How to Turn Your House Into a Long-Term Rental in New Orleans (2025 Guide)

As New Orleans continues to grow and evolve in 2025, more homeowners see the value in turning their properties into long-term rentals. With a stable rental market driven by local universities, remote workers, healthcare professionals, and culture seekers, now is a great time to tap into the city's demand for housing and generate passive income.

Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, or simply looking to invest in your financial future, this guide will walk you through how to turn your New Orleans home into a successful long-term rental this year.

1. Understand 2025 Rental Laws and Guidelines

The City of New Orleans has seen changes in rental regulations over the past few years, especially regarding short-term rentals. However, long-term rentals (30+ days) remain a viable and less regulated option for homeowners.

In 2025, make sure to:

• Check your property’s zoning designation

• Ensure your property complies with building codes and safety requirements

• Verify if a Residential Rental Permit is needed for your area

• Stay updated on any changes via the City of New Orleans One Stop App

🛑 Pro tip: Some neighborhoods, especially in historic districts, have unique rules or preservation guidelines. Always double-check before proceeding.

2. Get Your Home “Rent-Ready” for 2025 Renters

Today’s tenants are looking for clean, safe, functional—and increasingly, tech-friendly—spaces. Preparing your home is essential to attract high-quality, long-term tenants.

Here's what to prioritize in 2025:

• Modern Safety: Smoke/carbon monoxide detectors, updated electrical systems, and secure locks

• Smart Upgrades: Consider adding smart thermostats, digital locks, or energy-efficient lighting

• Curb Appeal: Tidy landscaping and a fresh coat of paint go a long way

• Maintenance-Free Living: Fix leaks, squeaky doors, and any deferred repairs

🌿 Sustainability Tip: Eco-conscious renters are on the rise in 2025. Low-flow toilets, energy-efficient appliances, and composting options are small touches that stand out.

3. Determine the Right Rent Price

Rental prices in New Orleans have remained relatively stable but vary by neighborhood. Whether your property is in Uptown, the Marigny, Lakeview, or Algiers Point, it's critical to research comparable listings.

To price your rental effectively:

• Review current listings on Zillow, RentCafe, and Apartments.com

• Consider square footage, amenities, walkability, and proximity to public transit

• Factor in inflation and rising utility costs

• Use rent estimate tools or work with a local property manager for a detailed market analysis

💡 New in 2025: Some landlords are bundling internet and smart security in rent prices as added value.

4. Decide How You’ll Manage the Property

Managing a rental property in New Orleans—especially with humidity, storms, and local quirks—requires time and energy.

You have two options:

• Self-Manage: Ideal if you’re local and handy. You’ll handle leasing, maintenance, rent collection, and legal compliance.

• Hire a Property Manager: Professional companies charge around 8–12% of monthly rent but take care of marketing, tenant screening, repairs, and legal paperwork.

📲 Many 2025 property managers now offer digital portals for rent collection and maintenance requests, making life easier for both landlords and tenants.

5. Screen Tenants Carefully and Legally

Finding the right tenant is everything. A thorough screening process will help you avoid late payments, property damage, and future headaches.

Make sure to:

• Conduct background, credit, and eviction checks

• Verify employment and income (aim for 3x monthly rent)

• Require references from past landlords

• Use a solid lease agreement that complies with Louisiana law

🔍 Important: Be mindful of Fair Housing laws. In 2025, tenant rights are more protected than ever, so transparency and consistency are key.

6. Protect Yourself With the Right Insurance

Regular homeowners insurance won’t cut it once you rent out your property. You’ll need landlord insuran,ce which typically includes:

• Property damage coverage

• Liability protection

• Loss of rental income (due to disaster or necessary repairs)

Additionally, you may want to:

• Require tenants to carry renters’ insurance

• Consider umbrella liability insurance for added protection

🌪️ Note for New Orleans: Make sure your policy includes flood and hurricane coverage. The 2024 season reminded us how important that is.

7. Stay Compliant and Keep Good Records

Once your home is rented, stay organized and legally compliant by:

• Keeping detailed records of all income and expenses

• Responding promptly to maintenance requests

• Conducting periodic inspections (with notice)

• Following all notice requirements for lease renewals or rent increases

💼 Consider using property management software like Buildium, Avail, or RentRedi to streamline everything in 2025.

Final Thoughts: Renting in the Crescent City

Turning your New Orleans home into a long-term rental in 2025 is a smart way to build wealth, diversify income, and keep a foot in one of the most unique real estate markets in the U.S. With the right prep and a little local insight, you can attract great tenants and enjoy a reliable return.

Thinking about renting out your property this year? Let’s connect—I’d love to help you evaluate your options and guide you through the process.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or real estate advice. Always consult with a licensed professional familiar with New Orleans and Louisiana laws before making real estate decisions.