp it up during the summer months. YMCA Summer Camps are offered in five exciting categories: Adventure, Arts and Creativity, Mind, Discovery, and Sports. Week-long camps through August 6 let kids participate in one, two, or all five. Themes are designed for certain age groups ranging from 4-13. Weekly fees are $125 for members and $175 for non-members, with $25 registration fees waived for Household/Family members. With camps being held at five different Baton Rouge locations, there's one located conveniently close to you. 

Every season of the year is a wonderful time to be in Baton Rouge. Contact us if you're ready to buy or sell a home.

You looked at Baton Rouge homes for sale and found the perfect house for your family. You're getting ready to make your offer and are considering going over the asking price. Should you? Our real estate agents encourage you to consider these things. 

1. Multiple Offers
   Your agent can discuss with the seller's agent whether there are other offers on the table or if more offers are anticipated in the near future. If that's the case, you'll have to make a better offer to compete for the property.
    
2. Below Fair Market Value Price
   The seller may have intentionally priced the property at an attractive price to attract multiple buyers initiating a bidding war. By looking at recent home sales in the area, you can see whether the property is underpriced. This process will help you calculate a reasonable offer. 
   
   
3. Unmotivated Seller
   Change is difficult, and sometimes, even if they know it is the right decision for them, sellers will drag their feet. They may have listed the home, not really anticipating buyers so quickly. You can sweeten the pot by offering them more than they thought the house was worth. Just be careful that you don't overpay for the property. 
   
   
4. It's Your Dream House
   You made your list of everything you wanted in a new home, from location to architecture. It even has some awesome features you hadn't even considered. When you absolutely have your heart set on the property, your willingness to pay a little extra can ensure that it's yours. 
   
   
5. The Market Belongs to the Sellers
   This is a simple matter of supply and demand. In a buyer's market, there are more homes available for sale than buyers to fill them. But when real estate inventory drops, prices rise. The subsequent bidding wars can drive prices far above fair market value. When you find the house you want in a seller's market, it is important to act fast. This is not to say, settle for something less than you want, but when you do find it, don't hesitate. 
   
   
6. The Buyer Can Afford a Higher Price
   It's important to remember that when a buyer must acquire a mortgage, the lender sets the maximum loan amount based on the appraisal. Any amount over and above that comes from the buyer's pocket. Cash buyers don't have to concern themselves with these limits, which is a definite advantage. Even if a mortgage is still necessary, a sizable down payment can mean the loan is well within the limits of the appraisal. Older sellers who are trading a large family home for a condominium or townhouse often have the liquidity to pay cash.
   
   
7. The Cash Buyer Advantage
   As previously mentioned, buyers who are downsizing to a smaller home often have a significant financial advantage over first-time buyers. Companies that offer immediate cash with no showings also often snatch up properties quickly. But they tend to buy at a high discount. A buyer who can afford to compete with a slightly higher offer will often secure the property. 

Contact us for expert guidance in the real estate market and start your search for the perfect home. 

Retail therapy is a vibrant way of life around Baton Rouge homes for sale. Thanks to a diverse assortment of boutiques in the area, you can shop 'til you drop and still find fresh new items. Our real estate agents head to these favorite shops when they want to give their credit cards a workout.

1. Lulu & Bean - 2935 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
   Lulu & Bean knows that kids want to be stylish too. They benefit customers and the environment by carrying both new and gently-used clothing from top apparel brands. Personalize your selection with monogramming from their embroidery service. The shop also offers a number of eco-friendly toys, gifts, and accessories. Get cash on the spot for your high-end baby and children's items in good condition. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday or shop their online store.
   
   
2. Merci Beaucoup - 7539 Corporate Blvd., Suite 150, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
   Walk into Merci Beaucoup and leave with a complete outfit, from clothing and footwear to jewelry and accessories. The locally-owned shop features vinyl monogramming and engraving services to add your personal touch to your selections. Brides who register at Merci Beaucoup receive a 15 percent discount on all purchases by the entire bridal party. Shop online or visit the store from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday.
   
   
3. Mothers and Daughters Gift Shoppe - 215 N. Range Ave., Denham Springs, LA 70726
   Shopping for a friend? You won't be able to resist picking up something for yourself as well at Mothers and Daughters Gift Shoppe. The charming apparel, accessories, and home decor items give the boutique a delightful shabby-chic vibe. Follow them on Facebook for notifications about the arrival of new merchandise as well as exciting sales and promotions. Mothers and Daughters is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
   
   
4. Kiki - 1660 Lobdell Ave. #101, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
   The mother-daughter team behind Kiki has a goal to bring global designer flair to Baton Rouge. Located in the fashionable arts district of Studio Park, Kiki features a stark, minimalist decor that keeps the focus on high-end jewelry, clothing, and accessories. On a typical visit, you might find a Proenza Schouler handbag, Tom Ford fragrance, and Eileen Fisher dress. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, or you can visit their convenient online shop.
   
   
5. Swap Boutique - 7643 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70809
   Your shopping habit can pay for itself at Swap Boutique. The shop accepts consignment items in good condition from names and brands such as Marc Jacobs, J. Crew, and BCBG. Receive a competitive commission rate or store credit, or pay it forward and donate your earnings to the non-profit organization of your choice. Swap is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon - 5 p.m., while their online shop is open 24/7.
   
   
6. The Foyer - 3655 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
   Is your home in need of a little TLC? Updating the decor is the easiest way to transform a house, and The Foyer is the perfect place to jump-start your creativity. More than 75 merchants and artists are represented in the shop's comprehensive selection of furnishings, lighting, accessories, and artwork. Recharge with a light lunch of salads and sandwiches at the onsite cafe. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.

Ready for the ultimate shopping experience? If you're buying or selling a Baton Rouge home, contact us at Latter & Blum for cheerful and experienced assistance.

For several years running now, Baton Rouge has distinguished itself as one of the top places to move. Baton Rouge homes for sale are especially popular among first-time homebuyers. In fact, it was recently named one of the Top 10 Metros for First-Time Homeowners.

What's the secret that makes Baton Rouge so attractive? Our real estate agents love the Baton Rouge area because of the following features that make it truly one of a kind:

1. Baton Rouge Is Amazingly Affordable
   If you want to be surrounded by world-class amenities that don't demand a premium price, Baton Rouge is the place to be. Many of its dozens of museums offer free days, the public libraries are bustling with free programs for kids and adults, and there are nearly 200 parks, many along the 4.31-mile Mississippi River Levee Path.
   
   
2. A City on the Grow
   Over the last decade, the area along the Mississippi River has been revitalized to make it walkable and family-friendly. Downtown is a blend of historic properties and all-new construction totaling millions of dollars in very recent investment. The Shaw Center for the Arts is just one example of fresh, state-of-the-art facilities.
   
   
3. Unbeatable Cajun Cuisine
   Inspired by New Orleans but spiced by vibrant immigrant communities originating from all over the world, the Baton Rouge dining scene presents you with a mouth-watering blend of classic and contemporary cuisine. You'll always be close to ribs, gumbo, and soul food, but also Honduran, Vietnamese, and fusion restaurants.
   
   
4. Birthplace of the Blues
   The unique blues tradition of Baton Rouge reaches even further back than modern jazz and has influenced that style at many points. True to this history, the Baton Rouge Blues Festival is one of the oldest anywhere in the country and completely free of charge. And, of course, countless blues clubs dot the city.
   
   
5. A Busy Social Calendar
   The blues aren't the only thing to celebrate in Baton Rouge. There's always something new to discover – all you have to do is look. LSU is the tailgate party capital of the world, and there are frequent free festivals. You won't want to miss out on the Louisiana International Film Festival, Crawfish King Cookoff, or Spanish Town Mardi Gras.
   
   
6. The Best of a Big City and a Small Town
   Baton Rouge has many of the perks you would expect from the biggest cities, such as a thriving startup scene and numerous universities that pump out groundbreaking research. Despite it all, though, it remains a close-knit community with small-town charm. In Baton Rouge, you can really get to know your neighbors.
   
