Richmond Hill Home Buyer Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Richmond Hill Home Buyer Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to Buy a Home in Richmond Hill, Georgia

Buying a home in Richmond Hill is easier than you may think!  Here are the most frequently asked questions by our clients on buying a home in Richmond Hill, Georgia with a Realtor®.

 

Lender Pre-Qualification

What's the first step in buying a home in Richmond Hill?

The first step in buying a home in Richmond Hill is to get pre-qualified for a home loan with a mortgage lender. 

 

Why should I get pre-qualified?

Once pre-qualified you'll know how much home you can afford, and your monthly mortgage payment, including property taxes and homeowner's insurance.  This will allow you to begin your Richmond Hill home search with confidence! Your lender will also help you determine which loan program is right for you, such as:

  • Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) loan
  • Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan
  • U.S  Department of Agriculture (USDA) loan
  • Conventional loan

 

Why do I need a lender pre-qualification letter?

Once you find the perfect Richmond Hill home, your lender pre-qualification letter is included with your purchase offer to inform the seller that you're qualified and ready to purchase the home. 

 

Closing Costs

What are closing costs?

Closing costs are those associated with the purchase of your Richmond Hill home.  They include items such as the home appraisal, property taxes, homeowner's insurance, lender fees, closing attorney fees, state and local taxes, etc.  Your lender will breakdown and explain costs in your closing disclosure.

 

How much are closing costs?

The amount depends on the sales price of the home, Richmond Hill property taxes, home insurance, etc.  Your mortgage lender can estimate closing costs for the home you're interested in.

 

Who pays closing costs?

Closing costs are paid by the home Buyer.  However, Buyers can sometimes negotiate a contribution at closing from the seller.  

 

Earnest Money

What is earnest money?

Earnest money is offered by Buyers as good faith of their intention to purchase the home.  Although it's not a legal requirement in Georgia, it's common practice.

 

How much earnest money will I need?

There is no set amount for earnest money.  It can be whatever amount both Buyer and seller agree to. 

 

What happens to my earnest money when I purchase the home?

Earnest money is applied to Buyer closing costs.

 

What happens to my earnest money if I don't purchase the home?

If home Buyers terminate the purchase agreement during the due diligence option period, financing contingency period, or appraisal contingency period, their earnest money is refunded.

 

Due Diligence Period

What is the due diligence period?

This option period is the home Buyer's opportunity to examine the home, assess the home's condition, and decide whether or not to proceed with the purchase.

 

How long is the due diligence period?

The due diligence period can be any number of days agreed to by Buyer and seller.  

 

What happens during the due diligence period?

We strongly recommend that Buyers hire an experienced Richmond Hill home inspector to examine the home and provide a written assessment of the home's condition.  Additionally, the Buyer should personally inspect the home and investigate any concerns.

 

What if I have concerns about the home during the due diligence period?

Home Buyers have the option to negotiate concerns with the seller, including home repairs or other seller concessions.

 

Can I cancel during the due diligence period?

This is the Buyer's option period.  Home Buyers have the right to unilaterally terminate during the due diligence period, without penalty. Earnest money is refunded to the Buyer.

 

Home Inspection

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is a limited visual inspection & general assessment of the home's condition.  The home inspector will provide an opinion on the home, including potential concerns, in the form of a written report.  Home Buyers can utilize the report as a tool to better understand the condition of the home. Additionally, Buyers should personally inspect the home and investigate any concerns. 

We strongly recommend the home inspection be completed during the due diligence period, allowing the opportunity to negotiate repairs, additional concessions from the seller, or unilaterally terminate the purchase agreement.

 

Who orders the home inspection?

The home inspection is ordered and paid for by the home Buyer during the due diligence option period.  

 

How can I find the right home inspector?

Selecting the right inspector is key. Buyers should choose a qualified and experienced home inspector. We can also recommend competent and trusted Richmond Hill home inspectors. 

 

Financing Contingency Period

What is the financing contingency period?

