Articles Tagged "Covington"

The rich history surrounding Baton Rouge homes for sale extends to many of the local hotels. Whether you're a resident or just visiting, immerse yourself in the city's fascinating past with a visit to one of these great hotels recommended by our Realtors®. 

• The Heidelberg Hotel - 201 Lafayette St., Baton Rouge, LA 70801
  While it no longer bears its original name, the Heidelberg Hotel still plays a significant role in Baton Rouge's history. Built in 1927, the hotel gained fame as a favored hangout of Huey P. Long, one-time governor and U.S. Senator of Louisiana. Ironically, the Heidelberg became the de facto state capital for Lieutenant Governor Paul Cyr when Long tried to serve as both governor and senator simultaneously. Named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, the Heidelberg underwent a $70 million restoration in 2006, when it reopened as the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center. 
  
  
• Watermark Baton Rouge - 150 Third St., Baton Rouge, LA 70801
  As the city's first skyscraper built in 1927, the Watermark Baton Rouge was a giant step toward creating a modern urban setting. At the time, the Watermark was home to the headquarters of Louisiana Trust & Savings Bank. In a nod to tradition, many locals still affectionately refer to the hotel as the Old Louisiana National Bank building. Celebrate special occasions at The Gregory, the elegant on-site restaurant at the Watermark and one of Baton Rouge's more popular dining destinations. The restaurant is named after local artist Angela Gregory, whose exquisite murals adorn the walls of the dining room.
  
  
• Dauphine Orleans Hotel - 415 Dauphine St., New Orleans, LA 70112
  Discover the many attractions of the iconic French Quarter during a stay at the Dauphine Orleans Hotel. The cottage-style guestrooms are located in three historic buildings, including Hermann House, the one-time home of a wealthy New Orleans merchant, and an 18th-century carriage house. Even though you're just steps away from the French Quarter and right down the street from New Orleans homes for sale, the luxurious rooms provide a peaceful oasis where you can relax and recharge. 
  
  
• The Southern Hotel - 428 E. Boston St., Covington, LA 70433
  For much of its existence, dating back to 1907, the Southern Hotel has been deeply woven into the community around Covington homes for sale. The charming hotel has been the site of many special occasions, from wedding receptions and honeymoons to birthday and anniversary parties. Furniture, paintings, and other works by local artists are prominently displayed throughout the building. 
  
  
• The Hotel Bentley - 200 Desoto St., Alexandria, LA 71301
  The Hotel Bentley was built in 1908, but its philosophy is to "remain faithful to the past while keeping an eye on the future." Legend has it that founder Joseph Bentley, a wealthy lumberman and noted eccentric, built the hotel out of spite when he was refused a room at the Ice House Hotel. The location, just minutes from Alexandria homes for sale, provides convenient dining opportunities at the Bentley's three upscale restaurants.

Touring Baton Rouge open houses? There's no better reason to enjoy a stay at one of these special hotels. Contact us at Latter & Blum for more information.

There's something extra special about using ingredients grown by the local farmers in Louisiana. Not only does buying local help the local economy, but the produce these farms offer is fresher and more nutritious. Our real estate agents make mealtime a special treat with fresh produce from these wonderful local farms. Get ready for harvest time and plan a trip to these local farms that are within driving distance of many Baton Rouge homes for sale. 

• Sunhillow Berry Farm - 33510 Magee-Mahner Rd., Pearl River, LA 70452
  Loaded with antioxidants and low in calories, blueberries are considered one of nature's superfoods. Healthy eating is easy with ripe, juicy blueberries from Sunhillow Berry Farm, only minutes from Pearl River homes for sale. In season, you can also find mayhaws and muscadines, perfect for jams and jellies. Prices are $10 per gallon, charged by the honor system. Sunhillow opens Memorial Day weekend, with hours from dawn until dusk. Watch their Facebook page for updates. 
  
