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So you want to buy a home. If the home inspection uncovers any issues, you can use this information to negotiate with the seller. You may ask them to make repairs before closing or to lower the price of the home to account for the cost of repairs.
In this article, we’ll cover what you need to know about getting a home inspection and why it’s important.
- How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?
- How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?
- Why Is a Home Inspection So Important?
- Top Home Inspectors In Atlanta
How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?
The cost of a home inspection can vary depending on several factors, including the size and location of the home, as well as the complexity of the inspection. On average, a home inspection may cost between $300 and $500 for a typical single-family home. However, prices can range higher or lower based on these factors.
It’s important to note that while cost is a consideration, the quality and thoroughness of the inspection are also crucial. It’s generally recommended to hire a qualified and experienced home inspector who will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the property, even if it means paying a slightly higher fee.
When budgeting for a home inspection, it’s also important to consider the potential savings or negotiation leverage that a thorough inspection can provide. Uncovering major issues with the property can allow you to negotiate repairs or a lower purchase price with the seller, potentially saving you money in the long run.
How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?
The amount of time a home inspection takes depend on several factors, including the size and condition of the home, as well as the thoroughness of the inspection. On average, a typical home inspection for a single-family home can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to complete.
However, larger or more complex homes may require more time to inspect thoroughly, while smaller or simpler homes may take less time. Additionally, if the inspector identifies significant issues during the inspection, they may need additional time to assess the severity of the problems or to gather more information.
Why Is a Home Inspection So Important?
Getting a home inspection before buying a home is important for several reasons:
Identifying Potential Problems
A home inspection can uncover any issues with the property that may not be visible to the naked eye. This can include structural problems, safety hazards, or issues with the electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems.
The inspector should assess the insulation levels and ventilation in the attic and crawl spaces to ensure energy efficiency and prevent moisture problems.
A good home inspector will also look for any safety hazards, such as exposed wiring, trip hazards, or other issues that could pose a risk to occupants.
Finding Out the True Condition of the Property
A home inspection provides a detailed report on the condition of the property, giving you a clear understanding of what you’re buying and any repairs or maintenance that may be needed.
Budgeting for Future Maintenance
Even if the home is in good condition, the inspection report can help you plan for future maintenance and repairs, allowing you to budget accordingly.
Top Home Inspectors In Atlanta
Although this is a partial list, we’ve really heard great things about these Atlanta home inspectors.
- US Inspect
- Atlanta Home Inspector
- Castle Home Inspections
- Discovery Inspections
- Inspect-All Services
Final Word
It’s important to choose a qualified and experienced home inspector who will take the time needed to conduct a thorough evaluation of the property.
Overall, a home inspection is an important part of the home buying process that can help you make a more informed decision and avoid potential issues down the road.
Atlanta has one of the best real estate markets in the country, with affordable housing in every quadrant of the city. Large backyards, manicured parcels and strong neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants.
Not to mention that the city’s dining scene is the best in the Southeast. Looking for a home? Check out our Real Estate Resource Page.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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Rent prices are creeping up in Atlanta and across Georgia and it’s the usual culprits, demand and lack of inventory. If you’re looking to rent an apartment, you’ll almost certainly face sticker shock.
Since COVID-19 first raised its ugly head in February 2020, the average selling price of a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house in Georgia has jumped 56%, reflecting a huge demand coupled with a serious supply shortage.
What Is The Average Rent In Atlanta?
The average rent in Atlanta is $1,521 a month, according to a 2024 analysis from ApartmentList.com. The city has been one of the most expensive metropolitan areas for people looking for apartments in recent years.
Why Are Rent Prices So High?
Rent prices have skyrocketed of late because of simple supply-and-demand economics that touch on two main issues affecting Georgia and much of the nation:
- Rental Unit Shortage: There are not as many housing units to meet population demand in the Atlanta area. The same is true for much of the United States.
- Housing Shortage: Because people can’t find homes to rent, that has led to a supply issue with rental units as well. Both markets are seeing premium pricing as a result.
Here are the average prices for a studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment in Atlanta. For average apartment sizes, we used analysis from RentCafe.com.