If home Buyers are turned down for a loan by their lender, they can terminate during this period by providing a loan denial letter to the seller.  Earnest money is refunded to the Buyer. 

The Buyer's rights under the amendatory clause exist even after the expiration of the financing contingency period for VA & FHA loans.

 

Home Appraisal

What is a home appraisal?

A home appraisal is a standardized third-party assessment of the home's value.  The appraiser independently determines the reasonable or fair market value of the home, ensuring that Buyers don't pay more than the home is worth and lenders don't lend more than the home is worth.

 

Who orders the home appraisal?

The home appraisal is ordered by the mortgage lender, and should be completed within the appraisal contingency period for both United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Conventional loans.  

 

Appraisal Contingency Period

What is the appraisal contingency period?

If the home's appraised value is less than the purchase price, home Buyers have options during the appraisal contingency period for USDA & Conventional loans:

Negotiate the Price. Buyer can attempt to renegotiate the lower purchase price with the seller.

Pay the Difference.  Buyer can chose to pay the difference in cash, at the closing.

Terminate. Buyer can terminate the purchase agreement, without penalty.  Earnest money is refunded to the Buyer.

 

The appraisal contingency period does not apply to VA & FHA loans because the amendatory clause prevents Buyers from being compelled to pay more than the appraised value of the home.

 

VA Amendatory Clause

What is the VA loan amendatory clause?

When Buyers choose to finance their home purchase with a VA loan, a qualified appraiser determines the home's reasonable value by completing a Veterans Administration (VA) appraisal.

The home Buyer's loan amount cannot exceed the VA appraised value. If the loan amount does exceed the appraised value, Buyers have options:

Negotiate the Price. Buyer can attempt to renegotiate the lower purchase price with the seller.

Pay the Difference.  Buyer can chose to pay the difference in cash, at the closing.

Terminate. Buyer can terminate the purchase agreement, without penalty.  Earnest money is refunded to the Buyer.

 

FHA Amendatory Clause

What is the FHA loan amendatory clause?

When Buyers choose to finance their home purchase with an FHA loan, a qualified appraiser determines the home's reasonable value by completing a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) appraisal.

The home Buyer's loan amount cannot exceed the FHA appraised value. If the loan amount does exceed the appraised value, Buyers have options:

Negotiate the Price. Buyer can attempt to renegotiate the lower purchase price with the seller.

Pay the Difference.  Buyer can chose to pay the difference in cash, at the closing.

Terminate. Buyer can terminate the purchase agreement, without penalty.  Earnest money is refunded to the Buyer.

 

Buyer Agreements

What is a buyer agreement?

A written agreement is required by Georgia state law when a real estate broker has a client relationship with the home buyer and by the National Association of Realtors® when working with home Buyers prior to touring a home (in-person or virtually).

 

What is an exclusive buyer brokerage agreement?

It's simply a written agreement between the home Buyer and broker which establishes a confidential client relationship.  The Georgia Realtors® Exclusive Buyer Brokerage Engagement Agreement permits the Buyer's broker to act exclusively on the Buyer's behalf in locating, negotiating the purchase of real property, and completing the purchase offer for the Buyer's review and approval.

 

Richmond Hill Homes

Homes by Price in Richmond Hill

Homes for sale under $200k in Richmond Hill GA
Homes for sale under $250k in Richmond Hill GA
Homes for sale under $275k in Richmond Hill GA
Homes for sale under $300k in Richmond Hill GA
Homes for sale under $350k in Richmond Hill GA
Homes for sale under $400k in Richmond Hill GA

 

Richmond Hill Realtors

Experienced and highly-rated Richmond Hill Realtors® are here to answer all your home buying questions. Contact us today and start your home search to find the Richmond Hill home that's right for you.

