If you're buying a home in Texas, you've probably heard that the rules around real estate commissions changed. That leads to one of the most common questions I get: "Do I have to pay my REALTOR® out of pocket?" The short answer: not necessarily. The rules changed how compensation is communicated and agreed upon. They didn't automatically shift the cost onto buyers. What matters is knowing what...
Houston Real Estate
At 6.67% on a resale, renting wins in both Houston and Dallas. At 2.99% on new construction with the same 3.5% down, buying wins by year four. Same buyer, same cash to close — here's the full math, plus the eight items of fine print that decide which one is real for you.
Houston has more than 150 historically active faults, but what does that actually mean for homeowners? Explore Houston's major fault systems, subsidence risks, foundation concerns, insurance considerations, and what buyers should check before purchasing a home.
Houston hit a record 40,750 homes for sale in July 2026. See what 5.5 months of inventory means for Houston buyers, sellers, and pricing strategy.
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.
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...
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...
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but the financial side of the process can feel overwhelming. Between saving for a down payment, covering closing costs, understanding mortgage programs, and determining what you can comfortably afford, many buyers are unsure where to begin. The good news is that several mortgage and home buyer assistance programs may help qualified Texas buyers reduce their...
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...