Boosting Louisiana Home Builders and Residential Growth

 

St. Tammany Parish Approves 50 New Homes Near Big Branch

In a decision which supports local Louisiana home builders the Big Branch, Louisiana area is poised for significant residential development after the St. Tammany Parish Council voted to approve a plan allowing 50 new homes to be built near the Big Branch community. This signals new housing opportunities for families and homebuyers in the Northshore region of Louisiana.

Key Takeaways:

• St. Tammany Parish approved 50 new homes near Big Branch on the Northshore.
• The project creates new opportunities for Louisiana home builders and general contractors.
• Residential growth reflects strong demand for new construction homes in St. Tammany Parish.
• Development balances housing expansion with community and environmental considerations.
• The project strengthens the Louisiana residential construction and housing market.

A Win for Louisiana Home Builders and Local Housing Demand

With population growth and demand for quality housing on the rise throughout St. Tammany Parish, this approval offers a strong outlook for residential construction firms, local general contractors, and other Louisiana home builders looking to serve new communities. The rezoning and development plan will permit residential construction on approximately 22 acres between the communities of Mandeville, Bush, and Lacombe, close to the Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge.

This vote follows a local land use negotiation and compromise process and reflects community interest in balancing environmental concerns with responsible growth. The project is expected to open avenues for home building companies and residential developers interested in constructing move-in homes, custom builds, or neighborhood communities that appeal to both first-time buyers and established Louisiana residents.

What This Means for Home Construction & Builders

For Louisiana home builders, the approval of these 50 homes near Big Branch represents:

• New residential construction opportunities in the Northshore market
• Increased demand for local builders, custom home services, and general contractors
• Growth in St. Tammany Parish housing markets amid steady regional expansion
• Potential for long-term community investment as homes are developed and sold

This development also provides a strong signal to home builders and contractors that St. Tammany Parish is continuing to support residential projects that contribute to economic growth and create value for future homeowners.

Supporting Louisiana’s Residential Construction Community

Approved projects like this not only create space for families and new development, but they also contribute to the broader ecosystem of home building professionals in the state. From architects designing plans, to local builders constructing homes onsite, to contractors and subcontractors supplying materials and labor — residential developments help strengthen the Louisiana home building industry and improve access to quality housing across the region.

As plans move forward, home builders in Louisiana and industry stakeholders will be watching closely for opportunities to participate in future phases of construction and community expansion near Big Branch and throughout St. Tammany Parish.

 

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Tips for How to Get the Best Mortgage Rate

 

Different loan types can offer varying mortgage rates. For example, an ARM may offer a lower initial rate, but it comes with the risk of future rate increases. Alternatively, a fixed-rate mortgage guarantees your rate will stay the same throughout the term of the loan. Consider your long-term plans and risk tolerance before choosing a loan type.

Unlock the Best Mortgage Rate for Your Home: A Comprehensive Guide

Securing the best mortgage rate is one of the most crucial steps in buying a home. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or refinancing your current mortgage, understanding how to get the best mortgage rate can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. In this guide, we’ll share expert tips and strategies for securing the lowest mortgage rates.

Key Takeaways:

• Improving your credit score is the first step to securing the best mortgage rate.
• A larger down payment reduces your loan-to-value ratio and can help you lock in a lower rate.
• Shop around and compare mortgage lenders to find the best rates available.
• Consider loan terms carefully—shorter loan terms typically offer lower rates.
• Monitor market trends and lock in your rate when conditions are favorable.

Why Mortgage Rates Matter

Your mortgage rate directly impacts your monthly payment and the total cost of your home loan. Even a small difference in interest rates can lead to significant savings. Mortgage rates are influenced by a variety of economic factors, but with the right approach, you can still lock in a competitive rate.