  
• Mrs. Heather's Strawberry Farm - 31458 LA-43, Albany, LA 70711
  Plan a day of fun for the whole family with a visit to Mrs. Heather's Strawberry Farm, not far from Albany homes for sale. With kid-friendly activities such as games, face-painting, swings and slides, a zipline, and appearances by popular cartoon characters, Mrs. Heather's is a delightful cross between a farm and an amusement park. Pick your fill of luscious berries from the Strawberry Patch as you learn the fascinating story of how they grow. Of course, everyone gets one of Mrs. Heather's signature chocolate-dipped strawberries. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the tables on the grounds. Admission is $3 for adults and $8 for kids. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Covey Rise Farms - 24009 Singing Waterfall Rd., Husser, LA 70442
  From a modest 10-acre site in 2009, Covey Rise Farms has grown to 50 acres, where they grow more than 35 types of vegetables. Members of their Produce Club receive weekly delivery of a box packed full of bell peppers, squash, potatoes, cauliflowers, tomatoes, and other products curated to their preferences. Customers can also purchase one-time farm shares in sizes from mini to family. Spending a day viewing Husser homes for sale? Make a reservation at their on-site restaurant for one of their exquisite, four-course farm-to-table meals.  
  
  
• Credo Farms - 20085 Carriage Dr., Amite, LA 70422
  Raising animals in a pasture is labor-intensive, but it's a far more humane, sustainable, and eco-friendly procedure than traditional confinement-based methods. Credo Farms believes pasture-raised animals are well worth the time and effort. They deliver their grass-fed beef, pasture-raised chicken, eggs, fruits, and vegetables direct from their farm by Amite homes for sale. Other available products include homemade kombucha and hand-crafted soap in great scents such as lavender, coffee, and eucalyptus mint. 
  
  
• Ridemore Farm - 22154 John T. Prats Rd., Covington, LA 70435
  After his engineering career took them around the country, Danny Prats and his wife Linda returned to the place that once held his parents' dairy farm, right by Covington homes for sale. In 2004, Danny and his brothers divided the land, and he and Linda built their dream house, creating Ridemore Farm. Blueberries, blackberries, and seasonal vegetables are available for picking, with prices charged by the pound. Kids love feeding the horses and goats and petting Andy, the farm dog. Bring a picnic breakfast or lunch to enjoy in the shade of the stunning oak trees. Ridemore Farm opens in late May. Follow them on Facebook or sign up for their email newsletter to learn more.

Want to stay in the know about all the current Baton Rouge open houses? Get the latest intel when you contact us at Latter & Blum. 

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.

Our real estate agents want to invite you to celebrate National Hot Tea Month this January!

Tea is one of the most diverse and storied beverages in human history. Although it is closely associated with the United Kingdom, the finest teas in the world have generally come from China and India.

You can enjoy a delightful cup of tea right in your own Louisiana neighborhood. Around New Orleans and throughout the state, there are dozens of excellent tea shops, coffee shops, and boutiques that can cater to any taste. You'll find some of them only minutes from New Orleans homes for sale.

Let's take a look at some of your options for a National Hot Tea Month treat:

• Monkey Monkey Coffee and Tea – 4641 South Carrollton Avenue, New Orleans, LA 7011
  "Monkey steep, monkey brew" is the motto at Monkey Coffee and Tea, where you can find a hot or cold beverage to perk you up any time of the day. The tea selection includes such favorites as English breakfast, Earl Grey, peach loose-leaf, and chai. Green and herbal teas are also available.
  
  
• Le Salon at Windsor Court Hotel – 300 Gravier Street, New Orleans, LA 70130
  Le Salon boasts a premium location on the lavish grounds of the Windsor Court Hotel. Tea room staff hold an authentic English afternoon tea service that features 26 fine loose-leaf variety brews. You'll also get to enjoy gourmet tea sandwiches, scones, and fresh-baked desserts.
  
  
• Royal Blend Coffee & Tea – 204 Metairie Road, Metairie, LA 70005
  Open for dine-in and takeout orders, Royal Blend Coffee & Tea pairs its drinks with an assortment of pastries, hot breakfast, and lunch entrees. Whether you are looking for chai tea, hot tea, or traditional southern iced tea, you will find it and much more within a short drive of Metairie homes for sale.
  
  
• Ding Tea NOLA – 1440 Lapalco Boulevard, Harvey, LA 70058
  Ding Tea NOLA bills itself as a Taiwanese boba tea house. If you've never tried milk tea boba, this will give you a whole new way to appreciate your favorite drink. In addition to various tea types and flavor additions, you'll choose from "popping bubbles" that add an extra flair. Stop by after checking out Harvey homes for sale.
  