Apartments Average Size Average Monthly Rent Studio 500-600 square feet $1,629 One-Bedroom 786 square feet $1,862 Two-Bedroom 1,125 square feet $2,431 Three-Bedroom 1,200 square feet and up $2,882 How To Lower Your Rental Costs
Saving on apartment rent can make a big difference in your overall budget. Here are some strategies to help you reduce rental costs or get more value out of your apartment:
1. Negotiate the Rent
- Timing is key: Landlords are often more open to negotiation at the end of a lease term or during the off-season (typically winter months, when fewer people are moving).
- Use market comparisons: Research similar apartments in your area. If you find similar places at a lower rent, use that as leverage when negotiating.
- Offer to sign a longer lease: If you’re willing to commit for a longer period, like 18 months or 2 years, landlords may offer a lower rate in exchange for stability.
2. Look for Apartments in Less Expensive Neighborhoods
- Expand your search area: Often, renting in up-and-coming or less trendy neighborhoods can save you hundreds of dollars each month while still offering good amenities.
- Consider proximity to transit: Apartments a few blocks from major transit lines or bus routes can be more affordable, but still offer great access to the city center.
3. Look for Rent Specials or Promotions
- Move-in incentives: Many landlords offer promotional discounts, such as one month free or a reduced rent for the first few months. These promotions can save you a significant amount over time.
- Seasonal deals: Rent prices may drop during slower times of the year (e.g., winter months), so you may get a better deal during these periods.
4. Consider a Roommate
- Split the rent: If you’re open to sharing, getting a roommate or two can dramatically lower your rent. In many cases, you can rent a two-bedroom or three-bedroom place for much less than the cost of a single unit.
- Negotiate together: If you’re moving in with a roommate, you can negotiate as a group for a better rate, especially if you’re willing to sign a longer-term lease.
5. Downsize or Adjust Your Space Requirements
- Opt for a smaller unit: Consider moving into a smaller apartment or a studio. If you don’t need extra space, downsizing can save you money.
- Adjust the amenities: If you’re currently in a luxury building with lots of amenities you don’t use, consider moving to a simpler building that doesn’t charge for features you don’t need.
Final Word
The average rent price in Atlanta tops more than $2,000, but that figure depends on several factors like unit type, which side of town it’s on and the affordable alternative housing options in the area.
Rent prices will also depend on which kinds of amenities — like nice pools — are offered.
Here’s how to find an apartment to rent.
AtlantaFi Articles:
- Most Expensive Homes in Atlanta Right Now
- All The Wonderful Things To Do In Midtown Atlanta
- How To Rent An Apartment In Atlanta
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It’s no simple thing to sell or buy a home in Atlanta. When the time comes to list on the market, you’re going to want the best real estate company you can get.
With a so many hot properties in Atlanta, the city has some of the best real estate companies in the Southeast.
How To Pick A Real Estate Company
Before deciding on a real estate company, you should familiarize yourself with some insights into the brokerage:
- What are the commission rates?
- What is the brokerage’s reputation?
- How much and how many fees?
Once you’ve found the answers to those questions, it’s time to pick a real estate company.
Top real estate companies like Keller Williams and RE/MAX have extensive networks, with offices in almost every major city across the U.S. This allows them to serve a broad market and reach more clients. RE/MAX, for example, has a franchise model with over 130,000 agents globally, providing both clients and agents with widespread local knowledge combined with national support
Here Are The Best Real Estate Companies In Atlanta
Keller Williams Realty
Keller Williams is the largest real estate company in the world and as you would expect, it has a strong presence in metro Atlanta, including in upscale and middle class neighborhoods.
Leading real estate companies invest heavily in technology to provide better service and convenience to both agents and clients. Keller Williams, for example, has its own AI-powered CRM system, Command, which helps agents manage leads, transactions, and marketing. This tech-forward approach allows agents to work more efficiently and meet clients’ needs quickly, enhancing overall client satisfaction
Learn more Keller Williams Realty.
RE/MAX
RE/MAX is another large real estate franchise well represented in the Atlanta area. The brokerage boasts that its agents make the most sales in the industry, so they must be doing something right!
