Selling a home. Buying a home.

Call or Text Kelly Vandever | 770.597.1108 | REALTOR® | License # 391485

Planning Ahead to Buy Your First House

buying a home in 2026 buying real estate home buying home buying process home buying tips Apr 14, 2026

How much money do you need to buy a house? I find that many first time home buyers are aware that they need a down payment to buy a house. But they aren't familiar with the other expenses of buying a house.

Here's a list that you'll need to plan for when buying a house and about how much it will cost in the state of Georgia:

1. Down Payment

The amount you need as a down payment can vary. There are first time homebuyer programs that allow you to put down as little at 3.5% or 5% of the sales price of the home.

For qualified veterans, the VA has a 0% down program.

Talk to your favorite real estate agent to get a list of their most trusted lenders who can help you find what program(s) you qualify for.

2. Earnest Money

Earnest money* is an amount that you provide when you go under contract when you get an offer accepted to purchase a property. That money will be applied to the down payment, but I like to let clients know that they will need to be able to ...

Current Real Estate Market Data: December 2024

home buying market trends real estate tips selling a home Feb 12, 2025

Data nerd alert... comparing the Peak Buyer's Market, the Peak Seller's Market, and the end of 2024.

Need Help Selling Your Home?

If you’re considering the selling your home in the metro Atlanta area, I’d love to help.