Three Georgia Cities Where an MLO Can Thrive

Columbus: Military-Driven Stability

Columbus combines the charm of a mid-sized city with the economic stability provided by Fort Benning, one of the largest military installations in the United States. This military presence creates a consistent flow of homebuyers with reliable income and access to VA loans.

The city’s affordable housing market, with median home prices below the national average, makes it accessible to first-time homebuyers and military families. Downtown Columbus has undergone significant revitalization in recent years, attracting young professionals seeking urban amenities at Georgia prices.

For MLOs, Columbus offers a balanced market with predictable turnover due to military relocations, creating opportunities for loan officers who understand the nuances of VA lending and military benefits.

Macon: Affordability Meets Growth

Situated at the geographic heart of Georgia, Macon serves as a transportation hub with growing economic diversity. The city’s remarkably affordable housing market makes homeownership attainable for a wide range of buyers, creating opportunities for MLOs to serve first-time homebuyers and those seeking investment properties.

Macon’s historic districts feature beautiful Victorian architecture and ongoing preservation efforts, attracting buyers interested in historic properties. The presence of Mercer University and Robins Air Force Base provides employment stability while contributing to housing demand.

For mortgage professionals, Macon’s combination of affordability and steady job growth creates an environment where clients can more easily qualify for loans, particularly with FHA and other first-time homebuyer programs.

Savannah: Tourism-Driven Luxury and Investment

Savannah’s stunning historic district, coastal location, and thriving tourism industry make it a unique market for MLOs specializing in higher-end properties and investment loans. The city’s world-renowned charm attracts wealthy retirees, second-home buyers, and investors looking to capitalize on the short-term rental market.

The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) continues to expand its footprint throughout the city, creating demand for both student housing and faculty residences. Meanwhile, the Port of Savannah provides economic stability with high-paying jobs that support homeownership.

For loan officers, Savannah offers opportunities to work with jumbo loans, investment property financing, and vacation home mortgages – often at higher loan amounts than other Georgia markets outside Atlanta.

Building an MLO Business in These Markets

Across these three cities, successful MLOs can leverage several strategies:

• Develop relationships with local real estate professionals who understand each market’s unique dynamics
• Familiarize yourself with special loan programs relevant to each city’s demographic needs
• Establish connections with major employers and relocation specialists
• Create marketing that speaks to the specific advantages of homeownership in each location

While Atlanta and Augusta may capture most of Georgia’s mortgage volume, Columbus, Macon, and Savannah offer MLOs the chance to become recognized experts in markets with less competition but plenty of opportunity.

The savvy mortgage professional who takes the time to understand these unique Georgia cities can build a thriving business by providing specialized knowledge and excellent service to homebuyers in these distinctive markets.