Buying a home in Austin starts with a clear plan — Detailed Reference

Earlier detailed guidance, preserved October 23, 2026. Figures and program descriptions reflect the original material and may have changed. See current options and talk with Adam →

Buying a home in Austin starts with a clear plan

Compare conventional, jumbo and eligible government-backed options. Explore the full first-time-buyer guidance below. Timing and eligibility depend on the complete file. NMLS #513013.

★★★★★ 5.0 (144 Reviews) As Low as 0% Down 1,000+ Loans Closed (512) 956-6010

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No credit impact. No obligation. Adam responds personally within 1 business day.

Find your financing path

Home financing for your next move

Start with your goal, documented income and available cash. Compare conventional, jumbo and eligible government-backed options; the first-time-buyer guidance below remains available in full.

Conventional and jumbo

Compare financing for a primary home, including larger loan amounts.

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First-time buyer planning

Review cash to close, assistance options and preparation before applying.

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Moving or refinancing

Explore timing when buying before selling, or review refinance costs and break-even.

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Discuss your scenario · See all mortgage options

Loan Programs

Low Down Payment Options for First-Time Buyers

Austin-area buyers may also qualify for down payment assistance — grab the free 2026 Austin DPA guide for programs and income limits.

Access to many wholesale lenders means Adam finds the right fit — not just what one bank offers.

Most Popular

FHA Loan

3.5% Down

The go-to loan for first-time buyers with moderate credit. Government-backed, widely available, and forgiving on debt-to-income ratios.

  • Min. Credit Score580
  • Min. Down Payment3.5%
  • Mortgage InsuranceRequired
  • 2026 FHA Limit (Austin, 1 Unit)$571,550

USDA Loan

0% Down

Zero down payment for eligible buyers in qualifying suburban and rural areas around Austin — including Buda, Kyle, Leander, and Pflugerville.

  • Min. Credit Score640
  • Min. Down Payment$0
  • Income LimitsApply
  • Area EligibilityRequired

Conventional 97

3% Down

Put just 3% down and keep the option to cancel mortgage insurance once you hit 20% equity — unlike FHA, which carries MI for life.

  • Min. Credit Score620
  • Min. Down Payment3%
  • Mortgage InsuranceCancellable
  • Loan Limit$832,750

From First Inquiry to Keys in Hand

Most first-time buyers move quickly when the file is complete. Here's how it works.

1

Submit Your Info

Fill out the form — takes 2 minutes. Once the documents are in, Adam reviews the file and reaches out to discuss your options.

2

Pre-qualification letter

Once your documents are in, we review them and issue a pre-approval letter.

3

Close & Get Your Keys

Adam guides you through every step — inspection, appraisal, underwriting, and closing. No surprises, no hidden fees.

Real Clients

First-Time Buyers Love Working with Adam

A first-home experience

“Worked with Adam for the mortgage on our first home, he was incredibly responsive and knowledgeable, helping answer any questions we had through the entire home buying process.”

Sergio Soto AguilarJanuary 2026 · Google review

Read review on GoogleMore client reviews

★★★★★

"I didn't think I could afford a house on my own. Adam found me an FHA loan with 3.5% down and my monthly payment ended up lower than my rent. The process was incredibly smooth."

— Danielle R., Round Rock TX

★★★★★

— Kevin M., Pflugerville TX

Common Questions

First-Time Buyer FAQ

What credit score do I need to buy my first home in Texas?
How much do I need for a down payment as a first-time buyer?
What's the difference between FHA and Conventional for a first-time buyer?

FHA has a lower credit minimum (580) and accepts higher debt-to-income ratios, making it more accessible. Conventional offers better rates for buyers with 680+ credit and lets you cancel mortgage insurance once you hit 20% equity — FHA mortgage insurance lasts the life of the loan unless you refinance.

How long does it take to get pre-qualified?

Most first-time buyers receive a pre-approval letter once the documents are in after submitting documents. Adam reviews every application personally. You'll need recent pay stubs, W-2s, bank statements, and a photo ID.

Does getting pre-qualified hurt my credit score?

A pre-approval involves a hard credit inquiry, which may lower your score by 2–5 points temporarily. However, multiple mortgage inquiries within a 45-day window count as a single inquiry — so shopping around won't compound the impact. The effect is minor and short-lived compared to the benefit of locking in a good rate.

Want the full step-by-step guide to buying a home in Austin? How to Buy a House in Austin TX →  |  Estimate Your Monthly Payment →

Ready to Stop Renting?

Once your documents are in, we review them and issue a pre-approval letter. No pressure, no obligation — just a clear picture of what you can afford and what your payment looks like.

Get My Free Pre-Qualification → or call (512) 956-6010

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