It’s the #1 question buyers ask—and the one that can feel the most overwhelming.
You’ve crunched the numbers on rent, peeked at home prices online, maybe even plugged your income into a mortgage calculator. But none of that tells you what you personally can afford in Augusta’s 2025 housing market.
Let’s fix that.
Start with the 28/36 Rule
Most lenders use a simple formula:
- No more than 28% of your gross monthly income on housing
- No more than 36% total debt (including credit cards, car loans, student loans, etc.)
Here’s how that breaks down:
| Monthly Income | Max Housing Budget (28%) |
|---|---|
| $4,000 | $1,120 |
| $5,500 | $1,540 |
| $6,500 | $1,820 |
| $8,000 | $2,240 |
That number needs to cover:
- Mortgage (principal + interest)
- Property taxes
- Homeowner’s insurance
- HOA (if applicable)
What That Buys You in Augusta in 2025
Depending on your credit score and down payment, here’s what your monthly budget could afford in Augusta:
- $1,200/mo → ~$170,000 home
- $1,600/mo → ~$225,000 home
- $2,000/mo → ~$280,000 home
Neighborhoods like Hephzibah, South Augusta, and Grovetown offer great starter options under $250K—many with 3 beds, 2 baths, and even fenced yards.
How Much Down Payment Do You Need?
Not as much as you might think. Here’s what buyers are actually putting down in 2025:
| Loan Type | Min. Down Payment | Who It’s For |
|---|---|---|
| FHA | 3.5% | First-time buyers, lower credit |
| VA | 0% | Active duty, veterans |
| Conventional | 3–5% | Buyers with solid credit |
| USDA | 0% | Rural buyers (parts of Columbia & Burke County qualify!) |
Don’t Forget the Extras
- Closing costs (2–5% of home price)
- Home inspection
- Appraisal
- Moving costs
- Emergency fund (just in case)
A good local lender can give you an accurate estimate before you start touring homes.
Affordability Tip: Get Pre-Approved Early
A pre-approval letter shows sellers you’re serious—and helps you avoid heartbreak by looking only at homes that fit your true budget.
Some buyers fall in love with a $275K home only to learn they qualify for $225K. Don’t let that be you.
What Augusta Buyers Are Doing in 2025
Most first-time buyers in the area are:
- Combining FHA loans with down payment assistance programs
- Shopping in emerging neighborhoods with growth potential
- Setting realistic budgets that include room for repairs, upgrades, and future expenses
Want to Know What You Can Afford?
Let’s take the guesswork out of it. I’ll help you compare homes across neighborhoods and loan types—so you know your monthly payment before you fall in love with a house.