Buying a home is one of the largest financial decisions most people will ever make. Whether you’re purchasing your very first home in Dallas, relocating to Houston, upgrading in Frisco, investing in Austin, or retiring in San Antonio, the process can feel overwhelming without the right guidance.

The internet is filled with articles about buying a home, but many leave out the practical realities of purchasing real estate in Texas. Every state has different contracts, disclosure requirements, financing practices, tax considerations, and closing procedures. Advice written for buyers in California, Florida, or New York often doesn’t apply here.

This guide was created specifically for Texas buyers. It explains not only what happens during a home purchase, but why each step matters and how to make informed decisions throughout the process.

Why Buying a Home in Texas Is Unique

Texas has one of the most active real estate markets in the country. From rapidly growing suburbs around Dallas-Fort Worth to established neighborhoods in Houston and booming communities near Austin and San Antonio, buyers have access to a wide variety of housing options.

However, Texas also has characteristics that make buying here different from many other states.

These include:

Contracts promulgated by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC)
The use of title companies instead of attorneys for most residential closings
An Option Period unique to Texas transactions
Higher property taxes than many other states
Strong homestead protections
Diverse local markets with varying inventory and pricing trends

Understanding these differences before making an offer can help you avoid surprises later in the transaction.

Is 2026 a Good Time to Buy a Home in Texas?

This is one of the most common questions buyers ask, and the answer depends on your personal goals rather than trying to perfectly time the market.

Consider these factors:

Question	If Yes	If No
Stable employment?	Buying may make sense	Wait until income stabilizes
Emergency savings?	Better prepared	Build reserves first
Planning to stay 3–5 years or more?	Buying often provides long-term value	Renting may be preferable
Comfortable with monthly payment?	Proceed confidently	Reevaluate your budget
Ready for homeownership responsibilities?	Buying may be appropriate	Continue preparing

Rather than asking whether it’s the “perfect” time to buy, ask whether it’s the right time for your financial situation and long-term plans.

Step 1: Determine Your Budget

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is shopping based on the maximum amount a lender approves instead of determining what payment comfortably fits their lifestyle.

Your monthly housing payment may include:

Principal
Interest
Property taxes
Homeowners insurance
Mortgage insurance (if applicable)
HOA dues
Flood insurance (if required)

Many buyers focus only on the mortgage payment and overlook the additional costs that come with owning a home.

A realistic budget should leave room for:

Utilities
Maintenance
Unexpected repairs
Savings
Retirement contributions
Lifestyle expenses

Buying at the top of your approval range isn’t always the best financial decision.

Step 2: Improve Your Financial Position

Preparing before applying for a mortgage can improve both your approval odds and the terms of your loan.

Consider taking these steps:

Review Your Credit

Check your credit reports for inaccuracies, pay bills on time, and avoid opening unnecessary new accounts.

Reduce Debt

Lowering credit card balances and paying down high-interest debt may improve your debt-to-income ratio.

Build Savings

Beyond your down payment, you’ll also need funds for:

Earnest money
Option fee
Closing costs
Moving expenses
Utility deposits
Initial repairs or furnishings

Having additional cash reserves provides flexibility during the buying process.

Avoid Major Financial Changes

Until after closing, avoid:

Financing vehicles
Opening new credit cards
Changing jobs without discussing it with your lender
Making large unexplained deposits into your bank accounts

These actions can delay or even jeopardize your mortgage approval.

Step 3: Understand Your Down Payment Options

Contrary to popular belief, you do not always need a 20% down payment to buy a home.

Depending on the loan program, buyers may qualify with significantly less.

Loan Type	Typical Minimum Down Payment
Conventional	3%
FHA	3.5%
VA	0% (eligible borrowers)
USDA	0% (eligible rural areas)

The right loan depends on your financial profile, credit history, military eligibility, and long-term goals rather than simply choosing the lowest down payment.

Step 4: Choose Representation Before Looking at Homes

Many buyers begin browsing online listings long before speaking with a real estate professional. While researching neighborhoods and pricing is helpful, viewing homes without a strategy can create unnecessary challenges.

