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If you are buying a home in Georgia, you want the industry leaders in experience assisting you. We can answer your questions and guide you through the process. Most importantly, we will teach you every step of the way and the knowledge will give you power and control to make the best buying decision.

Working with us will give you peace of mind as we anticipate your questions and provide you answers.

The step-by-step process of buying your own home is detailed below...

1. Hire us as your real estate professionals.

The first step is for us to help you find your dream home and fine tune your financial expectations. Working with a buyer's agent is worth consideration since we are legally responsible for representing you as the buyer and protecting your interests in a real estate transaction. We can guide you through every step in the process of buying your home.

2. Shop for mortgage rates and terms.

A difference of even half a percentage point can make a huge difference in how much you pay over the life of a loan. For example, the difference in the monthly payment on a $100,000 mortgage at 8 percent vs. 7.5 percent is about $35 per month. Over 30 years, that's $12,600.

3. Prequalify for a loan.

Your third step should be to get prequalified, which determines how much you can afford. It allows you to move swiftly when you find the right home, especially when there are other interested buyers. It also indicates to the seller that you are serious and really can afford to buy the Atlanta property.

4. Define what you want.

The next step is to create a realistic idea of the property you would like to buy. What features are the most important to you? Make two lists: one of the items you cannot live without, and then one list of the features you would enjoy. Refine the lists as you house hunt. It is also helpful to search online to see what is currently available on the market. I can then show you houses that meet your expectations.

5. Visit properties.

Now you're ready to visit houses. I will arrange showings, and keep track of the properties you've seen.

6. Know the features that help or hurt resale.

In some areas, a swimming pool actually detracts from a home's value and makes it harder to sell. In neighborhoods with two-car, attached garages, a single car or detached garage may impact the home sale and future value. I can point out features that hurt, and most importantly, those that help resale value.

7. Rate the houses you tour.

After touring each Atlanta home, write down what you liked and didn't like. Develop a rating system that will help narrow the field down. For example, pick the house you like best on day one and compare all other houses to it. When you find a better one, use the new favorite as the standard.

8. Make an offer.

Once you have pinpointed your dream house, it is time to get serious about the financial and contractual side of the purchase. Our help will be a strong advantage since you and the seller have different goals.

9. Arrange for a home inspection.

After your offer is accepted, set up a home inspection. It is not unusual to find problems including leaky roofs, cracked walls, insect infestations and foundation problems. As your real estate professionals, we can help find a reputable inspector, and will negotiate to get you the most for your money once the inspector's report is finalized. If you negotiate repairs as part of the purchase, we will ask for a "walk through" before finalizing the paperwork. Ask us about home protection plans, which may save you money in the near future.

10. Close.

Before your closing date, we will make certain you have made all necessary deposits and completed the paperwork - including mortgage, title, homeowners insurance and any other paperwork required by local or state governments.

11. Prepare for life in your new home.

Before rolling out the welcome mat, consider some moving basics: arranging for an alarm company, turning on electricity, water and gas, cleaning or replacing the carpet, custom painting, and notifying your local post office of your new address. The best time for renovations is often before you move in.