💬   Text Message Us     📞   Call 912-289-3077

Richmond Hill Homes for Sale

$449,900
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ SA361373 MLS
Richmond Place community all brick home. 5 star pool and club house. Formal living room, formal dining room, large majestic foyer, great room open to kitchen, eat-in kitchen breakfast area and french doors to expansive outdoor fenced yard. Upstairs living room loft is larger than most other homes and provides space enough for game room or theatre room and adjoins the 4 bedrooms, jack and jill baths and a main bedroom with owners loft and spa style bathroom with two vanity areas, walk-in shower, and large walk-in closets. Richmond Place Neighborhood includes pool, clubhouse, tennis courts, playground and ball field. Conveniently located in Richmond Place with easy access to Ft. Stewart, Gulfstream, Pooler, Savannah and Hunter Army Air Force Base. This is one of Richmond Hills most sought after communities because of the walking distance to Kroger as well as all the restaurants at the entrance to the community.

79 Byron Dr, Richmond Hill

Listing courtesy of Integrity Real Estate LLC.

$399,900
5 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ SA361351 MLS
Welcome to 14 Shady Hill Circle, nestled in the established Mainstreet neighborhood of Richmond Hill. With charming curb appeal, a beautiful mature shade tree, and an inviting front entrance, this spacious 5-bedroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and style. Step inside to discover a custom drop zone that makes everyday organization a breeze. To the right of the foyer, a bright formal dining room is ready for holiday gatherings and dinner parties, while to the left, a dedicated office with double doors provides the ideal space to work from home or enjoy a quiet retreat. The heart of the home is the expansive living room featuring a cozy fireplace and plenty of room to gather. Tucked just off the living area is a one-of-a-kind "dog room" complete with its own sliding door, creating the perfect space for your four-legged family members. The beautifully updated kitchen offers modern finishes, ample cabinetry, and a sunny breakfast nook that's perfect for casual meals or your morning coffee. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite provides a relaxing escape with a large walk-in closet and an ensuite bathroom featuring dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a separate shower. Four additional generously sized bedrooms offer flexibility for family, guests, hobbies, or a home gym, with one currently serving as a second living area or media room. A full bathroom conveniently serves the additional bedrooms. Step outside to enjoy the sizeable back deck overlooking a private, fenced backyard—an ideal setting for grilling, entertaining, or simply relaxing outdoors. Located in the heart of Richmond Hill, this home is walking distance from top-rated Bryan County schools, short drive to local shopping and dining, with an easy commute to Fort Stewart, Hunter Army Airfield, Savannah, and I-95. Offering abundant living space, thoughtful updates, and a highly desirable location, this is a home you won't want to miss.

14 Shady Hill Cir, Richmond Hill

Listing courtesy of eXp Realty LLC.

$649,999
6 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 10813644 MLS
Welcome to 505 Dalcross Drive-where space, comfort, and flexibility come together in one of Richmond Hill's most desirable communities. From the moment you arrive, you'll notice this isn't just another five-bedroom home. Situated on over half an acre, this beautifully maintained property offers the rare combination of generous living space, a spacious detached garage, and endless possibilities for the way you live. Whether you're looking for room to entertain, a workshop for your hobbies, space for multiple vehicles, a home gym, or future guest accommodations, this home is designed to adapt to your lifestyle. Inside, you'll find thoughtfully designed living areas filled with natural light, spacious bedrooms, and an inviting layout that's perfect for both everyday living and hosting family and friends. Step outside to enjoy the privacy of your backyard oasis while still being just minutes from top-rated Richmond Hill schools, shopping, dining, and an easy commute to Savannah, Hunter Army Airfield, and Fort Stewart. Homes offering this much versatility, storage, and room to grow are hard to find. Come experience everything 505 Dalcross Drive has to offer-you may just find the forever home you've been searching for.

505 Dalcross Drive, Richmond Hill

Listing courtesy of Realty One Group Inclusion.