A REALTOR® does far more than unlock doors. Professional representation can help you:

Evaluate market value
Analyze comparable sales
Identify potential issues before making an offer
Coordinate inspections and appraisals
Explain contract terms
Negotiate repairs and concessions
Manage deadlines
Communicate with lenders and title companies
Help avoid costly mistakes that may not be obvious to first-time buyers

The right representation is about protecting your interests throughout the transaction—not just finding a property.

What You Can Expect from Kory White Real Estate Group

Every client and every transaction is different, but our approach is consistent: education first, strategy second, and advocacy throughout the process.

That means taking the time to explain your options, preparing you for each stage of the transaction, and helping you make informed decisions rather than pressuring you into a purchase. Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating across Texas, or investing in real estate, our role is to help you understand not only what you’re signing, but why each decision matters.

Before writing an offer, we discuss your goals, financing, budget, preferred timeline, and any concerns you may have. Throughout the transaction, we coordinate with your lender, title company, inspectors, and the other party to help keep the process moving smoothly while protecting your interests at every step.

Step 5: Get Pre-Approved Before You Start Shopping

One of the most important steps in the home-buying process happens before you schedule your first showing.

A mortgage pre-approval gives you a clear understanding of what you can comfortably afford, demonstrates to sellers that you’re a serious buyer, and allows you to move quickly when the right property becomes available.

In competitive Texas markets such as Frisco, Katy, Georgetown, The Woodlands, and Mansfield, homes can receive multiple offers within days—or even hours. Waiting until after you find the perfect home to begin the financing process can put you at a significant disadvantage.

What Is a Mortgage Pre-Approval?

A pre-approval is a lender’s conditional commitment stating the maximum loan amount you may qualify for based on an initial review of your financial profile.

Unlike a simple prequalification, a pre-approval typically involves reviewing:

Income
Employment history
Credit reports and scores
Bank statements
Assets
Existing debts
Tax returns (when applicable)
Identification documents

While a pre-approval is not a final loan approval, it provides a much stronger indication of your purchasing power.

Prequalification vs. Pre-Approval

Feature	Prequalification	Pre-Approval
Credit Review	Usually No	Yes
Income Verified	Usually No	Yes
Asset Review	Usually No	Yes
Seller Confidence	Low	High
Recommended Before Shopping	No	Yes

Many sellers will not seriously consider an offer without a pre-approval letter.

Documents You’ll Typically Need

Preparing these documents ahead of time can help streamline the process.

Employees

Government-issued ID
Recent pay stubs
W-2s
Bank statements
Retirement account statements
Tax returns (if requested)

Self-Employed Buyers

Additional documentation may include:

Two years of tax returns
Business tax returns
Profit and loss statements
Balance sheets
CPA documentation
Business bank statements

Self-employed borrowers often benefit from beginning the loan process earlier because additional underwriting may be required.

How Long Does Pre-Approval Take?

Many buyers can receive a pre-approval within one business day once all required documentation has been submitted.

More complex financial situations may require additional review.

How Long Is a Pre-Approval Good For?

Most pre-approvals remain valid for approximately 60 to 90 days, although requirements vary by lender.

If your home search extends beyond that timeframe, your lender may update your credit, employment, or financial documentation before issuing a refreshed approval.

Understanding Your Mortgage Options

No single loan program is ideal for every buyer.

The right choice depends on your goals, available funds, credit profile, military eligibility, and long-term plans.

Conventional Loans

Conventional financing is one of the most common options for buyers with established credit.

Advantages

Low down payment options available
Competitive interest rates
Flexible loan terms
Mortgage insurance may eventually be removed
Wide range of property types

Considerations

Generally higher credit requirements
Larger down payments may produce better pricing

Best suited for:

Buyers with strong credit
Repeat buyers
Buyers making larger down payments

FHA Loans

FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and can make homeownership more accessible.

Benefits include:

Lower minimum down payment
More flexible credit requirements
Higher debt-to-income flexibility

Potential drawbacks include:

Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)
Loan limits
Property condition requirements

VA Loans

Eligible veterans, active-duty military personnel, and certain surviving spouses may qualify for VA financing.

Advantages include:

No down payment
No monthly mortgage insurance
Competitive interest rates
Flexible underwriting

For many military families, this is one of the strongest financing options available.

USDA Loans

Certain rural and suburban areas throughout Texas qualify for USDA financing.

