Owning Your New Home

Don't Forget About Property Taxes

Check with your county tax office to see if you qualify for exemptions such as Homestead, Veteran, or Senior exemptions. These generally aren't automatic, so find out what you qualify for and when you need to apply.

Also keep an eye out for your first property tax bill. Depending on when you close, it could still be mailed to the previous owner. If you don't receive one when expected, check with the county rather than assuming one wasn't issued.

Get to Know Your Community

If you're in an HOA or gated community, make sure they have your current contact information and find out where to get community notices, documents, gate information, and other resources.

Neighborhood groups can also be a great source for community news and recommendations for local contractors, restaurants, doctors, veterinarians, and other services.

Keep Your Home Records Together

Keep your closing documents, survey or plat, warranties, appliance information, HOA documents, septic or well records, permits, and other important property information together.

You may not need it today, but you'll be glad you know where it is when something needs service, you make improvements, or eventually decide to sell.

Update Your Address

A USPS change of address doesn't update everyone. Make sure you also update your driver's license, vehicle registration when required, banks, credit cards, insurance companies, and other important accounts.

Living in the North Georgia Mountains

Wildlife and wooded surroundings are part of living in North Georgia. Give wildlife space, don't intentionally feed it, and avoid leaving pet food or other easy food sources where animals can reach them.

A little fire prevention matters too, particularly in wooded areas. Keep leaves and debris from accumulating around the house, be careful with outdoor fires, and keep working fire extinguishers where they're easy to reach.

Living With Wildlife & Fire Safety in North Georgia

Stay in Touch

Closing doesn't mean you can't call me anymore. If a question comes up about your property, you need a local resource, or you simply aren't sure who to call, don't hesitate to reach out.

And if someone you know needs help buying or selling real estate, I'd be honored if you'd think of me.