Time to purchase?

Buying a Home in North Texas: What You Need to Know

Purchasing a home is an exciting milestone, but the process can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. We make buying a home in North Texas seamless by providing expert advice and strategic solutions every step of the way.

1. Financial Preparation

Before starting your home search, it's essential to understand your financial position and secure financing.

Get Pre-Approved: A mortgage pre-approval strengthens your offer in North Texas’s competitive market. We can connect you with trusted lenders to get started.

Down Payment Requirements:

  • Conventional Loan: As low as 3%, but 20% avoids private mortgage insurance (PMI).

  • FHA Loan: 3.5% down for buyers with a 580+ credit score.

  • VA & USDA Loans: 0% down for eligible military members and rural homebuyers.

    Closing Costs: Expect 2-5% of the home's price, covering loan fees, title insurance, and prepaid taxes.

Property Taxes in North Texas:

  • Rates vary by county (average 1.8-2.5%).

  • Homestead Exemption: Lowers taxable home value for primary residences.

  • Homeowner’s Insurance: Texas premiums are higher due to storms, hail, and tornado risks. Flood insurance may be required in certain areas.

2. Finding the Right Home

North Texas offers a diverse range of communities, from bustling city centers to quiet suburbs.

Neighborhood Considerations:

  • Top Cities & Suburbs: Dallas, Fort Worth, Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Southlake, and Prosper are among the most desirable areas.

  • School Districts: Highly-rated districts like Frisco ISD, Plano ISD, and Carroll ISD can impact home values and resale potential.

  • Commute & Accessibility: Consider proximity to major highways, DFW Airport, and employment hubs.

  • HOA Communities: Many neighborhoods have Homeowners Associations with fees and regulations—important to review before purchasing.

Market Trends: North Texas is a fast-growing real estate market. Homes often sell quickly, so being prepared to act is key.

3. Making an Offer & Negotiating

Once you've found the right home, making a strong and strategic offer is essential.

Key Offer Considerations:

  • Earnest Money: Typically 1-3% of the home price, showing the seller you're serious.

  • Option Period: A 7-10 day period where you can conduct inspections and back out with minimal penalty.

  • Closing Timeline: Most closings take 30-45 days; cash buyers may close faster.

  • Negotiation Strategies: We advocate for you, whether negotiating repairs, closing costs, or price adjustments.

4. Inspections & Due Diligence

A thorough home inspection ensures you're making a sound investment.

What to Expect in a Home Inspection:

  • Foundation: North Texas’s clay soil can cause shifting—foundation inspections are crucial.

  • Roof & Hail Damage: Frequent storms mean checking for wear and potential repairs.

  • Plumbing & HVAC: Older homes may have outdated or inefficient systems.

  • Flood Risk & Insurance: Check FEMA maps and consider additional coverage if needed.

Seller’s Disclosure Notice: Texas law requires sellers to disclose known property issues, but we always recommend independent inspections.

5. Closing & Final Steps

You're almost there! The final steps include paperwork, funding, and officially getting the keys.

Final Steps Before Closing:

  • Final Walkthrough: Ensures the home is in agreed-upon condition.

  • Title & Deed Transfer: A title company ensures there are no legal disputes before ownership is transferred.

  • Signing & Funding: Texas requires notarized documents at closing, often handled at a title company.

Welcome Home! Once the paperwork is complete, you receive your keys and can start making your new house a home.

Start Your Home Search Today!

We’re committed to making your home-buying journey smooth, stress-free, and successful. Whether you're a first-time buyer, upgrading, or relocating to North Texas, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.