$410,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ SA361322 MLS
Looking for purchase in Richmond Hill? This could be the home you've been waiting for! This beautiful home features luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring throughout the main level and an abundance of natural light. The open-concept living room flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining area, creating the perfect space for everyday living and entertaining. Elegant, coffered ceilings add character and charm to the living room. The main floor also offers a convenient half bath for guests and a separate laundry room. Upstairs, you'll find a versatile loft that's perfect for a home office, playroom, or additional living space. Two spacious secondary bedrooms share a full bathroom, while the oversized primary suite boasts two walk-in closets and an en-suite bathroom complete with a double vanity, relaxing garden tub, and separate shower. Step outside to enjoy the large, fenced backyard—ideal for entertaining, pets, or simply relaxing. A two-car garage provides plenty of parking and additional storage. Conveniently located in desirable Richmond Hill, this home offers comfort, space, and style all in one!

116 Whitaker Way N, Richmond Hill

Listing courtesy of Compass Realty & Property Mgt.

$989,400
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ SA361141 MLS
Welcome to refined Lowcountry living in Waterways, a premier master-planned community known for its resort style amenities, marina, trails, dining, and vibrant coastal lifestyle. Perfectly positioned on a spacious corner lot across from breathtaking marsh and river views leading to the intercoastal waterway. This custom home features a grand double wood entry into a bright open floor plan with custom finishes throughout. The living room offers built-in bookcases, a custom mantel, and brick fireplace. The chef’s kitchen impresses with quartz countertops, a custom hood vent, a separate gas cooktop, and a large pantry with wood shelving. The owner’s suite is conveniently on the main level with private screened lanai access. The spa-like ensuite includes an oversized frameless shower, soaking tub, and generous walk-in closets. Outdoor living shines with a sprawling screened porch featuring a second brick fireplace and custom mantel. Upstairs offers three spacious bedrooms, a bonus room, and plenty of storage. Combining elegant design, thoughtful functionality, and the unmatched Waterways lifestyle, this is luxury coastal living at its finest. The home even comes equipped with a 24KW whole house generator and water softener! Don't walk but run to see this stunning view and immaculately maintained custom build by Fabre Homes in Waterways.

112 Cubbage Island Dr, Richmond Hill

Listing courtesy of CH Mathews LLC.

$554,400
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ SA361143 MLS
Nature at your doorstep! Welcome to this impeccably maintained, single-level home with a 3-car garage, perfectly positioned near the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly sought-after Waterways community. Surrounded by native palmettos, hardwoods, and pines, this private homesite offers the perfect blend of Lowcountry beauty and everyday comfort. A bright, welcoming foyer opens to a versatile flex room with glass French doors, ideal for a home office or study. The open-concept living area centers around a stunning gourmet kitchen featuring eat-in dining, abundant cabinetry, a large quartz island, separate cooktop with stainless vent hood, wall oven/convection microwave combo, full KitchenAid appliance package, and a walk-in pantry with custom wood shelving. Triple sliding glass doors seamlessly connect the living space to a private screened lanai, creating the perfect setting for entertaining or relaxing while enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings. The spacious owner's suite features a designer accent wall, an oversized tiled walk-in shower, and a custom wood-shelved walk-in closet. Two generously sized guest bedrooms and a full bath are thoughtfully located on the opposite side of the home for added privacy. The laundry room is conveniently situated just off the owner's entry, while luxury vinyl plank flooring flows throughout, giving the home a fresh, model-like feel. Outside, the beautifully maintained backyard provides exceptional privacy and room to enjoy the outdoors. Experience the Waterways lifestyle with a full-service marina, resort-style pools, fitness center, miles of nature trails, kayaking, fishing, shopping, dining, year-round community events, and more. Where nature and an active lifestyle come together, you'll love calling this home.

795 Waterways Pkwy S, Richmond Hill

Listing courtesy of CH Mathews LLC.