   
7. Kids Love Baton Rouge
   This is a city where young minds can soar. The new Knock Knock Children's Museum is just one of the many interactive learning experiences that can help children embrace imagination and develop a love of learning. The region also boasts top-ranked public and private schools catering to students of all ages.
   
   
8. Diverse Home Options to Suit Any Lifestyle
   Baton Rouge neighborhoods each have their own character. You'll find historic buildings dating all the way back to the 1880s in one area with modern, luxury high-rise condos in another. Younger neighborhoods like Perkins Rowe and Longfarm Village are known for convenient access to work and retail spaces.

Ready to own your first home in the Baton Rouge area? Contact us today at Latter & Blum to find out more about real estate opportunities in the Baton Rouge area.

The journey from caterpillar to butterfly is one of nature's most fascinating and inspiring transformations. On Sunday, March 14, spend some time observing these beautiful insects during National Learn About Butterflies Day. Get an up-close and personal view of these delightful spots around Baton Rouge suggested by our real estate agents.

• Children's Garden - 4560 Essen Ln., Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  All ages are welcome at Children's Garden, where kids are encouraged to interact with the various exhibits. Taste the freshness of blackberries, carrots, and other fruits and vegetables are grown throughout the year. The butterfly section provides a look at all phases of development, from eggs and caterpillars to chrysalis to full-grown butterfly. Admission is free for all visitors. Children's Garden is open daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 
  
  
• Independence Botanical Gardens - 7950 Independence Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806
  As part of their mission to make the city's natural resources easily accessible to the local community, BREC founded the Independence Botanical Gardens. One of the more recent additions to the site is the Butterfly Garden, completed in 2018. The garden includes cassia, echinacea, fennel, and other plants known to attract butterflies. The colors of the butterflies and the plants combine for a true visual delight. There is no charge for admission. Hours are 7 a.m. - sundown daily.
  
  
• Laurens Henry Cohn, Sr. Memorial Plant Arboretum - 12206 Foster Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70811
  Laurens Henry Cohn, Sr. Memorial Plant Arboretum is another jewel in BREC's crown of scenic parks. With 16 acres of trees and shrubs, a fruit orchard, and a butterfly garden, the arboretum is a favorite destination for anyone who's seeking a peaceful oasis just minutes from Baton Rouge homes for sale. Besides butterflies, you can enjoy other flying creatures from the numerous bird-watching viewpoints throughout the grounds. The arboretum is open to the public free of charge. Hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., seven days a week.
  
  
• Louisiana State Arthropod Museum - 5th Floor, Life Sciences Building, LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
  Sixteen natural history collections housed on the LSU campus have been officially designated as the Louisiana Museum of Natural History. One of the more popular collections is the Louisiana State Arthropod Museum, featuring approximately one million insect specimens. Exhibits, including butterflies, are pinned, fluid-preserved, or slide-mounted, with new specimens added on a regular basis. Staff members are available to answer questions. 

Create Your Own Butterfly Garden

Another fun option is to create your own butterfly garden! It's a family-friendly activity that benefits the environment and boosts the curb appeal of your home.

• Choose plants such as zinnias, coneflowers, and petunias that attract butterflies with vivid colors and a plentiful supply of nectar. Stagger plants of different heights to draw a wider variety of butterflies.
  
  
• Be sure to include host plants, such as asters, milkweed, and passionflower, that will provide a nutrient-rich base for caterpillars.
  
  
• Place a shallow dish filled with pebbles or sand and water in the garden to serve as a drinking station.
  
  
• Avoid pesticides as much as possible. 
  
  
• Painted Lady, Red Admiral, Monarch, Duskywing, and Black Swallowtail are some of the butterfly species that are native to Louisiana. If there are butterflies you're particularly interested in, research their habits and tailor your garden accordingly.

When it comes to "cocooning," there's no place better than a home of your own around Baton Rouge. Contact us at Latter & Blum for help from our cheerful and experienced real estate agents.

If you're thinking about buying one of the beautiful Baton Rouge homes for sale, a VA loan is a great option! These loans come with excellent benefits. They offer flexible credit underwriting and low-interest rates. In addition, buyers using a VA loan won't have to come up with a down payment or carry mortgage insurance (PMI).

A portion of these loans is guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veteran's Affairs (VA). However, the loans are issued by mortgage lenders and banks. Our real estate agents regularly meet with lenders to learn more about any updates to loan programs and how they could impact their clients. 

There have been some changes to VA loans that go into effect in 2021. Here's what you need to know. 

Benefits for National Guard Members

The biggest change affects National Guard members. Previously, VA loans were not available to members who did not have at least 90 days of active service.

Beginning in 2021, all Guard and Reserve members who have at least 90 days of service are eligible for a VA home loan, even if the service wasn't active. However, there is one caveat. At least 30 of the days of the service must be consecutive. 

Increased Loan Limits

As of 2020, service members with "full entitlement" are not subject to a VA loan limit. You'll have full entitlement if you've never used a VA loan benefit, have paid off a VA loan and then sold the property, or had a foreclosure or short sale and repaid the VA in full.

However, if you have "remaining entitlement," you are subject to a limit. This can occur for several different reasons. The most common is that you have an active VA loan, they're still paying back.

The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced that the upper limit for their loans was increasing in 2021. VA loans follow these guidelines, so all VA loans closing after January 1st, 2021 also have increased loan limits. The new limit for a single-family home located in the lower 48 states is $548,250. This is an increase of 7.4% compared to 2020. 

In Alaska or Hawaii, the upper limit is now $822,375. If you're buying a home in a high-cost county, you might also have some extra wiggle room. These areas will have their own limits, which are set on a local basis. This limit may be anywhere from $548,250 and $822,375. 

Explore Baton Rouge Homes Today! 

Whether you're planning on using a VA loan or another type of financing, now is a great time to buy a new home. There are many beautiful options on the market, and we would love to help you find the perfect one. Contact us today to get started! 

Raise your hand if you could use a tall glass of wine right now. Our real estate agents understand that this year has been unlike any other. Raise a glass to the end of 2020 with a drink from one of these Baton Rouge wine bars.

1. Duvic's — 2854 Kalurah St., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
   Duvic's is Baton Rouge's favorite neighborhood overpass bar where your preferred martini is waiting. For over twenty years, their bartenders have mastered the art of the martini and paired them with amazing burgers, sandwiches, and more. Those seeking wine will be pleased with their wine list, though beers and nonalcoholic drinks are also on the menu.
   
   
2. Sullivan's Steakhouse — 5252 Corporate Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
   Are there any finer pleasures in life than a full-bodied glass of wine and a juicy steak? Pour over the wine list at Sullivan's Steakhouse featuring hundreds of options from around the world as you munch on cheesesteak eggrolls or jumbo lump crab cake appetizers. Enhance your house-cut steak with a broiled lobster tail and a side of three-cheese mac. Add a slice of New York cheesecake and another glass of wine to finish the night off in style.
   
   
3. Mid Tap — 660 Arlington Creek Centre Blvd. Suite D., Baton Rouge, LA 70820
   Eat, drink, and celebrate your health at Mid Tap. White and red wines sit alongside classic cocktails and a rotating tap of domestic beers. Munchies like loaded beer-battered waffle fries and wings will tempt you to refill your wine glass hour after hour.  
   
   
4. Bin 77 — 10111 Perkins Rowe, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
   Never order a bad wine again! Bin 77 Bistro & Wine lets you taste any wine you wish before you order it, so you'll always be satisfied. Live music fills the air most nights as couples and friends split plates like crawfish and kimchi empanadas and grilled lamb lollipops. Whether you desire a full meal like grilled pork chops or if you just want to nibble on a cheese and charcuterie board with your wine, you'll love this adults-only wine bar.
   
   
5. Olive or Twist Bar + Kitchen — 7248 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70810
   Olive or Twist Kitchen and Bar will have you asking, "Please, sir, may I have some more wine?" This upscale Baton Rouge bar features exceptionally crafted cocktails and your favorite bottles of wine. A lively spot that's perfect to begin or end the night, good times and good wines await you at Olive or Twist.