RE/MAX also invests in comprehensive marketing strategies, from digital advertising to polished property listings with high-quality photos and videos. Compass, in particular, is known for its visually appealing branding and cutting-edge marketing technology, which helps it appeal to luxury buyers and sellers
Learn more from RE/MAX.
Coldwell Banker
Coldwell Banker has some of the most diverse agents in the industry and has been operating in Atlanta for over 20 years with several offices throughout the city.
Coldwell Banker, founded in 1906, is one of the oldest real estate companies in the U.S., which helps instill trust among clients. Their long-standing presence also signals stability and reliability in an industry where brand recognition is essential for client confidence.
Coldwell Banker’s “A Buyer’s Choice” program and other tailored services show a focus on meeting individual needs. This approach leads to client loyalty and positive word-of-mouth referrals, which are invaluable in real estate.
Learn more Coldwell Banker
Harry Norman Realtors
Harry Norman is a locally-owned real estate company that rates well among customers and clients. The brokerage has been serving the Atlanta area since 1930. Learn more from Harry Norman Realtors.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is another example; its association with Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway gives it a sense of credibility and financial backing that appeals to high-end clients looking for stability
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has several offices in the Atlanta area and is known for their high-end luxury real estate services. If you’ve got a higher-priced home, you should give Berkshire Hathaway a chance to sell it.
Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
Listing some of the most expensive mansions in Atlanta, Sotheby’s is locally-owned real estate company specializes in luxury homes and has several offices throughout Atlanta.
Century 21
Century 21 is a national real estate franchise with several offices in the Atlanta area.
A number of areas of the city experienced phenomenal growth in prices, attributed largely to the Beltline. Below is a sample of real estate price prices around Atlanta. Learn more Century 21.
Final Word
Selling a home in Atlanta can be a tremendously stressful thing: So much to worry about! That’s why it pays to work with a great real estate company.
No matter if you’re looking at a pricey neighborhood, or a gentrifying area, real estate firms perform very necessary roles.
It is important to note that while these companies are among the most well-known, there may be other local real estate companies in Atlanta that are just as good or better. It is recommended to do thorough research and compare different options to find the best fit for your specific real estate needs.
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The luxury home market in Metro Atlanta has experienced significant growth, with sales of homes priced between $1 million and $2.5 million rising by 32%.
Available listings in this price range have also surged by more than 35%, reflecting strong demand for high-end properties.
The 2024 data comes from real estate firm Harry Norman, which says, “Properties priced at $2.5 million and above also saw a rise in sales, reflecting strong and steady demand for premium real estate. The city continues to attract luxury buyers from across the nation and globe, drawn to its vibrant lifestyle, thriving economy, and unique blend of Southern charm and modern amenities.”
Are you in the market for an expensive home? If so, there a few things you should know.
4 Things To Do Before You Buy a Mansion in Atlanta
Buying a mansion in Atlanta involves a few key steps. Here’s a guide to help you through the process:
1. Determine Your Budget
Mansions in Atlanta can range significantly in price, starting around $1 million and reaching up to $10 million or more, depending on location, size, and features.
Make sure to factor in additional costs like property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintenance.
How much house can you really afford?
2. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
If you’re not paying cash, securing a mortgage pre-approval is essential. This shows sellers that you’re serious and gives you a clear idea of what you can afford.
Luxury homes may require jumbo loans, which often have different requirements than standard mortgages. Your lender will guide you on this.
Read up on how to get pre-approved for a mortgage.
3. Hire a Real Estate Agent Specializing in Luxury Homes
Find a real estate agent with experience in the luxury market. They’ll have access to high-end listings and private sales not always listed publicly.
Agents specializing in mansions can help navigate the complexities of luxury home purchases, including negotiations and closing deals.
4. Research Atlanta’s Luxury Neighborhoods
- Buckhead: One of the most prestigious areas in Atlanta, known for its large estates and proximity to upscale shopping and dining.
- Tuxedo Park: Known for historic mansions and newer luxury homes, with large properties and exclusive living.
- Ansley Park: A historic district close to downtown, featuring luxury homes and beautiful parks.
- Sandy Springs and Brookhaven: Offer sprawling estates and gated communities.
- Druid Hills: Known for its classic architecture and proximity to Emory University.
