Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about this site, how mortgage basics work in Georgia, and where to verify the facts that matter.
Is Georgia Lending a lender or mortgage broker?
No. Georgia Lending is an independent publisher of educational content. We do not take loan applications, quote rates, or make lending decisions. We refer readers to a licensed loan marketplace, where they work directly with licensed lenders.
How does Georgia Lending make money?
Georgia Lending may earn a commission if you use a link on this site to visit a loan marketplace and end up working with a lender there. This costs you nothing extra. See our disclosures page for details.
Does Georgia Lending collect my personal information?
No. This site has no application forms and collects no borrower information. Any form you complete lives on the licensed marketplace's or lender's own website, under their privacy policy.
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Georgia?
It depends on the loan type. FHA loans accept lower credit scores than most conventional loans, and VA loans have no VA-set minimum score, though lenders apply their own requirements. A licensed lender can tell you what your credit qualifies for. See our FHA vs. conventional comparison.
How much down payment do I need in Georgia?
It depends on the loan type: as little as 3% down for some eligible conventional borrowers, 3.5% for FHA with a qualifying credit score, and no down payment for eligible VA borrowers. Down payment assistance programs may also help. Verify current requirements with a licensed lender.
Does this site publish current mortgage rates?
No. Rates change daily and depend on your credit, down payment, loan type, and other factors. This site does not quote rates. Compare current offers from licensed lenders and ask each for a Loan Estimate.
What is the Georgia Dream program?
Georgia Dream is a homeownership program administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), aimed at first-time homebuyers and generally pairing down payment assistance with a first mortgage from a participating lender. Terms, income limits, and funding availability change. Verify current details at dca.ga.gov and with a participating lender.
Should I get pre-approved before shopping for a home?
Yes, in most cases. Pre-approval is a lender's preliminary review of your credit, income, and debts. It clarifies your budget and shows sellers you are a serious buyer. Compare more than one lender and compare Loan Estimates gathered in the same short window. See our first-time homebuyer guide.