Would you like to stay in and have a drink in your own cozy home bar? Let us help you find the perfect space to display your wine collection. Contact us today to tour our latest Baton Rouge homes for sale.

Don't feel like cooking, but you're not in the mood to dine out either? Food trucks offer portable restaurant-quality food that can be eaten outdoors or back home. Feed yourself or the whole family with delicious food from these great trucks near Baton Rouge homes for sale. 

• The Kolache Kitchen - 7930 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70809
  Central Europe meets the bayou at The Kolache Kitchen, a food truck located in Baton Rouge's upscale Bocage neighborhood. A kolache is a soft-baked pastry that perfectly accommodates a wide variety of sweet and savory fillings. Options include mushrooms and red pepper, turkey, smoked sausage, or fruit. Since this IS Baton Rouge, there's also a Boudin kolache. Other tasty menu choices are tacos, sandwiches, and empanadas. A second truck can be found at 4245 Nicholson Dr. near the LSU campus. Both locations serve breakfast and lunch from 6 a.m. - 2 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Basel's Market Food Truck - Various locations
  Kaylyn Lindsly, the founder of Basel's Market Food Truck, is the daughter of Calvin Lindsly, who worked his way up from bagger to become the owner of Calvin's Bocage Market. Kaylyn runs Basel's Market, named after her Australian shepherd, with that same work ethic and emphasis on customer service. The truck serves up homemade comfort food such as crawfish pie, mac 'n' cheese, and chicken salad. Craft your personalized gourmet sandwich with your choices of bread, meat, cheese, veggies, and condiments. Follow Basel's Market on Facebook for daily locations and times.
  
  
• Boo's Best BBQ - Various locations
  In the South, BBQ is truly a family affair. Ivory Brown learned to love grilling from his father, and Ivory's subsequent marriage inspired him to focus his passion by starting Boo's Best BBQ. The truck features traditional favorites such as chopped chicken, pork ribs, salmon, and sausage. Complement your meal with a rotating selection of green beans, boiled corn, potato casserole, and other sides. Order ahead for pickup of full pans and family meals. Follow Boo's Facebook page for the current schedule.
  
  
• Cou-Yon's - 3653 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
  Keeping with the family BBQ tradition, brothers Paul and Michael Mladenka teamed up to start Cou-Yon's, a brick-and-mortar restaurant in Port Allen. Their Cajun-meets-South-Texas style was so popular that they opened a new trailer at the corner of Perkins and Acadian in Baton Rouge. In addition to the classic BBQ meats and sides, Cou-Yon's features their signature loaded baked potatoes that are a meal in themselves. Customers line up for the waffle fries served nacho-style, topped with queso, bacon, sour cream, jalapeños, onions, and your choice of meat. Hours are 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. 
  
  
• Geaux Cuban - Various locations
  Enjoy some island flavor with one of the namesake sandwiches from Geaux Cuban. The popular sandwich is made with pulled pork, ham, Swiss cheese, mayo, mustard, and pickles between two slices of pressed Cuban bread. Other traditional favorites on the menu include roasted pork or chicken sandwiches and tacos, ham croquettes, and plantains. Try the Cuban nachos, with classic toppings served on crunchy corn chips. Visit Geaux Cuban's Facebook page to find up-to-date information on times and locations.

Our real estate agents love grabbing lunch on the go from one of these top food trucks. Learn more about why Baton Rouge is such a wonderful place to call home when you contact us at Latter & Blum. 

Recent data indicates that the Baton Rouge metropolitan area is a hit with Gen Z homebuyers. Though exact date ranges vary, the Gen Z label usually refers to someone born between the years of 1995 and 2010. Those early Gen Zers are the ones starting to emerge in the Baton Rouge market with purchase power.

Besides the obvious factor of age, there are several other noticeable differences between Gen Z and other types of buyers. This includes the prices of the homes they purchase and what attracts them to a potential property. 

A Look at the Gen Z Buyer

The average purchase price for a property bought by a Gen Z buyer is $160,600. This is significantly less than the $256,500 average purchase price of a property purchased by a millennial homebuyer. On average, listing prices for homes that Gen Z buyers purchase are 25 percent less than the national median asking price. Gen Zers are forgoing the conventional 20 percent downpayment; instead, the average downpayment for a Gen Z homebuyer is only five percent of the home's purchase price. 

Understanding Gen Z's Buying Preferences

The markets that Gen Zers are attracted to tend to have affordable housing options that make the dream of homeownership an attainable reality.

Most Gen Z homebuyers are early in their careers and don't have the purchasing power of other generations who have had time to grow their salaries. They're drawn to affordable housing markets in part due to necessity. 

Since it appears Gen Z homebuyers are comfortable making smaller down payments, this enables them to become homeowners sooner rather than later. As a whole, Gen Z tends to value individual expression. They are willing to purchase a more affordable home that allows them to customize the property to their unique needs and stylistic preferences.

The Appeal of Baton Rouge to Gen Z Buyers

The Baton Rouge metropolitan area ranks as the tenth top housing market for Gen Z buyers. Baton Rouge is a growing area that has a median age of 36. Approximately 46.52 percent of people who reside in the Baton Rouge area are under 34 years of age. Baton Rouge boasts a median home value of $156,400, making it a top choice for budget-conscious Gen Zers. 

There are a lot of other traits that make Baton Rouge homes for sale a hit with Gen Zers. Baton Rouge has a lot of fantastic restaurants and attractions, and it's a highly walkable city. Gen Zers looking to live an eco-conscious lifestyle or lower their vehicle-related expenses appreciate housing that enables them to walk to their job and favorite hangouts. 

Ready to make the move to Baton Rouge? Our REALTORS® can help clients find great homes that span a variety of price points. Contact us today to learn more about homes that fit your budget and have the traits that you're searching for.

National Take a Walk in the Park Day is observed every year on March 30. What better time to take a stroll through one of Baton Rouge's many beautiful parks? You'll find each park to be unique with amenities such as sand beaches, fishing ponds, rock climbing walls, and more!

Our REALTORS® suggest going for a stroll in the following 6 Baton Rouge parks:

1. Milford Wampold Memorial Park - 901 Stanford Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
   Milford Wampold Park has .25 miles of hard-surface walking trails, a new pedestrian bridge, plenty of green space, a sand beach on the LSU lake, and a pier and boat launch. You can also get moving some more with the park's new exercise station or take part in a special event like a kayaking class.
   
   
2. Perkins Road Community Park - 7122 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
   Perkins Road Community Park has an outdoor walking loop and walking trails to use on your walk in the park. It also offers exhilarating fun with a skate park and a rock climbing wall, as well as tamer amenities such as tennis courts and a fishing pond.
   
   
3. Independence Community Park - 7500 Independence Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806
   If you walk the 1.8 miles of trails available in Independence Community Park, you'll be treated to beautiful views of the park's Botanical Gardens, which are free and open to the public. You'll be able to see the Louisiana Iris Garden, The Parterre Color Display Garden, The Day Lily Garden, and more. After your walk, enjoy a break at The Garden Cafe, which overlooks the gardens. The cafe has indoor and outdoor seating and serves coffee drinks, smoothies, salads, and other offerings.
   
   
4. City-Brooks Community Park - 1515 Dalrymple Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70806
   Take a walk on the outdoor walking track or bring your dog and head to the dog park at City-Brooks Community Park. Or if you'd rather enjoy a meditative, relaxing walk, try the labyrinth that's also located in the park. You can also browse through the greenspace, passing a golf course and splash pad along the way.
   
   
5. Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center - 10503 N. Oak Hills Parkway, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
   Walking over the gravel paths and boardwalks in the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center will let you experience varied habitats, including the cypress-tupelo swamp, beech-magnolia, and hardwood forests. Keep your eyes open for plenty of birds and other animals such as white snakes, turtles, raccoons, rabbits, armadillos, and deer.
   