Final Word
Once you find a mansion you like, your agent will help you submit an offer. Negotiating for a luxury home can be more complex due to high price points, so having a good agent is crucial.
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Former Atlanta Hawks legend and NBA hall of famer Dominique Wilkins has signed on as an investor and partner with Roots, the only real estate fund that creates wealth for both investors and renters.
What Is the Roots Real Estate Fund?
Roots is bridging the city’s wealth gap by giving its Atlanta-based renters the opportunity to get invested in the fund for paying their rent on time and taking care of the property. They also have given Atlantans free rent.
By aligning the interests of everyone involved, Roots is providing significant returns to both its residents and investors alike. Since launching in 2021, Roots has raised over $33 million in investment capital from over 6,000 investors nationally.
“Roots is providing the opportunity for anyone to invest in real estate,” said Wilkins. “I love Atlanta, and as long as the wealth gap keeps widening, generations of people are getting left behind. We can change that at Roots, and I feel like this might be the best team I’ve ever played on.”
Wilkins will share his likeness in videos and at curated gatherings to introduce his spheres of influence to Roots and its one-of-a-kind “Live in it Like You Own it®” proprietary program.
Roots has changed the rental landscape by incenting its residents to take care of their properties and pay rent on time in exchange for earning rental rebates. Residents are invited to invest their initial deposit and quarterly rebates in the Roots REIT thereby investing in the properties they live in.
By following the program, renters are growing their wealth by an average of $3,600 in just two years and up to $10,000 in five years.
“Dominique is exactly the person we wanted to join us on this mission. He’s an Atlanta legend and cares deeply about this city and its people. I grew up watching Dominique lead the Hawks to victory and his endorsement means that we can reach more people both on and off the court,” said co-founder and CEO Daniel Dorfman.
Atlanta has one of the best real estate markets in the country, with affordable housing in every quadrant of the city. Large backyards, manicured parcels and strong neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants.
Not to mention that the city’s dining scene is the best in the Southeast. Looking for a home? Check out our Real Estate Resource Page.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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The Atlanta housing market is perennially one of the hottest in the nation and this year is no exception. It’s also very expensive compared to the rest of the Southeast.
As you may know from our Atlanta housing market forecast, this year homeowners may face increased home prices, mirroring a national trend. Average home values in the metro Atlanta area are expected to rise by as much as 6%. However, not all locations will experience this trend; depending on the neighborhood, town, village, and subdivision, some homes may see price drops.
Despite this, there are signs of concern in the U.S. housing market, as noted by Realtor.com:
- The number of homes actively for sale has decreased by 2% compared to last year.
- Unsold homes have decreased by 3.7% compared to last year.
- The median price of homes for sale in October 2023 remained stable compared to the same time last year.
- Homes spent an average of 50 days on the market, which is one day shorter than last year and more than two weeks shorter than before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why Is the Atlanta Housing Market So High?
There are several reasons why the Atlanta housing market is expensive. Let’s explore a few reasons why:
Low Inventory, High Housing Demand
High demand for housing, driven by factors such as population growth, job opportunities, and low mortgage rates, can lead to higher prices, especially in areas with limited housing supply.
In many parts of the country, there is a shortage of homes for sale, which can drive up prices as buyers compete for available properties.
There’s also the issue of land cost. The cost of land for new construction can be high, particularly in urban areas where space is limited, leading to higher home prices.
Construction Costs
The cost of building materials, labor, and regulatory requirements can make new construction expensive, which can contribute to higher home prices.
Government policies, such as zoning laws and building regulations, can restrict the supply of housing and drive up prices.
Low Interest Rates
When interest rates are low, it can make borrowing for a home more affordable, which can increase demand and lead to higher prices.
Economic factors, such as strong job markets and wage growth, can increase demand for housing and contribute to higher prices.
So what does a prospective homeowner do, knowing that the housing market has basically priced them out? You try to save money.
How To Save Up For a Home
Saving up money for a house requires careful planning and discipline. Here are some steps you can take to save up for your future home:
Set a Savings Goal: Determine how much money you need to save for a down payment and other homebuying costs. This will give you a target to work towards.
- Create a Budget: Review your income and expenses to identify areas where you can cut back and save more money. Allocate a portion of your income specifically for your house savings goal.
