• job scams protection

    Watch Out for These Job Scams

    3 Min Read

    Finding a job is hard enough in these hard economic times. Amid sifting through job applications, you also have to worry about getting scammed. So how can you protect yourself?

    The first thing you need to do is look for signs that the job listing or posting is bogus.

    Protecting yourself against job scams is essential in today’s job market, no matter if you’re looking for an high-paying side job or full-time employment.

    In this article, we’ll go over some job scams that job seekers need to be aware of. Here are some effective strategies:

    Research the Company

    Look up the company’s website, read reviews on sites like Glassdoor, and check their social media presence. Verify that they have a legitimate history.

    Be Cautious of Red Flags

    • Too Good to Be True: High salaries for minimal work or vague job descriptions can be warning signs.
    • Poor Communication: Watch for unprofessional emails or inconsistencies in communication. poor grammar, spelling mistakes, or unprofessional email addresses can indicate a scam.

    Verify Job Listings

    Cross-check job postings on the company’s official website or trusted job boards. If the listing seems to be exclusively on less reputable sites, proceed with caution.

    Legitimate employers do not ask candidates to pay for job applications, training, or supplies.

    Ensure that communications come from official company domains (e.g., @companyname.com) rather than generic email providers (like Gmail or Yahoo).

    If possible, request video interviews rather than phone calls. This can help you gauge the professionalism of the employer.

    Trust Your Instincts

    If something feels off or you feel pressured to make quick decisions, take a step back.

    1. Ask Questions: Inquire about job responsibilities, company culture, and growth opportunities. Scammers often struggle to provide coherent answers.
    2. Network: Reach out to current or former employees on professional networks like LinkedIn to gain insights about the company.

    Report Suspicious Activity

    If you encounter a suspected scam, report it to relevant authorities or job boards to help protect others.Offers that promise unusually high pay for minimal effort or experience should raise suspicion.

    By staying vigilant and informed, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to job scams.

    Final Word

    Scammers often create a sense of urgency to rush you into making decisions without proper research. Be wary if you’re asked to provide sensitive information (like Social Security numbers or bank details) early in the application process. Legitimate employers do not ask candidates to pay for job applications, training, or equipment.

    More from NolaFi.com:

    Comments Off on Watch Out for These Job Scams
  • how to make Venmo payments private

    How To Make Your Venmo Payments Private

    2 Min Read

    By default, Venmo transactions are public, which means anyone can see your payment history unless you change your privacy settings.

    In this article, we’re going to tell you how to set your Venmo payments to private.

    Why Your Venmo Payments Need To Be Private

    Users can be targeted by phishing attacks through email or text messages that appear to be from Venmo, tricking them into providing personal information.

    Venmo relies primarily on a username and password for account access. If your password is weak or reused, your account may be vulnerable.

    While Venmo does offer some security features, it doesn’t provide robust two-factor authentication, making accounts susceptible to unauthorized access.T

    o make your Venmo payments private, follow these steps:

    1. Open the Venmo App: Launch the app on your device.
    2. Go to Settings: Tap on the three horizontal lines (menu) in the upper left corner to access your account menu, then select “Settings.”
    3. Privacy Settings: In the Settings menu, tap on “Privacy.”
    4. Choose Your Privacy Option:
      • Private: Select “Private” to ensure that only you and the recipient can see the payment details.
      • Friends: If you choose this option, only your Venmo friends will see your transactions.
      • Public: Avoid this option if you want to keep your payments private.
    5. Adjust Existing Transactions: You can also adjust the privacy settings for previous transactions by tapping on each transaction in your feed and selecting the privacy setting you prefer.
    6. Limit Friend Requests: Consider reviewing your friends list and limiting who can see your transactions by managing friend requests.

    By following these steps, you can keep your Venmo payments private and control who sees your transaction history.

    Final Word

    If you plan on visiting the city for New Orleans, you should know that the area you’re staying in is safe.

    Expect to indulge in many foods that New Orleans is known For, including Gumbo, Beignets and more.

    Read about things to see and do in New Orleans.

