Resources
Buyer and seller guidance for the Texas market
Plain-language guides to the transaction, answers to the questions we get most often, and direct links to the state forms every Texas client should read.
Buying a home
- Get a mortgage pre-approval so your offer is taken seriously.
- Set your must-haves: commute, schools, flood zone, HOA and lot size.
- Tour with a broker who reviews disclosures and survey history with you.
- Make an offer with the right option period and earnest money.
- Complete inspections, appraisal and financing before the deadlines.
- Final walkthrough, funding and keys at the title company.
Selling a property
- Review a comparative market analysis of recent nearby sales.
- Handle repairs and light staging that actually affect appraisal and photos.
- Professional photography and MLS syndication through HAR.com.
- Manage showings and evaluate offers on price, terms and buyer strength.
- Negotiate repair amendments after the buyer's inspection.
- Coordinate title, survey and payoff through to closing.
Frequently asked questions
- Who pays the real estate commission in Texas?
- Commission is negotiable and is agreed in writing before we begin. On a sale it is typically paid at closing from the seller's proceeds, though buyer-side compensation can be structured in several ways. We put the exact terms in your representation agreement.
- What is the option period?
- The option period is a negotiated number of days in which a buyer may terminate the contract for any reason in exchange for an option fee. It is when inspections normally take place.
- How long does closing take?
- A financed residential closing in the Houston area usually runs 30 to 45 days from executed contract. Cash purchases can close in as little as two weeks.
- Do you help with commercial leases?
- Yes. We represent both tenants and landlords on retail, office, industrial and flex space, including letters of intent, rent comparisons and renewal negotiations.
- What is Information About Brokerage Services?
- TREC requires Texas license holders to provide the IABS notice at first substantive communication. It explains the difference between an agent, a subagent, an intermediary and a broker representing you.