Questions first-time buyers actually ask.

It depends on the loan, the property and your credit, and lending standards have tightened in recent years. Plan for a down payment, closing costs, inspections and a cash reserve. Down payment assistance such as Georgia Dream may help eligible buyers, and a lender can give you real numbers for your situation.

Minimums vary by loan type and lender, and they change over time. A lender can pull your actual numbers and tell you what you qualify for today. Improving your score before applying can open more options and lower your rate.

The right time is when your finances, plans and local prices line up for you, not when the headlines say so. Focus on a monthly payment you can hold comfortably, a stable job, and a home you could stay in for several years. A lender and a local agent can show you current numbers.

Generally someone who has not owned a primary residence in the past three years, though definitions vary by program. Some programs also count single parents, displaced homemakers and others. Always confirm the definition with the specific program you are considering.

An overlooked home is a property many buyers scroll past because it is dated, needs cosmetic or moderate repairs, or has been on the market longer than most. These homes often have solid structure and location, and the work needed is fixable. The key is telling potential from a money pit with a proper inspection and repair estimate.

Yes. Renovation mortgages, such as Fannie Mae HomeStyle, let you roll the purchase price and repair costs into one loan. Funds for the work are typically held and released as repairs are completed. Eligible repairs, limits and requirements vary, so confirm details with a lender experienced in renovation loans.

A renovation loan is a mortgage that covers both the purchase of a home and the cost of repairing or improving it. Some versions are designed for lighter repairs and others for larger or structural work. It requires an approved lender and a detailed repair plan.

They can be, if you budget realistically and use a financing path built for repairs. Fixer-uppers may cost less up front and build equity as you improve them, but surprises happen. A thorough inspection, contractor bids and a contingency cushion are essential.

From accepted offer to closing, most purchases take roughly 30 to 45 days, and renovation loans can take longer because of extra steps like repair bids and appraisals. Getting pre-approved and gathering documents early is the best way to keep the timeline short.

Closing costs typically include lender fees, title and attorney fees, prepaid taxes and insurance, and recording charges. Georgia uses attorneys to close real estate transactions. Your lender provides a Loan Estimate early in the process so you can see an itemized projection.

No, but it can make buying possible sooner. Programs such as Georgia Dream, run by the Georgia Housing and Finance Authority, offer assistance to eligible buyers, with income, price and education requirements. Many programs require a homebuyer education course, which our webinar can help you prepare for.

Start with three things: check your credit, set a monthly payment you are comfortable with, and talk to a lender about pre-approval. Then build your team, including an agent, an inspector and, for repair homes, a contractor. Our free class, The Fixer-Upper Advantage, walks through this order step by step.

Yes. The class is free, there is no obligation to buy or sell, and you do not need to agree to text messages to join. Add your name to the interest list and you will be the first to receive the date and details.

Metro Atlanta first-time home buyers, including teachers, first responders, mechanics, healthcare workers and anyone starting from the beginning. You do not need perfect credit or savings to attend.