    More From NolaFi.com:

    Comments Off on How To Make Your Venmo Payments Private
  • best portable generators

    Check Out the Best Portable Generators for Your Money

    2 Min Read

    Portable generators can power lights, helping you navigate safely in the dark and reducing the risk of accidents when there’s a big storm outside.

    When preparing for a storm, having a reliable generator can be crucial.

    In this article, we’ll cover a list of the best portable generators on the market. Here are some of the best types of generators to consider:

    Portable Generators

    Portable Generators
    • Honda EU2200i: Known for its reliability and quiet operation, it’s great for powering essential appliances.
    • Yamaha EF2000iSv2: Lightweight and fuel-efficient, this model is ideal for small power needs.

    Inverter Generators

    Champion 2000-Watt Ultralight:

    Standby Generators

    Generac Guardian Series portable generator

    Dual Fuel Generators

    DuroMax XP12000EH portable generator
    • DuroMax XP12000EH: Runs on both gasoline and propane, offering flexibility and extended run time.
    • Champion 100263: Features a powerful output and can also use both fuel types, making it versatile for emergencies.

    Solar Generators

    Goal Zero Yeti 500X portable generators
    • Jackery Explorer 1000: A portable solar generator that’s eco-friendly and perfect for small electronics and appliances.
    • Goal Zero Yeti 500X: A robust solar generator that provides reliable power and can be charged with solar panels.

    Where to Buy:

    • Home Improvement Stores: Home Depot and Lowe’s often have a variety of generators in stock.
    • Outdoor and Sporting Goods Stores: Retailers like Cabela’s and REI may carry portable and inverter generators.
    • Online Retailers: Amazon, Walmart, and specialty websites often have a wide selection, sometimes with competitive prices.

    Tips for Buying:

    • Check Wattage Needs: Determine how much power you’ll need for essential appliances.
    • Read Reviews: Look for customer feedback on reliability and ease of use.
    • Consider Fuel Type: Think about what’s most accessible for you (gasoline, propane, solar).
    • Look for Warranty and Support: A good warranty can offer additional peace of mind.

    Buying a generator before a storm can help ensure you have the power you need when you need it most.

    More Articles from Nolafi.com:

    Comments Off on Check Out the Best Portable Generators for Your Money
  • Daylight Savings Time: When Is It?

    3 Min Read

    Are you ready to set your clocks back? Daylight savings time can be great for those who want to take advantage of the sunlight for work or leisure purposes. It’s also mandated by many states across the country.

    How did daylight savings time begin and more importantly, when is it happening this year? This article will answer everything you want to know about daylight savings time.

    When Is Daylight Savings Time This Year?

    Daylight savings time takes place on the first Sunday in November, which is Nov. 3, 2024 — so set your clocks accordingly. Earlier this year, daylight savings time began on March 10.

    Please check local regulations as the dates may vary by region.

    A History: How Daylight Savings Time Came To Be

    The history of Daylight Saving Time (DST) dates back over a century, rooted in the idea of making better use of daylight during the longer days of summer. Here’s a brief overview:

    Early Ideas and Proposals

    • Benjamin Franklin (1784): Franklin is often credited with the idea, though his suggestion was made in a satirical essay. He suggested that Parisians could save money on candles by waking up earlier to take advantage of natural daylight.
    • William Willett (1907): A British builder, Willett advocated for DST in his pamphlet The Waste of Daylight. He proposed setting clocks forward during the summer to enjoy longer daylight hours and conserve energy.

    The First Implementation

    • Germany (1916): The first official use of DST was in Germany during World War I. On April 30, 1916, the German Empire and Austria-Hungary set their clocks forward to save fuel for the war effort by reducing the need for artificial lighting.
    • Britain and the U.S.: Following Germany’s lead, Britain introduced DST in May 1916. The United States followed in 1918, but the practice was unpopular and was abandoned after the war.

    Further Developments

    • World War II: DST made a comeback during World War II. The U.S. and Britain reintroduced it as part of their wartime efforts to save resources.
    • Post-War Era: After WWII, DST was left to the discretion of local governments in the U.S., which led to confusion as different regions adopted different schedules.

