Mortgage Education & Market Insights

The Mortgage Playbook

Expert guidance on home buying, loan programs, and the Atlanta real estate market — written by Mike Garrett and the Strategic Mortgage Advisors team.

★ Featured Article

First-Time Buyers 7 min read

First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Georgia: What Atlanta Buyers Need to Know in 2025

Georgia offers some of the most generous first-time buyer assistance programs in the Southeast. Here's a complete breakdown of down payment help, rate reductions, and tax credits available to Atlanta metro buyers right now.

Mike Garrett

March 10, 2025

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VA Loans 8 min

VA Home Loans in Georgia: A Complete Guide for Veterans and Active Duty Military

If you've served our country, you've earned one of the most powerful home buying benefits available: the VA loan. Here's everything Georgia veterans need to know about using this benefit in the Atlanta metro area.

February 10, 2025

VA loan veterans military

Home Buying Tips 5 min

How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home in Atlanta

Your credit score is one of the most important factors in determining your mortgage rate. Even a 20-point improvement can save you thousands over the life of your loan. Here's a practical action plan.

January 28, 2025

credit score mortgage tips home buying

Loan Types 6 min

Conventional vs. FHA Loan: Which Is Right for Atlanta Home Buyers?

One of the most common questions we hear from Atlanta home buyers is: should I go conventional or FHA? The answer depends on your credit score, down payment, and long-term goals. Here's how to decide.

January 15, 2025

conventional loan FHA loan mortgage comparison

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