Steps to Buying a Home in Texas: A Complete Guide

Thinking about buying a home in Texas? Whether you're relocating, upsizing, or buying your first home, the process can feel overwhelming without a roadmap. At Velocity Team, we work with buyers across the state from Dallas to Austin, Houston to San Antonio and we’ve outlined the key steps you need to take.

Step 1: Review Your Finances

Start with a financial check-up to set a realistic budget and loan eligibility.

• Check your credit score and pull your full credit report

• Estimate your monthly income and expenses

• Determine a comfortable monthly payment

• Start saving for a down payment, closing costs, and reserves

Tip: Texas offers several state-sponsored assistance programs for first-time homebuyers that can reduce your upfront costs.

Step 2: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Before you start looking at homes, get pre-approved for a mortgage loan.

• Choose a lender (Velocity Team can help you compare options)

• Submit documents like pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements

• Receive your pre-approval letter outlining your price range and loan terms

Why it matters: A pre-approval shows sellers you’re a serious buyer and helps you move quickly in Texas’s competitive market.

Step 3: Choose a Real Estate Agent

A Texas-based buyer’s agent will help you:

• Find homes that match your criteria

• Navigate Texas real estate laws and market trends

• Negotiate offers, contracts, and repairs

• Coordinate inspections and closing requirements

Look for someone familiar with your city or region, from Dallas-Fort Worth to Central Texas to the Gulf Coast.

Step 4: Begin House Hunting

With your agent, start viewing homes that match your price, lifestyle, and location goals.

• Determine your non-negotiables (e.g., schools, lot size, number of bedrooms)

• Use your agent’s MLS tools to filter properties by area and features

• Keep a checklist to compare options after showings

Step 5: Make an Offer

Once you find a home you love:

• Review the market data and discuss offer strategy with your agent

• Submit an offer that includes price, financing, contingencies, and closing date

• Negotiate with the seller on terms if needed

Note: In Texas, you’ll submit earnest money and an option fee as part of your offer.

Step 6: Complete Inspections and Appraisal

After your offer is accepted:

• Schedule a home inspection to check for issues

• Work with your lender to complete the home appraisal

• Request repairs or concessions based on inspection findings

Texas-Specific Tip: Look out for foundation and HVAC issues these are common in certain regions.

Step 7: Final Loan Approval and Closing Disclosure

Your lender will finalize underwriting and issue a Closing Disclosure at least 3 days before closing.

• Review and confirm final numbers: interest rate, closing costs, loan terms

• Ask questions about anything that’s unclear

• Prepare to wire funds for closing

Step 8: Close on Your Home

Closing typically takes place at a title company or attorney’s office in Texas.

• Sign all mortgage and legal documents

• Pay your remaining closing costs and down payment

• Receive your keys and official deed

Congratulations! You’re officially a Texas homeowner.

Bonus: Texas Homebuyer FAQs

Q: How long does the process take? Most home purchases in Texas close within 30–45 days after the offer is accepted.

Q: What’s the average property tax rate in Texas? Property taxes vary by county but are generally between 1.5% and 2.5% of your home’s value.

Q: Do I need a lawyer to buy a home in Texas? Not required, but you’ll work with a licensed title company to handle legal aspects and escrow.