Georgia Down Payment Realities: What Buyers Pay in 2026
Wondering exactly how much you’ll need to put down as a first-time homebuyer in Georgia? You’re not alone — this is the #1 question we get at The Brewer Group from buyers ready to stop renting.
The average down payment for first-time buyers in Georgia ranges from 0% to 20%+, but most put down between 3% and 10% thanks to state and local assistance programs. Here’s a quick breakdown of what our clients are seeing:
- 16% of buyers put down 0% (VA/USDA or down payment assistance)
- 22% put down 1–5% (FHA, Georgia Dream, or conventional with DPA)
- 16% put down 6–10% (savings + assistance combo)
- 20% put down 11–20% (often second-time buyers or those with windfalls)
- 26% put down 20%+ (rare for first-timers, but not impossible)
| Down Payment | % of First-Time Buyers |
|---|---|
| 0% | 16% |
| 1–5% | 22% |
| 6–10% | 16% |
| 11–20% | 20% |
| 20%+ | 26% |
What does this mean for you? If you have 3%–5% saved (plus closing costs), you’re in range for most first-time buyer programs. The Brewer Group can help you maximize available assistance and match you with homes that fit your budget and preferred neighborhoods.
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Down Payment Assistance in Georgia: 2026 Program Highlights
Georgia has some of the most robust down payment help in the Southeast. The two most popular options our buyers use are:
- Georgia Dream Homeownership Program: Offers up to $10,000 (standard) or $12,500 (for educators, healthcare, military, or disability households) as a 0% interest, deferred second mortgage.
- Peach Plus Loan Program: Up to $10,000 (or $12,500 for eligible groups) with higher income limits and no first-time buyer requirement.
Local programs — like Atlanta Housing (up to $20,000) and Fulton County HOP (up to $10,000) — can be layered for even more assistance. Most require:
- A minimum credit score (usually 640+)
- Income limits (often 80% of area median income)
- Homebuyer education course completion
Our team guides clients through the eligibility process. Making sure you get every dollar you qualify for. This can often drop your required out-of-pocket down payment to as little as 0–3.5%.
Ready to see if you qualify? Contact The Brewer Group for a free down payment assistance review.
What’s on the Market? (spoiler: it works). Georgia’s First-Time Buyer Inventory
Inventory is tight across Georgia, but The Brewer Group has exclusive access to hundreds of active MLS listings not seen on public portals. Here’s a snapshot of what’s available right now:
- Peachtree City: Tree-lined streets, top schools, homes from the high $300Ks
- Senoia: Historic charm, newer builds, $280K–$500K range
- Fayetteville: Family-friendly, spacious lots, $320K–$650K
- Newnan: Vibrant downtown, starter homes from $250K
- Tyrone: Quiet, close to Atlanta, $350K–$600K
Sample current listing:
- 3-bed ranch in Senoia for $295,000 — eligible for Georgia Dream financing
- Updated Fayetteville home with fenced yard, $349,900 — qualifies for local DPA
Curious about specific homes? Browse our up-to-the-minute Georgia listings.
Financing & Mortgage Rates in 2026: What Buyers Need to Know
Rates have shifted in 2026. As of January, the average 30-year fixed mortgage sits at 6.02% (down from 6.24% a month ago), and forecasters predict modest declines mid-year. Here’s how loan types stack up for first-timers:
| Loan Type | Min. Down Payment | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| FHA | 3.5% | Credit 580+, most first-time buyers |
| Conventional | 3-5% | Credit 620+, better rates for higher scores |
| VA | 0% | Eligible veterans/military |
| USDA | 0% | Rural & select suburban buyers |
| Georgia Dream | 0–3.5% | See eligibility above |
- Closing costs add another 2–5% (plan accordingly)
- Pre-approval is essential for making offers — sellers expect it
- Down payment assistance can cover SOME or ALL of what’s needed for FHA/conventional
Our mortgage partners keep you updated on new programs and rate changes. Book a call at or for a no-obligation strategy session.
How The Brewer Group Gets First-Time Buyers Into Georgia Homes
With over a decade helping buyers, The Brewer Group knows every corner of Peachtree City, Senoia, Brooks, Sharpsburg, Newnan, Fayetteville, and Tyrone. Here’s how we help our clients succeed in 2026’s market:
- Pinpointing homes that match your budget — before they hit public sites
- Personalized down payment assistance guidance (we make the paperwork easy)
- Negotiation strategies to win in a tight inventory market
- Local insights on schools, commutes, and growth potential
- Proven track record: 100+ first-time buyers closed in the past 2 years
Testimonial:
“We thought we’d need $20K to buy. With The Brewer Group, we moved in for $3,200 out of pocket — including closing costs. Their expertise made the process smooth and stress-free.”
– Jordan & Marcus W., Newnan
We’re proud to be a Keller Williams agency, led by Jake Brewer — recent winner of the 2025 Georgia Top Agent Award. Our deep local network and exclusive MLS access mean you see the best options first.
Start your search: Find your Georgia home now
Next Steps: Find Properties & Get Expert Guidance
Ready to see what you can afford with today’s down payment options? The Brewer Group makes it simple to:
- Get pre-qualified for down payment assistance
- Browse live inventory in your preferred Georgia neighborhood
- Tour homes virtually or in person
- Access our full support — before, during, and after your purchase
The first step: Explore Georgia Listings or call to talk to a local expert today. The right home is waiting — and you may need less down than you think.