$3,795,000
4 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ SA361116 MLS
Welcome to an exceptional custom-built estate by respected local builder Tony Reardon, completed in 2020 and meticulously maintained by its original owners. Nestled within the gates of The Ford Field & River Club — a private, 1,800-acre residential community set along the Ogeechee River, just 20 minutes from historic Savannah — residents enjoy an award-winning Pete Dye championship golf course and a deep water marina, along with a true Lowcountry lifestyle. Thoughtful interior design shines throughout, from the gorgeous reclaimed hardwood floors to the abundant storage found in every corner of the home. An open-concept chef's kitchen with a large center island flows into the dining and family rooms, opening directly to a spacious screened porch featuring a tongue-and-groove wood ceiling, two seating areas, and picturesque views of Lake Sterling. The main-level owner's suite is complemented by two additional half baths on the main floor. Cozy up by the gas fireplace in the living room, or the wood-burning fireplace on the screened porch. Upstairs, an entire second floor is dedicated to family living, complete with game tables and a bonus room — flexible space to gather, play, or simply spread out. A charming 1-bedroom, 1-bath guest cottage with a full kitchen offers the perfect retreat for visitors or extended family, complete with privacy and comfort of its own. Outside, enjoy the gas fire pit by the saltwater pool with heating/cooling and an electric pool cover, an outdoor shower, and ARB-approved plans for a hobby hut. The four-bay garage includes a golf cart bay and an extra-tall bay for an RV or camper van. Additional highlights: a whole-house generator (covering the cottage too), whole-house water treatment, well-fed irrigation, landscape lighting, and a full security system. A rare opportunity in one of coastal Georgia's most exclusive communities. Schedule your private showing today.

416 Spanish Moss Ln, Richmond Hill

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Coastal Area P.

$475,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ SA361137 MLS
Welcome to 40 Washington Way in the sought-after Waterways community, where peaceful natural surroundings meet everyday luxury. This beautifully maintained single-story home enjoys a rare setting bordered by wooded preservation in both the front and rear, offering exceptional privacy. A charming rocking-chair front porch with brick accents and double-door entry welcomes you into an open-concept floor plan featuring neutral finishes and elegant tray ceilings in the living room and spacious owner's suite. The chef-inspired kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, a farmhouse sink, custom wood range hood, and a sunny bay-window breakfast area. The owner's retreat offers bay windows with tranquil wooded views, creating the perfect place to unwind. Triple sliding doors open to a screened porch overlooking the expansive backyard, ideal for relaxing or entertaining. Additional highlights include a kayak storage system in the oversized two-car garage. Conveniently located just a short stroll to Lakewood Pavilion and only minutes by golf cart to the marina, fitness center, pools, trails, dog park, and other resort-style amenities. Experience the lifestyle that makes Waterways one of Coastal Georgia's premier communities.

40 Washington Way, Richmond Hill

Listing courtesy of CH Mathews LLC.

$489,400
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ SA361158 MLS
Welcome to Lowcountry living in the award-winning Waterways community! This thoughtfully designed 4BR/3.5BA home features a desirable open-concept floor plan with the owner’s suite on the main level, a private office/flex room, and upscale finishes throughout. The chef’s kitchen showcases quartz countertops, a large island, white subway tile backsplash, and opens to a spacious living room with a custom accent wall. Relax on the screened porch overlooking the private backyard. The owner’s suite offers a tray ceiling, spa-like bath, and custom closet system. Upstairs you’ll find a generous loft, three additional bedrooms—including a private en suite—plus a shared bath, walk-in storage, and attic access. Enjoy Waterways’ unmatched lifestyle with miles of trails, lagoons, marina, pools, fitness center, parks, community events, dining, and more.

290 Monterey Loop Dr, Richmond Hill

Listing courtesy of CH Mathews LLC.

