Georgia charges a state intangibles tax on every new mortgage — $1.50 for every $500 of loan amount. On a $350,000 loan, that's $1,050 showing up on your closing disclosure as a line item most buyers have never heard of. It's separate from the transfer tax, separate from title insurance, and separate from recording fees. Here's what it is, how it's calculated, who actually owes it, and what the July 2025 law change means if you're using short-term financing.

Thinking about buying your first home in Atlanta? Stop picking neighborhoods based on what you can afford on paper. As a native Atlantan who's lived everywhere from East Point to North Fulton to intown, I'll walk you through the 2026 market reality, budget expectations for every area, and the biggest mistake first-time buyers make. Let's figure out where you actually want to live—not just where you can buy.

Atlanta’s rapid data center expansion is driving up housing demand, increasing home prices, and reshaping neighborhoods across Metro Atlanta. As major tech companies invest in the region, buyers and sellers must navigate a shifting real estate market impacted by new job growth and rising property values. With city leaders balancing tech development and community needs, now is the time to explore your options. Thinking about buying or selling in Atlanta? Contact Kristen Johnson Real Estate today for expert guidance in this competitive market!