   
6. Anna T. Jordan Community Park - 1750 Stilt St., Baton Rouge, LA 70807
   Walk on the outdoor track at Anna T. Jordan Community Park, and if you'd like to work up a sweat, try out the park's fitness center. It's available with a monthly membership, and you won't have to sign a contract. The park also has plenty of other ways to exercise, including an indoor and outdoor basketball court, a swimming pool, and a tennis court.

Contact us to learn about the many advantages of living in the Baton Rouge area. Whether you're buying a home, selling a home, or both, we can help. Want to view properties in the Baton Rouge market? Check out Baton Rouge homes for sale.

Home is where the heart is, and there's a lot to love about Baton Rouge. In honor of Valentine's Day, our REALTORS® share the top features that make Baton Rouge such a lovable place to live.

1. Vibrant and Diverse Neighborhoods
   Whether you're a college student, young professional, parent, or retiree, you'll find Baton Rouge homes for sale in a neighborhood that suits your lifestyle. The city has a thriving downtown area with good walkability. Other popular neighborhoods include Spanish Town, Garden District, Bocage, Hundred Oaks, and Broadmoor.
   
   
2. Low Cost of Living
   On the cost of living index, 100 equals the national average. Baton Rouge has a score of 96, making it lower than the U.S. average as well as cities of similar size, such as Boise, ID, and Richmond, VA. Also, experts at renowned business and personal finance website Kiplinger rank Louisiana in the top 10 tax-friendly states based on income and property taxes, so you retain more of your paycheck living in Baton Rouge. 
   
   
3. Plentiful Amenities
   Who wants to travel for miles because you forgot to pick up milk, or you need to get a flu shot? AreaVibes, an online site that rates cities based on several liveability factors, gives Baton Rouge their top score of A+ for easy access to grocery stores, retail shopping, medical facilities, and other desirable amenities.
   
   
4. Lively Music Scene
   While Louisiana is home of the blues, Baton Rouge made its contribution to the genre with the birth of swamp blues, a unique style incorporating elements of zydeco and Cajun music. Several night clubs and concert venues around the city feature swamp blues as well as other popular music styles. Highlight of the year is the Baton Rouge Blues Festival, a free, family-friendly two-day event that draws iconic musicians such as Mavis Staples, Charlie Musselwhite, and local legend Buddy Guy.
   
   
5. Short Commute Time
   According to Sperling's Best Places, which has been analyzing and publishing data about people and cities for more than 30 years, average commute time in Baton Rouge is 21.4 minutes. That's a full five minutes less than the national average of 26.4 minutes. 
   
   
6. Warm Climate
   With summer temperatures sometimes topping 90°F, air conditioning is a must. But with an average temperature of 68°F and an average snowfall of zero inches, Baton Rouge is far removed from the bitter winters found in many other parts of the country. Baton Rouge also enjoys an average of 214 sunny days each year, well above the national average of 205.
   
   
7. Food Lover's Paradise
   It's no surprise that Baton Rouge offers the finest in classic Creole and Cajun cuisines, along with the freshest seafood around. If you want to expand your culinary horizons, the city is home to a rich and varied assortment of ethnic restaurants serving Middle Eastern, Asian, Latino, and other global fares.
   
   
8. Football Frenzy
   Football is America's #1 sport, and Baton Rouge is passionate about its LSU (Louisiana State University) Tigers, a perennial powerhouse frequently found at the top of the SEC (Southeastern Conference) and national rankings. On football Saturdays, LSU tailgating is a de facto food and beverage festival, giving Baton Rouge a national reputation as the tailgating capital of the world.

Contact us and let us help you find the home you'll love in the Baton Rouge area. 

If you're selling your home, you want to price it reasonably, so it doesn't languish on the market, but you don't want to price it for less than you could sell it for. Our REALTORS® use research, knowledge, and experience to determine your home's value. The following are some ways we can determine this value:

• Using a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
  
  Real estate agents can run a comparative market analysis that will look at comparable homes that have sold in the area within the past 90 days. The most accurate comparisons will come from homes that are close to yours geographically, are similar in square footage, and have the same number of bedrooms and bathrooms.
  
  CMAs can be quite detailed, including the average and median sale prices for comparable homes, the number of days they were on the market, and other information that will help your real estate agent most accurately determine your home's value. Also, he or she can look at comparable homes currently for sale. If other houses in your neighborhood are on the market, you'll want to be competitive unless your home has attributes that set it apart.
  
  
• Having Experience in Sales Negotiations
  
  Home sale prices don't always tell the entire story. Experienced real estate agents know that finalized deals may involve some concessions. So although a comparable home may have sold for a particular amount, it doesn't reveal the fact that the seller may have helped pay closing fees. Or they may have made other concessions, such as providing a flooring allowance to help the buyer upgrade out-of-date carpeting.
  
  A real estate agent's experience and knowledge can help him, or her know about some of the concessions that may not be reflected in the sale price. They may have helped broker the deal, or they can often get information by talking with another agent who handled the sale.
  
  
• Adding Price Adjustments
  
  Although a CMA yields some invaluable information, your agent won't depend solely on formulas. Adjustments in prices will be made because each home is different. And these differences can influence the value of each home.
  
  For example, your home may have slightly more square footage than a comparable home, so your real estate agent may adjust your home value to consider this difference. Or it may have nicer landscaping that will help command a higher price. On the other hand, another similar home may have had upgraded appliances included with the home, so your home may be valued somewhat lower.
  
  
• Being Aware of Other Factors
  
  Factors that are beyond your control can affect the value of your home. Your real estate agent knows that when mortgage interest rates fall, more people can afford to buy a home and can afford a higher price tag. Of course, the opposite is true when interest rates rise.
  
  The time of year your home is on the market can also affect your asking price. 

Contact us if you're interested in selling your home. Our real estate agents know how to determine your home's value, so it's comparable with similar Baton Rouge homes for sale.

The New Year has arrived, and our REALTORS® want you to kick off the decade with a bang! As we move into the 2020s, make a resolution to learn a new skill. From dancing and cooking to art classes and more, here are a few of our favorite places around Baton Rouge, where you can fall in love with a new hobby!

1. Ric Seeling Dance Studio — 10776 N. Harrells Ferry Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816
   We're in the Roaring '20s now — surely, you need to know how to dance for such an occasion. Head to the Ric Seeling Dance Studio and get your feet moving! All adults — from classically-trained dancers to those with two left feet — are invited to this premier studio for group or private lessons. You'll receive top of the line instruction in country, hustle, Latin, ballroom, and of course, swing dancing! It may take two to tango, but rest assured you can come alone and get matched with a partner of the same experience level.
   
   
2. Create Studios — 546 Bienville St., Baton Rouge, LA 70806
   Do you have a creative passion but struggle to find the medium that's right for you? Create Studios is the perfect place to express yourself while learning different art forms. They offer classes in a diverse array of arts, including etched glass, stained glass mosaics, metal stamping, jewelry design, and painting. Paint an Andy Warhol-inspired pop art of your pet or design your own Mardi Gras chandelier out of beads for your new home. Bring your imagination and a few beads — Create Studios will take care of the rest!  
   
   
3. Louisiana Culinary Institute — 10550 Airline Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70816
   Anyone who's lived for a day in Baton Rouge knows Louisiana has some of the best food. If you've ever wanted to learn how to make a few of our hometown favorites in your own kitchen, now's your chance! The Louisiana Culinary Institute offers adult classes specializing in Creole and Cajun dishes. Imagine whipping up your own tasty batch of boudin, gumbo, maque choux, or jambalaya without ever leaving home! Sign up for classes and make 2020 the year of amazing dinner parties!
   
   
4. LSU Museum of Art — Shaw Center for the Arts 100 Lafayette St. 5th Floor, Baton Rouge, LA 70801
   Art is part of Louisiana's lifestyle, and the LSU Museum of Art invites adults to immerse themselves in this world of creativity and culture at the Shaw Center for the Arts. Their interesting and educational programs teach you about art while helping you create your own. Along with lessons, they have other weekly events such as free admission to the museum on Friday nights and Yoga in the Galleries. Whether you're an artist or merely appreciate beautiful works, the LSU Museum of Art will quickly become your new favorite hangout.
   
