Moving to North Atlanta, in three calm steps.

Pick your area

Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Peachtree Corners, Milton.

Start with my local's guide to Dunwoody. Each area has its own feel. We will narrow it to the two or three that fit your life.

Source: The Atlanta Region, Atlanta Regional Commission

Check schools by address

School zones follow the exact address, not the ZIP code or city name.

Look up each home you like with its district:

• Fulton
• DeKalb
• Gwinnett
• Cobb

Which district is it? That depends on the address. I will check every home with you.

Test the commute

GA-400 and I-285 can change your whole day. Try your real drive at your real hours.

MARTA rail serves Sandy Springs and Dunwoody on the Red Line, and Brookhaven, Chamblee and Doraville on the Gold Line.

Source: GDOT live traffic, 511GA · Georgia Commute Options

Set your timing

Start with the date you need your keys, then work backward.

Tell me your move date and we will build a calm schedule around it.

Get pre-approved

A preapproval letter is a lender saying they are tentatively willing to lend up to a set amount. Sellers often ask for one.

Letters can expire, typically in 30 to 60 days, so time it for when you are shopping seriously.

Source: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Tour from anywhere

Far away? We start with video tours and clear updates after each one.

I moved countries myself, so I know how much there is to figure out from a distance.

Driver’s license

Georgia has no DMV. The Department of Driver Services (DDS) issues your Georgia license.

Submit the online form first, then visit a DDS center. You will need proof of your Georgia address.

Coming from another country? The steps differ. I will point you to the right page.

Source: Georgia DDS · Georgia.gov

Vehicle registration

Register at your county tag office. Get your Georgia license first, because the tag office asks for it.

Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett and Cobb counties also require an emissions inspection before you register.

Source: Georgia Department of Revenue · County tag offices

Homestead exemption

Once you own the home and live in it, apply with your county tax commissioner or tax assessor.

Georgia now also lets you file through the end of your 45-day assessment appeal window. Check with your county.

Source: Georgia Department of Revenue