    Uniform Time Act (1966)

    • In response to the confusion of varied time practices, the U.S. passed the Uniform Time Act in 1966. This established a standardized start and end date for DST across the country, though states could opt out.

    Modern Changes

    • Energy Policy Act (2005): In the U.S., the Energy Policy Act of 2005 extended DST. Since 2007, DST starts on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November.
    • Global Usage: Many countries have adopted and abandoned DST at various times. While widely used in Europe and North America, several countries in Africa and Asia do not observe DST.

    The main argument for DST has historically been energy conservation, but in recent decades, its effectiveness has been debated. Some argue it disrupts sleep and health patterns and causes confusion in modern, interconnected economies.

    Comments Off on Daylight Savings Time: When Is It?
  • Lil Wayne to perform at Super Bowl in New Orleans?

    Lil Wayne on Super Bowl Snub: ‘It Broke Me’

    2 Min Read

    Rapper Lil Wayne is speaking out after not being selected to perform at the Super Bowl halftime in February.

    Lil Wayne expressed his heartbreak over being snubbed for the Super Bowl LIX halftime show, sharing on Friday that the decision “broke” him. This came days after several fellow artists rallied in his defense, criticizing the choice to feature Kendrick Lamar as the headliner instead of the New Orleans native.

    Earlier in the year, Wayne expressed great interest in headlining the halftime show, saying that he was “going to make it hard for them” not to choose him. Well, they didn’t.

    Wayne admitted that he blamed himself for assuming he’d be the headliner, saying, “I automatically put myself in that position, thinking there was no better spot, no better stage or platform, especially in my city. So it hurt.”

    Artists like Nicki Minaj, Master P, and Cam’ron were vocal in their disapproval earlier in the week, arguing that Wayne, as a New Orleans icon, deserved the spot. They also pointed fingers at Jay-Z, a co-producer of the halftime show, for the decision.

    “It broke me, and I’m just trying to put myself back together,” Wayne shared. “But my God, y’all have helped me. Thanks to my peers, friends, family, and everyone who’s been repping me… I feel like I let everyone down by missing that opportunity, but I’m working on myself. So thank you.”

    Final Word

    If you plan on visiting the city for New Orleans, you should know that the area you’re staying in is safe.

    Expect to indulge in many foods that New Orleans is known For, including Gumbo, Beignets and more.

    Read about things to see and do in New Orleans.

    More From NolaFi.com:

    Comments Off on Lil Wayne on Super Bowl Snub: ‘It Broke Me’
  • Parts of Kenner, Metairie Underwater After Hurricane

    2 Min Read

    Hurricane Francine made landfall on the Gulf Coast, including Louisiana, on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024.

    The National Hurricane Center said tropical-storm-force winds had begun to spread across the state, and conditions would worsen throughout the afternoon and into the evening.

    The storm made landfall about 5 p.m. CT in Louisiana as a dangerous Category 2 with maximum sustained winds estimated at 100 mph.

    Midnight — Fox 8 reports that University City in Kenner is underwater. Also, a nearby canal overflowed and water is now in homes and cars.

    Parish officials don’t know when the water will completely drain out.

    9:00 pm — More than 400,000 homes and businesses are reportedly without power as the storm, now a tropical depression, moves through south Louisiana.

    8:00 pm — Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between 1 and 3 inches of rain have fallen. “Additional rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly,” according to the National Weather Service.

    7:30 pm — Areas around New Orleans, Kenner and Metairie were under a flash flood warning, according to the National Weather Service.

    7:15 pm — In nearby Houma, news cameras capture flying debris and gusting winds damaging the roofs of local businesses.

    7:00 pm — Hurricane Francine is downgraded to a Category 1 storm after hitting Morgan City, according to the National Hurricane Center.

    6:45 pm — The City of New Orleans has issued a flash flood warning.

    Power outages are being reported in the New Orleans area.

    New Orleans officials had made preparation for potential flooding with 4-8 inches of rainfall expected from Francine.

    Nolafi.com will update you on the storm’s progress as it weakens.

