Buyer Planning Guide

Home Buying Checklist

Stay organized from your first conversation with a lender through closing day and move-in. Use this checklist to keep the process clear, practical, and manageable.

Your Step-by-Step Checklist

Use each phase as a practical checkpoint. You do not need to complete everything at once, but keeping the sequence in order will help you avoid missed deadlines and unnecessary stress.

Phase 1

Before You Start Looking

  • Determine your comfortable monthly housing budget
  • Review your credit and outstanding debts
  • Estimate your down payment
  • Estimate closing costs and prepaid expenses
  • Maintain an emergency fund after closing
  • Choose your preferred communities
  • List your must-have and nice-to-have features

Phase 2

Financing

  • Compare lenders and loan programs
  • Get pre-approved before touring homes
  • Confirm your comfortable monthly payment
  • Gather income, asset, and identification documents
  • Ask about estimated cash needed to close
  • Avoid major purchases or new credit accounts

Phase 3

Home Search

  • Search available homes within your budget
  • Visit neighborhoods at different times of day
  • Compare commute times and local amenities
  • Tour homes and take organized notes
  • Review property disclosures when available
  • Compare condition, layout, and future maintenance
  • Narrow your strongest options

Phase 4

Making an Offer

  • Review recent comparable sales
  • Decide on your offer price
  • Choose an earnest-money amount
  • Review financing and inspection contingencies
  • Select a preferred closing date
  • Understand seller-paid costs or requested concessions
  • Submit the offer and prepare for negotiation

Phase 5

Under Contract

  • Deliver earnest money by the contract deadline
  • Schedule the home inspection
  • Review inspection findings carefully
  • Negotiate repairs or credits when appropriate
  • Complete the appraisal
  • Submit final lender documents promptly
  • Shop for homeowners insurance
  • Confirm utilities and moving arrangements

Phase 6

Closing Week

  • Review the Closing Disclosure
  • Confirm the final cash-to-close amount
  • Verify wiring instructions independently
  • Complete the final walkthrough
  • Bring required identification
  • Sign closing documents
  • Receive keys and possession details

Phase 7

Move-In

  • Change exterior locks or rekey the home
  • Transfer utilities and internet service
  • Forward mail and update your address
  • Update your driver's license and vehicle records
  • Review local homestead-exemption requirements
  • Create a seasonal maintenance calendar
  • Keep closing and warranty documents in one place

Helpful Buying Resources

Buyer Guide

Buying a Home in Northeast Metro Atlanta

Review the full buying process, from planning and financing through inspections and closing.

Read the Guide →

First-Time Buyer

First-Time Home Buyer Guide

Learn what to expect when purchasing your first home in Georgia.

Read the Guide →

Community Guides

Explore Northeast Metro Atlanta Communities

Compare Dacula, Grayson, Lawrenceville, Lilburn, Snellville, and Tucker.

Browse Communities →

Ready to Start Your Home Search?

Whether you are just getting started or already pre-approved, let's build a plan that fits your budget, timing, and priorities.

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