Buyer's Guide

Your Home Buying Journey

10 steps from dream to keys

Talk to a lender and get your pre-approval letter. This tells sellers you're a serious buyer and sets your budget.

Judy's tip: We partner with trusted Fort Worth lenders who can get you pre-approved in 24 hours.

Beds, baths, neighborhoods, school districts, commute time — we'll build your wish list and set up automated MLS alerts.

Judy's tip: Fort Worth neighborhoods like Arlington Heights, Tanglewood, and Rivercrest offer great value.

We'll schedule showings that fit your calendar. Expect to see 5-15 homes before finding 'the one'.

Judy's tip: Bring a notepad! After a few tours, they start to blend together.

We'll analyze comparable sales, market conditions, and competition to craft a winning offer strategy.

Judy's tip: In Texas, the standard contract is a TREC form with specific addenda.

Texas gives buyers 7-10 days to inspect the home and back out for any reason. This is your safety net.

Judy's tip: The option period is unique to Texas. You'll pay a small fee ($200-500) for this right.

A licensed inspector checks the foundation, roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and more. We'll negotiate repairs if needed.

Judy's tip: Budget $400-600 for a standard inspection. It's worth every penny.

Your lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home's value matches the purchase price.

Judy's tip: If the appraisal comes in low, we have strategies to negotiate with the seller.

Finalize your loan, lock your rate, and get your clear-to-close from the lender.

Judy's tip: Don't make large purchases or open new credit accounts during this period!

One last look at the home 1-2 days before closing to verify condition and any agreed repairs.

Judy's tip: Check that all negotiated items have been completed.

Sign your documents at the title company, wire your funds, and receive your keys. Welcome home!

Judy's tip: Closing in Texas typically takes 30-45 days from contract. Bring a valid photo ID.

Texas Buyer Tips

Texas buyers get 7-10 days to inspect and back out for any reason. This is paid for with a small option fee ($200-500).

Typically 1% of purchase price, deposited within 3 days of contract. This shows the seller you're serious.

Texas has no state income tax but higher property taxes (~2.2%). Your homestead exemption can reduce your taxable value.

Expect 30-45 days from signed contract to closing. Cash buyers can close faster (2-3 weeks).

Get pre-approved and see homes in your price range.