Key Factors That Affect Your Mortgage Rate

To secure the best mortgage rate, it’s important to understand the factors that lenders consider when setting rates. Here are the key elements:

Credit Score: Lenders use your credit score to gauge your creditworthiness. The higher your score, the lower the risk for the lender, and the better your mortgage rate will likely be. Aim for a credit score of 700 or higher to qualify for the best rates.

Down Payment: A larger down payment can reduce your loan-to-value ratio (LTV), making you less risky to lenders. Typically, a 20% down payment can help you secure a lower rate, but options are available for smaller down payments.

Loan Term: The length of your mortgage term will also influence your rate. Generally, shorter loan terms (like a 15-year mortgage) come with lower interest rates compared to longer terms (such as a 30-year mortgage).

Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Lenders look at your monthly debt payments in relation to your income. A lower DTI ratio can make you a more attractive borrower, potentially qualifying you for better rates.

Loan Type: Different loan types, such as fixed-rate mortgages, adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs), and government-backed loans (FHA, VA), come with varying interest rates. Fixed-rate mortgages typically offer stability, while ARMs might offer lower initial rates.

How to Get the Best Mortgage Rate: Proven Strategies

Here are proven steps to help you lock in the best mortgage rate:

1. Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying

Your credit score is one of the most important factors in determining your mortgage rate. To secure a lower rate, check your credit report ahead of time and take steps to improve your score. Pay down high-interest debt, avoid making large purchases before applying, and correct any errors on your credit report.

2. Save for a Larger Down Payment

Lenders typically reward borrowers who can put down 20% or more on their home. A larger down payment reduces the lender’s risk and can result in a more favorable mortgage rate. If you can’t afford 20%, consider saving for a few more months or exploring loan options that offer lower down payments.

3. Shop Around and Compare Lenders

Mortgage rates can vary significantly from lender to lender, so it’s essential to shop around. Use mortgage comparison websites or consult with multiple banks, credit unions, and online lenders to find the best rate. Even a slight difference in interest rates can result in substantial savings over the life of the loan.

4. Consider Different Loan Types

5. Lock in Your Rate When Market Conditions Are Favorable

Mortgage rates fluctuate based on market conditions. If you see a favorable rate, consider locking it in to avoid potential increases. Some lenders offer a “rate lock” option, which guarantees your rate for a specific period (e.g., 30 or 60 days). If rates are on the rise, locking in early can save you money.

6. Consider Paying for Discount Points

If you have the cash, paying for discount points (also known as buying down the rate) can lower your interest rate. Each point typically costs 1% of your loan amount and reduces your rate by about 0.25%. If you plan to stay in the home for many years, this strategy could pay off in the long run.

7. Evaluate Your Loan Term

Longer loan terms, such as a 30-year mortgage, often come with higher rates compared to shorter terms, like a 15-year mortgage. If you can afford higher monthly payments, a shorter loan term may offer you a lower rate and save you money on interest over time.

8. Monitor Current Mortgage Rates

Stay informed about mortgage rate trends by regularly checking reliable sources. Websites, financial news outlets, and mortgage calculators can help you track fluctuations and understand when it’s the best time to lock in your rate.

Current Mortgage Rates: What You Need to Know

Mortgage rates are influenced by several factors, including inflation, Federal Reserve policies, and the broader economic environment. While rates may be higher than in previous years, they remain historically low compared to long-term averages. By following the strategies outlined above, you can still find the best mortgage rates available.

Conclusion: Get the Best Mortgage Rate for Your Home

Securing the best mortgage rate requires planning, research, and a strong understanding of what lenders are looking for. By improving your credit score, saving for a larger down payment, shopping around for the best rates, and carefully selecting your loan type, you can ensure that you’re getting the most favorable terms for your mortgage. Start your journey toward homeownership with confidence and knowledge, and you’ll be on your way to locking in a great mortgage rate.

