First-Time Buyers

Buying your first home in the Houston area

No jargon, no pressure, no assumptions about what you already know. We walk first-time buyers through every step from pre-approval to the day you get the keys.

Bridgeland, Cypress: lakeside homes and walking trails
No jargon
No pressure
Every document explained
We move at your pace
No jargon
No pressure
Every document explained
We move at your pace
What to expect

Everything explained before you sign anything

Most first-time buyers tell us the hardest part was not finding a home — it was not knowing what happens next. We fix that first.

01

We start with the numbers

Down payment, closing costs, property tax, insurance and HOA dues. You will see a realistic monthly payment for Harris, Montgomery, Fort Bend and Waller counties before you tour a single home.

02

We explain every document

The one-to-four family contract, the option period, the third-party financing addendum, the survey and the title commitment. You will know what you are signing and why.

03

We move at your pace

Some first-time buyers close in six weeks. Some take a year. We are happy either way and we will not push you into a house to close a deal.

Step by step

The first three steps

Everything before the house hunt — and the part most people skip.

01

Free first conversation

Twenty minutes. What you earn, what you owe, when your lease ends, and what you want. No credit pull, no commitment.

Book a call →
02

Talk to a lender

Local lenders who actually answer the phone. You get a pre-approval letter and a clear budget across FHA, VA and conventional.

03

Learn the assistance programs

Texas has real down payment assistance for qualified first-time buyers. We tell you which ones apply.

Then the fun part

From touring to keys

01
Tour homes that fit the budget
We build your HAR search around the payment you are comfortable with, not the maximum the bank approved.
02
Make the offer
We price it against recent sales, explain the option fee and earnest money, and negotiate repairs after the inspection.
03
Inspection week
We line up the inspector, sit the walkthrough with you, and translate the report into what actually matters.
04
Close and move in
We track the lender and title company to the closing date, walk the home with you, and stay available long after you move in.
Budget

What it actually costs to buy in Texas

Rough guidance, not a quote. Your lender will give you exact numbers for your situation.

Up front

Down payment & closing costs

Conventional from around 3 percent, FHA around 3.5, VA can be nothing down. Closing costs usually run 2 to 5 percent — and sellers or builders often contribute.

Ongoing

Tax, insurance, HOA

Texas has no state income tax but higher property tax. Check the total rate including any MUD or PID, get insurance quotes early, and budget annual HOA dues plus transfer fees at closing.

FAQ

First-time buyer questions

The ones we answer most weeks.

Do I need perfect credit?
No. FHA loans are designed for buyers with moderate credit, and many of our clients close in the low-to-mid 600s. A lender can tell you in one conversation where you stand and what would move the number.
How long does the whole process take?
From pre-approval to keys, most first-time purchases run six to ten weeks once you are under contract. Finding the right home is the part that varies.
Is there really down payment assistance in Texas?
Yes, through state and local programs for qualified buyers. Eligibility depends on income, purchase price and sometimes occupation. We will point you to lenders who handle these loans regularly.
What does it cost to work with you?
Your first consultation is free. Compensation is negotiable and agreed in writing before we start, and we walk you through exactly how it works on your transaction.
Should I buy new construction or resale?
Both work. New construction can come with incentives and a warranty but often a higher tax rate and a longer wait. Resale usually means a bigger lot and mature trees. We will show you the trade-offs in your price range.
Reviews

From people who started where you are

First-time buyers and first-time sellers, in their own words.

The property Damon B reviewed: Buyer · Wild Gully Way
★★★★★
HAR.com HAR.com
Working with Kelly on our first home purchase was an incredible experience from start to finish. As first time buyers, we had a lot of questions, nerves, and uncertainties, but Kelly guided us through every step with patience, clarity, and genuine care. Her knowledge of the market, attention to detail, and commitment to our best interests made the entire process smooth and stress free. We always felt supported, informed, and prioritized. Thanks to her outstanding service, we’re now settling into a home we absolutely love.
D
Damon B Buyer
Wild Gully Way · Apr 2026
★★★★★
Google Google
As a renter in my 30’s who knows nothing about what I needed to do to prepare for home ownership, I can say I’m incredibly relieved there are folks out there who make it simple. Ashley and Kaci take away the complicated processes and steps so I can understand better AND will even handle a lot of the tedious tasks for you. They have always been available for my many misc. questions. They’re also very good at telling you the tough news in a way that doesn’t leave me feeling ashamed regarding credit, loans, down payment etc. and guide you to get to where you need to be.
L
Lanie Vanek
The property Sarah B reviewed: Buyer · Weeping Bow
★★★★★
HAR.com HAR.com
Ashley did a superb job. She was quick to return calls, texts, and emails. She answered my questions thoroughly. She has the heart of a teacher. She was also extremely patient as I figured out what I truly wanted.
S
Sarah B Buyer
Weeping Bow · Jun 2020
★★★★★
Google Google
Kaci and Ashley were VERY helpful! I’m new to the whole experience, they walked me through all the details and made everything very clear for me!
V
Vivemis
★★★★★
HAR.com HAR.com
Ashley Gebora was very professional, prompt, and knowledgeable. She was very sensitive to our needs and wants and advocated on our behalf.
M
Maegan H Buyer
Mabry Stream Court · Sep 2019
The property Jasmine T reviewed: Buyer · S Lyford Drive
★★★★★
HAR.com HAR.com
I have nothing but great things to say about Ashley. She was prompt and worked diligently to find us a wonderful home. I would highly recommend her services.
J
Jasmine T Buyer
S Lyford Drive · Jul 2021

70 completed client surveys, rated 5/5. See all on HAR.com

Start with one honest conversation

No pressure and no obligation. Tell us where you are and we will tell you what the next step looks like.