State Buyer Guide
Down payment assistance, Texas housing programs, closing cost estimates, and what to know before buying — including from FSBO sellers.
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The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) is your primary source for below-market mortgage rates and down payment assistance in Texas. Programs are available through approved lenders — not directly through the HFA.
30-year FHA/VA/conventional mortgage with down payment assistance for first-time buyers.
Federal tax credit for first-time buyers purchasing through TDHCA.
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Compare Mortgage Rates →On a $345,000 home: approximately $6,900
Texas has no state real estate transfer tax. You'll pay title insurance, recording fees, and a survey instead.
Texas is a title-company closing state. An attorney is not required, but you can hire one independently if you want document review.
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Find an Inspector →While Texas doesn't require an attorney at closing, FSBO buyers should strongly consider having one review the purchase agreement and title work.
Nolo has been the go-to legal resource for DIY buyers since 1971. Their real estate guides explain purchase agreements, contingencies, and closing in language anyone can understand.
Browse Legal Guides →Get a real estate attorney to review your purchase agreement or help you draft an offer letter — often for a fraction of traditional legal fees.
Get Legal Help →Download state-specific purchase agreements, addenda, and disclosure forms — written by attorneys, ready to use in your state.
Browse Real Estate Forms →Texas first-time buyers can access programs through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) (https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/), including the My First Texas Home (Up to 5% of loan amount as a 0%, 30-year deferred second mortgage) and the Texas Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) (Annual federal tax credit of 20–30% of mortgage interest paid, up to $2,000/year). Federal programs like FHA loans (3.5% down) and USDA loans (0% down in eligible areas) are also available.
Closing costs in Texas typically run 2% of the purchase price. Transfer tax: None. Texas has no state real estate transfer tax. You'll pay title insurance, recording fees, and a survey instead.
Texas is a title-company closing state. An attorney is not required, but you can hire one independently if you want document review.
The median home price in Texas is approximately $345,000. Property taxes average 1.74% of assessed value annually.
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