 

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Recognition at the Build Louisiana Awards

Louisiana Home Builders and Construction Firms Recognized at the Build Louisiana Awards

Louisiana’s home builders and construction leaders were honored at the inaugural Build Louisiana Awards, a statewide program recognizing excellence in building, innovation, and craftsmanship. Hosted by the Louisiana Associated General Contractors, the awards celebrate outstanding commercial, residential, and infrastructure projects completed by Louisiana construction companies.

 

Key Takeaways:

• The Build Louisiana Awards recognize excellence among Louisiana home builders and construction companies.
• Awards are hosted by the Louisiana Associated General Contractors (LAGC).
• Winning firms demonstrate leadership in residential, commercial, and infrastructure construction.
• Award recognition helps homeowners and developers identify trusted Louisiana general contractors.
• The program promotes higher construction standards and strengthens Louisiana’s building industry.

Modeled after the national Associated General Contractors of America Build America Awards, the Build Louisiana Awards highlight the skill, professionalism, and impact of contractors and home builders across the state. The event brought together industry leaders, general contractors, residential builders, and development professionals to showcase the best of Louisiana construction.

Award-Winning Louisiana Construction Companies

Several prominent Louisiana builders and contractors earned top recognition for their work:

Ryan Gootee General Contractors received major honors in the Building Division for both projects over $10 million and under $10 million. The company was recognized for its work on the redevelopment of Caesars New Orleans (formerly Harrah’s) and the Board of Trade project in New Orleans. These awards reinforce the firm’s reputation for quality construction, adaptive reuse expertise, and large-scale commercial development.

JB Mouton earned a Merit Award for its work on the Our Lady of Lourdes Stadium project, demonstrating excellence in project management and community-focused construction.

RNGD received a Merit Award for its Regional Headquarters Campus project, highlighting innovation and design efficiency in mid-sized building projects.

Beyond commercial construction, the awards also recognized achievements in highway construction, utility infrastructure, and federal/heavy/coastal construction categories—reflecting the broad capabilities of Louisiana’s construction and home building industry.

What the Build Louisiana Awards Mean for Louisiana Home Builders

For homeowners, developers, and industry professionals searching for trusted Louisiana home builders, the Build Louisiana Awards provide valuable insight into which companies are leading the industry in quality and performance.

Key benefits of the awards include:

• Recognition of high-quality craftsmanship and construction standards
• Increased visibility for reputable Louisiana home builders and general contractors
• Promotion of innovation and best practices within the residential and commercial construction sectors
• Strengthening of Louisiana’s building industry and local economic growth

As Louisiana continues to experience residential and commercial development, these awards highlight the companies shaping the state’s future through expert craftsmanship and reliable construction services.

If you are researching Louisiana home builders, general contractors, or construction companies for your next residential or commercial project, the Build Louisiana Awards offer a strong benchmark for identifying proven industry leaders.

 

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Home equity borrowing just delivered another bit of good news for homeowners watching rates closely. According to a midweek update from Bankrate, both home equity loans and HELOCs stayed below the 8% mark, giving borrowers a relatively affordable way to tap equity without the headache of refinancing their first mortgage into a worse rate. The median rate on a five-year home equity loan is sitting at 7.99%, while the average HELOC rate is even lower at 7.81%, keeping both options firmly in "worth considering" territory for people who need cash for major expenses.

That affordability is a noticeable shift from where things stood not long ago. HELOC rates, in particular, were hovering around 10% back in September 2024, which made borrowing against your home substantially more expensive. Now that borrowing costs have cooled, the opportunity is real—but so is the risk of moving too quickly or choosing the wrong product for the wrong reason. If you're considering a home equity loan or HELOC while rates are under 8%, there are three smart moves that can help you take advantage of the moment without setting yourself up for surprises later.

The first is to be clear-eyed about what you're actually signing up for with a HELOC. A HELOC is attractive right now because its variable rate tends to respond when broader interest rates trend down, and that's helped push today's costs lower than last year's. But the same feature that makes a HELOC feel like a win in a cooling cycle can become a problem if rates level off or climb again. Because HELOC rates can reset monthly, you're agreeing to live with some payment volatility, and the safe approach is to make sure your budget can handle a higher rate than today's—even if you never end up paying it.

