Houston

Texas’s 2 largest metropolitan areas sit approximately 240 miles apart along I-45. Both attract new residents with strong job markets, diverse communities, major airports, growing suburbs and the financial advantage of living in a state without an individual income tax. However, the monthly math is different enough to change what kind of home you can afford and what it will cost to own it. Here is...

Houston homeowners could save more than $2,000 annually by filing a free homestead exemption. Learn how to apply with HCAD, what documents you need and what to do if you missed the deadline.

How much should a seller negotiate after a home inspection? Learn which repairs matter, when to offer a credit, when to push back, and how Texas sellers can protect their net proceeds.

If you own a home in Houston, Katy, Cypress, Spring, Tomball, Humble, or another community in Harris County, your annual property appraisal is something you should review carefully. The value assigned to your property by the Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD) can have a significant impact on your property taxes. If you believe HCAD has valued your home too high, used incorrect property...

Closing day is getting closer. The boxes are packed, the movers are scheduled, and somewhere on your checklist is a task that seems simple until you actually start researching it: Set up electricity. In many states, you simply call the local utility company. Texas is different. Much of Texas operates in a deregulated electricity market, which means homeowners may have dozens of retail electricity...

Thinking about an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)? Learn how ARMs work, their pros and cons, and when they may be a smart financing option for Texas homebuyers.

When most people think about buying a home, they focus on two numbers: The purchase price The monthly mortgage payment While those are certainly important, they're only part of the financial picture. Many first-time buyers are surprised to learn there are several additional expenses involved before, during, and after closing. Planning for these costs can help you avoid unnecessary stress and...

Many buyers start their home search by browsing online listings. It's exciting to imagine living in a particular neighborhood or envision yourself in your dream kitchen. But before you fall in love with a home, it's important to know whether it truly fits your financial picture. Mortgage pre-approval provides that clarity. Rather than guessing what you can afford, you'll have a lender review your financial...

FHA vs. Conventional Loans in Texas: Which Mortgage Is Right for You? Choosing the right mortgage is one of the most important financial decisions you'll make when buying a home. While many buyers focus on interest rates, your loan type can have a lasting impact on your monthly payment, upfront costs, qualification requirements, and long-term financial goals. For most Texas home buyers, the decision comes...

Learn how Houston's Harvey Homebuyer Assistance Program 2.0 can provide up to $125,000 to eligible homebuyers, who qualifies, how forgiveness works, and the important 2026 funding update.