What a Texas Home Buyer Should Consider When Hiring a Real Estate Professional
Texas Home Buyer Guide: What to Look for When Hiring a Real Estate Professional
By Keith & Sheila Realty Group | LPT Realty
Serving Greater San Antonio, Cibolo, Schertz, New Braunfels & Surrounding Areas
Buying a home in Texas is one of the biggest financial decisions a family will make. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a military family PCSing to JBSA, or upgrading your home, the real estate professional you choose will impact your experience, negotiation power, and long-term success.
Below are the 10 most important things every Texas home buyer should look for when hiring a Realtor®—plus a free downloadable checklist.
1. Local Market Expertise (City + Neighborhood Knowledge)
Texas isn’t one market—it’s hundreds of micro-markets. Your Realtor® should know:
- Neighborhood trends and demand
- Builder reputations
- School districts
- Tax rates (including MUD/PID)
- HOA rules and fees
- Commute times
- Planned developments
2. Experience With Your Loan Type (VA, FHA, USDA, Conventional)
Your agent must understand your financing—especially if you are using a VA loan, FHA loan, USDA loan, or down payment assistance program. Texas has one of the largest military populations in the country, and mistakes can cause approval issues or delays.
3. Skilled Negotiation
Look for a Realtor® who understands:
- Multiple-offer strategies
- Repair negotiations
- Appraisal gaps & contingencies
- Seller concessions
- How to present strong offers
4. Reputation & Proven Track Record
A trustworthy agent should have:
- Verified Google reviews
- Past client testimonials
- Closed transactions in your area
- VA or first-time buyer experience
5. Communication & Responsiveness
Real estate moves fast in Texas. Your agent should be responsive, organized, and proactive. Clear communication equals a smoother experience.
6. Deep Understanding of Texas Contracts & Deadlines
Texas uses TREC/TAR contracts that include unique buyer protections. Your Realtor® must understand:
- Option fees
- Earnest money
- Inspection periods
- Appraisals
- HOA resale certificates
- Title commitments
- Survey requirements
7. Access to a Trusted Professional Network
A strong Realtor® provides connections to quality:
- Lenders
- Inspectors
- Insurance agents
- Contractors
- Surveyors
- Title companies
8. Buyer Advocacy — Not Sales Pressure
Choose an agent who listens, protects your interests, and gives honest advice—not someone chasing a commission.
9. Military & Relocation Expertise (If Applicable)
If you're PCSing to JBSA or relocating from out of state, choose a Realtor® offering:
- Virtual home tours
- Remote offer strategies
- Local commute guidance
- Temporary housing resources
10. Trust, Comfort & Connection
You’ll work closely with your agent—so choose someone who communicates well, listens, and makes you feel confident.
🎁 Download Your Free Texas Home Buyer Guide (PDF)
Includes:
- 10 things to look for in a Realtor®
- Top questions to ask
- Texas-specific advice
- VA & first-time buyer notes
👉 Click here to download the guide
📞 Schedule Your Texas Home Buyer Strategy Call or Text 830-837-1071
No pressure. No sales pitch. Just honest guidance to help you buy with confidence.
Schedule Your Call
📲 Call/Text: 830-837-1071
🌐 www.keithandsheila.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right Realtor® in Texas?
Look for local market knowledge, a strong reputation, great communication, and experience with your loan type.
Do first-time buyers need a Realtor® in Texas?
Yes. Texas contracts and timelines can be complex. A good agent protects your interests.
Do VA home buyers need a specialized agent?
Absolutely. VA loan experience is crucial to avoid delays and qualify for the right homes.
Do buyers have to pay a Realtor® in Texas?
Typically, the seller covers the buyer agent's compensation.
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"Words cannot express our gratitude and thankfulness that Keith provided us when buying our home. Being a military family and not being able to physically be there is beyond challenging buying a house unseen. He made this whole process so pleasant and easy, always easing our minds because he had our complete best interests in his hands. He took the time to send videos, pictures, and did several walk-through of the home to make us feel like we were there. You can easily tell Keith has years of experience , always answering questions and helping us every step of the way! He was extremely helpful in guiding us through the process of buying our home, and making sure that everything was taken care of promptly and correctly. He has been nothing but extremely responsive and excellent since the first phone call! Keith is incredibly knowledgeable, a go-getter, and super professional. We truly sat in passenger seat and let Keith do the driving. He went above and beyond to find the perfect home for us. There's not another realtor out there that could've provided us with the ease and comfort knowing we were making all the right decisions! Keith and Sheila have our highest recommendation, and we wouldn’t ever want to work with any other agent. We will refer our friends and family to Keith and Sheila Realty again and again!" Nicole Olson - 2024