  
• The English Tearoom & Eatery – 734 East Rutland Street, Covington, LA 70433
  The English Tearoom & Eatery seeks to reproduce the traditional English tea experience. It is one of the only local teahouses so popular that reservations are recommended – it also serves as an event venue on Sundays. It showcases dozens of teas in 15 major varieties, including its own special "Abbey Road Blend." It's just minutes from Covington homes for sale.
  
  
• The Roosevelt New Orleans – 130 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans, LA 70112
  The Roosevelt New Orleans is a lavish Waldorf Astoria hotel. It has five dining locations, including the famous Rooftop Bar and some of the best room service in the city. For tea, try Teddy's Cafe, which you'll find conveniently located right in the hotel lobby.

Looking for a new home where you can be near your favorite cafes and shops? Contact us to discover more about New Orleans real estate today.

Louisiana is famous for its Creole cuisine, beignets, and toe-tapping jazz music. What you might not know is it also has one of the most vibrant craft brewery scenes anywhere in the United States. Our real estate agents will be happy to tell you all about it when you're checking out Baton Rouge homes for sale.

Breweries, wineries, and distilleries of all kinds were already developing before the official Louisiana Brewery Trail got started. Since its inception back in 2013, the Louisiana Brewery Trail has grown to become the best in the whole region, showcasing over 30 breweries across the state. New Orleans and the North Shore area of Lake Pontchartrain have the most, but they are also distributed over many towns and cities.

Let's visit some now:

• Tin Roof Brewing Company – 1624 Wyoming Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
  The brainchild of owner Charles Caldwell, Tin Roof Brewing Company was designed to bring craft brewing lessons of the American West home to the South. Joined by award-winning brewmaster Tom Daigrepont, Tin Roof now offers three year-round beers and a slew of rotating seasonal specials.
  
  
• Port Orleans Brewing Company – 4124 Tchoupitoulas Street, New Orleans, LA 70115
  Port Orleans Brewing Company started with a bang in 2017 near New Orleans homes for sale. Within months of opening its doors for the first time, it was running on a 30-barrel system with more than 100 taps. As you enjoy its eight flagship and many seasonal brews, you can snag a taco from Avo Taco, found right in-house.
  
  
• Red River Brewing Company – 1010 Marshall Street, Shreveport, LA 71101
  Red River Brewing Company is Shreveport's first hometown brewery in more than a century. Three friends started this nanobrewery together and then went commercial in 2013. Brewmaster Robert McGuire is a science teacher by trade and applies his knowledge to this new craft.
  
  
• Broken Wheel Brewery – 109 Tunica Drive E., Marksville, LA 71351
  Broken Wheel Brewery is one of the most popular stops on the Louisiana Brewery Trail and has had a noteworthy jump in business. You'll find it on the grounds of the Fresh Catch Bistreaux, allowing you to pair its lagers, stouts, and more with classic Creole cuisine all within a short drive of Marksville homes for sale.
  
  
• Abita Brewing Company, LLC – 21084 Highway 36, Covington, LA 70433
  Near Covington homes for sale, you'll find Abita Brewing Company, LLC. Unique among area breweries, it uses water from nearby springs. It's had plenty of time to perfect its flavor profile, getting started well before the craft brewing craze, in 1986.
  
  
• Gnarly Barley Brewing Company – 1709 Corbin Road, Hammond, LA 70403
  Gnarly Barley Brewing Company started with one of owner Zac Caramonta's other passions, skateboarding. Now Zac and wife Cari have brought two visions to life, with one of the area's leading craft breweries sitting not far from one of its top skate parks, benefiting both communities. Plus it's close to Hammond homes for sale.
  
  
• Flying Tiger Brewery – 506 North Second Street, Monroe, LA 71201
  Flying Tiger Brewery has a winning combination of flavorful, personality-packed brews alongside some fascinating World War II history. James Earl Simpson and Robert Brewer have created a curated menu of brews in a taproom using a WWII-era fighter plane motif and honoring local hero Gen. Claire Chennault. 

No matter what your tastes are like, there's something on the Louisiana Brewery Trail for everyone. And Baton Rouge is one of the best home bases to explore it all. Contact us to find out more or get started with Baton Rouge real estate.

A town's main street says a lot about the town itself and the people who live there. Louisiana is home to some of the most charming historic communities and main streets.