Read our guide on how to save up for a home.
Final Word
Real estate is often seen as a safe investment, leading to increased demand from investors, which can drive up prices.
Overall, a combination of factors, including supply and demand dynamics, construction costs, government policies, and economic factors, can contribute to the high cost of housing in the U.S.
Not to mention that the city’s dining scene is the best in the Southeast. Looking for a home? Check out our Real Estate Resource Page.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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David Weekley Homes is set to open its first home community in 2024 with Cherokee County’s Havencroft.
Situated within five miles of downtown Woodstock, the 69 homes offer homebuyers a chance at suburban life and all of its amenities.
So prospective residents can take a look at the new single-family home community, David Weekley Homes will play host to a drive-in tour on March 9 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Only open to homebuyers who sign up as VIPs, the event will include a chance to meet with the designers, builders, and other team members from David Weekley Homes’ Atlanta Division, preview several available floor plans, learn about the area and community amenities, and more.
Those interested in attending the event and receiving weekly updates about Havencroft can sign up online on the community page at DavidWeekleyHomes.com or call 404-789-3033 to be added to the VIP list.
“We’ve had great success with our VIP drive-in events over the last few years,” said Adam
Cornett, Atlanta Division President for David Weekley Homes. “Being a VIP is an excellent way for homebuyers to get a leg up on the competition amid a highly competitive market.”When Are The New David Weekley Homes Opening In Woodstock?
The community will open to the public in mid-April. Starting prices for homes in Havencroft will be in the High $600s.
Final Word
Atlanta has one of the best real estate markets in the country, with affordable housing in every quadrant of the city. Large backyards, manicured parcels and strong neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants.
Not to mention that the city’s dining scene is the best in the Southeast. Looking for a home? Check out our Real Estate Resource Page.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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One thing you’re going to need if you’re trying to get a house is a mortgage. And to get a mortgage, you need to be pre-approved.
At this point, you should have saved up all the money you can for a down payment.
If you’re already pre-approved for a home loan, it signals to the loan officer, real estate agent and seller that you’re ready to purchase — and not playing around.
What Is The Best Way To Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage?
The best way to get pre-approved for a mortgage is to have all your paperwork in order, but it includes more than that.
Your credit score is of paramount importance to a mortgage lender, but more on that later.
Follow These 3 Steps To Get Approved For A Mortgage
This article will go over the steps you need to get pre-approved so that you can get a mortgage.
First, let’s go over what a mortgage pre-approval is and how it works for you.
A mortgage pre-approval is a preliminary step to buying a home. It involves an initial offer from a lender to loan you a certain amount of money so that you can buy a home.
What Is A Mortgage Pre-Approval And How Does It Work?
The amount of money that the lender pre-approves is based on their evaluation of your three things:
- Your Creditworthiness
- Your Finances
- Your Job Outlook
A mortgage pre-approval will require that you hand over a lot of your personal information, including your Social Security number for a credit check and more.
1. Get Your Free Credit Report
The first step you need to do is get a free copy of your credit report. You can do that by going to AnnualCreditReport.com.
AnnualCreditReport.com is a government-backed website that shows you your credit reports from the Big 3 credit Bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
2. Shop Around for a Lender
Different lenders offer different mortgage products and may have different criteria for pre-approval. It’s a good idea to shop around and compare offers from multiple lenders to find the best terms for your situation
3. Get Your Credit Scores
You’ll also want to find out what your credit scores are from the Big 3 credit bureaus. If your credit scores are low with a particular credit-reporting agency or with all of them, you should try to improve them.
Here’s how to improve your credit score easily.
What Credit Score Is Needed For A Home Loan In Georgia?
In Georgia, as well as elsewhere, you’re going to need a credit score on the high end to qualify for a home loan.
According to Credit Karma, which uses the Average VantageScore 3.0 model, the national qualifying average credit score is 717. In Georgia, you’ll need a score around 700 to purchase a home.
f your credit score is lower than you’d like, take steps to improve it before applying for a mortgage. This can include paying down existing debts, making all your payments on time, and avoiding opening new lines of credit.
