Buying a Home in Atlanta

Atlanta home buyers,

You’ve arrived at the right place to learn more about buying an Atlanta home.  We’re sure you’ve spent a lot of time thinking about saving money, learning about financing, doing the right research, and we’re here to help you find your ideal Atlanta home.

Our site is also an excellent resource for Buying a Home in Atlanta, Selling a Home in Atlanta, Remax Atlanta Agents, and Remax Atlanta Listings.

Here are some tips for preparing to buy your Atlanta home:

Hire a Real Estate Professional.

Professionals can help you find your dream home and set the proper financial expectations. Buyer agents are legally responsible for representing the buyer’s interest in a real estate transaction. Make sure to have a realtor explain using a buyer agent versus a sales or dual agent.

Shop for a Mortgage.

Small differences in points and rates can make an enormous difference in how much you pay over the life of a loan. The difference in payment on a $100,000 mortgage at 8 percent vs. 7.5 percent is about $35 per month. Over 30 years, that’s $12,600.

Pre-qualify for a Loan.

Make sure to get prequalified, so you know how much can afford.  Once you find the right home you can move quickly to secure the home.  It also indicates to the seller that you are serious and really can afford to buy the Atlanta property.

Decide Exactly What You Want.

Make lists of your property requirements and ‘nice to haves’.  Be realistic.  Show this to your real estate agent.  They will appreciate you helping to set expectations.

Visit Properties.

Now visit homes. Make sure to note what things you like.

Pay Attention to Resale Value.

Sometimes, a swimming pool actually detracts from a home’s value and makes it harder to sell.  Pay attention to schools, garage sizes, neighborhoods, etc.

Make Your Offer.

Your real estate agent will help you refine your offer that is commensurate with the value of the home.  They will also make it easier for you to bargain.

Schedule a Thorough Home Inspection.

After your offer is accepted, set up a home inspection. It’s common to find problems, including leaky roofs, cracked walls, insect infestations and foundation problems. Your real estate professional can help find a reputable inspector, and will negotiate to get you the most for your money once the inspector’s report is final. If you negotiate repairs as part of the purchase, ask for a”walk through” before finalizing the paperwork.

Close on the Home.

Make sure all necessary deposits and paperwork  are completed before the close, i.e. mortgage, title, homeowners insurance and any other paperwork required by local or state governments.