Benefits may include:

No down payment
Competitive rates
Reduced mortgage insurance costs

Many buyers are surprised to learn that communities outside major metropolitan areas may qualify.

Jumbo Loans

Luxury homes and higher-priced properties exceeding conforming loan limits may require jumbo financing.

These loans often involve:

Higher credit expectations
Larger reserves
Larger down payments
Additional underwriting

Choosing the Right Neighborhood

Finding the right home begins with finding the right location.

Remember:

You can renovate almost anything about a home.

You cannot relocate the property after closing.

Questions to Ask Yourself

How important is commute time?

Do I plan to stay five years or longer?

What type of neighborhood lifestyle do I want?

How important are schools?

Would I rather have:

Larger lot?
Newer construction?
Walkability?
Lower taxes?
Lower HOA fees?
Access to parks?
Short commute?

Clarifying these priorities early can save significant time during your search.

Understanding the Texas Triangle

One advantage of buying in Texas is the diversity of housing markets.

Dallas-Fort Worth

Known for:

Corporate relocation
Rapid suburban growth
Strong employment
New construction
Diverse price points

Popular communities include:

Frisco
McKinney
Prosper
Allen
Plano
Mansfield
Arlington

Houston Area

Offers:

Medical Center employment
Energy industry
Diverse architecture
Established neighborhoods
Master-planned communities

Popular cities include:

Katy
Sugar Land
Pearland
Missouri City
Conroe
The Woodlands

Austin Area

Known for:

Technology sector
Strong appreciation
Hill Country
Lifestyle communities

Popular markets include:

Round Rock
Georgetown
Leander
Cedar Park

San Antonio

Offers:

Military presence
Historic neighborhoods
Affordability
Growing suburbs

Popular areas include:

New Braunfels
Schertz
Cibolo

West Texas

Odessa and Midland continue attracting buyers connected to the energy industry while offering different pricing dynamics than the Texas Triangle.

Touring Homes Strategically

Viewing homes should be more than deciding whether you like the kitchen.

Every showing should evaluate:

Exterior

Roof condition
Drainage
Foundation movement
Landscaping
Exterior siding
Windows
Gutters

Interior

Flooring
Wall cracks
Ceiling stains
HVAC age
Water heater
Electrical panel
Plumbing fixtures

Functional Layout

Ask yourself:

Can I see myself living here?

Does the layout fit my daily routine?

Will this home work five years from now?

Does it have enough storage?

Is there room for future family changes?

Don’t Be Distracted by Cosmetic Issues

Many buyers overlook excellent homes because of:

Paint colors
Carpet
Light fixtures
Furniture
Wallpaper

These are relatively inexpensive compared to structural issues.

Instead, focus on:

Location
Floor plan
Lot
Construction quality
Major systems

Cosmetic improvements are often easier and less expensive than changing a home’s location or layout.

New Construction vs. Resale Homes

Many buyers assume purchasing directly from a builder eliminates the need for representation.

In reality, builders have professional sales representatives whose responsibility is to represent the builder’s interests—not the buyer’s.

New Construction Advantages

Modern floor plans
Energy efficiency
Builder warranties
Fewer immediate repairs
Personalization options

Potential Challenges

Construction delays
Limited negotiation flexibility
Change order costs
Higher HOA fees in some communities
Landscaping or fencing may not be included
Builder contracts often differ significantly from standard resale contracts

Having experienced representation can help buyers understand upgrade pricing, builder incentives, inspection opportunities, financing options, and contractual obligations.

Common Online Home Search Mistakes

Real estate websites provide valuable information, but they aren’t always perfectly current.

Common mistakes include:

Falling in love with homes already under contract
Assuming estimated values reflect market value
Ignoring HOA restrictions
Overlooking floodplain information
Not verifying school attendance zones
Relying solely on listing photos

Professional guidance can help verify important details before you invest time and emotion into a property.

Step 6: Making an Offer

Once you’ve found the right home, it’s time to prepare an offer.

A strong offer considers much more than price.

Components of a Texas Purchase Offer

Purchase price
Earnest money
Option fee
Financing terms
Closing date
Seller concessions
Repair requests
Included personal property
Title company
Survey considerations
Home warranty requests (when appropriate)

Every term contributes to the overall strength and attractiveness of your offer.