The second move is to understand the hidden friction of refinancing a home equity loan. Some borrowers look at today's fixed home equity loan rates and assume they can lock one in now, then refinance cheaply later if rates drop further. The catch is that refinancing typically comes with closing costs that can run roughly 1% to 5% of the loan amount, which can erase the benefit of a modest rate drop. It also assumes the rate environment cooperates quickly enough to make refinancing worthwhile, which is far from guaranteed. A home equity loan can be a strong choice for stability, but it's not ideal if your entire strategy depends on refinancing soon.

The third move is to shop beyond your current mortgage lender. Many homeowners default to the bank they already use because it feels simpler, but the best terms often come from lenders competing aggressively for new business. In a cooler rate climate, that competition can show up as better pricing, lower fees, or more flexible terms, and you won't see it if you only take one quote. A smarter approach is to collect multiple offers, compare the full cost structure, and then either choose the best deal or use it to negotiate with your current lender.

Home equity borrowing is meaningfully cheaper today than it was in the recent past, and that opens doors for homeowners who need financing. But the real win isn't just getting a rate under 8%—it's choosing the right product, planning for rate and payment realities, and making sure fees don't quietly eat your savings. If you take a measured approach now, you give yourself the best chance to benefit from today's conditions without regretting the decision halfway through repayment.

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If your utility bill has started to feel like a second mortgage, you're not imagining it. Electricity prices have climbed year over year, and natural gas customers are seeing even sharper jumps. The uncomfortable truth is that higher demand—driven by extreme weather, a growing need for power-hungry data centers, and shifting energy production—doesn't usually reverse overnight. Some forecasts even suggest rates could keep rising for years.

The good news is you're not powerless here. A handful of small, everyday habits can trim your monthly costs quickly, and a few bigger upgrades can change the entire trajectory of what your home costs to run. Think of this as a two-track plan: "start saving this week" and "save bigger for the long haul."

Start with the easiest wins: everyday changes that add up

One of the simplest ways to lower your bill is to make sure you're not overpaying for electricity in the first place. In states where you can choose your supplier, it's worth comparing rates periodically—many people get stuck on a default plan that isn't the best deal anymore.

Next, check whether your utility offers time-of-use pricing. These plans charge more during peak hours and less during off-peak hours. If your household can shift a few power-heavy tasks—like laundry, dishwashing, or running the dryer—into cheaper hours, the savings can be real. Some places automatically enroll customers in these plans, so it's smart to call and confirm what you're on.

From there, go straight to temperature control. If you're still using a manual thermostat, upgrading to a smart thermostat is one of the most painless improvements you can make. It lets you adjust the temperature from your phone, build schedules around your routine, and in many models, learn your habits over time. Even without fancy features, simply adjusting your thermostat by about 7–10 degrees for several hours a day when you're asleep or out of the house can noticeably cut heating and cooling costs.

While you're thinking HVAC, don't skip basic maintenance. A dirty air filter forces your system to work harder, which costs you money every hour it runs. Swapping filters on schedule and getting an annual tune-up helps your unit run cleaner, quieter, and cheaper.

Ceiling fans are another underused tool. They don't cool the air, but they make the room feel cooler by moving air across your skin—meaning you can often nudge the thermostat a bit without feeling it. The direction matters: counterclockwise in summer to push air down, clockwise in winter to circulate warm air near the ceiling. Just remember: fans only help when you're in the room, so shut them off when you leave.

Seasonal light management is surprisingly powerful, too. In summer, direct sunlight heats rooms fast; closing blinds or using backed drapes on sun-facing windows can reduce heat gain. In winter, open curtains during the day—especially on south-facing windows—to let the sun do some of the heating for free.

