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Premier Property Group
Premier Property Group office in Livingston, Texas

First-time home buyers

Your first home, step by step.

Buying your first home around Livingston and Lake Livingston is exciting, and a little confusing. Here's how the process works in Texas, and how we help at every step.

Start with a plan, not a listing.

The best first purchases start before the first showing. Know your budget, get pre-approved and decide what matters most to you: commute, schools, land, water access or a move-in-ready home. Our agents help first-time buyers in Livingston, Onalaska, Point Blank, Coldspring and across East Texas every week.

How buying your first home works in Texas

  1. 01

    Check your budget

    Look at what you're comfortable paying each month, not just the price. Include taxes, insurance, any HOA dues and utilities. Lake and rural homes can also mean septic, well or flood insurance costs.

  2. 02

    Get pre-approved

    Talk to a lender before you shop. A pre-approval tells you what you can borrow and shows sellers you're ready. Ask about FHA, VA, USDA and conventional loans and which fits you.

  3. 03

    Choose your agent

    In Texas, a buyer's agent works for you. You'll sign a written buyer representation agreement that spells out services and how your agent is paid. We walk you through it before you tour.

  4. 04

    Tour homes

    Make a short list of must-haves and nice-to-haves. We'll show you homes and point out what first-time buyers often miss: roof age, drainage, septic, road access and deed restrictions.

  5. 05

    Make an offer

    We write your offer on the Texas contract, usually with earnest money and an option fee. The option period gives you a set number of days to inspect and back out for any reason.

  6. 06

    Inspect and appraise

    Hire a licensed inspector during your option period. Your lender orders an appraisal to confirm the value. If issues come up, we help you negotiate repairs or credits.

  7. 07

    Title, survey and insurance

    The title company checks for liens and issues title insurance. You'll line up homeowner's insurance, and flood insurance if needed, before closing.

  8. 08

    Close and move in

    Do a final walk-through, sign at the title company and get your keys. Your agent stays with you through the closing table.

What clients say

Rated 5.0 by 85 Google reviewers.

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“Jamie was such a pleasure to work with buying our new property. She worked hard through several hurdles. I would highly recommend her for any of your real estate transactions.”
Angie SweetenBuying · with JamieHAR
“I had an excellent experience working with Madeline. From start to finish, she was very professional, knowledgeable, and truly dedicated to helping me find the perfect property. She listened carefully to my needs, answered all of my questions, and always made herself available.”
Pichpimean LongBuying · with Madeline
“Madeline was absolutely amazing throughout the entire process and guided us in every way possible to help us find the perfect first home for our family. I would absolutely 1000% recommend her and Premier Property Group to anyone looking to buy or sell!”
Kenna ByersFirst home · with Madeline

First-time buyer questions

How much do I need for a down payment?

It depends on the loan. FHA loans start at 3.5% down, some conventional programs allow 3%, and VA and USDA loans can allow 0% down for eligible buyers and properties. Your lender will confirm what you qualify for.

Are there first-time buyer programs in Texas?

Yes. State programs like those from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) and the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) offer down payment and closing cost help for eligible buyers. Ask a participating lender which ones you qualify for.

What are closing costs?

Fees for the loan, title insurance, appraisal, survey and prepaid taxes and insurance. Your lender gives you a Loan Estimate early so there are no surprises. Sometimes the seller agrees to pay part of them.

What is earnest money and the option fee?

Earnest money shows the seller you're serious and is usually applied to your costs at closing. The option fee buys you the option period to inspect and decide. We help you set both.

Can I buy land or a home on acreage as a first-time buyer?

Yes, but financing can be different. Land and rural properties may need a land loan or a USDA, farm-credit or local bank loan. Talk to us early so we can point you to the right lenders.

This guide is general information, not legal or lending advice. Loan programs and requirements change; confirm details with a licensed lender.

Private Inquiry

Begin with a conversation.

Every great property on Lake Livingston begins with a private conversation. Tell us what you're chasing — a deep-water slip, a misty ranch, a shoreline life — and we'll take it from there.

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