When it comes to finding the right pair of shoes, it’s essential to have the right fit. Charlie Baudoin, a former shoe buyer and manager for the Abdalla family, knows that truth firsthand. Listening to people for their footwear needs – whether they are looking for sneakers or sandals – comes naturally to this savvy salesman. 

"I made thousands of connections in the Lafayette area, from college students to families," he recalls while selling shoes for 20 years. Little did he know that these relationships would later become the bedrock of his real estate success. "I didn’t realize I was building a client base," he candidly comments. 

When the retail market began to soften, Charlie felt it was time for a change. "A client suggested I get into insurance, but I wanted to sell something tangible, not just a piece of paper," he explains. Following his heart and gut, Charlie chose real estate. Now, with 28 years in the business, his career has flourished through networking and referrals from previous clients.

Charlie’s secret to success in real estate at Latter & Blum at Compass is rooted in the relationships he cultivated over the years, even with his previous employer. "The Abdalla family became clients of mine—I either sold them a house or sold their house," he notes. 

It’s not about numbers but people to this passionate real estate professional. "Who cares how much business I’ve done? It’s about the relationships," he emphasizes. 

Charlie’s business has grown steadily, with one satisfied client leading to another. His business boomed, even opening new doors for Charlie that he hadn’t anticipated. 

"I never planned on doing upper-end properties, but it all fell into place," he says with a heart of gratitude. High-end property clients referred him to their friends. "Take good care of one client, and they’ll refer you to others," he advises. His business snowballed because of his heart to serve. For Charlie, it’s all about helping his clients. "I’m in the people business. I just happen to sell houses," he states. 

“Growing up, my parents instilled a good work ethic in me and my siblings,” explains Charlie. “They also said if you are dedicated to your profession and work hard you will become successful.” Charlie took their words to heart.

He also appreciates the Abdalla family, who taught him how to get involved in the community.  “Giving back to your community comes back twofold,” points out Charlie. “Whether it’s civic, religious, or social organizations, it’s important to get involved.  I guess I was ‘social’ before there was social media,” says Charlie with a laugh.

As a seasoned professional, Charlie provides outstanding service and knowledge to his clients. "I take the profession to the highest level of quality and service," he says. Specializing in residential properties, he excels at matching clients to their ideal homes, whether it’s a first home or a high-end luxury estate. "Getting to know my clients’ needs is my passion," he shares. 

By genuinely listening to clients, Charlie discovers exactly what they want. Just as helped countless people with the right fit for their footwear, he listens to families find the right house for their needs. Every home is unique and finding the right match is paramount. 

One client told me, ‘If you want to find a good house, find a good REALTOR® because the good homes never hit the market.’ That’s what happened to him and his wife," he recounts. This client contacted Charlie, who found a property that fit their needs perfectly. They saw it before it was listed, walked through it and said, “We’ll take it. You listened.” Charlie found himself with 3 million dollars’ worth of business in 12 hours. 

His clients also gave him some valuable words of wisdom, “Don’t let anyone tell you that you aren’t worth the money.” They recognized Charlie’s experience and expertise in real estate, telling him, “It took years of experience to make this happen.” From that point on, Charlie became their REALTOR® for life. “Now he refers friends and family to me,” smiles Charlie.  "I’m very fortunate and blessed," he reflects.

Charlie values his close-knit family. He has two daughters, both married, and four grandchildren. "We have a lot of family gatherings, especially at our place on False River and another home in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, which is a 100-year-old cottage we love," he says. Charlie and his family have been involved in Mardi Gras for years, creating cherished memories together.

His wife loves cooking for the family, and every Sunday, they gather for meals. "I love spending time with my wife and family," he shares. Charlie also enjoys traveling with his wife, family, and friends to incredible places like Italy, France, Canada, St. Barts, and Cabo, along with many domestic cities.

"I do what I love and love what I do," Charlie enthuses. His positive attitude and passion for his work benefit his clients immensely. "My goal is to satisfy and help my clients," he says. As a lifelong resident of the area, Charlie knows the market inside and out, and his can-do attitude ensures his clients receive the best service possible.

From shoes to shingles, Charlie Baudoin’s journey in residential real estate speaks volumes about his dedication, relationship-building skills, and unwavering commitment to his clients. He has soared in sales and is a game changer in local real estate. Who would have guessed it would have all started by selling shoes?

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PullQuote:

"I’m in the people business. I just happen to sell houses."