Then there's the quiet bill-killer: air leaks. Drafts around doors, windows, vents, and attic hatches aren't just uncomfortable—they're expensive. A little caulk and weatherstripping can reduce wasted heating and cooling and make your home feel more stable temperature-wise. If you have a fireplace, closing the flue when it's not in use prevents conditioned air from escaping straight up the chimney.

Lighting is another quick fix. If you still have incandescent bulbs, switching to LEDs can reduce energy use and save you from replacing bulbs constantly. LEDs sip electricity compared to older bulbs and last dramatically longer.

Water heating also deserves attention because it's often one of the biggest energy costs in the home. Many water heaters are set hotter than necessary. Dropping the temperature to around 120 degrees can lower costs and reduce scald risk. If your water heater is older, adding an insulating blanket can help it hold heat instead of constantly reheating.

In the kitchen, you can save energy without changing what you cook—just how you cook it. A toaster oven uses far less energy than heating a full-size oven for small meals or reheating leftovers. When you do use the oven, avoid opening the door repeatedly because the temperature drops fast and the oven has to burn more energy to recover.

Laundry is another quiet drain: most of the energy used by washing machines goes toward heating water. Washing with cold water for everyday loads is an easy shift, and cleaning the dryer lint filter before each cycle improves airflow, meaning shorter dry times and less energy.

Finally, go after "energy vampires." TVs, chargers, game consoles, printers, and even small appliances draw power while sitting idle. If you don't want to unplug everything constantly, use a smart power strip or timer strip to shut down clusters of devices automatically.

Bigger moves: upgrades that change your home's efficiency permanently

If you want smarter decisions before you spend real money, start with an energy audit. It's essentially a diagnostic check that identifies exactly where your home is losing energy and where improvements will have the best payoff. Many utilities offer discounts or rebates for audits, and there may also be federal incentives available depending on current tax rules.

Once you have a plan, you can target upgrades that actually matter: adding insulation in attics and crawl spaces, sealing major leaks, replacing inefficient equipment, or upgrading old appliances to modern high-efficiency models. Energy-efficient appliances can lower usage over time, and in many areas there are rebates available to reduce upfront cost.

For some homeowners, solar becomes the long-term play. It's a large investment, but with the right sun exposure, available incentives, and enough time in the home, it can significantly reduce electricity costs and protect you from future rate spikes. Tools that estimate solar potential based on your address can help you determine whether it's worth exploring.

The simplest strategy that works

• Don't try to do all of this at once. Pick three steps that fit your season and your lifestyle:
• Right now, this week: air filter + thermostat schedule + seal drafts
• Next month: LED bulbs + water heater temp adjustment + smart power strip
• This year: audit + insulation/sealing upgrades + appliance planning

Utility costs may keep climbing, but your home doesn't have to climb with them. If you tell me whether your biggest bill is summer cooling or winter heating—and whether you use electricity, gas, or both—I'll prioritize the best savings moves for your specific situation.

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Lower borrowing costs appear to be nudging more buyers back into the housing market. Contracts to purchase existing U.S. homes climbed in October, posting a stronger-than-expected gain as shoppers took advantage of mortgage rates that had been drifting downward.

The National Association of Realtors reported that pending home sales increased 1.9% last month, following a small, upwardly revised 0.1% rise in September. Economists had anticipated a much smaller move—forecasting growth of about 0.5%—which suggests demand responded more quickly than many analysts expected.

Even with the month-to-month improvement, the market hasn't fully regained its footing. Pending sales were still 0.4% lower than a year earlier, underscoring that affordability pressures remain a major hurdle for many would-be buyers.

A seasonal shift gives buyers more leverage

NAR's chief economist Lawrence Yun noted that the months ahead may bring a different dynamic for shoppers. As the calendar moves into late fall and winter, homes often sit longer, especially between November and February, a stretch when sellers may be more willing to negotiate because fewer buyers are actively hunting.

