10 Step Guide to Buying a Home

Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones — and one of the most rewarding. Whether you’re searching for your first home in Alpharetta or Johns Creek, a family retreat in Milton, or a forever home elsewhere in Georgia, knowing what to expect can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

At New South Residential, we’ve guided Georgia buyers for decades with trusted advice, local expertise, and genuine Southern hospitality. Here’s our step-by-step guide to help you buy confidently and start your next chapter the right way.

1. Get Your Finances Ready

Before you start house hunting, take time to get your finances in shape.

• Check your credit score. This number affects your loan options and interest rate.

• Set a realistic budget. Most experts recommend keeping housing costs under 28% of your gross monthly income.

• Plan your down payment. You don’t need 20% down — there are plenty of Georgia-based programs that can help first-time or repeat buyers.

• Think beyond the mortgage. Don’t forget property taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance costs.

💡 New South Tip: Use a mortgage calculator to estimate monthly payments — and make sure there’s room for life’s little surprises.

2. Get Preapproved for a Mortgage

Once your budget is set, it’s time to talk with a lender. Getting preapproved (not just prequalified) gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you’re serious.

Every lender offers something different, so it’s smart to shop around. Georgia homebuyers can also explore FHA, VA, USDA, and first-time homebuyer programs that offer low down payments and assistance options.

💡 New South Tip: Even a small change in your rate can mean big savings over time. We’re happy to connect you with trusted local lenders we know and recommend.

3. Find a Trusted Local Agent

A great real estate agent makes all the difference — especially one who knows the Georgia market inside and out.

Look for someone who:

• Knows your target area (North Fulton, Forsyth, Cherokee, etc.)

• Communicates clearly and listens closely

• Has proven experience guiding buyers like you

At New South Residential, we’re not just agents — we’re neighbors who understand the heartbeat of each Georgia community.

💡 New South Tip: Meet your local experts — get to know our team.

4. Start House Hunting

Now for the fun part — exploring homes that fit your lifestyle.

Start by deciding what’s most important to you:

• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms

• Commute and access to work or schools

• Nearby shops, parks, and restaurants

• HOA fees and amenities (if applicable)

• Yard size and maintenance level

💡 New South Tip: Spend some time in your top neighborhoods. Visit during the week, talk to locals, and see how it feels at different times of day.

5. Make an Offer

Once you find “the one,” your agent will help you craft a strong, fair offer. That includes your price, an earnest money deposit, and any contingencies (like financing or inspection).

In competitive markets like Alpharetta or Cumming, timing matters. Your agent can guide you on how to stand out while protecting your interests.

💡 New South Tip: Don’t skip contingencies — they’re designed to protect you if something unexpected comes up during inspections or appraisals.

6. Schedule a Home Inspection

A home inspection helps you understand the true condition of the property. Inspectors look at everything from the roof to the foundation, identifying issues you may want repaired before closing.

💡 New South Tip: Join your inspector if you can — you’ll learn a lot about your new home’s systems and maintenance needs.

7. Get a Home Appraisal

Your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home’s value. This ensures you’re paying a fair price and helps finalize your loan.

If the appraisal comes in lower than expected, your agent will help you explore options like renegotiating or bridging the difference.

💡 New South Tip: Georgia’s fast-moving markets can sometimes cause appraisals to lag behind current prices — that’s where having a seasoned local agent truly helps.

8. Finalize Your Financing

Once your appraisal clears, your lender will finalize your loan. Avoid making big financial changes during this stage (like opening new credit cards or financing a car).

Stay in touch with your lender and quickly respond to requests for updated documents to keep your closing on schedule.

💡 New South Tip: Communication between your lender and agent keeps your closing smooth and stress-free.

9. Close the Deal

Closing day is when it all becomes official — and exciting! 🎉

You’ll sign your final documents, pay closing costs, and get your keys. In Georgia, closings typically happen at a title company or attorney’s office, but many can now be done virtually.

💡 New South Tip: Review your Closing Disclosure before the appointment so there are no surprises — and then celebrate, because you’re officially a homeowner!

10. Move In and Make It Home

Welcome home! Before moving in, make sure your utilities are turned on, locks are changed, and smoke detectors are working.

If you plan to paint or renovate, it’s easiest to do it before furniture arrives. Then, take a stroll around your neighborhood — meet your neighbors, find your new go-to coffee shop, and enjoy this exciting new chapter.

💡 New South Tip: Georgia living is all about community. Whether it’s Saturday mornings at the farmers market or afternoons on the porch, take time to settle in and enjoy it.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home in Georgia doesn’t have to be stressful — not when you’ve got the right team on your side.

At New South Residential, we bring decades of local experience, deep Georgia roots, and true Southern service to every client. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or ready to move up, we’re here to guide you home.

👉 Let’s chat — no cost, no pressure. We’ll help you take the first step toward your new home in the New South.