4. Have Your Financial Paperwork In Order
Before you get pre-approved, you’ll need some documents for verification purposes. These include:
- Social Security number
- W-2 or 1099 tax form
- Paycheck Stub
If you plan to have someone on the loan with you — perhaps a spouse or significant other — they will have to submit some personal information as well.
To apply for a mortgage pre-approval, you’ll need to provide various documents, including proof of income (such as pay stubs or tax returns), proof of assets (such as bank statements), and information about your debts (such as credit card balances and loan payments).
5. Get Pre-Approved!
Once you gather all of that financial information, you can submit it for mortgage pre-approval to your lender of choice.
Here’s a pro tip you might want to consider: Always try to get pre-approved with more than one lender. This increases your chances of getting pre-qualified exponentially.
Once you’ve chosen a lender, you can apply for pre-approval either online, over the phone, or in person. The lender will review your financial information and credit history to determine how much they’re willing to lend you and at what interest rate.
If you meet the lender’s criteria, you’ll receive a pre-approval letter stating the maximum amount you can borrow and the terms of the loan. This letter can be used to show sellers that you’re a serious buyer when making an offer on a home.
Once you’re approved, you can start to search for your dream home in Atlanta or any city you want to live in.
Conclusion
Your mortgage pre-approval is just that, a pre-approval. That means it still might not go through due to financial issues that come up.
Let’s say you lose your job during the pre-approval process. Then it’s a good chance, the lender will back out and your mortgage won’t be approved.
That’s why it’s a good idea to dispute any issues on your credit report or any other issues that come up. Here’s how to dispute your credit report.
Atlanta has a lot of inspirational people and AtlantaFi.com is going to introduce you to many of them as well as cool places to go, great restaurants and other ATL happenings.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
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Buying a house in 2024 is a bit more challenging than in recent years, but according to real estate experts, the market is set to improve.
In this article, we’ll go over how to buy a house in Atlanta.
How Much Do You Need To Make To Buy A House In Atlanta?
According to recent data, the median home price in Atlanta is around $350,000. However, home prices can vary widely depending on the neighborhood and type of property you’re interested. If you’re a novice homeowner (or not), it’s best to do your homework on the front end.
Read our guide on how much home to afford.
Atlanta’s real estate market features the best of the Southeast, which means you’ll likely get plenty of land, but the prices continue to encroach upon what you’d find in the Northeast.
Thinking about buying a home this year? Here are a few factors you might want to consider:
Get Your Money Right
There’s nothing like falling in love with a home you know you can’t afford. Places like Buckhead, Dunwoody, Fayetteville and Locus Grove have big homes but so are the mortgages.
Before you start looking for a house, it’s important to understand your financial situation. This includes knowing your credit score, saving for a down payment, and getting pre-approved for a mortgage.
Read our guide on how to get pre-approved for a mortgage.
Understand the Atlanta Market
The Atlanta real estate market is a volatile one in that it can trend in different directions throughout the year. It’s your job to stay on top of the changes.
Real estate markets can vary widely depending on location and economic conditions. Research the housing market in the area where you want to buy to understand pricing trends, inventory levels, and competition.
Make a Wish List
It’s important to get what you want out of your home. Some people need privacy; others need entertainment space.
Make a list of what you’re looking for in a home, including must-haves and nice-to-haves. This will help you narrow down your search and focus on properties that meet your criteria.
Hire a Real Estate Agent
A good real estate agent can be invaluable in helping you find the right home, negotiate a fair price, and navigate the buying process.
The best real estate companies take their time with you and provide excellent customer service all while making you feel heard and seen.
Get a Home Inspection
Once you’ve found a home you like, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional. This can uncover any potential issues with the property that could affect its value or your decision to buy.
A home inspection can provide peace of mind knowing that you’re making an informed decision about the condition of the property.
Overall, a home inspection is an important part of the home buying process that can help you make a more informed decision and avoid potential issues down the road.
Make an Offer
When you’re ready to make an offer on a home, your real estate agent can help you determine a fair price based on comparable sales in the area and other factors. They can also guide you through the negotiation process.
Secure Financing
Once your offer has been accepted, you’ll need to finalize your mortgage. This involves providing documentation to your lender, getting an appraisal, and completing the underwriting process.