    Francine will bring rounds of heavy rainfall totaling 4 to 6 inches with locally higher amounts, according to the National Weather Service. This will lead to flash flooding especially in urban and poor drainage areas.

    The storm is expected to weaken rapidly as rainfall, storm surge and damaging winds take their toll.

    Francine is expected to become a tropical storm as it travels north up the Mississippi River.

    Comments Off on Parts of Kenner, Metairie Underwater After Hurricane
  • Master P Tapped as Music Maestro for New Orleans Super Bowl

    3 Min Read

    Legendary rapper and businessman Master P has been appointed as entertainment ambassador for the Super Bowl, which is in New Orleans early next year.

    The big game will be held February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome, the venue’s 11th Super Bowl and first since 2013.

    In a Facebook post, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell announced Master P’s role, saying “I’m thrilled to announce Percy “Master P” Miller as New Orleans’ new Entertainment Ambassador! This partnership marks a pivotal moment for our city as we strive to elevate our community through meaningful initiatives that will strengthen our nighttime economy, cultural economy, and overall economic development.

    “Master P, born and raised in the Calliope Projects, has significant influence in the entertainment world and beyond, advancing opportunities that will benefit us all. As we prepare for major events, this collaboration will help ensure that New Orleans remains on the world stage,” Cantrell said.

    “Together, we’re building a city that honors our past and celebrates our future,” she continued.

    Master P, born Percy Miller, is a highly influential figure in the music, entertainment, and business industries. Here are some of his major accomplishments:

    1. Founder of No Limit Records: Master P founded No Limit Records in 1991, which became one of the most successful independent record labels in hip-hop. The label released numerous platinum and gold albums, contributing significantly to the success of Southern rap.
    2. Music Career: As a rapper, Master P released several successful albums, including Ice Cream Man (1996) and Ghetto D (1997), which featured the hit single “Make ‘Em Say Uhh!” His music played a key role in popularizing Southern hip-hop.
    3. Entrepreneurship: Master P is a savvy businessman with ventures in various industries, including film, television, real estate, and fashion. He created P. Miller Enterprises, which oversees his numerous business ventures.
    4. Film and Television: Master P has acted in and produced several films, including I Got the Hook-Up (1998) and Foolish (1999). He also starred in his reality TV show, Master P’s Family Empire.
    5. Basketball: Master P briefly played professional basketball, signing contracts with the Charlotte Hornets and Toronto Raptors during the 1998-1999 NBA preseason.
    6. Philanthropy: He has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including funding scholarships, supporting underprivileged communities, and disaster relief efforts.

    Final Word

    Master P is a good look for the city’s culture but what music acts he highlights remains to be seen.

    Entertainment is a part of New Orleans’ culture for sure. from jazz clubs to the city’s diverse bar scene, from historic cocktail bars to trendy craft beer spots. listening to lie music is a popular nighttime activity, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Warehouse District.

    Comments Off on Master P Tapped as Music Maestro for New Orleans Super Bowl
  • Louisiana fall foliage

    Louisiana Foliage Map 2024: Colors, Dates, Peak Leaf Changes

    4 Min Read

    A wide array of beautiful colors awaits Louisiana as the fall leaves change colors: Fall foliage will soon show some radiant hues of brown and red on the leaves.

    The trees are shedding their leaves and showing a brilliant display of vibrant reds, splendid oranges and beautiful yellows. Do you want to know where to go to experience it all?

    Where Is Fall Foliage In Louisiana?

    If you’re a leaf watcher and want to know when and where you can watch the fall foliage change, this article will show you.

    A great tool to see when the foliage will change colors in your neck of theL woods is the interactive “2023 Fall Foliage Prediction Map” from Smokymountains.com.

    Louisiana fall foliage map

    What Is The Best Month For Fall Foliage?

    In south Louisiana, November is the best month for fall foliage. That’s when the rich hues of red, brown and yellow are at their most brilliant.

    The state’s climate has a large bearing on when you’ll see peak change in the leaf colors. Southern Louisiana is typically warm and humid, although this decreases as the year progresses.

    Farther up in northern Louisiana, the leaves will change colors first because the daily temperature is milder.

