There are pros and cons to both renting and buying. Some of the pros of home ownership are the equity built, ability to make it your own and more space. This does come with the downside of maintenance which many find to be a pro of renting. However, landlords can also unexpectedly raise rent prices. 

How long you are planning to stay is usually a good determining factor. The general rule of thumb is to buy if you plan to be there for at least 3 years. If not, renting may be a better option. Everyone’s situation is unique and we would be glad to help guide you in the right direction. 

There are many factors that determine what your monthly mortgage payment will be. Some of these factors are taxes, insurance, and HOA fees. It is important to speak with a lender’s early on in the home buying process to understand the various loan options available to you.

If you have been searching for homes online, chances are you’ve seen some listings that say “pending”. This means that the sellers have accepted and are moving forward with an offer. At this point the house is no longer available to make an offer on. 

Sometimes you might come across the term “option pending”. This means the sellers have accepted an offer but the buyer is still within their option period and could possibly back out of the contract but you shouldn’t necessarily count on it. 

Location is a huge factor when buying a home! Schools, neighborhood amenities, crime, commute, flood zones all can have a big impact on your way of life and potential resale values. 

There are many differences when it comes to new construction versus buying a resale. Some of main factors include cost, contract terms, and builder incentives. Click HERE for a detailed look at the pros and cons of new construction. 

Many people think you need to have 20% however, the national average is 11%.  There are loan programs that require as little as 3% down. We can gladly send you a list of preferred lenders for any financial related questions.

Closing cost vary due to many factors like how much money you are planning to put down, taxes, insurance and loan origination fees. 

In a stable market, the seller will be responsible for the real estate commission, the title insurance policy and taxes up until closing. 

The buyers closing cost would be the downpayment and the loan origination fee charged by the mortgage lender. 

Surveys, home warranties and other variables are also negotiated into closing cost for the buyer or seller. 

In some cases, buyers will ask the seller to contribute towards their closing cost to reduce the amount the buyer will need to bring to closing.

The market is constantly changing and when you decide to buy matters. Even in hot markets, winter tends to be less competitive for buyers and you avoid moving during the hot Texas summer!

As many as it takes to find your dream home! Most people view 10-12 homes before making a decision. Different market conditions and time of the year can also affect how many homes are for active. 

Mortgage insurance will be required for borrowers who are putting less than a 20% down payment. 

Private mortgage insurance (PMI) and mortgage insurance premium (MIP) are they two most common types of mortgage insurance. Learn the differences and find out if it will apply to you here.

Once we have found your dream home and an offer is accepted, you can expect roughly 30 days until you get the keys!