Close on the House
The final step in buying a house is the closing process, where all the necessary paperwork is signed, and the ownership of the property is transferred to you. This usually involves paying closing costs and fees, so be prepared for these expenses.
Final Thought
Buying a home is a wonderful experience when you think about the dream of homeownership and its many benefits.
The process of buying a house can vary depending on your individual circumstances, so it’s important to do your research and work with professionals who can help guide you through the process.
Atlanta has one of the best real estate markets in the country, with affordable housing in every quadrant of the city. Large backyards, manicured parcels and strong neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants.
Not to mention that the city’s dining scene is the best in the Southeast. Looking for a home? Check out our Real Estate Resource Page.
Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.
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If you buy an older house, one of the expenses you may eventually face is a bathroom remodel. That means you’re going to have to have some money set aside.
How Much Is a Bathroom Remodel?
The cost of remodeling a bathroom can vary widely depending on several factors, including the scope of the project, the quality of materials, your location, and whether you’re doing the work yourself or hiring professionals.
On average, bathroom remodeling costs in the United States can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars or more. Here are some cost considerations:
A few months ago, we decided to remodel a bathroom in our Georgia home. I knew that I wanted to take an affordable option rather than go all out on the bathroom renovation.
In this article, I’m going to show you all the steps to take to remodel a bathroom for less.
How To Remodel a Bathroom
Before you get started, you need to consider some things:
Scope of the Project
The extent of your bathroom remodel will have the most significant impact on the cost. A minor cosmetic update, such as replacing fixtures and giving the bathroom a fresh coat of paint, will cost significantly less than a full-scale renovation that involves moving plumbing, replacing all fixtures, and changing the layout.
I knew that I wanted to spend around $5,000 on a bathroom remodel. That automatically meant that whoever I hired needed to be a small business owner and not a big conglomerate that hires a bunch of people.
Design and Planning
If you hire a designer or architect to help plan your bathroom remodel, their fees will be an additional cost.
If you’re married, there is a good chance that your spouse may choose to take on this part of the project. Not only will it save you money (like it did in my case) but it can make for a happy home:)
Materials and Fixtures
You also need to decide if you’re going to buy high-end fixtures from boutique vendors or if you’re going to visit your local Home Depot and Lowe’s for the run-of-the-mill products.
The quality and type of materials and fixtures you choose can greatly affect the cost. High-end materials, like natural stone or designer fixtures, will increase the budget.
Labor Costs
Finding affordable contractors has always been a sport in Atlanta, but it’s a necessary endeavor if you want to save more.
If you hire professionals, labor costs will be a substantial portion of your budget. Labor costs can vary by location and the complexity of the work.
Each of these resources has their detractors, but I found a contractor by looking at the following places:
- Angi
- Google Reviews
- Craigslist
Read our guide on hiring a reputable contractor.
Permits and Inspections
As a rule of thumb, in most municipalities, if you tear down an existing wall, you’ll need a permit to get the work done. This is not only a safety protection, but it ensures that local building codes are enforced.
Depending on your local building codes and the extent of the remodel, you may need permits and inspections, which can add to the overall cost.
Demolition and Disposal
One of the most unexpected costs associated with a remodel is demolition and disposal of the trash. Many contractors will build the expenses of trash removal into their fee, but – as I found out – not all of them.
To save money, I chose to physically remove the trash from my home myself, and it was a major headache!
Removing old fixtures, tiles, and other materials can be a labor-intensive process and may require a dumpster for disposal.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
If you need to move plumbing or electrical connections, it will add to the cost of the project as well.
When you hire a contractor for a job that includes skills of the major trades, it is their responsibility to bring tradesmen in on the job to get the work completed.
Unexpected Issues
No matter how well you plan, there is always the possibility of unexpected and unforeseen problems with a remodel.
In my case, an old corroded plumbing pipe added some significant expenses and time to the project. You’ll have to plan for this whenever doing any kind of remodeling project.
Final Word
Remodeling a bathroom or any room in your house is a major task. There are so many pieces you’re going to have to put together to avoid crazy stress or debt problems.
And you also need to hire a reliable contractor that knows how to get the job done in the timeframe you’ve established.
