Your Louisiana Closing, Made Simple

At closing, you'll sign the deed, mortgage (if financing), and a stack of disclosures and affidavits. The title company verifies that title is clear, collects funds from the buyer and lender, pays off any existing mortgages and liens, records the new deed and mortgage with the parish, and issues title insurance. A typical closing appointment takes 45 minutes to an hour.

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport), proof of wire transfer or a cashier's check for any funds due, and any documents your closer specifically requested. If you're married, your spouse may need to attend even if not on the loan or title.

Both pay closing costs, but for different items. Buyers typically pay lender fees, title insurance (lender's policy is required if financed, owner's is optional but recommended), recording fees, prepaid taxes and insurance, and prorated property taxes. Sellers typically pay title curative costs, payoff fees, and their portion of prorated taxes. Use our Closing Cost Calculator to see your specific estimate by parish.

From the time we open your file to closing day is typically 2–4 weeks for a financed purchase and 7–14 days for cash. Timing depends on lender underwriting, title search results, and how quickly all parties provide documentation.

Lender's title insurance is required if you have a mortgage. Owner's title insurance is optional but strongly recommended — it's a one-time premium at closing that protects your ownership rights for as long as you own the home. It covers issues that may not surface in the title search: forged deeds, undisclosed heirs, fraud, and clerical errors in public records.