Thinking About Buying a Home in Houston? Here’s Exactly What I’d Do.

RJ Andrews
Aug 4, 2025
3 min read

If I wanted to buy a home in Houston, TX, this is exactly what I’d do—and it’s probably not what you think.

So many first-time buyers make the mistake of diving headfirst into house hunting before they’re actually ready. A client recently came to me after months of scrolling Zillow and showing up at open houses with no real direction. They were excited… but also confused, overwhelmed, and burnt out.

The turning point? Learning that the first step isn’t house hunting.

Step 1: Get Pre-Approved (Yes—Before You Tour Anything)

Before we ever tour a single property, I always tell my clients to get pre-approved by a trusted lender. This helps you understand exactly what you can afford, what loan programs you're eligible for, and what your monthly payments will look like.

No guessing. No wishful thinking. Just real numbers to guide your next move.

Step 2: Partner with the Right Realtor®

Next, find a real estate agent who knows the Houston market inside and out—and who actually listens to your needs. The right agent will help you:

Avoid homes with hidden issues
Get access to off-market listings and exclusive builder deals
Understand neighborhood dynamics (crime, schools, future growth)
Guide you through contracts, negotiations, and legal docs

Remember: Zillow and Homes.com don’t have the full story. A great agent does.

Step 3: Create Your Must-Haves List

Once you know your budget and have an agent by your side, it’s time to define your wants vs. needs:

How many bedrooms and bathrooms?
What size home fits your lifestyle?
Do you need a home office? A backyard?
What neighborhoods make sense for your commute or kids' schools?

The more specific you are, the better your agent can match you with homes that check the right boxes.

Step 4: Make a Smart Offer

Found the one? Amazing.

Now it’s time to make an offer. Contrary to what you might think, everything is negotiable—from the price to closing costs, upgrades, and even move-in timelines. Your agent can help you draft a strong offer, respond to counter-offers, and protect your interests every step of the way.

Step 5: Don’t Skip the Inspection (Even on New Homes!)

Whether it’s resale or new construction, always schedule a third-party inspection.

This is your opportunity to uncover any issues and request repairs before finalizing the sale. If the seller refuses, you still have the right to walk away with your deposit intact. Never skip this step.

Step 6: Final Financing, Appraisal & Title Search

Once inspections are wrapped, your lender will order the home appraisal, run a title search, and complete all underwriting steps for final loan approval.

If everything checks out, you’ll get the green light.

Step 7: Clear to Close 🎉

This is it! You’ll sign final paperwork, wire funds, and receive the keys to your new home. Cue the champagne—you’re officially a homeowner in Houston.

Why This Works

The difference between buyers who succeed and buyers who stay stuck? Clarity.

When you have a clear plan, a trusted agent, and the right team behind you, everything feels easier. Less stress. More results.

✅ Clarity = Confidence. That’s how smart buyers win in this market.

Need Help Getting Started?

I’m Regina Andrews—your local Houston Realtor® and expert new home matchmaker for buyers in Cypress, Richmond, Spring, and the greater Houston area.

If you're tired of guessing and want to start with real answers, DM me the word “BUY” and I’ll send you my First-Time Buyer Starter Kit. It’s a free, no-fluff guide that walks you through exactly what to do next—zero pressure, all value.

📩 Ready when you are.