With nearly 25 years of experience in the mortgage business I am here to ensure you feel great about your financial situation and excited about the most significant purchase of your life. You can count on me to be as responsive as my schedule allows. If you are in the midst of making an offer, please do not hesitate to reach out by finding my cell phone number for a quick text. My primary goal is to help you secure your dream home.


When we provide you with a PreApproval letter, it includes a comprehensive loan summary, offering transparency about your interest rate, monthly payment, and cash required to close. Additionally, I personally conduct a 20-minute conversation to identify and address any potential obstacles in our approach.


In the current post-pandemic rate environment, affordability is the primary challenge we face. Allow me to educate you and your family on the latest strategies for being approved for an affordable mortgage payment. Interested in exploring mortgage products beyond the traditional 30-year fixed rate? I can introduce you to innovative options and guide you on their optimal use.


Furthermore, if you are facing low inventory issues, I have an excellent solution – the renovation loan. And, we have more than just the 203k program.


My family and I are proud residents of Uptown New Orleans. In my free time, I enjoy shooting pool, tinkering with guitars, and witnessing the pure wonder of my toddler exploring the beauty of New Orleans.  
*Credit score and down payment requirements higher for 2-4 unit, investment properties and renovation products.*  
*Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved for financing. Receipt of application does not represent an approval for financing or interest rate guarantee. Restrictions may apply.*

VP of Mortgage Lending/ Renovation Specialist

Paul Karas is your New Orleans local lender. As a loan officer at Rate, one of the largest retail mortgage lenders in the United States, Paul is committed to helping homeowners with home purchase loans and refinances, while simplifying the mortgage process and making your home loan experience easy to navigate. Contact Paul at (504) 446-1865 for more information!

Paul Karas at Rate (NMLS #1020753)

As your Legacy Lender at RATE with 25 years' experience my goal is to simplify the mortgage process, make your home loan experience easy to navigate and be available to you from application to closing. I take pride in thoroughly educating my customers throughout the mortgage transaction, so they fully understand their options and feel comfortable with their chosen loan program. Whether you are a first-time home buyer or seasoned owner, you can trust me and my team with all your home financing needs. Please reach out anytime as I am available 7 days a week! Please use the contact information located on this page and use this website as a resource as you start your home financing journey. – Michele

VP of Mortgage Lending

Michele Richard is your New Orleans local lender. As a loan officer at Rate, one of the largest retail mortgage lenders in the United States, Michele is committed to helping homeowners with home purchase loans and refinances, while simplifying the mortgage process and making your home loan experience easy to navigate. Contact Michele at (224) 330-6910 for more information!

Michele Richard at Rate (NMLS #224421)

Rhonda Johnson is your New Orleans local lender. As a loan officer at Rate, one of the largest retail mortgage lenders in the United States, Rhonda is committed to helping homeowners with home purchase loans and refinances, while simplifying the mortgage process and making your home loan experience easy to navigate. Contact Rhonda at (504) 754-5066 for more information!

Rhonda Johnson at Rate (NMLS #2009518)

I have been originating mortgages for 11 years and I love what I do. Whether you are a first time homebuyer, or purchasing an investment property, my goal is to provide the best customer experience from the initial conversation to the closing table.

Gabrielle Wells is your New Orleans local lender. As a loan officer at Rate, one of the largest retail mortgage lenders in the United States, Gabrielle is committed to helping homeowners with home purchase loans and refinances, while simplifying the mortgage process and making your home loan experience easy to navigate. Contact Gabrielle at (504) 699-0783 for more information!

Gabrielle Wells at Rate (NMLS #602068)

New Orleans

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Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved for financing. Receipt of application does not represent an approval for financing or interest rate guarantee. Refinancing your mortgage may increase costs over the term of your loan. Restrictions may apply. 
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4 Loan Officers in New Orleans, LA