Eric BlazejREALTOR® · Monument Realty Contact Eric

Buyers

Buying a home in Dallas–Fort Worth

Short answerIn Texas you'll sign a written buyer agreement before touring, make an offer on a TREC contract, pay an option fee for a short inspection window, deposit earnest money with a title company, and close through that title company, usually in about 30–45 days with financing.

How I work with buyers

  1. Strategy call. Budget, timing, commute, must-haves and deal-breakers.
  2. Pre-approval. I'll connect you with lenders if you need one; you choose.
  3. Buyer agreement. Clear terms on duties, duration and compensation, in writing.
  4. Search and tours. MLS alerts, in-person and live video tours, and recent comparable sales.
  5. Offer and negotiation. Price, option period, earnest money, seller concessions and closing date.
  6. Option period. Inspections, repair negotiations, insurance quotes, survey and HOA documents.
  7. Closing. Final walkthrough, title company closing, keys, then your homestead exemption filing.

Costs to plan for

  • Earnest money and option fee (negotiated, credited at closing in most contracts)
  • Lender fees, appraisal and prepaid escrow for taxes and insurance
  • Inspections and survey
  • Property tax for the exact address, including any MUD/PID
  • HOA dues and transfer fees where applicable

Buyer FAQ

Do I have to sign an agreement before touring homes in Texas?

Yes. Before showing a residential property to a buyer, a Texas license holder must have a written agreement with that buyer. It can be limited in time and non-exclusive; I'll explain the terms, including compensation, before we tour.

What is the option period in a Texas contract?

It is a negotiated number of days, bought with an option fee, during which the buyer can inspect and terminate the contract for any reason. The fee and length are negotiable.

Who handles the closing in Texas?

Typically a title company, which holds earnest money, handles escrow, issues title insurance and runs the closing. You can also hire your own attorney to review documents.

What inspections matter most in North Texas?

A general home inspection plus close attention to the roof (hail), foundation (expansive clay soils), HVAC, drainage and, for older homes, the sewer line.

Relocating? See Moving to DFW and the area guides.

Start your search

Tell me what you're looking for and I'll send a first list of homes and recent sales.

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