The First-Time Home Buyer Checklist for Metro Atlanta

1. Check your credit

Your credit score drives your interest rate, and your rate drives your payment. Pull your reports, correct any errors, and avoid opening new credit lines while you shop for a home.

2. Save for more than the down payment

Plan for the down payment, closing costs, moving expenses, and a few months of reserves. Down payment assistance can cover part of the gap, but cash on hand still matters.

3. Get pre-approved

A pre-approval tells you your exact number and makes your offer stronger. In a market where well-priced homes still move fast, sellers take pre-approved buyers seriously.

4. Explore down payment assistance

Georgia Dream, Invest Atlanta, and Atlanta Housing can contribute thousands. Check your eligibility before you assume 20% down is required.

5. Define your neighborhood wish list

Commute, schools, walkability, and budget narrow the metro to a handful of communities. Tour them like a local before you tour homes.

6. Tour and compare honestly

Every home is a trade-off. Keep a list, take notes, and compare each house against your must-haves, not against the last house you saw.

7. Make an offer with contingencies

A smart offer includes an inspection contingency, financing contingency, and appraisal protection. We negotiate price and terms together.

8. Complete the inspection

The inspection is where the details live. Attend it, read the report, and separate necessary repairs from negotiating chips.

9. Finalize your loan and appraisal

Your lender orders the appraisal, reviews the title, and clears conditions. Keep your finances quiet during this window: no new credit, no big purchases.

10. Close and get your keys

The closing is paperwork, signatures, and a final walkthrough. Then the keys are yours. Congratulations, you are a homeowner.