Negotiation Is About More Than Price

One of the biggest misconceptions in real estate is that negotiations revolve solely around the purchase price.

In reality, buyers and sellers may negotiate:

Closing costs
Interest rate buydowns
Repair credits
Home warranties
Appliances
Closing dates
Possession timelines
Option period length
Earnest money amounts
Included personal property
Survey costs

Sometimes a well-structured offer with favorable terms can outperform a higher-priced offer.

How Kory White Real Estate Group Approaches Negotiations

Our objective isn’t simply to help clients get under contract—it’s to help them reach the closing table on terms that align with their goals.

Every offer begins with a review of recent comparable sales, current market conditions, and the property’s overall position in the market. We evaluate factors such as days on market, seller motivation, competing inventory, financing type, and any unique circumstances that could influence negotiations.

Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all strategy, we tailor each offer to the situation. In some cases, that may mean presenting the strongest possible price. In others, it may involve negotiating favorable closing costs, inspection terms, possession dates, or other contract provisions that create value without unnecessarily increasing the purchase price.

Our goal is to help clients make informed decisions, avoid overpaying, and negotiate from a position of knowledge rather than emotion.

Step 7: Understanding the Texas Real Estate Contract

After your offer is accepted, the transaction becomes a legally binding agreement governed by the purchase contract.

In Texas, most residential resale transactions use contracts promulgated by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). These standardized forms establish the rights and obligations of both the buyer and seller while allowing negotiated terms to be customized for each transaction.

Although the contract is standardized, every provision matters. Deadlines, contingencies, financing terms, repairs, and closing obligations are all defined within the agreement, making it essential to understand what you’re signing before moving forward.

Key Components of a Texas Purchase Contract

While every transaction is unique, most Texas purchase contracts address:

Purchase price
Financing terms
Earnest money
Option fee
Property description
Included and excluded personal property
Title commitment
Survey
Property condition disclosures
Closing date
Prorated expenses
Default provisions
Casualty loss
Possession

Missing a contractual deadline can affect your rights under the agreement, so staying organized throughout the transaction is critical.

Earnest Money Explained

Earnest money is often misunderstood by first-time buyers.

It is not an additional fee paid to your REALTOR® or lender.

Instead, earnest money is a good-faith deposit made after the contract is executed. The funds are typically held by the title company in escrow until closing.

The purpose is to demonstrate your commitment to purchasing the property.

How Much Earnest Money Should You Expect?

There is no fixed amount required by Texas law.

The amount depends on factors such as:

Purchase price
Market conditions
Seller expectations
Financing type
Strength of competing offers

A stronger earnest money deposit can sometimes make an offer more attractive to a seller, but it should always be considered alongside the overall contract terms.

Is Earnest Money Refundable?

It can be.

Whether earnest money is refundable depends on:

The terms of your contract
Whether contractual deadlines are met
Whether contingencies are satisfied
The circumstances surrounding contract termination

This is one reason why understanding the contract timeline is so important.

The Option Period

One of the features that makes Texas real estate transactions unique is the Option Period.

The option period gives the buyer the unrestricted right to terminate the contract within an agreed-upon timeframe for any reason or no reason at all.

To obtain this right, the buyer typically pays an option fee directly to the seller.

Why Is the Option Period Important?

Think of it as your opportunity to fully investigate the property before making a final commitment.

During the option period, buyers commonly:

Schedule a general home inspection
Review seller disclosures
Obtain repair estimates
Consult specialists if needed
Evaluate neighborhood concerns
Confirm insurance availability
Assess overall suitability

If significant issues are discovered, the buyer may:

Continue with the purchase
Negotiate repairs
Request a price reduction
Request a credit at closing
Terminate the contract within the option period

Option Fee vs. Earnest Money

Option Fee	Earnest Money
Paid directly to the seller	Held by the title company
Purchases the unrestricted right to terminate during the option period	Demonstrates buyer’s commitment
Usually non-refundable	May be refundable depending on contract terms
Amount varies	Amount varies

These are separate payments serving different purposes.

The Home Inspection

A home inspection is one of the most valuable investments you can make during the buying process.

Even newly constructed homes can have defects that aren’t immediately visible.

A licensed inspector evaluates the property’s condition and provides a detailed report identifying observed issues.

