Buying a home in Killeen, Copperas Cove, Harker Heights or anywhere around Fort Hood follows the same basic path. Here is how it works in Texas, step by step, and what I handle for you along the way.
1. Get pre-approved before you shop
A lender reviews your income, credit and savings and tells you how much you can borrow. Sellers expect a pre-approval letter with every offer. If you are a service member or veteran, ask the lender about a VA loan: eligible buyers can often purchase with no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance. A VA funding fee usually applies, but veterans receiving VA disability compensation are generally exempt.
2. Pick the area that fits your commute and budget
Prices and drive times vary a lot from town to town. Compare them on my Central Texas areas page, then look at current listings with me.
3. Tour homes and make an offer
Most Texas sales use the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) contract forms. Your offer sets the price, the earnest money (a good-faith deposit held by the title company), the closing date and who pays which costs. I prepare the offer and negotiate it with the seller’s agent.
4. Use your option period
For a negotiated option fee paid to the seller, you get a set number of days to inspect the home and back out for any reason. This is when you hire a licensed inspector and decide whether to ask for repairs, a price change or a credit.
5. Appraisal, survey and title
Your lender orders an appraisal. The title company searches the property’s ownership history and issues title insurance. A survey (or the seller’s existing survey with a T-47 affidavit) shows the lot lines.
6. Final walk-through and closing
You walk the home one last time, then sign at the title company. Once the loan funds, you get the keys.
Questions buyers ask me
Do I pay to use a buyer’s agent? How the buyer’s agent is paid is agreed in writing before we tour homes. I explain the options up front so there are no surprises.
How long does it take? Many financed purchases close about 30 to 45 days after the contract is signed.
Can I buy before I arrive on PCS orders? Yes. Video tours and electronic signing make it possible to buy from out of state.
Ready to start? Call or text me at (254) 338-5031 or use the contact page.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or lending advice. Loan terms and eligibility come from your lender and the VA.