If you're looking for a place with a vibrant downtown and picturesque, old-fashioned main street, you'll certainly find it here. These are our real estate agents' favorite main streets in Louisiana, including some of the most unique and historically rich downtown districts in the state.

• Natchitoches, LA
  The city of Natchitoches has the distinction of being the oldest settlement in the Louisiana Purchase. Founded in 1714, Natchitoches is home to a picturesque and historic main street district, with architecture that retains the flavor of the old French settlement it once was. In addition to these beautiful Natchitoches homes for sale, landmarks include the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, which was established in 1728, and Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile, a general store dating back to 1863.
  
  
• Covington, LA
  Nestled in the fork of the Bogue Falaya and the Tchefuncte River, Covington is a charming community dating back to 1813. Covington's Downtown Historic District is vibrant with activity, from charming eateries like LOLA to landmarks like H.J. Smith's Son General Store and Museum, which has been family-owned since 1876. There are also some charming Covington homes for sale nearby.
  
  
• Saint Martinville, LA
  The parish seat of St. Martin Parish, Saint Martinville, is a quiet community overlooking the Bayou Teche. The heart of Saint Martinville is its charming Main Street. Main Street offers an opportunity to check out some lovely Saint Martinville homes for sale and savor some of the best authentic Creole food around at Josephene's Creole Restaurant. 
  
  
• Crowley, LA
  Crowley is a small city of about 11,000 people, with a rich history and a beautifully preserved downtown district. Parkerson Avenue, which serves as the city's main street, cuts through the heart of the Crowley Historic District. The district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and includes 266 buildings constructed between 1887 and 1931. The seven-story First National Bank Building considered a skyscraper when it was built in 1920, is one of the most notable features, just minutes from many Crowley homes for sale.
  
  
• New Iberia, LA
  New Iberia is the largest city-parish seat of Iberia Parish, with a charming downtown that includes vibrant businesses and unique historic sites. The city's East Main Street Historic District, located a stone's throw from many New Iberia homes for sale, stretches along East Main Street from Weeks Street to Philip Street and includes the 1896 Steamboat House and St. Peter's Grotto. 
  
  
• Denham Springs, LA
  Around 10,000 people call Denham Springs home. This charming city is home to numerous Denham Springs homes for sale, along with a vibrant, historic downtown. Range Street is, for all intents and purposes, the main street of Denham Springs. It's here that you'll find the Denham Springs Antique Village, with its cozy streets lined with charming shops, galleries, and eateries. You can explore more than a dozen antique stores here, including Heritage House Antiques and the Rusty Rooster Antique Mall. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Louisiana and talk to our real estate agents about finding your dream home within walking distance of one of the most beautiful main streets in the state. 

The bayou has shaped the culture of Louisiana for generations. A bayou is a slow-moving river at the center of a truly unique ecosystem. New Orleans homes for sale are within a short drive of the bayou, as the state is home to thousands of acres of nature preserves protecting these unique treasures.

Our real estate agents know that, just like its incomparable food culture, outdoor adventures are a big part of why some people choose New Orleans. Whether you prefer a guided group tour or a leisurely journey on your own, check out these kayak rental spots.

• Bayou Paddle Sports – 1101 Florida Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119
  Bayou Paddle Sports is a great way to learn all about Louisiana paddle sports and enjoy them with friends or family – even if you have no experience. You can rent a kayak, paddleboard, or a tandem canoe for a visit of two hours out on the water. Whether you are looking for a group kayaking escapade or a fun day outdoors with the kids, the "Family Day," "Night Paddle," or "Dog Days" events are sure to hit the spot.
  
  
• New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours – 405 Frenchmen Street, New Orleans, LA 70116
  Touting some of the best kayak tours in NOLA, New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours is the premier option for when you want to see the unexpected. No matter which of the six curated tour experiences you choose, you'll learn and have fun in memorable natural surroundings.
  
  
• Wheel Fun Rental – Big Lake Trail, City Park, New Orleans, LA 70124
  Wheel Fun Rental operates out of New Orleans City Park on Big Lake, one of the Big Easy's most beloved and storied public parks. Wheel Fun has become well-known for its pedal-based swan boat rentals equipped with LED lights that have popularized Swan Boat Night Rides. Traditional kayaks and canoes are readily available. This is also a popular place to embark on the New Orleans self-guided bicycle tour.
  
