Your Complete Guide to Buying a Home in North Texas
From pre-approval to closing day — everything you need to know about buying a home in Collin, Denton, Grayson, and Cooke counties.
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The Home Buying Process — Step by Step
Here's what to expect when buying a home in Texas, from start to finish.
1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Before you start house hunting, talk to a lender and get a pre-approval letter. This tells you exactly how much you can afford and shows sellers you're a serious buyer.
Your matched agent can connect you with trusted local lenders who specialize in North Texas markets.
- Check your credit score and fix any errors before applying
- Gather pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns, and bank statements
- Get pre-approved — not just pre-qualified — for a stronger offer
- Don't open new credit cards or make large purchases during this time
2. Define Your Must-Haves
Make a list of what matters most — bedrooms, school district, commute time, lot size. Separating 'must-haves' from 'nice-to-haves' keeps your search focused.
- Research school ratings on GreatSchools.org or Niche.com
- Consider your daily commute — DFW traffic matters
- Think about future needs: growing family, working from home, aging in place
- Explore neighborhoods at different times of day
3. Tour Homes & Make an Offer
Your agent will schedule showings, provide market data on each home, and help you craft a competitive offer. In hot North Texas markets, being prepared to act quickly is key.
- Take photos and notes at each showing
- Ask your agent about comparable sales in the neighborhood
- In a competitive market, consider escalation clauses or waiving minor contingencies
- Your agent will negotiate the best price and terms on your behalf
4. Inspections & Due Diligence
Once your offer is accepted, you enter the option period (typically 7–10 days in Texas). This is your time to inspect the property and negotiate repairs.
- Always get a professional home inspection ($350–$600)
- Consider additional inspections: foundation, roof, sewer, pool
- Review the seller's disclosure carefully
- Your agent will negotiate repairs or credits based on inspection findings
5. Appraisal & Loan Processing
Your lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home's value. Meanwhile, the underwriting team reviews your financial documents for final loan approval.
- Don't change jobs, close accounts, or make large deposits during this time
- Respond quickly to any lender requests for additional documents
- If the appraisal comes in low, your agent can negotiate with the seller
6. Closing Day!
At closing, you'll sign final paperwork, pay closing costs, and get the keys to your new home. In Texas, closings typically take place at a title company.
- Do a final walk-through the morning of closing
- Bring a valid photo ID and any required funds (cashier's check or wire)
- Review the Closing Disclosure for accuracy before signing
- Typical buyer closing costs in Texas: 2–5% of the purchase price
What Does It Cost to Buy a Home?
Here's a breakdown of typical costs for home buyers in North Texas.
Down Payment
FHA: 3.5%, Conventional: 5–20%, VA: 0%
Home Inspection
Additional for foundation, roof, etc.
Appraisal Fee
Required by most lenders
Closing Costs
Title insurance, loan fees, prepaid taxes
Homeowner's Insurance
Required before closing
Property Taxes
Varies by city and county
Why Work With a Buyer's Agent?
Your Interests Are Protected
A buyer's agent works exclusively for you — negotiating the best price and terms while protecting your rights throughout the transaction.
Access to More Listings
Agents have access to the MLS, coming-soon listings, and pocket listings you won't find on Zillow or Realtor.com.
Free Matching
Our matching service is 100% free, with no obligation. How your agent is compensated will be explained and agreed to in writing with your agent before you commit — never a surprise.
Expert Contract Navigation
Texas real estate contracts are complex. Your agent ensures every contingency, deadline, and disclosure is handled correctly.
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