Buying & Finance

Know your numbers before you fall in love.

Everything a Central Texas buyer should understand about money — payments, loans, closing costs, and the programs that can cover your down payment. Also see ways to buy →

Mortgage calculator

Estimated monthly payment /mo
Principal & interest
Property tax
Home insurance (est.)
PMI
Estimates only. Texas has no state income tax but above-average property taxes — Maryam can connect you with trusted local lenders for a real quote.

Loan types, plainly

The buying process, step by step

Closing costs in Texas

Plan for roughly 2–4% of the purchase price on top of your down payment. On a $450,000 home:

Down payment help & first-time buyer programs

Eligibility and funding change often — Maryam will check what's currently available for your situation.

Rent vs. buy in the Austin metro

Renting a 3-bed suburban home ~$2,100/mo Flexibility and no maintenance — but zero equity, annual increases, and no fixed housing cost. Five years of rent here ≈ $130K+ with nothing to show.
Owning a $355K starter home ~$2,450/mo A fixed payment that never rises, ~$500/mo building equity from day one, homestead tax exemption, and full control of your home. Break-even is typically 3–5 years.
Want a real pre-approval, not an estimate? Maryam works with trusted local lenders who close on time. Talk numbers with Maryam