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How To Buy a House

A Complete Guide to the Home Buying Process

A Step-by-Step Guide

Buying a home in Texas—especially for the first time—can feel like a big leap. With fast-moving markets in cities like Dallas, Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, being informed and prepared is key. This guide walks you through every stage of the process, from financial prep to closing day.

With the right guidance from a local Texas Realtor®, the journey can be smooth, rewarding, and even enjoyable. Most transactions in Texas take about 30 to 45 days from contract to close, depending on the property and lender.

Get Your Finances in Order

Find The Right Home in Fort Worth, Tx
Close & Get The Keys!

STEP 1

Get Your Finances in Order

Getting your financial ducks in a row is the crucial first step when you’re thinking about buying a house. This groundwork helps you pinpoint a realistic price range that aligns with your budget before you even start browsing listings. Plus, it clarifies the total funds you’ll need upfront, which typically falls between 2% and 10% of the home’s price.

It’s wise to avoid kicking off your house hunt looking at properties beyond your approved budget. Doing so can lead to disappointment because higher-priced homes often boast more appealing features like location, size, and design. For buyers who start their search too high, moving down to more affordable options can be disheartening.

So, the sooner you begin preparing your finances, the quicker you’ll be ready to move on to the next exciting stage of home buying. To guide you through the financing process, here are five key tips:

1. Review Your Credit Report

Start by pulling your credit from all three bureaus. Lenders in Texas will assess this when qualifying you for a mortgage. Address any errors or unpaid accounts early—they can affect your loan approval or delay the process.

2. Understand Your Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio

Lenders typically want your DTI at 43% or lower. This means your monthly debts (including the future mortgage) should not exceed 43% of your gross monthly income. Knowing your DTI helps you target a realistic price range—important in high-demand Texas markets.

3. Prepare Financial Documents

Get your tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s, and bank statements ready. Texas lenders may also request proof of funds for your down payment and closing costs.

4. Choose a Mortgage Lender Familiar with Texas Laws

Get your tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s, and bank statements ready. Texas lenders may also request proof of funds for your down payment and closing costs.

5. Get Pre-Approved

Pre-approval gives you a clearer loan estimate and shows sellers you’re a serious buyer. In many competitive Texas markets, sellers expect to see this before reviewing your offer.

STEP 2

Find The Right Home in Fort Worth, Tx

With your finances in order, the next exciting step is actually finding your future home! While this part of the journey can be a lot of fun, it can also feel tiring at times. To help you navigate this stage, here’s a clear path to finding the best house that meets your needs:

Keep in mind that the time it takes to find the right place can vary greatly, from a few weeks to several months, depending on the dynamics of your local real estate market. So, buckle up for what can sometimes feel like an emotional rollercoaster as you explore different possibilities.

6. Find A Good Real Estate Agent

Your Realtor will represent your best interests, negotiate on your behalf, and guide you through Texas-specific contract terms. Find someone with strong knowledge of the neighborhoods you’re considering.

7. Research Neighborhoods

Think about your lifestyle—commute, schools, local amenities, and even property tax rates (which can vary significantly in Texas). From master-planned communities to historic areas, Texas offers a wide range of living options.

8. Start Browsing Listings

Use your agent’s MLS access or reliable apps to see current listings. Set alerts for new properties, especially in fast-moving markets like Austin or The Woodlands.

9. Tour Homes in Person

Seeing homes firsthand gives you a better feel for layout, space, and condition. Take notes during each tour—you’ll likely see several before making a decision.

10. Make an Offer

Your agent will review comparable sales, local market trends, and property condition to craft a strong offer. In some Texas markets, you may need to offer above asking or include extras like option money or flexible closing terms to be competitive.

New Home Owners

STEP 3

Close & Get The Keys!

Alright, you’ve tackled the financial prep and the house hunt – fantastic! Now comes the final stretch: closing the deal and getting those keys in your hand. It’s crucial to handle these last steps efficiently, and thankfully, your Realtor will be there to guide you. Think of this section as your go-to reference as you navigate the final stages of buying your new home.

During this time, staying informed and proactive is key. Make sure you have open and clear communication with both your real estate agent and your mortgage lender. This will ensure that all the terms of the agreement are crystal clear and agreeable to you.

11. Finalize Terms and Negotiations

After your offer is accepted, you’ll enter the “option period” in Texas—a short window to inspect the home and renegotiate if needed. You may also firm up details like the closing date and title company.

12. Submit Earnest and Option Money

Earnest money (typically 1% of the purchase price) is held in escrow as a sign of commitment. Texas also uses option money, a small fee paid directly to the seller to secure your inspection period.

13. Schedule Inspections

Order inspections quickly—general home inspection, foundation (especially important in Texas), termite, roof, and HVAC are common. If issues arise, your Realtor can help negotiate repairs or credits.

14. Appraisal & Insurance

Your lender will order an appraisal to verify the value. You’ll also need to secure homeowners insurance. In some parts of Texas, additional coverage like flood or windstorm insurance may be required.

15. Close and Get Your Keys

At closing, you’ll sign final paperwork, fund the loan, and transfer ownership. Once the deed is recorded with the county, your Realtor will hand over the keys—congratulations, you’re officially a Texas homeowner!