$818,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ SA361138 MLS
$10,000 BUYER INCENTIVE! Sellers are offering up to $10,000 toward a rate buy-down or closing costs with an accepted offer by August 15, 2026. Experience luxury Lowcountry living in The Enclave at Waterways. Situated on a private 0.41-acre cul-de-sac lot overlooking a wooded preserve, this like-new custom 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home blends timeless design with modern comfort. A welcoming wraparound front porch sets the stage for relaxed coastal living. Inside, you'll find a grand foyer, elegant dining room with designer lighting and custom trim, and an open-concept living space highlighted by a coffered ceiling with warm wood accents. The gourmet kitchen features a large quartz island, porcelain farmhouse sink, and premium GE Café appliances, making it ideal for entertaining. The main-level owner's suite offers a spa-inspired bath with a soaking tub, frameless glass shower, double vanities, and a spacious walk-in closet. Upstairs includes three guest bedrooms, a versatile loft, a dual-vanity bath, and abundant walk-in attic storage. Enjoy year-round outdoor living on the screened porch and custom paver patio with firepit overlooking the fully fenced backyard and peaceful wooded preserve. Additional upgrades include plantation shutters, spray foam insulation, Low-E windows, gutters, enhanced landscaping, and an oversized two-car garage. Move-in ready and impeccably maintained, this exceptional home offers the perfect blend of privacy, luxury, and the unmatched Waterways lifestyle with miles of nature trails, resort-style amenities, marina access, and coastal recreation. Directions

586 Enclave Dr, Richmond Hill

Listing courtesy of CH Mathews LLC.

$930,000
5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ SA360787 MLS
Incredible wooded 5-acre estate near Richmond Hill’s new state of the art high school and elementary school. No HOA. This well-appointed 5-bedroom home features rich hard wood flooring, elegant wainscoting, crown molding and a formal dining room with coffered ceilings just off the spacious entry foyer. An open fireside family room flows seamlessly into the kitchen for family gatherings featuring a spacious island and bright eat-in breakfast area. Main level luxury primary suite with sitting area opens to enclosed patio and offers a spacious spa-like bath with double vanities and walk in closet. Additional downstairs guest bedroom with bath, laundry room with mudroom just off garage. Upstairs features an office cove just off the stair landing, massive family room with fireplace, a second screened in porch with wooded views. Three additional bedrooms and two baths upstairs. Complete with private well, fire pit and plenty of outdoor space, this property offers unparalleled privacy and convenience. Set up your own motocross track, add a pool and you have your own paradise. Short drive to Savannah, Pooler and Brunswick. Man cave available for purchase.

515 Bodaford Rd, Richmond Hill

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Coastal Area P.

$269,900
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ SA361165 MLS
*2.5% ASSUMABLE MORTGAGE + SELLER PAID HOA DUES FOR 2026 + NEW ROOF (2023)!* Opportunities like this don't come along often! *PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS COMING SOON! Welcome to this beautifully maintained home, located in one of the area's most convenient communities, where you'll enjoy amenities including a pool, fitness center, playground, and clubhouse. Even better, the HOA handles exterior lawn maintenance and pressure washing, giving you more time to enjoy life and less time worrying about upkeep. Inside, you'll find a fresh, move-in-ready interior featuring newly painted walls and new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the main living areas. The kitchen is both stylish and functional with granite countertops, a tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and plenty of workspace for entertaining. **Best of all, every appliance conveys—including the washer and dryer—making your move even easier.** The spacious primary suite offers a peaceful retreat with elegant tray ceilings, an oversized soaking tub, double vanity, and a large walk-in closet. Thoughtful upgrades throughout the home include smart thermostats, additional insulation between adjoining walls for enhanced privacy and sound reduction, and an adorable drop zone near the front entry complete with a built-in bench, storage, and hooks to keep everyday essentials organized. Step outside to enjoy your fully fenced backyard, where mature trees and shrubs create a private setting that's perfect for relaxing, grilling, or letting pets play. Additional updates include a new roof in 2023 and new carpeting installed in 2022, professionally cleaned and ready for the next owner. With exceptional incentives, low-maintenance living, modern updates, and an unbeatable location, this home offers incredible value. Schedule your private showing today before this opportunity is gone! Ask your agent about the incredible 2.5% assumable mortgage it could save you tons compared to today's interest rates!

295 Cantle Dr, Richmond Hill

Listing courtesy of eXp Realty LLC.

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