   
5. BREC — 6201 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806
   Here's a great resolution — make an effort to spend time surrounded by Louisiana's wonderous natural spaces this year! BREC makes it easy to enjoy the great outdoors with its engaging programs. Belly aerobics, badminton, BMX, and ballroom dancing are among the many heart-pumping classes offered. For a more relaxing experience, you can attend an astronomy lecture, watch a movie in the park, and enjoy one of their many weekly special events. 

Looking for a new home in 2020? For help scheduling appointments to tour Baton Rouge homes for sale, contact us today!

Living in Baton Rouge means you're never far from some excellent shopping. Local small businesses are a big part of what makes the city such a popular place to call home. With Shop Small Saturday around the corner, this is the perfect time to get out and explore all the Baton Rouge small businesses in the area. We've got the details on some great Baton Rouge businesses to visit on Shop Small Saturday!

1. Bella Bella – 3064 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
   Baton Rouge homes for sale allow you to visit so many unique local businesses, like the Bella Bella women's clothing shop. Bella Bella stocks all of the latest styles, allowing you to keep up with the latest trends and find the perfect gift for anyone on your list who loves fashion. There's a huge selection of shoes, along with excellent looks for both formal occasions and everyday wear.

2. The Market at Circa 1857 – 1857 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
   Searching for one-of-a-kind art and amazing antiques? Visit The Market at Circa 1857 to shop for home décor and so much more. Part art gallery, part antique shop, this unique local destination is a fantastic place to grab items for your own home or someone else.

3. Little Cajun Village – 6490 Hwy 22, Sorrento, LA 70778
   Interested in exploring history and culture as you shop for unique items? The Little Cajun Village will take you back to another era, with great shopping and plenty of fun surprises. This little village features restored Acadian homes, each with a shop inside. You can pick up crafts, spices, artwork, hand-made decorations, and so much more. There's also a delicious little dining spot located on-site.

4. Mid City Craft Wine and Brew – 711 Jefferson Hwy, Suite 1C, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
   Whether you're stocking up for holiday parties or shopping for the perfect gift, Mid City Craft Wine and Brew has precisely what you need. This local bottle shop stocks a massive selection of craft beer, both local and national, as well as craft wine. Stop by for a weekly tasting, and experience what Mid City has to offer. If you're looking for flavors you won't find anywhere else, this is the place to be.

5. Red Stick Spice Co. – 660 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
   Preparing to cook your own holiday meals, or looking for the perfect gift for the amateur chef on your list? Red Stick Spice Co. has you covered. This shop stocks nearly every spice under the sun, along with a selection of teas from around the world.

6. Cottonwood Books – 3054 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808
   If you love books both new and old, then Cottonwood Books is more than worth a visit on Small Business Saturday. Cottonwood Books may be a small business, but it has an unmatched selection of books from across eras. There are more than 40,000 books in stock, including many rare finds. The team is also happy to help you order any books.

Shop Small Saturday is a great chance to visit the many local small businesses that make Baton Rouge such a unique place to call home. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Baton Rouge, LA area.

We count our blessings every day, and one of them is to get to call Baton Rouge home! From its vibrant culture and rich history to fun-filled summers and blissfully warm winters, Baton Rouge a fantastic place. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, now seems like a good time to consider some of the things we're most thankful for here in Baton Rouge. 

1. Amazing Food
   Baton Rouge is barely an hour from New Orleans, and we share many of our neighbor's culinary traditions. The city has fully embraced Southern and Cajun influences, and you'll be able to savor amazing gumbo, Jambalaya, boiled crawfish, and other Louisiana Staples. But Baton Rouge isn't just about Soul Food. As the state capital and a major seaport, it's a melting pot of cultures and flavors from around the world. We're also home to a growing craft brewing and distilling scene and have fantastic farmer's markets where you'll find produce and local foods. 
   
   
2. Affordability
   For a city its size, Baton Rouge is highly affordable. And if you're looking for a New Orleans vibe without the New Orleans price tag, you've come to the right place. The cost of buying a home in Baton Rouge is also well below the national average. On top of that, Louisiana's low state and local income taxes make it one of the most tax-friendly states in the country. Plus, residents don't have to pay property tax on the first $75,000 of their primary residence. 
   
   
3. World-Class Music
   Some cities think they have the market cornered on music history—we're looking at you, Nashville—but our town has a musical heritage spanning genres. Blues, country, zydeco, and jazz are all parts of Baton Rouge's musical pedigree, and those traditions are alive and well today. Every year, thousands of music fans flock to the city to attend the Baton Rouge Blues Festival, one of the oldest blues festivals in the country. On any given night, you can head to local juke joints and music clubs to hear everything from swinging jazz and swampy blues riffs to blistering indie rock. 
   
   
4. Family Fun
   Baton Rouge gets a lot of attention for its vibrant nightlife and party atmosphere, but it's a family town too, with entertainment for all ages. We have dozens of great parks and museums for family fun, like the recently-opened Knock Knock Children's Museum next to the wide-open green spaces of City-Brooks Community Park. You could also spend a day reconnecting with your wild side at BREC's Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center or steep yourself in the culture at the Louisiana Art and Science Museum. 
   
   
5. Endless of Options
   If you're looking at Baton Rouge homes for sale, you've probably already noticed that there are many options. Baton Rouge is a city that embraces its rich past while keeping an eye toward the future. You can find incredible historic homes with beautifully preserved architecture and centuries' worth of lived-in charm. On the other hand, you can find newly constructed 21st-century houses with all the modern amenities. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Baton Rouge. We've helped countless families find their dream homes in the Baton Rouge area, and we're committed to helping you find yours. 

A home on the lake is the perfect place to spend quiet evenings with family and fun weekends with friends. Some of the finest Baton Rouge homes are no more than a stone's throw from the most beautiful lakes in Louisiana. However, a waterfront home requires routine maintenance. The following are some maintenance tasks you will have to tend to on your waterfront property.

Take Care of the Dehumidifier

Every waterfront home in Louisiana should have a reliable dehumidifier. This will help protect wood and other elements in the home from the buildup of moisture. You should plan to clean the dehumidifier every couple of weeks to ensure effectiveness and extend the unit's operational lifespan.

Secure the Dock & Boat Lift

Most waterfront homes in Louisiana have a dock or a boat lift. Be sure that any floating debris is removed from around the structure. If you have a floating dock, be sure that it is properly tied down. When cold spells are brewing, it is a good idea to remove the dock from the water.

If you have a boat lift, you will want to inspect the electrical components and wiring at least once per month. During your inspection, be sure to check all gears, pulleys, and cables for proper lubrication. 

Tend to the Sewage System

If the home has an aerated treatment system or septic system, you will need to clean it properly, pump it out (every 3-5 years) and chlorinate the system. You will also want to prepare it for when the temperature starts to drop. In the fall, make sure it is properly insulated and be sure to run warm water into the system if you see signs that it is starting to freeze.

Look out for Radon

Radon is more prevalent around waterfront properties. You should make sure your home is properly monitored and should take any abatement steps required if radon exposure rises above safe levels.

Shore up the Seawall

You should rigorously remove plant growth from seawalls and regularly spray them with herbicides to keep roots from causing damage. It is also vital to make sure weep holes don't clog up. At a minimum, you should inspect your seawall at least once per month and promptly repair any cracks or damage you discover.

Guard Against Pests

Louisiana is home to termites, alligators, snakes, and bugs of all shapes and sizes. If you are not careful, these pests will move into your home. Keeping landscaping properly trimmed, repairing damaged foundations and siding, caulking holes in woodwork, and removing debris from around the property will help keep these pests at bay. It is also vital to remove any pools of standing water or they become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.    

