New Orleans is located in Orleans Parish, Louisiana. Unlike most states, Louisiana does not impose a statewide real estate transfer tax. However, Orleans Parish imposes a flat Documentary Transaction Tax of $325.00 on all documents that transfer real estate, including sales and donations. The tax amount is fixed regardless of the sale price and is collected at the time of recording with the Notarial Archives.
In New Orleans, the Orleans Parish Documentary Transaction Tax is customarily paid by the seller (grantor) at the time of deed recording. Louisiana real estate transactions are typically handled through a notarial act before a notary public. Buyers and sellers should confirm their payment responsibilities with their real estate attorney or notary.
Certain New Orleans real estate transactions may qualify for reduced fees or exemptions from the Documentary Transaction Tax. Transfers with no monetary consideration, transfers to qualifying governmental entities, and certain donations may be treated differently. Consult a Louisiana real estate attorney or notary to determine whether your transaction qualifies for any exemptions or reduced fees.