Buying a Home from Out-of-State? Here’s the Checklist You Can’t Afford to Skip

Relocating to a new state is a big step—and buying a home there without ever setting foot inside? That’s next-level. But for thousands of people moving to Georgia each year, that’s exactly what they’re doing. If you’re considering buying a home from out-of-state, you’re not alone—and with the right strategy, it can be done confidently.

Let’s break down the must-follow checklist to simplify your remote homebuying journey and make sure nothing gets overlooked.

1️⃣ Remote Buying Is the New Normal in Georgia

Georgia has become a magnet for remote buyers, with over 116,000 new residents relocating from July 2023 to July 2024. Many are coming from high-cost states like New York, California, and Florida.

Why Georgia?

• More affordable housing
• Lower property taxes
• Booming job growth

As of January 2025, Georgia’s median home price is $376,200, marking a 6.9% increase from the previous year. Homes typically go under contract in just 41 days—and that window can be even shorter in hot metro areas like Atlanta and Marietta.

2️⃣ Get Your Financing in Order Before You Start

In a fast-moving market, having your finances ready is crucial. Sellers often won’t entertain offers without a pre-approval letter, especially from out-of-state buyers.

What You Need to Know:

• To afford a median-priced home, you’ll need an annual income of around $101,000.
• Interest rates have climbed, with 30-year fixed mortgages averaging around 7.00% (as of May–June 2025).
• Georgia’s average property tax rate is 0.87%, lower than the national average—but rates vary by county.

📝 Tip: Organize all your documents digitally—pay stubs, tax returns, ID, and bank statements—so you can move quickly when the right home appears.

3️⃣ Choose a Tech-Savvy Local Real Estate Agent

Your agent is your boots on the ground—especially if you can’t be there in person. Not just any agent will do.

What to Look For:

• Experience with remote or out-of-state buyers
• Ability to host live video tours
• Familiarity with digital signing tools and online document management
• Strong local connections with inspectors, contractors, and closing attorneys

An agent who understands the unique needs of remote buyers can help you avoid common pitfalls and guide you through every detail—virtually.

4️⃣ Embrace Virtual Tours & Video Consults

Remote buying has evolved—and Georgia’s real estate market has kept up.

Did You Know?

• As of 2025, over 70% of Georgia listings offer virtual or 3D walkthroughs.
• In metro areas, 25%+ of the workforce is remote, making virtual home tours a new standard.

Ask for live video walk-throughs so you can ask questions in real time. Also request recorded versions so you can rewatch and review before making an offer.

5️⃣ Build Your Local Support Team Early

You’ll need more than just a great agent—you’ll need trusted local pros to step in where you can’t.

Must-Have Contacts:

• Home inspector familiar with Georgia-specific issues like clay soil, foundation cracks, and older HVAC systems
• Termite specialist (Georgia is high-risk for termite activity)
• Contractors for repair estimates or quick quotes
• Real estate attorney or title company for local compliance

Your agent should have a vetted list of professionals to recommend—and they’ll be invaluable if something comes up during the process.

6️⃣ Don’t Skip the Inspection—Coordinate It Carefully

Even if you can’t be there in person, you should never skip a home inspection.

What to Request:

• Comprehensive digital report with detailed notes
• High-resolution photos and videos of major systems and concerns
• Clear summary of urgent issues vs. cosmetic ones

📹 Many buyers also request a recorded inspection walk-through or a live Zoom call with the inspector to review findings in real time.

7️⃣ Understand Georgia’s Contract & Closing Process

Georgia’s closing process is relatively smooth—and good news: remote closings are legally allowed if purchasing in cash.

Key Facts:

• Average contract-to-close time is 30–45 days
• Closing costs range from 2–5% of the purchase price ($7,500–$18,800 on a median home)

Stay in regular communication with your agent and lender to ensure deadlines are met and documents are in order.

8️⃣ Plan Move-In Logistics in Advance

Once you’re under contract, it’s time to start planning your move.

Don’t Forget:

• Book movers early, especially during summer when demand is high
• Ask about storage options if your move-in date doesn’t align perfectly
• Set up utilities before closing (e.g., Georgia Power, Atlanta Gas Light, and your local water provider)
• Start your address change process and service transfers

📦 Pro tip: Create a moving calendar that includes reminders for insurance, school transfers, pet paperwork, and vehicle registration.

9️⃣ Final Walk-Through & Closing—Remotely or In-Person

The final walkthrough ensures the home is in agreed-upon condition before you close.

Options:

• Attend in person
• Have your agent video the walkthrough on FaceTime, Zoom, or Google Meet
• Verify repairs were completed, appliances work, and the property is move-in ready

🎉 Congrats—you’re officially a Georgia homeowner!

Final Thoughts

Buying a home from out-of-state may sound overwhelming, but with the right agent, strong communication, and a tech-friendly approach, it’s absolutely doable—and often smoother than you’d expect.

If you’re planning a move to Georgia, now is the time to start building your team, preparing your finances, and exploring your options virtually. With the right strategy, your new home is closer than you think—no matter how many miles away you are.