How Much Do You Really Need to Buy a Home in Georgia?A clear guide to down payments, closing costs, and what you should plan for.

Buying a home can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to understand how much money you actually need upfront. The truth is, the numbers are often more flexible than people think — and you have options.

Here’s a simple breakdown to help you start your 2026 homebuying plan with confidence.(And if you’d like a personalized estimate, I’m just a message away.)

1. Down Payment: You Don’t Need 20%

This is one of the biggest myths in real estate. You have several loan options:

FHA Loan — 3.5% Down

A great option for first-time buyers or anyone who wants a lower upfront cost.

Conventional Loan — As Low As 3% Down

This works well for buyers with good credit who want a long-term loan strategy.

VA Loan — 0% Down

Available for eligible veterans and active-duty service members.

Down Payment Assistance Programs

Georgia has programs that help cover part of your down payment, depending on income and eligibility.

Most buyers in Georgia put 3% to 5% down, not 20%.

2. Closing Costs: 2% to 5% of the Purchase Price

In addition to the down payment, you’ll need to prepare for closing costs, which include:

• lender fees• appraisal• credit report• title fees• escrow/insurance setup• prepaid interest

For example, on a $350,000 home, closing costs might range from $7,000 to $15,000, depending on your loan type and lender.

As a loan officer, I break down these numbers clearly so you’re never surprised at the closing table.

3. Upfront Costs You Pay Before Closing

Inspection — $500 to $900 (estimated)

A home inspection is optional but HIGHLY recommended.

Appraisal — usually $550+

This is ordered by the lender and is part of the loan process.Most of the time, this fee is paid upfront.

4. What About Cash to Close?

Your cash to close includes:

• your down payment• your closing costs• minus any seller credits or lender credits

Many buyers are surprised at how affordable this becomes once all credits and assistance programs are applied.

5. Want a Personalized Estimate?

Every buyer’s numbers look a little different based on:

• loan program• credit• debt-to-income ratio• purchase price• location (Kennesaw, Marietta, Acworth, etc.)

I can help you create a simple, stress-free breakdown so you know exactly what to expect before you start shopping for homes.

In Spanish | En Español

(You can paste this as a bilingual section or as a separate blog post later — Google loves bilingual content.)

¿Cuánto dinero necesito realmente para comprar casa en Georgia?

Comprar casa puede sentirse complicado, especialmente cuando no sabes cuánto dinero necesitas de entrada. La buena noticia es que las cantidades son mucho más flexibles de lo que la mayoría piensa.

Enganche (Down Payment)

No necesitas 20%.• FHA: 3.5%• Convencional: 3%• VA: 0%• Programas de asistencia en Georgia disponibles

Costos de cierre

Generalmente entre 2% y 5% del precio de la casa.

Inspección & Avalúo

• Inspección: $500–900• Avalúo: pagado por adelantado

Si quieres una estimación personalizada, te la puedo preparar sin compromiso.

Ready to start your 2026 homebuying plan?I’m here to guide you every step of the way — both as a Realtor® and a mortgage loan officer.Message me anytime to get a personalized estimate or start your pre-approval plan.