First-time buyers
Your first home, explained without the jargon
Nobody is born knowing what an option period is. Lori takes the extra time to explain each step, each cost and each signature, so your first purchase feels manageable instead of overwhelming.
Step by step
What your first purchase looks like, in order
You don't need to memorize any of this. You just need to know it exists, and to have someone tracking it with you.
- 1
Talk before you tour
We start with your budget comfort, not just what a loan program allows. A payment you can live with on a normal month matters more than the maximum number on a pre-approval letter.
- 2
Meet with a lender
A licensed lender reviews your credit, income and savings and explains loan options and pre-approval. Ask them to show the full monthly payment, including taxes, insurance and any HOA or mortgage insurance.
- 3
Learn what you're signing
Buyer representation agreement, contract, addenda, seller's disclosure, survey, title commitment. I walk through each one so you know what it does before it's in front of you.
- 4
Tour with purpose
We look at layout, lot, noise, storage, drainage and the parts that don't photograph. First-timers often discover their real priorities on tours two and three, which is completely normal.
- 5
Make an offer you understand
We go over earnest money, the option fee, the option period and the deadlines that follow, so you know exactly what protects you and what a waiver would cost you.
- 6
Inspect, review, decide
You'll get an inspection report full of items. We separate genuine concerns from ordinary maintenance notes, then decide whether to ask for repairs, a credit, or move on.
- 7
Close and move in
Final walkthrough, signing at the title company, funding, then keys. Bring your ID and follow the title company's wiring instructions carefully.
This page is general education, not lending, legal or tax advice. Loan eligibility, assistance programs, costs and contract terms vary by buyer and change over time. Please confirm details with a licensed lender, attorney or tax professional.
First-time buyer? Start here
No pressure and no obligation. Ask the questions you'd rather not ask a stranger at an open house.
Money
The costs first-time buyers don't see coming
Down payment gets all the attention. These are the line items that surprise people, and knowing them early keeps your plan intact.
Earnest money
Option fee
Inspections
Appraisal and lender fees
Closing costs and prepaids
Move-in reality
Exact amounts vary by transaction and are set by your lender, title company, inspectors and the negotiated contract. Ask your lender for a written loan estimate as early as possible.
Where to look
Areas first-time buyers often compare
Different corners of North Austin offer very different tradeoffs between price, commute and home age. These pages help you narrow before you tour.
Leander
Heavy new-construction activity and a wide range of newer floor plans north of the city.
Learn moreRound Rock
A large, established market with older and newer homes across several price points.
Learn moreCedar Park
Settled neighborhoods, mature trees and central North Austin convenience.
Learn moreGuides
Reading that helps before your first tour
Good questions
First-time buyer questions
Start with questions, not a contract
Most first-time buyers begin with a 20-minute call. Nothing is committed and you'll leave knowing what to do next.