Buying your first home shouldn't feel overwhelming.
I walk first-time buyers through every step, in plain English (or Spanish), with no dumb questions and no pressure. By the time we get to closing, you'll know exactly what you signed and why.
Your path in three steps
Get pre-approved
Know your budget before you fall in love with a house.
Find your home
Tour homes that fit your life. I'll flag the red flags.
Close with confidence
Clear documents, no surprises, keys in hand.
Texas things to know before you buy
Down payment help
The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) offers home loan programs, including options for veterans and other public service members. Income and eligibility limits apply, so ask your lender.
Visit TSAHC →The option period
In Texas you negotiate an option period and pay an option fee with your offer. During that window you can inspect the home and walk away for any reason.
See the step-by-step →Property taxes and your homestead
Texas has no state income tax, and local property taxes help fund schools and services. Once you own your home, file a homestead exemption with your county appraisal district.
Veteran exemptions →Closing costs
Buyers pay costs like lender fees, title charges, and prepaid taxes and insurance. Your lender's Loan Estimate shows your real numbers early, so there are no surprises.
How closing works →What first-time buyers ask me
How do I know if I'm ready to buy?
We'll look at your credit, your savings, and your monthly budget together. If you're not quite ready, I'll tell you exactly what to work on, with no pressure to rush.
How much down payment do I really need?
It depends on the loan. VA loans can offer no down payment for eligible borrowers. FHA loans allow as little as 3.5% down for qualifying buyers, and some conventional programs allow as little as 3% down. I'll connect you with a trusted lender who will lay out your real options.
What is the option period in Texas?
When you make an offer, you negotiate an option period and pay an option fee. During that period you can have the home inspected and terminate the contract for any reason. If you go on to close, the option fee is credited to you at closing.
What is earnest money?
Earnest money is a good-faith deposit, often around 1% of the purchase price, that is typically held by the title company after your offer is accepted. At closing it is credited toward your down payment or closing costs.
Is there down payment help in Texas?
Yes. TSAHC runs home loan programs, including options for veterans and other public service members, and some cities and counties have their own programs. Eligibility and income limits apply, so I'll point you to your lender first.
What if the inspection finds problems?
Most do, and that is what inspections are for. I'll help you understand what's serious and what's cosmetic, and negotiate repairs or credits with the seller.
What actually happens at closing?
You sign paperwork, funds are transferred, and you get the keys. I'll review every document with you beforehand so there are no surprises at the table.
Ready to start?
Tell me a little about where you'd like to live and what you're hoping to spend. I'll help you build a plan, even if you're months away from buying.