Common Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make in South Georgia

First-time buyers around here trip over the same rocks every time. It's like watching your neighbor try to back a trailer into the driveway. Entertaining, but painful.

Biggest one: falling for the prettiest house. You walk into a place with fresh paint and granite counters, and suddenly you're signing papers. South Georgia humidity doesn't care about shiny kitchens though. Check the roof, the AC, and that crawlspace. I've seen buyers skip inspections and regret it.

Next, they shop loans like they're picking barbecue sauce. Mild, hot, extra hot. One rate point difference over 30 years adds up faster than kudzu on a fence. Get pre-approved first. And don't assume FHA loans are free money. Those mortgage insurances stick around until 20% equity is reached in the home.

Another classic: ignoring the yard. Valdosta summers mean swamps if drainage stinks. Big live oaks sound great until roots crack your foundation. Check flood zones too. Nobody wants waders in the living room come June.

They also lowball offers like it's a flea market. Sellers here know values. Price it wrong, and your dream home goes to the next truck in line. Work with someone local who knows Lowndes County comps.

Skip these pitfalls, and you'll land a solid place. Call me at Dove Realty. I'll walk you through it, no shortcuts. Just real talk for South Georgia living.