Regional results were mixed

October's increase wasn't evenly distributed across the country. Contracts rose in the Northeast, Midwest, and the South, while the West moved in the opposite direction, showing a decline. That regional split reflects how strongly local affordability, inventory, and price levels can shape buyer behavior—even when national mortgage rates move the same direction.

Rates helped—though the path forward is less clear

Mortgage rates had been easing after the Federal Reserve resumed interest rate cuts, according to Freddie Mac data. But that downward momentum has slowed as some Fed officials have suggested they may be cautious about cutting again in December. Still, New York Fed President John Williams recently indicated that rates could decline again "in the near term," leaving the market in a watch-and-wait posture.

For buyers, the takeaway is simple: even small rate improvements can spark activity, especially when inventory and timing create negotiation opportunities. For the broader housing market, October's numbers point to cautious optimism—demand is still there, but it's highly sensitive to the direction of mortgage rates.

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$31 Million Apartment Community Planned Near Covington to Expand Workforce Housing Options

A new mixed-income apartment development is set to break ground near Covington, aiming to add much-needed rental options in an area where local leaders have repeatedly warned that affordable housing supply isn't keeping up with demand.

The project, called Capstone at Covington Place, will bring 80 apartments to a site on Falconer Drive, near the U.S. 190 commercial corridor just north of Interstate 12. The $31 million community is being developed by the Banyan Foundation, a Birmingham-based organization with a track record of affordable and mixed-income projects across the Southeast, including sites in Louisiana.

Why this location is getting less pushback than usual

In St. Tammany Parish, apartment proposals often draw heavy criticism from residents who worry about traffic, strained infrastructure, and declining property values. This project, however, has largely avoided the kind of neighborhood opposition that tends to follow multi-family developments.

One reason is the setting: the complex is planned beside the Lowe's Home Improvement store, in a zone that already leans heavily commercial. Because the land is already zoned for multi-family housing and sits amid retail development, parish officials say it's a more natural fit than a project placed near established subdivisions.

The developer also emphasized that the organization tries to avoid pursuing sites that would trigger large-scale conflict, preferring locations where the proposed use aligns with existing zoning and surrounding land uses.

How the "mixed-income" model will work

According to the development team, the project is designed to serve a range of household incomes—not a single income bracket. Rent levels will vary by unit type and tenant income, with apartments designated for households in different earnings ranges:

• A small portion aimed at residents earning under $30,000 per year
• A larger share targeted to households in the $30,000–$50,000 range
• The majority marketed toward residents earning roughly $60,000–$80,000

The goal, the developer says, is to create a community where residents with different income levels can live in the same complex, rather than separating "affordable" housing into a standalone category.

Funding tied to post-Ida recovery

A significant part of the financing—about $15 million—is coming through federal grant funding administered by the State of Louisiana, intended to support areas impacted by Hurricane Ida. That money helps close the gap that often makes mixed-income developments difficult to build without either sharply higher rents or heavy private subsidies.

A broader housing debate in St. Tammany

The timing of the project lands in the middle of a larger parish conversation: how to grow without overwhelming infrastructure—and how to create housing options that match what workers can actually afford.

Real estate figures in recent months have shown St. Tammany home prices holding at levels that can be tough for first-time buyers or moderate-income families. Meanwhile, builders have long argued that the permitting process for multi-family or entry-level housing can be difficult. Residents, on the other hand, frequently urge parish leaders to slow development until roads, drainage, and public services catch up.

Parish officials have also discussed ongoing efforts to complete a more detailed housing analysis that could clarify exactly what kinds of housing are most needed, and where.

Local official calls it a "good fit"

The parish council member representing the area said the project appears appropriately placed—largely because the zoning supports it and the surrounding environment is already commercial. He also framed it as an example of trying to balance competing interests: homeowner concerns about growth and property values, and the region's need for more housing inventory.

If the construction timeline stays on schedule, Capstone at Covington Place will soon move from site work into full development—adding 80 new rental units to a parish still searching for the right formula to meet housing demand without fueling backlash.

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