“I need a giant pile of cash.”
Truth: Saving is part of it, but it’s not the only path. Down payment assistance, seller help with closing costs, and the right deal structure can change what you need up front.
Metro Atlanta first-time home buyers
You work hard for Atlanta. You’ve earned a piece of it.
You show up for this city every day, and buying your first home should feel good, not overwhelming. I’m Shanta, and I help first-time buyers across Metro Atlanta understand their options and find a home that fits their life and budget. You don’t have to figure it out alone. We’ll start with what matters to you.
Built for first-timersClear steps, start to finish
Clear next stepsOne step at a time
Local to AtlantaMetro-wide perspective
Free educationClass open to everyone
What matters to you
Let’s talk about what you’re looking for.
Maybe it’s room for family to visit, a shorter commute, or a yard where you can unwind. Everyone’s list looks different, and so does everyone’s budget. Tell me what matters to you, and we’ll start there.
Your questions are welcome. Your goals matter.
Your options
Start where you are. We’ll go from there.
Every buyer is different, and so is every budget. Some want a home that’s ready to move into. Others want the best value they can find. We’ll start with your goals and your numbers, so you know what’s realistic and can choose each step with confidence.
- Talk through your goals and timing
- Understand your budget and what it can buy
- Connect with a licensed lender
- Know your next step this month
Your path home
You're not doing this alone.
From your first questions to the day you get the keys, we’ll take it one step at a time.
Let’s start with you
We’ll talk about your goals, timing, and what you’re looking for.
Understand your options
I’ll help you connect with a licensed lender to discuss financing and your next steps.
Find your home
We’ll explore homes with your needs and budget in mind.
Prepare for closing day
I’ll guide you through the buying process and help you keep track of what comes next.
Your agent
Meet Ashanta Cruz
I help first-time buyers across Metro Atlanta understand the process, explore their options, and find a home that fits their life and budget. We’ll start with what matters to you.
Licensed real estate agent · License #281558
Working with the brokerage Home Hunters LLC
Free Masterclass · Your first home
Reserve Your Free Seat.
Thinking about buying your first home but unsure where to begin? Join Shanta Cruz for a free online masterclass for Metro Atlanta first-time buyers. We’ll talk about qualifying with low down payments, unlocking up to $10,000+ in assistance, and finding a home that fits your needs. Bring your questions, too.
- Free to attend
- Watch from your phone or laptop
- Bring your questions
Your seat is reserved!
Watch your email for session access details and your link.
Let’s clear some things up
What’s holding you back might not be true.
“My credit has to be perfect.”
Truth: Lenders work with a range of credit. Knowing where you stand, and what to fix first, matters more than being perfect.
“I have to figure it all out myself.”
Truth: You don’t. Your questions are welcome, and we’ll take the process one step at a time.
Questions
Quick answers for first-timers.
The things people ask us most. Need more? Just ask me.
Can we talk if I’m not ready to buy yet?
Yes. We can talk about your goals, your questions, and what you’d like to understand before deciding on your next step.
How much do I need to buy my first home in Atlanta?
It depends on the loan, the property and your credit, and lending standards have tightened in recent years. Plan for a down payment, closing costs, inspections and a cash reserve. Down payment assistance such as Georgia Dream may help eligible buyers, and a lender can give you real numbers for your situation.
What credit score do I need to buy a house in Georgia?
Minimums vary by loan type and lender, and they change over time. A lender can pull your actual numbers and tell you what you qualify for today. Improving your score before applying can open more options and lower your rate.
Who counts as a first-time home buyer?
Generally someone who has not owned a primary residence in the past three years, though definitions vary by program. Some programs also count single parents, displaced homemakers and others. Always confirm the definition with the specific program you are considering.
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Tell me what you’re hoping for, and we’ll talk about your next step.