Ask Patrick
Straight answers to the mortgage and homebuying questions first-time buyers actually ask.
Most Asked Questions
The questions first-time buyers ask Patrick most.
How much house can I afford?
What credit score do I need?
FHA vs conventional vs VA: which is right for you?
Can I use down payment assistance with a VA loan?
Can I buy a home with no down payment?
Down payment vs closing costs: what's the difference?
What are the best down payment assistance programs in Texas?
What can I ask the seller to pay for?
What can I negotiate besides price?
When is my earnest money at risk?
What should I ask my loan officer before making an offer?
Am I financially ready to buy my first home?
What does 'under contract' actually mean when buying a house?
Buyer representation agreements: what do they actually lock in?
How do I know when to walk away from a house?
Browse by Topic
Browse questions by what matters most to you.
First-Time Homebuyer Basics
The essentials for buying your first home.
Mortgages & Financing
Rates, loan types, and the financing you need.
Down Payment Assistance
Programs that lower your cash to close.
Buying Process, Offers & Contracts
From offer to closing, in plain English.
New Construction & Builders
Builder contracts, incentives, and upgrades.
Home Values & Pricing
Appraisals, market value, and pricing.
Homeownership
Owning, maintaining, and growing your equity.
San Antonio & Texas
Local markets, taxes, and the Hill Country.
Selling Your Home
Staging, pricing, and getting the best net.
VA & Military
VA loans, PCS moves, and military home buying.
General Real Estate
Market insights and Texas real estate answers.
Investment Properties
Rentals, 1031 exchanges, and investor financing.