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First-Time Home Buyer Guide (Georgia)

Presented by The Nestwell Group

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone—but it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect. At The Nestwell Group, we specialize in guiding first-time buyers through every step of the process, explaining things clearly, and helping you make confident, informed decisions.

This guide provides general information only and is not legal or financial advice.

You’re Not Alone—The Nestwell Group Is Here to Help

Almost every first-time buyer has questions—and that’s completely normal. Buying a home involves several moving parts, but you won’t be doing it on your own. When you work with The Nestwell Group, you have a knowledgeable advocate who helps you understand what happens next, coordinates with trusted professionals, and keeps the process moving smoothly.

1. The First-Time Home Buying Process

Here’s how The Nestwell Group helps you from start to finish:

Learn the process

We start with a conversation. The Nestwell Group takes time to explain the buying process, answer your questions, and help you understand what to expect—before you ever look at a home,

Get pre-approved

A lender reviews your finances to determine how much you may qualify for. The Nestwell Group can connect you with trusted lenders and help you choose the right option for your situation.

Start house hunting

We help you identify homes that fit your budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals, and schedule showings that make the most of your time.

Make an offer

When you find the right home, The Nestwell Group helps you prepare a strong, competitive offer while explaining the terms in plain language.

Inspections and appraisal

We coordinate inspections and guide you through the results, helping you understand what’s important and how to negotiate repairs or credits if needed.

Closing day

We walk you through the final steps so you feel prepared and confident when it’s time to sign and receive the keys to your first home.

2. Understanding Your Monthly Payment

Many first-time buyers are surprised to learn that a mortgage payment includes more than just the loan amount. Your payment may include:

Principal and interest
Property taxes
Homeowner’s insurance
Mortgage insurance (if applicable)
HOA dues (if the home is in a community with an association)

The Nestwell Group works closely with your lender to help you understand your full monthly payment and stay within a comfortable budget.

3. Down Payments Explained

for First-Time Buyers

One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need 20% down to buy a home. That’s often not true.

Some loan programs allow as little as 3% down
VA and USDA loans may offer 0% down for qualified buyers
Down payment assistance programs may be available

The Nestwell Group helps you explore these options and connect with lenders who understand first-time buyer programs.

4. What Happens After You Make an Offer?

Once your offer is accepted, The Nestwell Group guides you through the next steps:

Earnest money is submitted to show good faith
Home inspections are scheduled
Inspection results are reviewed and negotiated
The lender orders an appraisal
Final loan approval is issued

We keep you informed and supported so there are no surprises.

5. Brokerage Relationships in Georgia

Georgia law requires real estate professionals to explain how representation works. An agent does not represent you unless a written Buyer Brokerage Agreement is signed.

The Nestwell Group explains these relationships clearly so you understand your options:

Buyer’s Agent – Represents you after a written agreement is signed
Seller’s Agent – Represents the seller only
Dual Agent – Represents both parties with written consent
Transaction Broker – Assists without representing either party

Our goal is transparency and making sure you feel protected and informed.

6. First-Time Buyer FAQs

Do I need perfect credit to buy a home?

Can I buy with little money down?

Should I avoid using my credit during the process?

How long does the process take?

Who pays the buyer’s agent?

7. Common First-Time Buyer Mistakes to Avoid

The Nestwell Group helps you avoid common pitfalls, such as:

Looking at homes before getting pre-approved
Forgetting about closing costs and ongoing expenses
Changing jobs or making major purchases during the loan process
Not understanding agency relationships
Feeling pressured to rush important decisions

Final Thoughts

Buying your first home is a major milestone—and with the right guidance, it can be an exciting and rewarding experience.

The Nestwell Group is committed to helping first-time buyers feel informed, confident, and supported from start to finish.

Schedule a consultation with The Nestwell Group to see if we’re the right fit for your first home journey.

Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Your First Home?

Buying your first home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Our team is here to answer your questions, and walk you through your options!

The data relating to real estate for sale on this web site comes in part from the Broker Reciprocity Program of GAMLS. All real estate listings are marked with the GAMLS Broker Reciprocity thumbnail logo and detailed information about them includes the name of the listing brokers. The broker providing these data believes them to be correct, but advises interested parties to confirm them before relying on them in a purchase decision. Copyright 2023 GAMLS. All rights reserved.