BUYERS

Buying a Central Texas Home

Buying a new home is a tedious and frustrating process- this is why we are here for you. We will make this process as smooth as possible, and take you through it hassle-free. You're the boss! Before you find your dream home, there are nine steps and advice to arm yourself with:

1. Figure out how much you can afford

2. Know your rights

3. Shop for a loan

4. Learn about home-buying programs

5. Shop for a home

6. Make an offer.

7. Get a home inspection

8. Shop for homeowners insurance

9. Sign papers

Step 1: Figure out how much you can afford

What you can afford depends on your income, credit rating, current monthly expenses, down payment and the interest rate. The calculators in our mortgage center can help, but it is best to visit a lender to find out for sure.

Need help with your down payment and/or closing costs?

Home buying programs in your state

A housing counselor can help you figure out how to manage and pay off your debt, and start saving for that down payment!

Find a housing counselor near you

Step 2: Know your rights

Fair Housing: Equal Opportunity for All - brochure

Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA)

Borrower's rights

Predatory lending

Save money by doing your homework. Talk to several lenders, compare costs and interest rates, and negotiate to get a better deal. Consider getting pre-approved for a loan.

Looking for the best mortgage: shop, compare, negotiate - Brochure  

Let FHA help you

Step 4: Learn about home-buying programs

Home-buying programs in your state

FHA loan programs offer lower down payments and are a good option for first-time homebuyers. Let FHA help you

HUD's special home buying programs :

- Good Neighbor Next Door Program - for police officers, teachers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians

- Homeownership for public housing residents

- Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program (Section 184)

Step 5: Shop for a home

  Wish list - what features do you want?

  Home-shopping checklist – take this list with you when comparing homes

  " Fixer-uppers " - home purchase and repair programs

Step 6: Make an offer

Discuss the process with your real estate agent. If the seller counters your offer, you may need to negotiate until you both agree to the terms of the sale.

Making an offer

Step 7: Get a home inspection

Make your offer contingent on a home inspection. An inspection will tell you about the condition of the home, and can help you avoid buying a home that needs major repairs.

For Your Protection Get a Home Inspection

  10 Questions to ask a home inspector

Step 8: Shop for homeowners insurance

Lenders require that you have homeowners insurance. Be sure to shop around.

Homeowners insurance

  12 ways to lower your homeowner's insurance costs

Step 9: Sign papers

You're finally ready to go to "settlement" or "closing." Be sure to read everything before you sign!

Settlement Costs and Helpful Information