    Here is the color key to help you see which stage the hues represent. Keep in mind that the lighter the colors are the earlier in the year it is, so the green would represent early October, while the brown would be early November. Finally the dark brown, reddish color would be toward the end of November.

    Color key for Louisiana foliage map

    Once the beautiful colors began their metamorphosis, there’s no going back — so that means you don’t want to miss it!

    Peak time for south Louisiana is typically late October to mid-November. That’s when you’ll catch the splendor of the leaves as they change in intensity.

    Peak foliage time will also differ from parish to parish depending on their location, but there is a common color that will shift gradually from north to south and it’s truly mesmerizing to watch if you happen to document it.

    The only thing that could possibly throw a wrench in your leaf-watching plans is if the weather acts up. Remember, hurricane season doesn’t end until November 30, and major storms have been known to emerge in the last week of the season. So it’s something that we’ll just have to watch.

    Inclement weather won’t necessarily affect the changing leaves, but they could obscure observers from witnessing it, but let’s hope for the best!

    Let’s take a look at the foliage map for New Orleans and the rest of Louisiana.

    Louisiana Fall Foliage Map 2024

    Where To Watch The Foliage In New Orleans

    If you’re looking for some places around New Orleans to watch the fall foliage, these places are your best bet.

    Lafayette Square

    S Maestri Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130

     
     
     
     
     
    View this post on Instagram
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by 𝓪𝓻𝓯𝓪𝓷𝓽𝓸𝓶 (@arfantom)


    Jackson Square

    701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116

     
     
     
     
     
    View this post on Instagram
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by David Dunn (@cafedoc)

    La Salle Park

    6600 Airline Dr, Metairie, LA 70003

     
     
     
     
     
    View this post on Instagram
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Evolve Coffee + Matcha (@evolvecoffeenola)

    Uptown

     
     
     
     
     
    View this post on Instagram
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Boo Randle Interiors (@boorandleinteriors)

    Final Word

    Color watch is always one of the more exciting times in the fall (aside from football season) because it happens gradually and you can go to the same place one week later and it will be totally different.

    For the best views, remember to try to watch the leaves from higher elevations so you can see clearly. And don’t forget to bring the binoculars.

    More From NolaFi.com:

    1 Comment
  • Red Lobster closing

    Red Lobsters Closing More Locations

    4 Min Read

    One of the most popular restaurant chains in America — Red Lobster — continues to lose money due to several bad financial decisions and factors. Now, the restaurant announced that it is set to close 23 more of its locations across the United States.

    Where Are the Red Lobster Locations in Louisiana?

    Red Lobster is only in two cities in Louisiana. At 6051 Bluebonnet Blvd, in Baton Rouge, 70836, and at 4601 Pecanland Mall Drive, in Monroe, 71203.

    Why Is Red Lobster in Financial Trouble?

    Red Lobster is facing financial trouble due to several factors, including declining customer traffic, inflation, and rising costs for key ingredients like seafood. The chain has struggled to maintain profitability amid higher food and labor costs, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Additionally, Red Lobster’s mid-range pricing strategy is being squeezed between cheaper fast-food options and higher-end dining experiences. This has made it harder for the brand to attract customers, especially as dining preferences shift and competitors emerge.

    Moreover, Red Lobster has faced challenges in adapting to changing consumer preferences, including the growing demand for healthier, more sustainable, and diverse dining options. Its traditional menu and dining model may seem outdated to some consumers.

    The financial strain has also been impacted by changes in ownership over the years, leading to inconsistent management strategies.

    Which Red Lobster Locations Are Closing?