Stay Compliant

Multiple layers of legislation protect wetlands in Louisiana. You will want to make sure you have the appropriate permits and adhere to all coastal use guidelines. Failure to comply with all applicable regulations can result in significant fines.

Contact us for more information about waterfront living in Louisiana. Our REALTORS® can answer your questions and help you find the waterfront property where you can fish, swim, and boat to your heart's content.  

Live After 5 Concert Series in Baton Rouge

When our REALTORS® show clients Baton Rouge homes for sale, they're often asked about the area's social scene. We could spend all day talking about the great dining and entertainment options in Baton Rouge, but one of our favorites is the Live After 5 Concert Series. 

This free, family-friendly event is guaranteed fun plus a great way to get to know your new neighbors. Here's everything you need to know so you can make the most of it. 

What is Live After 5?

Live After 5 is a community event sponsored by the Downtown Business Association. It's held for six weeks every spring and fall and is the largest free concert series in the city. The event attracts over 5,000 people every weekend. The crowd always enjoys unwinding after a long week, and you can expect to see lots of singing, dancing, and smiles. 

In addition to great music, you'll also find local food, adult beverages, art vendors, and a kid's area complete with an obstacle course. Bring a blanket or chairs so you can relax and enjoy the evening, but leave your pets, coolers, and tents at home. 

Getting There

Live After 5 is held at North Boulevard Town Square on Friday nights from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. There's plenty of free street parking in the area. 

The fall season will begin on September 20th and continues each Friday through November 1st. If the last season is any indication, we're in for a treat! It featured popular performers including Chase Tyler Band, Werewolf, Rebirth Brass Band, and River City Hit Squad. 

About the Downtown Business Association

The Downtown Business Association of Baton Rouge is a nonprofit organization funded by members. It's the only organization that represents all downtown businesses. Their mission is to encourage economic growth and cultivate downtown's community culture. The Live After 5 Concert Series supports this goal by attracting thousands of visitors both from the city of Baton Rouge and nearby areas. 

The DBA also provides members with support in a variety of ways, including sponsoring business networking events throughout the year. 

We know that the community you live in is just as important as the home itself. While we're helping you find your dream home, we'll also introduce you to some of the best things to do nearby. Contact us to get started touring some of the best Baton Rouge homes for sale in our area.

Our REALTORS® get a lot of questions about waterfront property in Baton Rouge.

Buyers often wonder: Is it challenging to get to closing on such valuable property?

Typically, waterfront properties command a premium. A home by the water provides amenities others don't, from a beautiful view to a cool breeze that can take the edge off hot summers. Listings for waterfront property can be competitive.

Here's what you need to know to be successful buying waterfront property in Baton Rouge:

1. Work With a Specialist
   Connect with an agent you can trust early on. Ask plenty of questions and be sure you're working with a real expert who recognizes the opportunities – and pitfalls – of waterfront living.
2. Examine the Property
   You can do just about whatever you want with your structure, but the land it stands on is forever. With that in mind, be wary of falling in love with a house and overlooking the land quality. Consider factors like privacy and view.
3. Match Land to Lifestyle
   The odds are good you're looking forward to getting out on the water regularly. How easy it is to access, navigate, and use the water will make a big difference in how much you enjoy your new home.
4. Get Preapproved
   Loans for waterfront properties can be tricky because of the high asking price. "Jumbo mortgages" that cover these transactions are available only to ultra-qualified buyers. Gathering your documentation and getting preapproved may take longer, so start early.
5. Check for Wind-Proofing
   The water can be your best friend or your worst enemy. Get a professional inspection done so you'll be aware of any necessary repairs or structural weaknesses. Storm shutters are a must for areas subject to significant wind storms. Stainless steel locks can beat corrosion from the salty air.
6. Explore Insurance Early
   Insurance represents a significant piece of your housing expenses on the waterfront. Remember wind policies don't cover damage from water and vice versa. You may need both, along with a general hazard policy, and all three could come from different insurers.
7. Review Rules and Restrictions
   Towns and cities are more careful about protecting waterfront resources, so there could be some restrictions on renovating the property. Talk to relevant government agencies to fail-proof your plans before you commit. Ensure the water sports you want to enjoy are permitted, too.
8. Talk It Over With Neighbors
   When it comes to waterfront property, few others know better than the neighbors. They'll be able to tell you whether the area is all it's cracked up to be – and whether they've heard anything you should know about the property you're interested in buying. Forewarned is forearmed.
9. Double-check Utilities
   If you're scouting for properties in rural areas, don't take anything for granted when it comes to utilities. Go through a checklist: electricity, clean water, septic, cable, and internet to understand which utilities do and do not come with the home. Scrutinize both the installation costs and ongoing fees.
10. Reach Out to Your HOA
    If you will be part of a homeowners' association, read the community covenants carefully. They will tell you all about the upkeep and maintenance you'll be expected to perform. If you have questions, bring them to the HOA's management company early in the process.

Contact us to find out more about waterfront property near Baton Rouge. We're here to help.

June 5 is National Tailors - Meet Five Local Businesses in Baton Rouge

Our REALTORS® know that your home is a reflection of your personal style.

When you go looking for Baton Rouge homes for sale, we will help you find one that fits you like a glove. Unfortunately, gloves (and other articles of clothing) aren't quite what they used to be. Off-the-rack clothing can never fit quite as well as something made just for you.  June 5 is National Tailors Day, and now is the best time to discover just how great custom-tailored articles can be. Although every tailored piece is a bit more expensive, they will also have a tendency to last much longer. Plus, an experienced tailor will make every item look more flattering.

Whether you're in the mood for a custom suit or just a simple alteration, a good tailor is hard to find. Demand is growing and expertise is shrinking ... but not here in beautiful Baton Rouge.

In honor of National Tailors Day, let's meet local tailors in Baton Rouge, Louisiana:

1. Ann's Tailor – 8723 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
   Ann's Tailor can help you with all your custom tailoring and sewing needs for men, women, and children. With more than 35 years of experience, their results are top notch. What's more, they can also help with custom interior decorating elements like drapes and cushions.
2. El Bengal Tailor – 2771 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
   El Bengal Tailor is a family-owned business that has been in operation since 1972. Now on its second generation, it specializes in men's alterations, women's alterations, denim, and leather. El Bengal is beloved by a coterie of repeat customers who have been visiting it for years.
3. AB Fashion Tailoring and Alterations – 6010 Jones Creek Road Suite H, Baton Rouge, LA 70817
   AB Fashion Tailoring and Alterations brings more than 16 years of expertise to the realm of hand-tailored formalwear. Alterations and custom-made clothing are available for men, women, and children. They will even help you with next day service for those "fashion emergencies!"
4. Helen's Tailor & Alterations – 12046 Coursey Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70816
   Helen's Tailor and Alterations is prized for its reasonable rates and quick, courteous service. Located right in the heart of Baton Rouge near Parklawn Park and several local landmarks, it's a terrific place to get back to basics on your tailoring and alteration needs.
5. Stitch Baton Rouge – 9880 Bluebonnet Boulevard Suite C-3B, Baton Rouge, LA 70810
   Stitch Baton Rouge operates its own full-fledged fashion blog that complements the on-trend tailoring and alteration services you'll find here. Not only can you get the finest clothing alterations, there are also personal style consultants and private fittings so you'll always look your best.

Are you ready to find a home in Baton Rouge that will truly be a perfect fit?

Contact us to get started. We look forward to helping you.

Take a break from searching for Baton Rouge homes for sale and spend a day enjoying our lively community. There are many places to grab a bite, learn something new, or just enjoy a pretty day outside. Our REALTORS® have these tips on how to spend a day in Baton Rouge.