  
• NOLA Paddleboards – See Website for Location Details, Throughout New Orleans, LA
  NOLA Paddleboards is one of the original paddle sports rental companies in New Orleans. Experienced guides will help guests of any skill level enjoy Lake Pontchartrain. Launching from an exclusive historic waterfront site thanks to its partnership with The Pontchartrain Conservancy, NOLA Paddleboards provides all equipment for groups of up to eight, typically for 90 minutes on the water. Private lessons can be booked separately.
  
  
• Crescent City Kayak – 437 Esplanade Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70116
  Crescent City Kayak provides full kayak swamp tours complete with transportation to the launch site. The most popular offering is the Manchac Swamp Tour, an ideal way for beginners to sight the iconic Louisiana cypress trees and local wildlife. Want to witness the majesty of one of America's least-altered river swamps? The Honey Island Swamp Tour may be your best pick, thanks to its 70,000 protected natural acres.
  
  
• Canoe & Trail Adventures at The Chimes Restaurant – 19130 West Front Street, Covington, LA 70433
  Canoe & Trail Adventures at The Chimes Restaurant launches its epic expeditions from one of Covington's top eateries. With affordable prices and rentals ranging from one to five hours, guests are encouraged to paddle at their own pace along the sandy-bottomed Bogue Falaya River. For a highly popular three-hour tour, you can choose the Flavor of the Bayou Tour. It's all surprisingly close to top Covington homes for sale.

Whether you explore NOLA by land or on the river, there's plenty to see and do! Contact us to learn more about New Orleans real estate.

It's hard to believe, but not everyone is going to love your precious Fido or Fluffy as much as you and our real estate agents do. Don't take a chance on their presence, affecting the marketability of your house. If you're a pet owner, follow these steps to prep before showing New Orleans homes for sale. 

1. Mum's the Word
   While referring to your home as great for families creates interest, advertising it as "pet-friendly" can turn potential buyers off immediately. Refrain from any mention of pets in online listings and other marketing materials.
   
   
2. Hide the Evidence
   Litter boxes, food bowls, and chewed-up toys make an unappealing visual for non-pet owners. Gather up all the physical signs of pets and stow them well out of sight. Make sure items are also removed before taking photos. 
   
   
3. Freshen the Air
   You have most likely grown nose-blind to the scent of your pets, but a visiting buyer will detect it immediately. Your best bet is to have textiles, such as carpets and drapes, professionally cleaned. If that's not possible, choose neutral, pet-specific deodorizers rather than scented candles or air fresheners that can be almost as offensive as the actual pet smell. Enlist a friend without pets to conduct a smell test.
   
   
4. Repair Wear and Tear
   Has your cat been using a chair leg as a scratching post? Maybe your dog has released excess energy on the door frames. Examine your home carefully for signs of pet-inflicted damage and repair or replace it as needed. Can't afford to repair hardwood floors or other costly features? Be prepared to consider alternatives, such as offering a credit toward any work that may be needed.
   
   
5. Vacuum, Vacuum, and Vacuum Again
   According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, roughly 30 percent of Americans suffer from pet allergies. That translates to three out of every 10 people who pass through your home. Vacuum carpeting, flooring, drapes, and furniture, and dust surfaces before every showing. Focus on corners, baseboards, and other nooks and crannies that tend to attract pet hair and dander.
   
   
6. Don't Forget the Yard 
   Domestic cats tend to remain primarily indoors, so this tip will apply mostly to dog owners. Even another pet lover won't appreciate being greeted by unsightly "surprises" deposited in the yard. But don't limit your clean-up efforts to removing doggie waste. Make sure no toys are left lying around and fill in any holes your dog has dug to hide his treasures. In addition to being eyesores, these issues can become injury hazards.
   
   
7. Relocate Your Pet
   Temporarily, of course. It's virtually impossible to hide a pet well enough to avoid the risk of detection. Rest assured that buyers will be looking in basements, garages, laundry rooms, and every other conceivable place you might stash your dog or cat. Removing pets from the premises is also in their best interest, as they could conceivably become frightened or agitated by strangers traipsing through "their" home. Ask a friend or family member to pet-sit or get recommendations for a trustworthy pet daycare facility.

Does your family include both two- and four-legged members? Whether you're buying or selling a home, we can accommodate all your needs. Contact us at Latter & Blum to get started.