    The following Red Lobster locations are set to shut their doors for good:

    • Arizona — 1521 S. Yuma Palms Pkwy., Yuma
    • Arkansas — 8407 W. Markham St., Little Rock
    • California — 8703 Murray Drive, La Mesa
    • Colorado — 4925 N. Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs
    • Florida — -326 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach
      • 5110 N. 9th Ave., Pensacola
      • 8909 U.S. Highway 19, Port Richey
    • Georgia — 6550 Tara Blvd., Jonesboro
    • Illinois — 1604 N. State Road 50, Bourbonnais
      • 902 Commons Drive, Geneva
      • 4625 N. Sterling Ave., Peoria
    • Indiana — 4353 Franklin St., Michigan City
    • Minnesota — 8900 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley
      • 12515 Elm Creek Blvd. North, Maple Grove
    • Missouri — 2381 Maplewood Commons Drive, Maplewood
    • New York — 925 Hunts Point Ave., Bronx
      • 750 Upper Glen St., Queensbury
    • North Carolina — 304 A Western Blvd., Jacksonville
    • Ohio —17227 Southpark Center, Strongsville
    • South Carolina — 1270 Knox Abbott Drive, Cayce
    • Virginia –555 S. Van Dorn St., Alexandria
    • 4415 S. Laburnum Ave., Richmond
      • 709 Independence Blvd., Virginia Beach

    What Is the History of Red Lobster?

    Red Lobster was founded in 1968 by entrepreneur Bill Darden in Lakeland, Florida. The restaurant began as a single seafood restaurant aimed at making fresh seafood more accessible to middle-class families. It quickly gained popularity due to its affordable prices and high-quality seafood offerings, leading to rapid expansion.

    In 1970, the company was acquired by General Mills, which helped fuel further expansion across the United States. By the 1980s, Red Lobster had become a well-known national chain with hundreds of locations, offering signature dishes like cheddar bay biscuits, shrimp scampi, and a variety of seafood platters.

    In 1995, General Mills spun off its restaurant holdings, including Red Lobster, to create a new company called Darden Restaurants. Under Darden, Red Lobster continued to grow and remained a cornerstone of the casual dining industry. However, by the 2000s, the brand began experiencing challenges due to changing consumer preferences, economic downturns, and increased competition.

    In 2014, Darden decided to sell Red Lobster to Golden Gate Capital, a private equity firm, for $2.1 billion. The sale was part of a broader strategy to refocus on Darden’s other brands like Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse. Under Golden Gate Capital, Red Lobster went through various management changes and attempts to revitalize the brand, including efforts to modernize its menu and restaurant design.

    In 2020, Red Lobster was sold again, this time to a consortium led by Thai Union, a major seafood supplier, alongside other investors. Despite the ownership changes and rebranding efforts, Red Lobster has continued to face financial challenges in recent years, driven by rising costs, competition, and evolving dining trends.

    Final Word

    When it comes to seafood, Red Lobster has had a footprint in New Orleans for decades — but it’s not the only tuna in town. Check out our New Orleans Seafood Guide.

    Comments Off on Red Lobsters Closing More Locations
  • How to buy a rental property in New Orleans, Louisiana

    How To Buy Rental Property In Louisiana

    7 Min Read

    If you’re thinking about joining the world of landlords, you should know that it can be very profitable and help unlock your financial freedom.

    No matter if you’re thinking about holding onto the property for some years or flipping it, you can make some serious money if you go about it the right way.

    Buy Real Estate Property In Louisiana With These 7 Steps

    In this article, we’re going to show you how to buy rental property so that you can make a profit, no matter what your strategy is. Speaking of that, let’s get right to a few questions you need to ask yourself.

    Quick Navigation:

    Come Up With A Real Estate Strategy

    You need to have a strategy before you buy real estate for investment purposes. If you don’t, you could find yourself over your head. Let’s talk about some profitable real estate strategies you can employ. The most popular ones are the buy-and-hold and flipping strategies.

    Buy and Hold

    The buy-and-hold strategy allows you to own a home for several years and allow it to appreciate over that time. If you have a tenant, you can gain additional income by collecting rent every month.

    Because it is a long-term strategy, the buy-and-hold approach can allow you to make money constantly on your property.

    The downside

    The downside of holding onto the property is that you have to wait a long time to see a profit on your initial investment. Also, you run the risk of the market having a downturn and the property actually losing value, which may put you behind the eight ball when it comes to appreciation.

    Flip That House

    Home-flipping is not a new concept, but when the market experiences a down period, more investors consider this option. The idea behind flipping a home is to buy it in a distressed state or when the market is down and sell it either when the market rebounds and when sufficient improvements are made to the home so as to raise its value.

