Buy a house
How to Buy a Home in Georgia
Buying a home can feel overwhelming — but knowing the process ahead of time makes everything much easier. Here's your simple, step-by-step guide.
From setting a budget to picking up your keys, we'll walk through every stage of buying a home in Georgia — so there are no surprises along the way.
Budget & Financing
Before you start house hunting, get clear on what you can afford and how much a lender will let you borrow.
Determine Your Budget
Your budget should include more than just the purchase price:
- Down payment
- Closing costs
- Property taxes
- Homeowners insurance
- HOA fees (if applicable)
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
A pre-approval tells you how much you can borrow, your estimated monthly payment, and shows sellers you're serious. You'll typically need:
- Government-issued ID
- Recent pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns
- Bank statements & credit history
Your Agent & The Search
In most Georgia home sales, the seller typically pays the buyer's agent commission — so working with a Realtor rarely costs you directly.
Find a Real Estate Agent
A knowledgeable local Realtor can help you:
- Find the right neighborhood
- Schedule showings
- Negotiate the best price
- Handle contracts & paperwork
Start House Hunting
As you compare properties, consider:
- School districts
- Neighborhood safety & commute
- Nearby shopping & restaurants
- HOA restrictions & resale value
Touring & Making an Offer
Pictures only tell part of the story — a careful walkthrough helps you spot problems before you commit.
Tour the Property
Pay close attention to:
- Roof, HVAC & plumbing
- Electrical systems
- Windows, doors & foundation
- Signs of water damage
Submit an Offer
Your offer typically includes purchase price, closing date, contract terms, and earnest money deposit. The seller may accept, reject, or counter — negotiation is normal.
- Purchase price & closing date
- Contract terms
- Earnest money deposit
Inspection, Appraisal & Final Approval
Once your offer is accepted, it's time to verify the home's condition, value, and your financing.
Schedule a Home Inspection
If issues are found, you may be able to:
- Request repairs or seller credits
- Renegotiate the purchase price
- Walk away, per your contingency
Home Appraisal
If the appraised value comes in low, you may need to:
- Renegotiate with the seller
- Increase your down payment
- Cancel, if allowed by your contingency
Final Loan Approval
Before closing, your lender issues a Clear to Close. Until then, avoid:
- Opening new credit accounts
- Financing a vehicle or large purchases
- Changing jobs, if possible
Final Walk-Through
Shortly before closing, confirm:
- Agreed-upon repairs are complete
- The home is in expected condition
- Appliances & fixtures remain in place
The Home Buying Journey
Set Your Budget
Get Pre-Approved
Hire a Realtor
Start House Hunting
Tour Homes
Submit an Offer
Complete the Home Inspection
Home Appraisal
Final Loan Approval
Final Walk-Through
Closing Day
Move Into Your New Home
After You Move In
A few last things to check off once you've closed on your new home.