First-Time Homebuyer Guide
Offers, the Texas Option Period, inspections, financing and closing-day keys.
Download the guidePDF · 12 pages
A NORTH TEXAS HOMEBUYER GUIDE
YOUR FIRST HOME
STARTS HERE.
YOU BRING THE DREAM. I’LL HELP WITH THE DETAILS.
Practical steps, honest expectations and smart questions—so your first home purchase feels more manageable.
Maximizing Every Move.
Your roadmap
From “I love it” to “I own it.”
The big-picture sequence. Your particular contract may have different deadlines and contingencies.
- 01
Prepare
Decide on a comfortable monthly payment, talk with a lender and understand buyer representation.
- 02
Make An Offer
Evaluate pricing and terms, then negotiate a signed, effective contract.
- 03
Deliver Funds
Send earnest money and the option fee to the contract-designated escrow agent by the deadline.
- 04
Option Period
Inspect, investigate, negotiate—and decide whether to move forward.
- 05
Pending / Loan Work
Work through appraisal, title, underwriting, insurance and any remaining conditions.
- 06
Close & Get Keys
Review final figures, complete walkthrough, sign, fund and receive possession as agreed.
Keep these handy
A little preparation goes a long way.
Read the guide at your own pace, bring the checklist to showings and ask questions before a deadline.
Home Tour Checklist
Bring a copy to each showing to record what fits, what you notice and what to investigate.
Download the checklistPDF · 1 page
Buyer Representation & Compensation
Understand services, negotiable fees, possible contributions and your financial responsibility.
Download the handoutPDF · 1 page
Your next move
Let’s make your first move a confident one.
Discuss your budget, priorities, representation choices, and what to expect before touring.
Talk with ElizabethEducational overview only, not legal, lending, tax or inspection advice. Dates, terms and program requirements vary. The guide does not replace the completed IABS, written representation agreement or purchase contract.