Home Buying 101 Texas -

Once you move in, don't forget to file for your Residence Homestead Exemption by April 30th of the following year to save significantly on your property taxes. Are you looking in a specific Texas city , or

Your lender will require an appraisal to ensure the home is worth the loan amount. If the appraisal comes in low, you may need to negotiate the price or cover the "appraisal gap" in cash. home buying 101 texas

Get a pre-approval letter from a lender. This shows sellers you are a serious buyer in competitive markets like San Antonio or Fort Worth. Once you move in, don't forget to file

If you are a first-time buyer, several state-run programs can help with down payments: Get a pre-approval letter from a lender

In most cases, the seller pays the commission for both agents, meaning professional representation often costs the buyer nothing out of pocket. 3. The "Option Period" & Inspections

You pay a small fee (e.g., $100–$500) for the right to terminate the contract for any reason within a set window (usually 7–10 days).

Use this time to hire a licensed inspector. In Texas, checking the foundation and HVAC system is critical due to shifting clay soils and extreme summer heat. 4. Texas Homebuyer Programs