YOUR HOME BUYER'S GUIDE
Buy your Houston home with a clear plan.
Buying a home is exciting, but there are a lot of moving parts. Here's exactly how the process works — from pre-approval to closing — plus the Texas-specific steps most first-time buyers don't know about. I'm Brittney Chappell, REALTOR® with CB&A Realtors, and I'll guide you through every step.
THE BUYING PROCESS
8 steps from pre-approval to keys.
Every buyer's timeline is a little different — but the roadmap is the same. Here's what to expect.
- 1
Get pre-approved
Talk to a lender first so you know your real budget and can move fast when the right home hits the market.
- 2
Define your needs & wants
Location, schools, commute, must-haves vs. nice-to-haves. Getting clear here saves weeks later.
- 3
Sign a buyer representation agreement
In today's market, buyers agree up front with their agent on services and how the agent is paid. I'll walk you through it clearly — no pressure.
- 4
Tour homes
In person or via virtual tours. I flag red flags — foundation, flood history, resale concerns — that are easy to miss.
- 5
Make an offer
Price, terms, option period, and what actually makes an offer competitive in this specific neighborhood.
- 6
Option period & inspections
Your paid window to inspect the home and negotiate repairs — or terminate. This is buyer protection you don't want to skip.
- 7
Appraisal & financing
Your lender orders the appraisal and finalizes your loan. I coordinate with the lender and title company so nothing slips.
- 8
Final walkthrough & closing
One last look at the home, then sign, fund, and get your keys. Congratulations — you're home.
WHAT IT COSTS TO BUY
The real numbers, up front.
Approximate figures below — your lender gives exact numbers for your specific loan and price point.
Down payment
As little as 3–3.5% on many loan programs. 0% down for VA and USDA if you qualify. 20% avoids PMI.
Closing costs
Roughly 2–5% of the purchase price. Covers lender fees, title, taxes, insurance escrows, and more.
Earnest & option money
Paid up front to secure the contract and your option period. Both are typically credited back to you at closing.
Inspection
A few hundred dollars — one of the best investments you'll make. Optional add-ons: termite, pool, sewer scope.
Approximate — your lender gives exact numbers.
TEXAS BUYERS: WHAT TO KNOW
Texas has its own playbook.
A few things that surprise buyers coming from other states — and that give you real leverage once you understand them.
The option period
A paid, negotiated window (often 5–10 days) that gives you the right to inspect and back out for any reason. A Texas-specific buyer protection.
Earnest & option money
Two separate small payments due shortly after the contract is signed. Both typically credit toward your closing costs.
Survey, title & title insurance
The seller usually provides a recent survey; the title company confirms clean ownership; owner's title insurance protects you long-term.
Property taxes run higher
Texas has no state income tax — but property tax rates are higher than most states. After closing, file your Homestead Exemption to reduce the taxable value of your primary home.
HOA & MUD fees
Many Houston-area master-planned communities carry HOA dues and MUD (municipal utility district) taxes. Factor these into the total monthly cost.
FIRST-TIME BUYER TIPS
A few things I tell every first-time buyer.
Get pre-approved before you fall in love with a home — it's the fastest way to know your real budget.
Budget for closing costs and move-in expenses, not just the down payment.
Don't open new credit lines, finance a car, or change jobs during your loan — it can delay or kill your approval.
Lean on your agent. Buyer representation is free to start the conversation — you don't pay to ask questions.
Ask about down-payment assistance programs — Texas has several for first-time and eligible buyers.
WHY WORK WITH BRITTNEY
Your advocate on the buyer's side of the table.
I represent you as the buyer — negotiating price and terms, spotting issues before they cost you, and managing the timeline so nothing slips between contract and closing. Local Katy and greater Houston expertise, straightforward communication, and a plan tailored to your situation.
This guide is general information, not financial, tax or legal advice. Costs, loan terms and programs vary — confirm details with your lender and title company. Brittney Chappell, REALTOR®, CB&A Realtors, TX License #820845. Equal Housing Opportunity.