Guides & Documents

Everything you need to feel prepared

The exact roadmap we walk clients through — from your first showing to closing day — plus the documents that make it official.

Download & Keep

Documents & guides

The handouts Rachel shares with clients — yours to download anytime.

Step by Step

The home-buying checklist

Seven stages, start to finish. Tap any stage to expand it.

  • Receive guidance throughout the buying process
  • Get a competitive edge from local market knowledge
  • Learn about available & off-market properties
  • Benefit from time-saving convenience
  • Get support through closing — and beyond
  • Differentiate between wants and must-haves
  • Determine your preferred home style
  • Consider amenities, schools, transportation & recreation
  • Schedule home tours and choose the home to pursue
  • Create a timeline and budget
  • Get mortgage pre-approval & check your credit report
  • Determine your type of mortgage
  • Shop for the best rates & programs
  • Understand what you can afford — use our calculator
  • Review contract terms & conditions
  • Negotiate the purchase price
  • Select a title provider & decide on a closing date
  • Have earnest money ready — submit it here ↗
  • Sign the offer and deliver the escrow check
  • Finalize the home loan & select insurance/warranty providers
  • Schedule the home inspection and resolve any issues
  • Use the inspection report to renegotiate, if necessary
  • Lender orders the appraisal; title search confirms clear title
  • Pinpoint your move-in date and certify funds for closing
  • Schedule and book a moving company
  • Notify post office, bank, etc. of your new address
  • Transfer and/or activate utilities
  • Schedule and attend the final walk-through
  • Confirm wire instructions with the title company & have funds ready
  • Bring identification & proof of paid home insurance
  • Review the list of adjustments
  • Sign the mortgage and all required paperwork
  • Receive the signed deed from the seller
  • Confirm funds transferred — then enjoy your new home!
Closing Documents

What you’ll sign at the table

A plain-English guide to the key documents in a Georgia closing.

Closing Disclosure (CD)

Final loan terms, monthly payment, and all closing costs — review 3 days before closing.

Promissory Note

Your written promise to repay the loan, with rate and payment schedule.

Security Deed

Secures the loan against the property (Georgia’s version of a mortgage).

Warranty Deed

Transfers ownership from seller to you, guaranteeing clear title.

Settlement Statement

Itemizes every credit and debit between buyer, seller, and lender.

Title Insurance

Protects you and your lender against future claims on the property’s title.

Want a printable closing packet tailored to your transaction? Ask Rachel — we provide a full document checklist once you’re under contract.
Handy Links

Georgia closing resources

Questions about the process?

No question is too small. We’re here to make every step clear.

Ask a Question