Supporting local businesses is part of being a good neighbor. These are the kinds of local partners Atlanta buyers and owners rely on, and what to look for in each.
Law firms: real estate closings
Georgia is an attorney-closing state: a real estate attorney conducts the closing, orders the title examination and records the deed. Ask for a firm that handles Atlanta real estate closings every week.
Home inspectors
A good home inspector will insist you walk through the inspection with them so you really get to know the house, and will come back for a follow-up visit if needed.
Stucco inspection and repairs
Many Atlanta homes built in the 1980s–2000s have synthetic stucco. A specialist offers inspections, repairs and guarantees — worth it before you buy.
Home warranty providers
A home warranty covers major systems and appliances for the first year and is often paid by the seller as a concession.
Mortgage lenders
A responsive local loan officer can close a purchase quickly — past buyers have reported closings in as little as 10 days.
Photographers
For commercial Atlanta photography — skylines, attractions, interiors and exteriors — local photographers such as Kevin Rose / AtlantaPhotos.com have worked with the City of Atlanta and the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau, and offer promotional and royalty-free pictures for your advertising needs.
Southern food
Hilltop Meats Company is known for smoked sausage and takes phone orders. Nora Mill in Helen, GA, on the Chattahoochee River, sells stone ground grits, biscuit mix and lots of other good southern foods — check out their gift shop.