Closing Costs in Georgia
The average closing cost in Georgia is $16,014, which is 4.73% of the home price. Georgia's transfer tax rate is $1.00 per $1,000.
Georgia's closing costs are moderate, with the state's transfer tax set at $1.00 per $1,000 of property value (0.1%). This is one of the lower transfer tax rates in the country. Intangible recording tax on the mortgage is an additional $1.50 per $500 of the financed amount, which adds a notable expense that buyers in non-intangible-tax states don't face. Georgia does not require an attorney at closing, though using one is recommended and common practice.
By BuyAHomeIn Editorial | Updated 2026-03-02 | Sources: Zillow, HUD, Tax Foundation
Avg Closing Costs
$16,014
As % of Price
4.73%
Transfer Tax
0.1%
Attorney Required
Yes
Closing Cost Breakdown for a $338,734 Home
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Loan Origination Fee (1%) | $2,710 |
| Appraisal Fee | $500 |
| Credit Report | $50 |
| Title Search & Insurance | $1,694 |
| Transfer Tax | $339 |
| Recording Fees | $150 |
| Home Inspection | $400 |
| Survey | $350 |
| Attorney Fee (required) | $1,200 |
| Prepaid Property Tax (2 months) | $435 |
| Prepaid Homeowners Insurance (1 year) | $1,016 |
| Prepaid Interest (15 days) | $724 |
| Estimated Total | $9,568 |
* Estimates based on average Georgia home price of $338,734 with 20% down payment. Actual costs may vary. Transfer tax, attorney fees, and prepaid items are state-specific.
How to Reduce Closing Costs in Georgia
Budget for Georgia's Intangible Recording Tax
Georgia charges an intangible recording tax of $1.50 per $500 (0.3%) on the mortgage amount. On a $400,000 loan, that's $1,200 — a cost unique to Georgia that many online closing cost calculators miss.
Apply for Georgia Dream Homeownership Program
Georgia Dream offers down payment assistance up to $10,000 ($12,500 in targeted areas) for qualifying buyers. The program works with FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans and includes free homebuyer education.
Get Termite and Moisture Inspections
Georgia's humid climate makes termite damage and moisture intrusion serious concerns. VA loans require a termite inspection, but all buyers should get one. A wood-destroying organism report costs $75-150 and can reveal thousands in hidden damage.
Consider Areas Just Outside Atlanta's Perimeter
Homes inside the I-285 Perimeter are significantly more expensive than comparable properties in Gwinnett, Cobb, or Cherokee County. Moving just 10-15 miles from the city center can save $100,000+ on the purchase price while maintaining metro Atlanta amenities.
Legal Context for Georgia Closings
Conveyance Document
Warranty, limited-warranty and quitclaim deeds
Security Instrument
Security deed (deed to secure debt)
Foreclosure Process
Non-Judicial
Attorney Required
Yes
Georgia uses warranty, limited-warranty and quitclaim deeds for property transfers and security deed (deed to secure debt) as the security instrument. An attorney is required at closing, which adds to your closing costs.