What Does a Home Inspector Evaluate?

A general inspection commonly includes:

Roof
Foundation
Plumbing
Electrical systems
HVAC
Windows
Doors
Appliances
Attic
Insulation
Drainage
Structural components

The report helps buyers make informed decisions before proceeding.

What an Inspection Doesn’t Do

A standard home inspection is not a guarantee that every issue will be discovered.

Inspectors generally do not:

Predict future failures
Perform invasive testing
Inspect behind walls
Guarantee compliance with every building code
Provide engineering opinions

If concerns arise, additional specialists may be recommended.

Specialized Inspections

Depending on the property, buyers may consider additional evaluations.

Examples include:

Structural engineer
Foundation specialist
Roof inspection
Sewer scope
HVAC evaluation
Pool inspection
Septic inspection
Well inspection
Termite (Wood Destroying Insect) inspection
Mold testing
Environmental testing

Not every property requires every inspection, but understanding your options helps you evaluate risk.

Foundation Concerns in Texas

Foundation movement is relatively common in many parts of Texas due to expansive clay soils.

This does not automatically mean a home is defective.

Instead, buyers should understand:

Previous repairs
Engineering reports
Warranty information
Current movement
Drainage conditions
Moisture management

A structural engineer may be recommended when significant movement is observed.

Seller Disclosures

Texas sellers are generally required to disclose known material conditions affecting the property.

These disclosures can include information regarding:

Previous flooding
Roof repairs
Foundation work
Plumbing issues
HVAC replacements
Insurance claims
Structural repairs
Environmental conditions

Buyers should carefully review these disclosures and ask questions whenever clarification is needed.

Negotiating After the Inspection

One common misconception is that sellers are required to repair every issue identified during an inspection.

They are not.

Instead, the inspection often becomes the starting point for negotiations.

Possible outcomes include:

Seller agrees to complete repairs
Seller offers a closing credit
Seller reduces the purchase price
Buyer accepts the property as-is
Buyer terminates during the option period

The appropriate strategy depends on the severity of the findings, market conditions, and the buyer’s priorities.

Professional Recommendation

Not every issue identified in an inspection report should become a negotiation point.

Nearly every home—whether it’s five months old or fifty years old—will have inspection findings.

Focusing negotiations on health, safety, structural integrity, major mechanical systems, or high-cost repairs is often more productive than requesting corrections for minor cosmetic items.

Approaching repair negotiations strategically can improve the likelihood of reaching an agreement while preserving a positive working relationship between both parties.

The Home Appraisal

If you’re financing your purchase, your lender will typically require an appraisal.

An appraisal is not the same as a home inspection.

Instead of evaluating the condition of the home for the buyer, the appraiser estimates the property’s market value for the lender.

What Does an Appraiser Consider?

Appraisers analyze multiple factors, including:

Comparable sales
Location
Size
Condition
Age
Lot characteristics
Amenities
Market trends

The lender uses this information to determine whether the home’s value supports the loan amount.

What Happens if the Home Doesn’t Appraise?

Sometimes the appraised value comes in below the agreed purchase price.

When this happens, buyers and sellers may negotiate several possible solutions:

Reduce the purchase price
Buyer increases the down payment
Seller provides concessions
Buyer and seller split the difference
Buyer exercises contractual rights if applicable

Every situation is different, and the appropriate response depends on the contract terms and financing.

Homeowners Insurance

Before closing, you’ll need to secure homeowners insurance.

Your lender will generally require proof of insurance before funding the loan.

Coverage may include:

Dwelling
Personal property
Liability
Loss of use
Other structures

Depending on the property’s location, additional policies such as flood insurance or windstorm coverage may also be necessary.

Comparing multiple insurance quotes before closing can help ensure appropriate coverage at a competitive premium.

The Title Company Process

Unlike many states that rely primarily on attorneys to facilitate residential closings, Texas typically uses title companies.

The title company’s responsibilities include:

Opening escrow
Holding earnest money
Ordering the title search
Preparing closing documents
Coordinating with the lender
Calculating prorations
Collecting and disbursing funds
Recording the deed
Issuing title insurance

The title company acts as a neutral third party to help facilitate the closing process.

What Is Title Insurance?

Title insurance protects against certain title defects that may not have been discovered before closing.

