Need Info on Housing Lafayette (Broussard, Youngsville: real estate, condo, new house)

[BEVH]

I am considering a move to Lafayette I can't located new home tracts on line and need to know where to find them. I am or can't build custom and need something constructed.

I also do not know the price range of housing and if there are neighboring communities where one might live and work in Lafayette. I am thinking about 200-250 and no idea what that will buy.

Also considering Houston and wondering the advantage of Louiiana and this area.


What are property taxes like, is there a state income tax and other things a potential newcomer should know.

Moving from SO CA.

Thanks in advance for all your help.
Need urgent info due to job offer.

[bpb2221]

Van Eaton & Romero is a good place to start looking for housing. They are the dominant real estate agency in the area. Their website is ok. If you have small children then you will want to live on the southside, possibly Youngsville or Broussard. They have better schools and the area is safer. Property tax is around $9 per $1000 of assessed value. Homestead exemption allows for the first $75k to be untaxed. State tax is 4%, local tax is 4%. $200 - $250 will get you a nice new house out of Lafayette. You can also get an older larger home in town if you want to do some remodeling. New housing goes for around $125 - $150 in Broussard and Youngsville. It is hard to find newer construction in town, unless you look at River Ranch or other expensive developments. Over here, $250 will barely get you a 1300 sq ft Condo on a very busy main artery for transportation. This development is in the center of town and is very desirable. Prices are generally well over $215 a sq/ft.

It is also very very humid here. Personally I prefer it, but I know a lot of people cannot stand it.