Finding a home you love is exciting—but before you rush to make an offer, it’s important to pause and take a closer look. A house is one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make, and doing a little homework upfront can save you stress, money, and headaches later.
Here are five things every Georgia buyer should check before submitting an offer.
1. Location and Neighborhood
You’ve heard it before: location matters. Take time to drive through the neighborhood at different times of day. Look at commute times, nearby schools, shopping, and amenities. A home can be updated, but its location is permanent. Make sure it fits your lifestyle.
2. Comparable Sales
Before making an offer, your agent will review recent sales of similar homes in the area (called “comps”). This helps you understand whether the home is priced fairly and what a competitive, realistic offer should look like. Skipping this step could mean overpaying—or losing out in a multiple-offer situation.
3. Condition of the Home
While a home inspection comes later in the process, you can still take note of obvious red flags during your tours. Look for signs of water damage, cracks in the foundation, outdated systems (like HVAC or roof), and general maintenance. These details could impact both your offer price and your future repair costs.
4. Homeowners Association (HOA) Rules and Fees
If the property is part of an HOA, ask about fees and rules upfront. Some communities have strict guidelines on things like exterior paint colors, fences, or parking. Make sure the HOA’s restrictions (and monthly dues) fit your budget and lifestyle.
5. Your Financing and Contingencies
A strong offer starts with a clear understanding of your financing. Make sure your pre-approval is up-to-date and talk to your lender about what your monthly payment will look like at the home’s price point. Work with your agent to decide what contingencies (financing, appraisal, inspection) should be included to protect you.
The Bottom Line
Making an offer is an exciting step, but it pays to do your homework first. By checking these five things—location, comps, condition, HOA rules, and your financing—you’ll be in a stronger position to make a smart, confident decision.
