Things Every First-Time Homebuyer Should Know, Especially in Coastal Georgia

Buying your first home is one of the most exciting (and overwhelming!) experiences of your life. Here on the Georgia coast, whether you’re settling in St. Marys, Kingsland, Brunswick, or anywhere in between, there are a few unique things to keep in mind before you sign on the dotted line.

Here’s what we at Coastal Roots Realty think every first-time homebuyer in Southeast Georgia should know:

1. Don’t Just Look at the House, Look at the Neighborhood

It’s easy to fall in love with a single home, but you’re buying into the whole area. Before making an offer, visit the neighborhood at different times of day. Is it quiet at night? How’s the traffic during school pickup? Do neighbors keep up their yards? In smaller communities like St. Marys or Woodbine, your surroundings can really shape your daily life.

2. Pay Attention to School Zones

Even if you don’t have children, school districts impact home value. Southeast Georgia has a mix of top-rated public and private schools, so be sure to check which zone your future home is in. A better school district often means better long-term investment potential.

3. Check the Drainage

Rain happens, especially here on the coast. A smart (and often overlooked) tip? Visit the home after a rainstorm. Look for standing water in the yard, around the foundation, or near the street. Poor drainage can lead to bigger problems down the line, like mold, erosion, or even foundation issues.

4. Always Get a Home Inspection and a Termite Inspection

In our humid coastal climate, termites are a serious concern. Don’t skip a separate termite inspection just because the home inspection looks clean. Wood-destroying organisms can cause thousands in damage, and they’re more common than you think in places like Camden and Glynn counties.

5. Ask About the Age of the Roof and HVAC

In our region, the hot summers mean your HVAC system works hard. Ask when it was last replaced or serviced. Roofs here also face heat, humidity, and the occasional tropical storm, so knowing their condition and remaining lifespan can help you budget ahead of time. These two items are among the most expensive home repairs, so they’re worth a close look.

6. Budget for Hidden Costs

It's not just the mortgage. First-time buyers are often surprised by utility deposits, service transfer fees, and setup costs. For example, in many areas, you’ll need to pay to get water, trash, and power connected. And don’t forget move-in expenses like lawn equipment, window coverings, or even a mailbox if it’s a new construction home.

7. Understand Flood Zones and Insurance Requirements

Living near the coast is beautiful, but it comes with extra considerations. Some areas in Camden, Glynn, or McIntosh counties fall within FEMA flood zones, which may require additional flood insurance. Your agent should walk you through this, but it’s good to ask early.

8. Get Pre-Approved Before You Fall in Love

We always recommend getting pre-approved for a mortgage before seriously house hunting. This not only gives you a clear budget, it also helps your offer stand out in a competitive market. Need a local lender? We can recommend a few we trust right here in Southeast Georgia.

9. Know the Local Market Conditions

Real estate is local. What’s true in Atlanta or Jacksonville may not apply to Kingsland or Brunswick. At Coastal Roots Realty, we know the ins and outs of this market, and can help you understand trends, values, and neighborhood growth.

10. Work With a Local Agent Who Knows the Area

A good agent doesn’t just unlock doors, they help you make smart decisions. Our team lives and works right here in Southeast Georgia, and we pride ourselves on helping first-time buyers navigate the process with confidence.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Whether you're looking for a home near Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, a historic cottage in downtown St. Marys, or new construction in a growing neighborhood, Coastal Roots Realty is here to guide you every step of the way.

📍 Serving Coastal Georgia

📞 Contact us today to speak with a local agent who knows this market inside and out.