How to Buy a House in Georgia
Updated 2026-03-02 | Data from Zillow, HUD, Tax Foundation
Avg Home Price
$338,734
Closing Costs
$16,014
4.73% of price
Property Tax Rate
0.77%
$2,006/yr median
Days on Market
40
Median
FHA Loan Limit
$472,030
Attorney Required
Yes
Foreclosure Type
Non-Judicial
Transfer Tax
0.1%
$1.00 per $1,000
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Key Facts About Buying in Georgia
- ✓Attorney must be present at closing
- ✓Low transfer tax at 0.1%
- ✓Fast-growing Atlanta metro market
- ✓Non-judicial foreclosure state despite attorney closing requirement
The Home Buying Process in Georgia
Buying a home in Georgia follows a 10-step process. As an attorney state, you'll need legal representation at closing.
1
Check Your Credit Score & Finances
2
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
3
Find a Real Estate Agent
4
Search for Homes & Make an Offer
5
Get a Home Inspection
6
Secure Your Financing
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First-Time Buyer Programs in Georgia
Georgia Dream Homeownership Program
Low-interest loans with down payment assistance
Up to $7,500 in down payment assistanceIncome: Up to $85,800 (varies by county)
Cost of Buying a Home in Georgia
| Down Payment (3.5% FHA) | $11,856 |
| Down Payment (20% Conventional) | $67,747 |
| Average Closing Costs | $16,014 |
| Transfer Tax | $339 |
| Annual Property Tax (est.) | $2,608/yr |
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Legal & Regulatory Details in Georgia
Homestead Exemption
Available
Up to $21,500
Licensing Authority
Georgia Real Estate Commission
Georgia Real Estate Law Overview
| Conveyance Document | Warranty, limited-warranty and quitclaim deeds |
| Security Instrument | Security deed (deed to secure debt) |
| Foreclosure Process | Non-Judicial |
| Attorney Required at Closing | Yes |
| Deficiency Judgment | Conditional |
| Redemption After Sale | No |
| Reinstatement Available | Limited |
| Seller Disclosures | Georgia has no mandatory disclosure form, but sellers must reveal known material defects (not easily discoverable by inspection) and must answer questions honestly; events like murders or suicides need not be disclosed. |
