Texas first-time buyer questions, answered
Plain-English answers, with sources you can check.
How do I find a mortgage loan officer in Texas?
Ask people you trust for names, confirm each person's license on NMLS Consumer Access, and request Loan Estimates…
How much do I need to buy my first home in Texas?
It depends on the price, loan type and any assistance you qualify for. Plan for four things: your down payment,…
What credit score do first-time buyers need in Texas?
There's no single number. FHA's published floor is 500, with different terms below 580. Texas state assistance…
FHA or conventional for a first-time buyer in Texas?
FHA can be more flexible if your credit is still building. Conventional often suits buyers with stronger credit, and…
Loan officer, bank or mortgage broker: what's the difference?
A bank or other lender makes the loan. A mortgage broker doesn't lend its own money and typically works with several…
Guides by city
Austin
Texas contract basics, the Austin area's monthly costs, assistance programs and homestead steps for first-time buyers…
San Antonio
San Antonio buyers should look at city assistance through the Homeownership Incentive Program, statewide Texas…
Houston
Houston first-time buyers should check flood risk and insurance early, look for municipal utility district taxes, and…
Dallas-Fort Worth
Dallas and Fort Worth each run a homebuyer assistance program with its own limits, and Texas state programs are also…