Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a House Without a Realtor in Texas

Buying a home without a realtor in Texas is possible with the right preparation. This guide outlines key steps, including setting a budget, getting pre-approved, researching the market, finding properties, handling inspections, and negotiating directly with sellers. While skipping a realtor can save on commission and give buyers more control, it requires careful planning, legal awareness, and working with lenders and title companies to ensure a smooth closing. This guide will walk you through each step, from setting a budget to closing the deal, ensuring you have a smooth and successful transaction.

Why Buy a House Without a Realtor?

Before jumping into the home-buying process, it’s important to understand why some buyers choose to go solo. Here are a few key reasons:

Key Factors to Consider:

Save on Commission – Buyers typically don’t pay an agent’s commission directly, but purchasing from a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) seller can open doors to better negotiation opportunities.
Full Control – You manage negotiations, property searches, and paperwork, allowing for a more customized approach.
Direct Communication – Without a middleman, you interact directly with sellers, potentially leading to faster deals.
More Negotiating Power – Some sellers prefer working directly with buyers to avoid realtor fees, meaning you might be able to negotiate a lower purchase price.

Step 1: Determine Your Budget & Get Pre-Approved

Before you start looking at homes, you need to know what you can afford. This means setting a budget and securing financing.

1. Assess Your Finances

Check Your Credit Score – A higher score can get you a better mortgage rate. Most conventional loans require a score of 620+, while FHA loans may accept as low as 580.
Calculate Your Down Payment – Down payments can range from 3.5% (FHA loans) to 20% (conventional loans).
Estimate Closing Costs – Expect to pay 2%–5% of the home price in closing costs, covering lender fees, title insurance, and property taxes.

💡 Use a mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly payments and affordability.

2. Get Pre-Approved for a Loan

A pre-approval letter from a lender shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer. To get pre-approved, you’ll need:

✔️ Proof of income (W-2s, tax returns)
✔️ Bank statements
✔️ Employment verification
✔️ Credit history

💡 Pro Tip: Compare loan offers from multiple lenders to find the best interest rate.

Step 2: Research the Texas Housing Market

The Texas real estate market varies by city, neighborhood, and even time of year. Here’s how to gather the right data:

Check Recent Home Prices – Use sites like Zillow, Redfin, or HAR.com to analyze current listings.
Evaluate Market Trends – Look at price appreciation rates, average days on the market, and inventory levels.
Consider Local Factors – School districts, employment rates, and safety impact home values.
Understand Property Taxes – Texas has no state income tax, but property taxes can be high. Check your county’s tax rates before committing.

Step 3: Find the Right Home

Once you have a budget and understand market conditions, it’s time to search for homes.

Browse Online Listings – Websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and FSBO-specific sites can help you find available properties.
Drive Through Neighborhoods – Look for For Sale By Owner (FSBO) signs that may not be listed online.
Network Locally – Connect with real estate investors, local forums, and community groups.
Contact Sellers Directly – Once you find a property, reach out to the seller for more details or to schedule a showing.

Pro Tip: If you’re considering a new construction home, visit builders directly to negotiate pricing and incentives.

Step 4: Schedule Home Inspections & Appraisals

Because you won’t have an agent guiding you, conducting due diligence is essential.

1. Hire a Home Inspector

A professional inspection identifies potential structural, electrical, and plumbing issues before you buy. In Texas, home inspections typically cost $300–$500 but can save you thousands in repairs.

What to inspect?
✔️ Foundation and roof condition
✔️ Electrical and plumbing systems
✔️ HVAC system
✔️ Mold or water damage

💡 Where to Find Inspectors? Use the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) to find licensed professionals.

2. Get an Appraisal (If Using a Mortgage)

Mortgage lenders require a home appraisal to ensure the property is worth the loan amount. Even if paying cash, an appraisal can confirm you’re getting a fair deal.

Step 5: Make an Offer & Negotiate

Determine Your Offer Price – Base your price on market research and home condition.
Use a Real Estate Attorney (Optional) – Texas doesn’t require one, but hiring an attorney can help with contract review.
Submit a Written Offer – Use the Texas Real Estate Commission’s contract (TREC Form 20-16) for official documentation.
Negotiate with the Seller – Discuss price adjustments, repairs, and contingencies.
Pro Tip: If unsure about paperwork, consider hiring a transaction coordinator instead of a full-service agent to assist with contracts.

Step 6: Secure Financing & Close the Deal

Finalize Your Mortgage – Provide all necessary documentation to your lender.
Perform a Final Walkthrough – Ensure the home is in agreed-upon condition.
Work with a Title Company – Texas requires a title company to handle escrow, ensuring a clean title transfer.
Pay Closing Costs – Be prepared to cover loan fees, title insurance, and taxes.
Estimated Costs: Expect to pay 2%–5% of the home price in closing fees.

1. What Happens on Closing Day?

You’ll sign final paperwork for the mortgage and property transfer.
The title company will verify funds and disburse payments.
You’ll receive the keys to your new home!

Final Thoughts:

Purchasing a home without a realtor can be a smart financial move, but it requires extra research and effort. If you’re confident in negotiation, contracts, and market analysis, you can successfully navigate the process alone. However, if you feel unsure about any step, consult a real estate attorney or transaction coordinator to avoid costly mistakes.