Between the mild climate, the diverse culture, the abundance of job opportunities and the affordability of its housing market, there is little wonder that Atlanta is one of the fastest growing cities in America. If you’re buying a home and relocating to Atlanta, your move will go more smoothly by coming into the process prepared. Here are five important real estate tips to keep in mind.
Hire an Atlanta real estate agent.
Once you have decided to relocate, one of the best things you can do at the outset is to hire a knowledgeable Atlanta real estate agent to help you. Your agent should be someone with a strong working knowledge of the Atlanta housing market and the neighborhoods, someone who can be your “eyes on the ground” to help you through the process of shopping for a home long-distance. Hiring an agent up front will greatly reduce the stress of shopping for a home in a city with which you might not be familiar.
Research the neighborhoods.
Atlanta is a big metropolitan area with a diverse array of neighborhoods, each with its own personality and price points. Plenty of information is available online as to various Atlanta neighborhoods and the advantages of each. A trusted Atlanta real estate agent can also advise you as to neighborhoods within your price range that have the benefits you value most—for example, good schools, proximity to dining/shopping, etc.
Plan ahead.
To whatever extent possible, give yourself a fair timeline for the move, from packing up and selling your current home to shopping for a new Atlanta home. The best way not to feel rushed or risk forgetting something important is to allow yourself about eight weeks from packing to unpacking.
Figure out your financing.
The more your own financing is in order, the more streamlined your Atlanta house-hunting process will be. Determine your down payment, and talk to a mortgage broker in Atlanta to see about pre-qualifying for a loan so you have a good idea what your housing budget will be. Don’t forget to account for your moving expenses, as well.
Keep your paperwork with you!
In the process of a major move, it is easy to lose track of important papers and documents that might inadvertently get packed away. Keep a separate file or box for pertinent paperwork with you, and make sure it stays with you at all times during the move, whether you keep it in a briefcase, luggage or something else you’ll be able to access.
When you are ready to take serious steps toward relocating to Atlanta, we are here to help! Give Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty a call at 404.237.5000 to talk to one of our experienced agents today!