Renter becomes first-time homeowner with Georgia Dream

Our Georgia Dream program provides down payment assistance for first-time home buyers. In our Keys to Success series, we’ve asked residents from all across Georgia to share how they were able to accomplish their goal of securing the keys to their success and becoming homeowners!

When Decatur resident DeCosmon Shorter’s lease was coming to an end, he decided to explore his options for buying a house. With the rent prices as high as $1,200 for a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment, Shorter knew homeownership was the logical option for him.

He learned about Georgia Dream through his Realtor and lender and said the experience was great: “I was able to actually learn a lot about what you all have to offer, and the home-buying process.”

Shorter received $15,000 in assistance for his down payment and closing costs and said he wouldn’t have been able to buy a house without it.

What advice does he offer for others interested in applying for Georgia Dream?

“Take the opportunity, if granted, for assistance,” Shorter said. “Be aware of what you are doing, and be aware of what the program can do for you.”