Examples may include:

Unknown liens
Recording errors
Undisclosed heirs
Forged documents
Clerical mistakes

Unlike most insurance policies, title insurance is generally purchased with a one-time premium at closing and provides protection for as long as you own the property.

How Kory White Real Estate Group Guides Clients Through This Stage

The period between contract execution and closing is often where buyers feel the most uncertainty. There are inspections to schedule, reports to review, financing milestones to meet, and multiple deadlines that can affect the transaction.

Our role is to help clients stay organized, understand the purpose of each step, and make informed decisions as new information becomes available. Rather than simply forwarding documents, we review findings together, discuss available options, and coordinate with lenders, inspectors, title companies, and the other party to keep the transaction moving forward.

When challenges arise—which they sometimes do—we focus on practical solutions that protect our clients’ interests while keeping the transaction on track whenever possible.

Closing Costs Explained

One of the biggest surprises for many home buyers isn’t the purchase price—it’s the additional costs associated with closing.

Closing costs are the expenses required to complete the transaction and transfer ownership of the property. While the exact amount varies depending on the purchase price, financing, and location, buyers should generally plan for 2% to 5% of the purchase price in addition to their down payment.

Common Buyer Closing Costs

Expense	Typical Purpose
Loan Origination Fees	Lender processing and underwriting
Appraisal Fee	Determines market value for the lender
Credit Report Fee	Credit review
Title Insurance	Protects against certain title defects
Escrow Fees	Title company administration
Recording Fees	Filing documents with the county
Survey (if required)	Property boundary verification
Homeowners Insurance	First-year premium or escrow funding
Prepaid Interest	Interest from closing through month-end
Property Tax Escrow	Initial tax reserve collected by lender
HOA Transfer Fees	When applicable

Some costs are paid before closing, while others are collected at the closing table.

Can the Seller Pay My Closing Costs?

Yes, in many transactions the seller may agree to contribute toward a buyer’s closing costs. This is often referred to as a seller concession.

Seller concessions can help offset expenses such as:

Loan costs
Discount points
Title-related fees
Prepaid taxes and insurance (subject to loan guidelines)

The availability and amount of concessions depend on the market, financing program, and negotiations.

Understanding Property Taxes in Texas

Texas does not have a state income tax, but property taxes are often higher than in many other states.

Property taxes are assessed by local taxing authorities and may fund:

Public schools
Cities
Counties
Hospital districts
Community colleges
Municipal utility districts (MUDs), where applicable

Tax rates vary significantly from one community to another. Two homes with similar purchase prices can have noticeably different annual tax bills depending on their location.

Before making an offer, it’s important to review the current tax rate, determine whether the property is located within a MUD or PID, and understand how taxes may change after the sale.

Homestead Exemptions

If the home will be your primary residence, you may qualify for a Texas Homestead Exemption.

Potential benefits include:

Reduced taxable value
Tax savings
Protection against certain creditor claims
Annual limitations on increases to the taxable value of the homestead for school taxes, subject to applicable law

After closing, buyers should review eligibility requirements and apply with their county appraisal district.

Homeowners Association (HOA) Considerations

Many Texas communities are governed by homeowners associations.

An HOA may regulate:

Exterior paint colors
Landscaping
Parking
Fence requirements
Short-term rentals
Architectural changes
Community amenities

Buyers should carefully review HOA documents before the end of any applicable review period to ensure the rules align with their lifestyle.

Final Loan Approval

Even after your offer has been accepted, your lender continues reviewing your file.

This stage often includes:

Verification of employment
Updated bank statements
Review of appraisal
Review of title commitment
Insurance verification
Final underwriting approval

Until the loan has funded, avoid making significant financial changes such as:

Opening new credit accounts
Purchasing a vehicle
Changing employers without discussing it with your lender
Making large unexplained deposits or withdrawals

The Final Walk-Through

Shortly before closing, buyers typically complete a final walk-through of the property.

This is your opportunity to confirm that:

The property is in substantially the same condition as when you made your offer
Agreed-upon repairs have been completed, if applicable
Included appliances and fixtures remain with the property
No new damage has occurred

The final walk-through is not another inspection. Instead, it helps verify that the property is ready for closing based on the terms of the contract.

