Buying a home sounds simple enough: find a place you love, get approved for a mortgage, and move in, right? Not so fast. The reality is that home buying comes with plenty of surprises — some exciting, some… not so much. Here are ten things no one told you about buying a home in New Orleans.
1. You’ll suddenly have opinions about grout colors and light switches.
Even if you’ve never given a second thought to cabinet hardware before, get ready — you’re about to have opinions. Suddenly, the difference between brushed nickel and matte black feels like a life decision. But here’s the thing: almost everything in a house can be changed. Paint colors, light fixtures, flooring, even that odd backsplash choice from 2007 — all of it can evolve to match your style. Falling in love with a home isn’t about perfection; it’s about potential.
2. “Pre-approved” doesn’t mean you’re ready to buy.
Getting pre-approved is a starting point, not a guarantee. Your lender still needs to verify your income, credit, and assets — and any big financial changes before closing can throw things off track. (So maybe don’t buy that new car just yet.) We have a vetted list of New Orleans mortgage professionals who can help you get from contract to closing.
3. Zillow estimates are… let’s just say, creative.
They’re fun for browsing, but local market knowledge beats algorithms every single time. Algorithms don’t know that the house next door just had a full renovation or that yours has a brand-new roof and updated HVAC. New Orleans real estate is local — block by block, sometimes even house by house — and that’s where your agent’s expertise makes all the difference. They’ll help you understand what a property is really worth in today’s market so you can make smart, confident decisions.
4. Your home inspection will reveal something.
Even the prettiest houses have quirks — a leaky faucet, a wobbly porch step, maybe an HVAC unit that’s seen better days. Inspections aren’t meant to scare you off; they’re your chance to understand what you’re buying.
5. You’ll spend a lot of time waiting.
Between offer acceptance, inspections, appraisals, and final loan approval, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes — but not always a lot you can see happening. The process can take weeks, and it’s totally normal to feel a little antsy during the quiet stretches. A good agent will walk you through the timeline from day one so you’ll know exactly what’s coming next (and when). That way, when things slow down, you’ll understand it’s all part of the process — not a sign something’s wrong. Use that downtime to dream about furniture placement or plan your first dinner party instead of stressing over the silence.
6. Closing costs are real, and they’re not small
Beyond your down payment, you’ll pay for things like appraisal fees, title insurance, and property taxes. Your agent and lender will help you plan ahead so nothing sneaks up on you at the closing table.
7. It’s okay to walk away.
If something doesn’t feel right — whether it’s the house, the inspection, or the price — you can (and should) step back. Sometimes the best move is saying “no” so the right “yes” can come along.
8. You’ll second-guess everything (and that’s normal).
Is this the right neighborhood? Should we have offered more? Did we move too fast? Welcome to the emotional roller coaster of buying a home — it happens to everyone. And while it’s natural to seek opinions from friends, family, or that one coworker who “knows real estate,” remember: this is your home and your life. The only opinions that really matter are yours (and maybe your lender’s). Don’t let outside noise cloud your judgment or make you doubt your instincts. You’re the one who’s going to live there, make memories there, and pay the mortgage — so trust yourself.
9. The neighborhood matters more than the countertops.
Trendy finishes are great, but they can be changed. The street you live on, your neighbors, your new corner coffee shop, how you feel walking your dog at sunset — that’s what makes a house a home.
10. Your agent is your secret weapon.
A good buyer’s agent isn’t just there to unlock doors. They’re your guide, negotiator, therapist, and local expert all rolled into one — especially in a city like New Orleans, where no two homes (or roofs, or flood zones) are alike.
The bottom line
Buying a home is equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking, but you don’t have to go it alone. At Crescent City Living, we’re here to make the process as smooth (and as fun) as possible — from that first showing to your first glass of champagne in your new kitchen. 🥂
