First-Time
Home Buyer’s Guide
Everything you need in one place — Texas budget worksheets, home checklists, loan document checklist, mortgage do’s & don’ts, transaction steps, moving checklist, and a live mortgage calculator. No fluff, no pressure.
What Can You Afford?
Use this worksheet to estimate how much you can comfortably spend on housing each month. The numbers calculate live as you type. Nothing is saved or sent anywhere.
💡 Texas Tip: Texas has no state income tax but property taxes are among the highest in the country, averaging around 2% of assessed value annually. On a $350,000 home, that often works out to about $580–$700/month for taxes alone. Use our Texas Mortgage Calculator to estimate your full payment before filling in the mortgage line above.
Home Buyer’s Checklist
Identify your must-haves, desired features, and nice-to-haves before you start house hunting. Print this page or fill it out digitally as a personal reference.
Ready to Get Pre-Approved?
Pre-approval is the most important first step. Adam & Team will evaluate your goals and shop multiple lenders — no obligation, no upfront credit check.
LET’S TALKLoan Application Checklist
Have these documents ready before you apply. Being prepared upfront speeds up your approval and helps avoid delays.
Mortgage Do’s & Don’ts
Your credit, income, and assets are verified after you submit your application — and sometimes again right before closing. Follow these rules carefully.
✅ DO
- Call Adam & Team if you’re unsure whether something will impact your loan.
- Keep original documents — all pay stubs, bank statements, and financial records.
- Pay all bills on time — late payments damage your credit score.
- Continue working at your current job until after closing.
- Respond quickly to any requests from your loan processor.
- Keep bank accounts stable — avoid large unexplained deposits or withdrawals.
❌ DON’T
- Apply for new credit or increase credit limits during the loan process.
- Max out credit cards — keep balances below 30% of your limits.
- Consolidate debt or close credit card accounts.
- Make large purchases — cars, furniture, appliances, or anything financed.
- Change jobs or positions without consulting your lender first.
- Co-sign on another person’s loan or change your name/address.
Steps in a Real Estate Transaction
What happens from start to finish when buying your home — from first consultation to getting your keys.
Get Pre-Approved
Connect with Adam & Team to get pre-approved first — this tells sellers you’re serious and ready to buy, and gives you a firm budget to shop within.
Connect with a Realtor
Find a licensed real estate professional to represent your interests. A buyer’s agent is typically free to you — their commission is paid by the seller.
Find Your Home
Work with your realtor to find and make an offer on the right home. Your pre-approval letter strengthens your offer in competitive Texas markets.
Sign the Contract
Sign the purchase contract and submit your earnest money deposit (typically 1–3% of the purchase price). This kicks off the official process.
Inspections
Order a home inspection and termite inspection to assess the property’s condition. This protects you from unexpected problems after closing.
Title Process
The title company opens your file, orders a title commitment, and reviews for any defects or liens against the property that must be resolved before closing.
Loan Approval
Receive final loan approval from your lender. Your dedicated Adam & Team processor keeps you informed and coordinates with all parties throughout.
Closing Scheduled
Set your closing date with the escrow officer at the title company. Bring your government ID, cashier’s check or wire for closing costs, and proof of insurance.
Close & Get Your Keys! 🎉
Sign your closing documents, funds are distributed, and you receive the keys to your new home. Congratulations — you’re a homeowner!
Moving Checklist
Stay organized before and after your move with this checklist. Check off each item as you go.
🍼 Texas Homestead Exemption: After closing on your primary Texas residence, file for your Homestead Exemption with your county appraisal district. This can reduce your taxable property value and lower your annual tax bill. It does not happen automatically — you must apply. Veterans may qualify for additional exemptions based on disability rating.
Mortgage Payment Calculator
Estimate your monthly payment. Once you have a number, plug it into the mortgage line in the Budget Worksheet above to see if it fits your budget.
Get an Exact Rate — Not Just an Estimate
The calculator gives you a ballpark. Adam & Team will shop multiple lenders to get you the real number — no obligation, no upfront credit check, no pressure.
LET’S TALKFirst-Time Buyer FAQ
Common questions answered in plain English. Click any question to expand.
Adam Bartling & Team
Loan Officer · NMLS# 2213358
Retired U.S. Army Captain and veteran-owned mortgage business. Adam brings an education-first approach to every transaction — helping first-time buyers across Texas and 30+ states understand their options before committing to anything. No upfront credit check. We are a direct lender that shops multiple lenders so you get a competitive rate — not just one bank’s offer.
Ready to Start Your Home Buying Journey?
Adam & Team are here to guide every step — free consultation, no obligation, no upfront credit check. We shop multiple lenders so you get a competitive rate in Texas and 30+ states.
LET’S TALK🎆 Veteran-Owned | Serving Texas & 30+ States
Adam Bartling & Team · Loan Officer NMLS# 2213358 · Serving Texas & 30+ States · Equal Housing Lender · This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a commitment to lend. Loan programs, rates, and terms are subject to change. All loans subject to credit approval.