• Brunch - Simple Joe Café, 3057 Government Street
  Start your day with a leisurely brunch at Simple Joe Café, no matter if you prefer breakfast or lunch food for brunch. For those breakfast people, you can order up a three-egg omelet with a wide range of choices for fillings. Or try their blueberry quinoa for a different twist. Lunch people can dig into the Pow Burger, where the beef is mixed with pork sausage to make an awesome patty. 
• Mid-morning Stroll - Riverfront Plaza & City Dock, 300 S. River Road / USS Kidd
  After a big meal, nothing is better than walking it off by exploring the area on foot. Riverfront Plaza & City Dock is a terrific place to watch the mighty Mississippi, wander around the fountain and a beautiful 4-panel mural, or just sit in the sunshine and watch the people watch the river. You can also tour the USS Kidd Fletcher Class destroyer. Explore the mission of the 'Pirate of the Pacific' and learn about the men who served on her.
• Satisfying Small Bites - Magpie Café, 3205 Perkins Road
  After a big meal, you may not want a traditional lunch, but a little bit of something could tamp down the "hangries." Make your way to the Magpie Café, which specializes in local, organic ingredients and extra good coffee. There is a downtown location, but you might want to visit the original in the Perkins Road Overpass District. Here's where the coffee-loving owners transformed a former tattoo parlor into an expresso bar café. Do not skip the coffee! Magpie has its own "director of coffee" as well as an in-house roaster assuring coffee lovers a divine experience. 
• At One with the Animals and the Stars - BREC Baton Rouge Zoo, 3601 Thomas Road
  For your afternoon in Baton Rouge at the BREC Baton Rouge Zoo. Here you can make friends with a Chilean Rose Hair Tarantula or get to know a Kirks Dik Dik. Open for almost 50 years, the zoo hosts a range of animals, from reptiles to birds to mammals. However, it doesn't just house the animals, the Baton Rouge Zoo also is active in conservation work and educational programs.
• Louisiana Art and Science Museum, 100 River Road South
  For indoor entertainment, visit the Louisiana Art and Science Museum offering exhibits on subjects from ancient Egypt to the solar system. Perhaps, the best reason to visit the museum is to go to a planetarium show. Their 60-foot domed theater and 15,000-wat digital surround sound will let you get lost in the stars. 
• An Evening Out - Tsunami, 100 Lafayette St. 6th Floor / The Varsity Theater, 3353 Highland Road
  For dinner, head out to Tsunami on Lafayette Street where you can set aside crawfish and Cajun, and indulge in some delicious sushi. Using fresh ingredients and flavors with flare, the chefs at Tsunami offer up dishes they call "edible art." After dinner, wrap up your lovely day in Baton Rouge with some live music and drinks at The Varsity Theater.

Once you've gotten to know Baton Rouge and are ready to buy a home, contact us and we will be happy to guide you in finding just the right place.

6 Baton Rouge Parks to Celebrate Take a Walk in the Park Day

Are you ready to celebrate the start of spring in Baton Rouge? Kick off the season in style by celebrating National Take a Walk in the Park Day, which takes place every year on March 30th, at one of the many vibrant parks and green spaces located throughout Baton Rouge. From BMX tracks to secluded trails and astronomical observatories, the parks and green spaces of Baton Rouge truly feature something for every member of the community to enjoy. The outdoor spaces of Baton Rouge are popular during every season, and spring is the perfect time to explore the city. Our real estate agents have the local perspective, with a guide to enjoying Take a Walk in the Park Day at six beautiful Baton Rouge parks and green spaces.

1. Burbank Park – 12400 Burbank Dr., Baton Rouge
   Looking for the hottest spot for soccer in Baton Rouge? Burbank Park features 22 soccer fields, including six with lights, and buzzes with activity every weekend. There is also a dog park with separate areas for dogs of different sizes, and even a swim area where pups can cool off. It's the perfect place for a walk in the park with your furry friend.
2. Highland Road Community Park – 14024 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge
   Baton Rouge homes for sale make it easy to reach a wide variety of fun, educational attractions, including Highland Road Community Park. In addition to 144 acres of outdoor space ideal for taking a walk in the park, the grounds are home to the Highland Park Observatory. The Observatory features a 20-inch telescope, with weekend programs and summer camps for stargazers.
3. Greenwood Community Park – 13350 LA-19, Baton Rouge
   Spend Take a Walk in the Park Day by the water at Greenwood Community Park, which features a walking trail surrounding a scenic, 18-acre lake. There is also a waterfront cafe, along with disc golf, tennis courts, and watercraft rentals. The Dumas Memorial Golf Course, which hosts a number of local tournaments, is also located in the park.
4. Independence Community Park – 7500 Independence Blvd., Baton Rouge
   Visit the beautiful botanic gardens and extensive cultural facilities located at Independence Community Park, which features 1.8 miles of paved paths for enjoying a walk in the park. The park is also home to the gorgeous, modern main library for Baton Rouge, along with a water park, internet cafe, and the popular Independence Park Theatre.
5. Perkins Road Community Park – 7122 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge
   Interested in exploring a truly unique local park? Perkins Road Community Park is your one-stop shop for extreme sports, with a skate park, BMX track, rock climbing, and so much more. The park also features extensive trails for biking, walking, and skating, so you can celebrate Take a Walk in the Park Day however you like. The public playground at the park is perfect for entertaining younger visitors.
6. City-Brooks Community Park – 1515 Dalrymple Dr., Baton Rouge
   With paved paths surrounding a variety of lakes, City-Brooks Community Park is a great place for a walk at any time of day. It's also a popular gathering place for the community year-round, thanks to the golf course, tennis center, playground, and dog park found on site. During the summer, kids enjoy the park's fountain and splash pad.

Searching for the perfect home close to all of the outdoor attractions in the city? Our local team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Baton Rouge, LA area.

Your home may have the most fantastic kitchen and the cutest back porch, but if potential buyers don't get past the curb, they may not get to enjoy the delightful breeze on the porch. If yours is one of our Baton Rouge homes for sale, it is essential to make sure its curb appeal is top-notch. Start by standing on the curb yourself and making a fair assessment of what needs upgrading. Then tackle these six steps to boost your curb appeal.  

1. Clean 
   Start with a good old-fashioned cleaning. If you can, the best way to get this done is to use a pressure washer to clean the siding or brick, plus the driveway. Then get out your elbow grease and wipe down windows, doors, and other parts of the outside. You want those windows to shine, and don't forget the cobwebs hiding in the nooks and crannies of your doorways and porches.
2. Freshen 
   Another method to freshen your home's look is to give your door a new coat of paint. Adding a pop of color to your door is also pleasing to the eye, so maybe a bold red or daring yellow. Clean and polish the door handle and any hinges that can be seen. Changing your door handle and the welcome mat is another way to add freshness.
3. Landscaping 
   Next, take a good look at your lawn or front area. Are there leaves to be raked? Bushes to be trimmed? Edging to be neatened? You should look at the trees to make sure there are not any dead branches that should be removed. If you have bare spots in your lawn, a trip to the garden shop may be to get seed or sod. Look for areas that could use some living color and plant some nice seasonal plants. Putting flowers in flower boxes or container gardens is an easy way to add some life to your home's look. 
4. Mailbox 
   Perhaps the place that is closest to your potential buyers needs some love too. The mailbox should be cleaned and revived. Go ahead and paint the post with a complementary color. Make sure the box numbers are legible. This area can also be enhanced with some strategic flower plantings.
5. Lighting 
   Another view of your home that is often overlooked is how it looks at night. Is your home welcoming once the sun goes down? Consider adding low voltage landscape lighting to add to its evening sparkle. Clean any porch lights and of course, make sure you have a fresh bulb in place.
6. Balconies, Porches or Patios 
   If your home has an outdoor gathering place such as a balcony or porch, make this an inviting place where potential buyers can imagine sitting and enjoying their new house.  Get rid of that bicycle you are storing there and remove any dead plants sitting out. Invest in comfortable patio furniture or clean what you have. You should repaint or re-stain the railings around these areas and make any necessary repairs.

When you're interested in placing your home on the Baton Rouge real estate market, contact us. Our real estate agents are experts at getting the job done.

Whether you've just found your dream home among Baton Rouge homes for sale or are still shopping for the perfect one, chances are good you'll be in the market for a few things related to home furnishing and décor in the near future.