    The downside

    The downside of home-flipping is that you make find yourself out of a lot of cash upfront in order to fix the property. Sometimes owners never make back their original investment.

    Count Your Expenses

    To decide whether you can make a profit from your rental property, you have to count your expenses. You won’t know just how much money you’ll need to generate until you make a list of things you’ll be paying for on a monthly and yearly basis.

    Try to evaluate the home to see what the expenses could be. Does it need a new roof? Will you be pouring concrete or reshaping the driveway?

    Here is a list of some expenses you may incur:

    • Maintenance
    • Landlord insurance
    • Property taxes
    • Mortgage payment
    • Utilities

    After you’ve made up list, you need to add up the figures and see what your profit is.

    Know Your Return On Investment

    Your return on investment is a mathematical equation that real estate investors use to determine whether buying a property makes financial sense for them.

    While some endeavors have very good returns in the high double-digits, in real estate you can expect anything above 10%. It’s perfectly alright to come in above that figure as well.

    The truth is that your ROI will be tied to the amount of risk your budget is able to withstand. It’s different for every investor.

    How To Know How Much To Charge For Rent

    You might not know what you should charge for rent. A good rule of thumb is that for every $50,000 you should charge $50. So if the home is worth $250,000, you should charge $250 a week. That’s $1,000 a month.

    Once you have an idea on what your ROI is, it’s time to go ahead. Now that you know what kind of money you can make, it’s time to buy the property.

    Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage

    The first real step to owning property is to get pre-approved for financing your mortgage. Mortgage lenders are typically going to want 20% down, especially for a rental property.

    If you want a cheaper down payment, the property has to be owner-occupied. That means if you’re interested in buying a multi-family dwelling (say a duplex, triplex or some apartments) you can qualify for a down payment of around 9% give or take a point.

    Go Property Hunting

    Now comes the fun part: Searching for properties!

    For rental properties, it’s incumbent on you to research the neighborhoods as well as the properties because some areas frown upon rental units.

    For instance, if you see a multi-family property in a neighborhood with $300 homes, you may face some backlash from nearby homeowners who feel strongly that their neighborhood or street shouldn’t have different tenants rotating in and out. That’s extreme, but it does happen.

    Also, when house-hunting, you need to decide whether you’re going to work with a Realtor or go it alone and look for the properties yourself. There are pros and cons to each decision, but just know that your Realtor will charge you a fee due upon the closing of the home.

    Make An Offer

    When you find your rental property, make sure you follow these steps so that there aren’t any problems.

    • Get an appraisal: Make sure what’s listed on the appraisal fits what your eyes can see.
    • Forego any major repairs: Instead of letting the seller fix the home, accept it as-is so you can buy the home for a cheaper price.
    • Negotiate your contract: If there are any must-fixes or must-haves, put it in writing so that it’s contingent on the sale.

    If your appraisal comes in higher than the comparable homes, congratulations: You’ve already got yourself some equity.

    Close On The Property

    The way a home closing typically works is that three people meet to close the deal. Although more people can be there (family, etc.), the essential parties are the seller, buyer and a real estate attorney.

    At closing, the ownership of the home switches hands. This is indicated by signing the documents, including the transferring of money from escrow accounts, title fees and modifying the deed on the house.

    Typically you can close about 30 days out, but you can do it much sooner if both parties agree. Once you’re all at the closing table, the deal should take one and a half to two hours.

    Final Word

    Becoming a landlord can be an important way to financial wealth. If you’re contemplating buying rental property in Louisiana, there’s a strategy that you have to adhere to.

    If you’re thinking about purchasing some rental property in Louisiana, you should know that it’s a great investment to make for your future.

    Renting property is a great way to make additional income. For some, it’s been a get-rich scheme, but oftentimes, it’s not. Go into it with your eyes wide open.

    if you follow the steps, we’ve mentioned, you can purchase a rental home and everything will go smoothly. After you get the keys to your new property, remember to change the locks. But not before you enjoy a nice bottle of champagne at closing.

    More From NolaFi.com:

    2 Comments