How much down payment do I need to buy a house in Georgia?

You can buy a home in Georgia with as little as 0% down (VA/USDA), 3% down ($9,750 conventional), or 3.5% down ($11,375 FHA) on the median-priced home of $325,000.

What income do I need to buy a home in Georgia?

To afford the median-priced home in Georgia ($325,000) with a 30-year mortgage at 6.15%, you typically need a household income of approximately $80,154 per year (using the 28% rule). The median income in Georgia is $61,980.

What is the FHA loan limit in Georgia for 2026?

The FHA loan limit in Georgia for 2026 is $472,030. This means first-time buyers using FHA loans can finance up to this amount with just 3.5% down payment.

First-Time Home Buyer Georgia 2026

Q: What first-time home buyer programs are available in Georgia?

Georgia offers 2 major first-time buyer programs including Georgia Dream, PEN DPA (Public Employees). These programs provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates to help with down payment and closing costs.

Your complete guide to buying your first home in Georgia. 2+ down payment assistance programs, FHA loans from 5.95%, and step-by-step guidance.

Median Price

$325,000

Min Down (FHA)

$11,375

DPA Programs

Best Rate

5.95%

Check My Georgia Eligibility

What First-Time Buyer Programs Are Available in Georgia?

Georgia offers 2 major first-time home buyer assistance programs. These include Georgia Dream, PEN DPA (Public Employees). Programs provide up to $10,000 in down payment assistance through grants, forgivable loans, and below-market interest rates.

How Much Do I Need to Buy in Georgia?

You can buy a home in Georgia with as little as $0 down. VA and USDA loans require zero down payment. FHA loans need just 3.5% ($$11,375), and conventional loans start at 3% ($$9,750) on the median price of $325,000.

Loan Type	Down Payment	$ Amount	Monthly P&I	Min Credit
VA Loan	0%	$0	$1,928	620
USDA Loan	0%	$0	$1,980	640
Conventional 3%	3%	$9,750	$1,921	620
FHA Loan	3.5%	$11,375	$1,870	580
Conventional 20%	20%	$65,000	$1,584	620

Georgia Down Payment Assistance Programs

Georgia Dream

DPA for first-time buyers with low-to-moderate income

Up to $10,000deferred

PEN DPA (Public Employees)

Extra DPA for public employees, military, teachers

Up to $12,500deferred

5 Steps to Buy Your First Home in Georgia

To buy your first home in Georgia, start by checking your credit score, getting pre-approved, and researching DPA programs. The entire process typically takes 30-60 days from pre-approval to closing. Here's your step-by-step roadmap.

Check Your Credit & Finances

Review your credit score (aim for 620+), calculate your debt-to-income ratio, and save for closing costs. In Georgia, you may need as little as $11,375 for an FHA down payment.

Get Pre-Approved

Compare rates from at least 3 lenders. Current Georgia rates: 6.15% (30-year), 5.95% (FHA). Pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and locks your rate.

Apply for Georgia DPA Programs

Georgia has 2+ DPA programs. The Georgia Dream offers up to $10,000. Apply early—funding can be limited.

House Hunt & Make an Offer

Popular cities in Georgia: Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Savannah, Athens. Median price is $325,000 (+5.4% YoY). Work with a local real estate agent who knows the market.

Close on Your New Home

Closing costs in Georgia typically run 2-5% of the purchase price ($9,750-$16,250). Some DPA programs also cover closing costs.

Start Your Georgia Home Buying Journey

Get pre-approved in minutes and see what you qualify for.

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Georgia First-Time Buyer FAQ

What first-time home buyer programs are available in Georgia?

Georgia offers 2 major programs: Georgia Dream, PEN DPA (Public Employees). These provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates for down payment and closing cost assistance.