Buying a Home
Answers and guides about the home buying process in Northeast Texas. From first-time buyer questions to financing strategies, we cover what you need to know.
Our guides on buying a home.
Do I need a Realtor when buying a home in Texas?
Texas law does not require hiring a Realtor. Learn about representation, non-representation, and unrepresented options.
What are the biggest mistakes first-time home buyers make in Texas?
From skipping pre-approval to waiving the inspection, learn the common first-time buyer mistakes and how to avoid them.
What is a buyer representation agreement, and do I have to sign one?
Reflects the 2026 Texas law (SB 1968). Written agreement required before showing or presenting an offer.
How does a buyer's agent get paid in a Texas real estate transaction?
Compensation is negotiable and not set by law. Learn how it is addressed in the written agreement.
How do I know how much to offer on a house?
Comparable sales, competition, condition, days on market, and how price and terms work together.
How much earnest money do I need when buying a home in Texas?
Earnest money is negotiated, not set by rule. Learn the purpose and how it differs from the option fee.
What is an option period in a Texas real estate contract?
Texas-specific termination right, option fee, negotiated length, and how it relates to the home inspection.
Should I get a home inspection before buying?
What inspections are recommended and how to decide which specialty evaluations you need.
What does a home inspection cover, and what does it not cover?
Visible condition evaluation vs. destructive investigation, code compliance, engineering, and environmental testing.
What happens between going under contract and closing?
The Texas transaction roadmap: earnest money, inspections, appraisal, title, and final walk-through.
What should I expect at the final walk-through before closing?
What to verify, what the walk-through is not, and how to handle issues before closing day.
What should I know before making an offer?
Pre-approval, earnest money, contingencies, closing costs, and negotiation strategies for Northeast Texas.
How long does it take to buy a home?
Typical timeline from offer to closing: 30-45 days for financing, 7-14 days for cash.
What are closing costs?
Typically 2-5% of purchase price. Lender fees, title insurance, appraisal, and prepaid items explained for Texas buyers.
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