If you're partial to antiques, that means you'll want to know where locals go when they're shopping for just the right pieces for their own homes. To help you get started, here are seven favorite Baton Rouge antique shops:

1. The Pink Elephant Antiques - 2648 Government Street
   The Pink Elephant is a collective made up of more than 35 dealers. It's a top spot in Baton Rouge for all things antique and vintage, with an ever-changing selection of items to peruse.

2. Fireside Antiques - 14007 Perkins Road
   You'll find a lovely selection of 18th, 19th and 20th century French, English, Italian and Continental antiques at Fireside Antiques. Each piece is expertly restored before being placed for sale in their 18,000 square foot showroom.

3. Vintage Soul - 12455 S Harrells Ferry Road
   A multi-vendor mall full of antiques and vintage items, Vintage Soul carries a bit of everything. You'll find furniture, home décor items, vintage dishes, Pyrex, linens, and tools, along with many one-of-a-kind items. They also carry a great selection of Orleans Candle products and their own line of chalk paints.

4. The Royal Standard - 16016 Perkins Road
   A fixture in Baton Rouge, The Royal Standard carries a number of products for the home. From home dinnerware to table linens, glassware to silverware, bedding to window treatments, you'll find what you need to make your new house a home.

5. The Market at Circa 1857 - 1857 Government St.
   The Market is more than just an antique shop; it's a popular local destination. It has more than 50 unique vendors, each with their own tastes and styles. You'll find a vast selection of antiques, vintage items and artwork, along with a variety of services offered onsite, such as upholstery, interior decorating and graphic design.

6. Central City Antiques - 8857-D Sullivan Road
   A premier Baton Rouge shop, Central City Antiques has a lot going on. You'll find a great selection of vintage items, including furniture, décor items, jewelry, and collectibles.

7. The Foyer - 3655 Perkins Road
   With more than 75 merchants spread over 8,000 square feet, The Foyer offers a lovely selection of antiques, artwork, lighting, furnishings, accessories, and gifts.

If you need more information on where to shop for antiques in Baton Rouge or have any other questions about our area, please feel free to contact us. Our REALTORS® are your "go-to source" for all things Baton Rouge, and we're always happy to help.

If you've been looking at Baton Rouge homes for sale, you've probably already gotten a taste of the city's unique vibe and diverse culture. This becomes even more apparent during historic Spanish Town's famous Mardi Gras celebration.

While the center of the Mardi Gras revelry occurs in New Orleans, Spanish Town residents put their own eclectic spin on things during their annual Mardi Gras parade. This year's parade will be held on March 2nd, and the preparations are already well underway. Here's some information about what to expect during the celebration, so you can make the most of your experience.

About Spanish Town

A quaint section of Baton Rouge, Spanish Town is known for quirky older homes, a maze of one-way streets, and tons of history. Founded in 1805, this neighborhood is home to a Native American ceremonial burial mound, Civil War-era homes, and plenty of adorable cottages and bungalows.

Homes in Spanish Town have grown in popularity recently as more residents see the benefits of moving to walkable neighborhoods close to downtown.  

A Unique Mardi Gras Celebration 

Since its debut in 1981, the parade has grown in size and is now the largest Mardi Gras parade in Baton Rouge. Here you won't find the traditional Mardi Gras colors of purple, green and gold. Instead, Spanish Town revelers adorn themselves, their floats, and their homes in every imaginable shade of pink.

Flamingos Everywhere

With a mantra of "Poor taste is better than no taste at all," Spanish Town proudly embraces the pink flamingo as its mascot. The tradition began when the original parade participants took pink flamingo decorations from their lawns and used them to decorate their makeshift floats. The tradition stuck and is now an integral part of the celebration. 

The annual festivities begin with the placement of large plywood flamingos in Capitol Lake. This marks the official announcement of the upcoming parade and ball. In recent years, it's become a tradition for LSU students and other residents to "adopt" the flamingos, taking them from their home in the lake and placing them in their front yards.

One-of-a-Kind Floats

One of the things our real estate agents love the most about the Spanish Town Parade is the complete absence of commercially-made floats. Instead, every float you'll see is handmade by individual krewes. This creates a fun and exciting experience that's sure to be different from anything you've ever seen before. 

Tips for Enjoying the Parade

The parade begins at noon on Saturday, March 2nd and is featuring an extended route. This change should thin out the crowds, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Plan to wear your favorite pink outfits, dress in a flamingo-themed costume, or wear anything else that helps you get into a festive mood. Find parking where you can, and make your way on foot to the parade route. Here you'll join close to 100,000 other revelers in enjoying the nearly two-hour parade. Get ready to dance to the music, chuckle at the funny floats, and of course, scramble for beads. Whatever you do, come with a great attitude and plan to have the time of your life. 

If you're bringing small children, consider viewing the parade from the alcohol-free family zone located on the North side of Convention Street between 5th and 7th streets. Here you'll find a more tame version of the Mardi Gras crowd and will still be able to enjoy plenty of family-friendly fun. 

Enjoy Baton Rouge Year-Round

If you're excited about the thought of living in Baton Rouge, you're not alone. The real estate market here is booming and there are plenty of great properties available. Contact us today to learn how we can help you find your dream home.

Louisiana's colorful past is unmatched by most of the other 49 states. Much of its history and tradition has centered around Baton Rouge, which became the state's capital in 1849. 

The Louisiana State Capitol Building is both a literal and symbolic embodiment of significant events and influences that shaped the 18th state admitted to the Union. Our real estate agents share the factors that make the State Capitol Building such a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

The First State Capitol Building

What we recognize today as the State Capitol Building is not the original structure. When the designation of state capital was transferred from New Orleans to Baton Rouge, the city donated a $20,000 parcel of land for construction of a State Capitol Building.

The Old Statehouse, designed in the Gothic Revival architectural style, stood on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. In 1973 the building received National Historic Landmark designation. It has since been restored and serves as the home of the Museum of Political History.

As wear and tear took its toll on the Old State Capital Building, plans for a replacement were drawn up in the 1920s but never came to fruition. During his successful 1928 run for governor, Huey P. Long made construction of a new Capitol Building a major part of his platform.

A Proud Monument for Louisiana

Long's vision became a reality, and the Louisiana State Capitol Building was officially dedicated as part of the inauguration ceremony of new Governor Oscar K. Allen. Ironically, Long was unable to witness his triumph in person as he was in Washington, D.C. serving as a U.S. senator.

The 450-foot tall, 34-story State Capitol Building is truly an impressive sight befitting the seat of Louisiana government. In addition to being the tallest landmark in Baton Rouge, the structure is the tallest State Capitol Building in the United States.

Blending Form and Function

The State Capitol Building is one of the leading examples of the distinctive and influential Art Deco style seen in many other famous skyscrapers of the 1920s and 1930s, such as New York's Chrysler Building and Detroit's Guardian Building. 

Notable features of the building's design include:

• Groups of sculptures on the tower's exterior that depict important people and events in Louisiana history
• A majestic 49-step staircase leading to the front entrance with names of the states engraved in each
• Statues representing Louisiana's pioneers and settlers lining the sides of the staircase
• A cupola with windows on all four sides, buttressed by four stone eagles
• A 23-foot lantern, symbolizing Louisiana's "higher aspirations," atop the building

Visitors flock to the viewing platform on the 27th floor to take in sweeping views of Baton Rouge and the Mississippi River. The building is open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily except for major holidays. Admission is free.

A Sad Note

Tragically, Huey P. Long's story came to an end at the building that was such an indelible part of his legacy. At the conclusion of a legislative session in 1935, Long was assassinated by local physician Dr. Carl Weiss. 

After Long's death on September 10, he was buried on the grounds of State Capitol Park. In 1940, a bronze statue of the politician was erected to mark the site.

Baton Rouge is an ideal place to create your own family traditions. Our agents are ready to show you Baton Rouge homes for sale that match your wish list. Contact us today to get your home search started.