Resources
Guides, checklists, and tools for metro Atlanta homebuyers
Quick answer
This library covers what Atlanta and metro Atlanta buyers ask most: what documents a pre-approval requires, what closing costs actually include, how property taxes and association dues change a monthly payment, and what mortgage terms mean in plain language. Everything here is educational, and all financing is subject to credit approval.
Tools
Payment & affordability calculators
Estimate a monthly payment including taxes, insurance, and dues, and see a comfortable price range based on your income and debts. Estimates only, not a rate quote.
Mortgage glossary
Plain-language definitions for the terms you will see on a Loan Estimate, a purchase agreement, and a Closing Disclosure.
Guides and checklists
Checklist
Pre-approval document checklist
For most mortgage pre-approvals you will need two recent pay stubs, two years of W-2s, two years of tax returns if self-employed, two months of bank and as…
Guide
First-time buyer roadmap
The typical first-time homebuyer path has six steps: set a comfortable monthly budget, review your credit and documents, get pre-approved, tour homes with …
Guide
Closing costs explained
Closing costs are the fees and prepaid items required to complete a home purchase, separate from your down payment. They commonly include lender fees, titl…
Local explainer
Metro Atlanta property taxes & association dues
Property taxes and homeowners association dues are part of the monthly cost of owning even though they are not part of your loan. Taxes are generally colle…
Local explainer
Older intown & renovated home appraisals
An appraisal is an independent opinion of a property's value used by the lender. In neighborhoods like Grant Park and Inman Park, and in areas along the Be…
Guide
How much home can I afford
Lenders evaluate affordability primarily through your debt-to-income ratio, comparing your total monthly obligations, including the new housing payment, ag…
All loan scenarios are subject to credit approval, income and asset verification, and property eligibility. Program availability may vary and terms are subject to change. Nothing on this site is a commitment to lend, an offer of credit, or a rate quote. Consult Alyson for current options.
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