Closing Day

Closing day is when ownership officially transfers from the seller to the buyer.

At the title company, you’ll review and sign a series of legal and loan documents. Depending on the transaction, closing appointments may occur separately for the buyer and seller.

What to Bring

Government-issued photo identification
Cashier’s check or confirmation of your wire transfer (if required)
Any documents requested by your lender or title company

Always verify wire instructions directly with the title company using a trusted phone number. Wire fraud targeting real estate transactions has become increasingly common, so never rely solely on emailed instructions without verification.

Funding and Recording

In Texas, signing the documents does not necessarily mean the transaction has officially closed.

A typical sequence is:

Buyer signs documents
Seller signs documents
Lender reviews the completed package
Loan funds
Title company records the deed with the county
The transaction officially closes
Keys are delivered according to the contract

Only after funding and recording are complete can the transaction be considered finalized.

Common Mistakes Home Buyers Make

Even well-prepared buyers can encounter challenges. Some of the most common include:

Shopping before obtaining a pre-approval
Focusing only on the list price instead of total monthly costs
Skipping or minimizing inspections
Making large purchases during the loan process
Ignoring neighborhood factors
Missing contractual deadlines
Assuming every home will appraise at the purchase price
Relying solely on automated home value estimates
Allowing emotions to outweigh objective analysis

Recognizing these pitfalls early can help you make more informed decisions.

Texas Home Buying Timeline

While every transaction is different, a typical purchase may follow this general timeline:

Stage	Estimated Time
Financial Preparation	1–4 weeks
Mortgage Pre-Approval	1–3 days
Home Search	Varies
Offer Negotiation	1–5 days
Option Period	As negotiated
Inspections	During option period
Appraisal	1–3 weeks
Final Loan Approval	3–5 weeks
Closing	Approximately 30–45 days after contract execution

Actual timelines depend on financing, inspections, negotiations, and market conditions.

Should You Buy a New Construction Home or a Resale Home?

New Construction	Resale
Modern floor plans	Established neighborhoods
Energy-efficient features	Mature landscaping
Builder warranties	Proven maintenance history
Personalization options	Potentially faster closing
Longer construction timeline	Immediate availability in many cases

Neither option is inherently better. The right choice depends on your goals, budget, preferred location, and timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money do I need to buy a home in Texas?

The amount varies depending on your loan program, down payment, and closing costs. Some buyers may qualify for programs requiring a relatively small down payment, while others choose to invest more upfront. Your lender can provide an estimate based on your financial situation.

Do I need a 20% down payment?

No. Many buyers purchase homes with significantly less than 20% down, depending on the financing program they qualify for.

How long does it take to buy a home?

Once a contract is accepted, many financed transactions close in about 30 to 45 days, although timing varies.

What credit score do I need?

Minimum credit score requirements differ by loan program and lender. Higher scores often provide access to more favorable loan terms.

Should I get a home inspection?

In most cases, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. It provides valuable information about the property’s condition and may identify issues that are not immediately apparent.

Can I buy a home before selling my current one?

Yes. Depending on your financial circumstances, financing options, and goals, there are strategies that may allow you to purchase before selling. Careful planning is important to understand the financial implications.

Is flood insurance required?

Flood insurance requirements depend on the property’s location and your lender’s requirements. Even if it is not required, some buyers choose to carry coverage based on their individual risk tolerance.

How Kory White Real Estate Group Helps Buyers

Buying a home involves far more than searching online listings or writing an offer. Every transaction requires coordination among lenders, inspectors, title companies, appraisers, and the other party, all while managing contractual deadlines and significant financial decisions.

Our approach centers on education, communication, and advocacy. We believe informed clients make better decisions, so we take the time to explain each stage of the process, answer questions, and provide guidance tailored to your goals.

Whether you’re purchasing your first home, relocating to another part of Texas, investing in real estate, or moving into a luxury property, our objective is to help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity.

Key Takeaways

Preparation before shopping can improve your buying experience.
Mortgage pre-approval strengthens your position with sellers.
Understanding Texas contracts helps you make informed decisions.
Inspections and appraisals serve different but equally important purposes.
Property taxes, insurance, and closing costs should be part of your budgeting process.
Professional representation can help you evaluate opportunities, negotiate effectively, and manage the transaction from contract to closing.