Thinking About Buying a Home?
Buying a home is a big decision. Whether you're purchasing your first home, moving into something larger, or simply exploring what's possible, having good information makes the process easier.
Maybe you're ready to buy today. Maybe you're six months or even two years away. That's perfectly fine.
I created this resource to help you understand the homebuying process, explore your options, and answer some of those questions that naturally come up along the way.
You don't have to know everything before getting started. That's what I'm here for.
No pressure. No obligation. Just good information and honest guidance.
Baxter Robinson
HARDY REALTY & DEVELOPMENT COMPANY
Office: 706-291-4321
Cell: 706-252-4255
Just Exploring
Thinking about buying a home someday? Maybe you're curious about what you can afford, how financing works, or what the process involves.
This is a great place to start. No timeline, no pressure. Just an opportunity to learn.
Making Plans
Hoping to buy a home within the next 6 - 12 months?
Now is a great time to explore options, understand the costs of buying, and start identifying what matters most in your next home.
Ready To Buy
Ready to start looking for your next home?
Let's talk about your goals, your budget, and what you're looking for. A little preparation now can make the buying process much smoother.
Homebuying Basics
Do I Need 20% Down to Buy a Home?
The short answer is no!
One of the biggest misconceptions about buying a home is that you must have 20% of the purchase price saved for a down payment.
Depending on your qualifications and the loan program, you may have options such as:
- Conventional loans: Some programs allow down payments as low as 3%.
- FHA loans: Down payments can be as low as 3.5% for eligible borrowers.
- VA loans: Eligible military borrowers may qualify for zero down payment.
- USDA loans: Certain eligible buyers and properties may qualify for zero down payment.
There may also be down payment assistance programs available.
Keep in mind that your down payment isn't necessarily your only expense. Closing costs, inspections, insurance, and other expenses should also be part of your planning. Some loan programs require mortgage insurance or funding fees.
My advice? Don't assume you can't buy a home simply because you haven't saved 20%. A conversation with a knowledgeable lender can help you understand your options.
And if you're not sure where to begin, I'm always happy to help you take that first step.
What Is Mortgage Preapproval, and Why Does It Matter?
Before you begin seriously shopping for a home, one of the smartest things you can do is speak with a mortgage lender about getting preapproved.
What is preapproval?
A mortgage preapproval is a lender's preliminary assessment of how much you may qualify to borrow. The lender typically reviews your income, debts, credit history, and financial documentation.
Why is it important?
- Understand your budget: Learn what you may qualify to borrow and decide what monthly payment you're comfortable with.
- Shop with confidence: Focus on homes that fit your financial situation.
- Strengthen your offer: Sellers often feel more comfortable considering an offer from a buyer who has already spoken with a lender.
- Identify potential obstacles: Discover credit, income, or documentation issues before you're under contract.
Here's something important: Just because a lender approves you for a certain amount doesn't mean you should spend that much.
Your comfortable monthly payment matters more than your maximum borrowing power.
Preapproval is not a guarantee of final loan approval. Loan terms and eligibility can change during underwriting.
My advice? Have a conversation with a lender early in the process. Even if you're months away from purchasing, knowing where you stand can help you make a better plan.
And if you don't know a lender, I'm happy to introduce you to someone who can answer your questions.
What Does It Really Cost to Buy a Home?
One of the biggest surprises for first-time buyers is discovering that the down payment isn't the only expense involved in purchasing a home.
The good news? Once you understand the costs, you can plan for them.
Here are some expenses to consider:
- Down payment: The amount you contribute toward the purchase price. Depending on your loan program, this could range from 0% to 20% or more.
- Closing costs: These may include lender fees, appraisal fees, title-related expenses, attorney fees, and other charges. A common planning estimate is approximately 2%–5% of the purchase price, although actual costs vary.
- Home inspection: An inspection helps you better understand the property's condition before purchasing. Costs vary depending on the home's size, age, and inspection services requested.
- Earnest money: A deposit demonstrating your commitment to the purchase. It is generally credited toward the amount you owe at closing, subject to the contract.
- Prepaid expenses: You may need funds for homeowners insurance, property taxes, and initial escrow deposits.
- Moving expenses: Don't forget the cost of moving, utility connections, and those unexpected purchases that come with a new home.
Here's something many buyers don't realize:
You may be able to negotiate seller contributions toward certain closing costs. Some buyers may also qualify for down payment or closing cost assistance programs.
These options depend on your financing, eligibility, and the terms of the transaction.
My advice?
Don't focus exclusively on the purchase price or down payment. Understanding your total upfront expenses and comfortable monthly payment will help you make a more confident decision.
And remember, you don't have to figure everything out by yourself. That's why I'm here.
The Five Steps to Buying a Home
Buying a home may seem complicated, especially if you've never done it before. But when you break the process into manageable steps, it becomes much easier to understand.
Step 1 — Get Your Finances in Order
Start by reviewing your budget, savings, credit, and monthly expenses. Speak with a lender about financing options and preapproval.
Step 2 — Find the Right Realtor
Choose someone who understands your goals, listens to your concerns, and can guide you through the process. In Georgia, your Realtor can also explain the buyer brokerage agreement and how representation and compensation work.
Step 3 — Start Your Home Search
Identify your priorities, explore neighborhoods, and visit properties. Remember, finding the right home is about more than bedrooms, bathrooms, and square footage.
Step 4 — Make an Offer and Complete Due Diligence
Once you find a home, your Realtor can help you prepare an offer and negotiate the terms. If your offer is accepted, you'll work through inspections, financing, appraisal, and other contractual requirements.
Step 5 — Closing Day!
You'll review and sign your closing documents, complete the financial requirements, and, once the transaction is finalized and possession is due under the contract, receive the keys to your new home.
One final thought:
Every home purchase is a little different. There may be unexpected challenges or decisions along the way.
That's why having someone in your corner who understands the process can make such a difference.
My goal isn't simply to help you purchase a house. It's to help you make a decision you'll feel good about long after moving day.
Your 6–12 Month Homebuying Plan
Your Homebuying Preparation Checklist
6–12 Months Before Buying
☐ Review your credit report and address any errors.
☐ Look at your monthly income, expenses, and existing debts.
☐ Determine a comfortable monthly housing payment, including taxes and insurance.
☐ Begin saving for your down payment, closing costs, inspections, and moving expenses.
3–6 Months Before Buying
☐ Speak with a mortgage lender about available financing programs.
☐ Explore down payment assistance programs for which you may qualify.
☐ Identify your preferred neighborhoods, home features, and priorities.
☐ Talk with a Realtor about your goals and anticipated timeline.
1–3 Months Before Buying
☐ Discuss mortgage preapproval with your lender and when to apply.
☐ Avoid major purchases or new debt without first discussing them with your lender.
☐ Begin reviewing available homes and current market conditions.
☐ Develop a plan for touring properties and making an offer.
A Little Guidance Goes a Long Way
You don't have to complete everything on this checklist before reaching out.
In fact, some of the most productive conversations happen months before someone is ready to purchase.
Whether you're six months away or simply trying to figure out where to begin, I'm happy to help you develop a plan that fits your situation.
No pressure. Just a conversation about your goals.
