First-Time Home Buyers
Buying Your First Home: 5 Things You Must Know
Texas Real Estate Sales Agent #454749, AXEN Realty LLC · Senior Loan Officer, NMLS ID #877741, NEXA Mortgage, LLC
Essential first-time homebuyer tips covering pre-approval, cash-to-close, down payment assistance, rate shopping, and working with a proven agent.
What You Will Learn
Buying your first home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. In this video, Patrick breaks down the 5 essential steps every first-time buyer needs to know before starting their home search. From getting pre-approved to choosing the right agent, this is your complete roadmap to a successful home purchase.
Whether you are looking in San Antonio, Bulverde, or anywhere in the Texas Hill Country, these principles apply. Patrick combines his experience as both a REALTOR and Loan Officer to give you the full picture of what it takes to buy a home with confidence.
Key Takeaways
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Get Pre-Approved Before You Start Looking
A pre-approval tells you exactly what you can afford and shows sellers you are a serious buyer. Patrick explains the documents you will need and how the process works.
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Know Your Approximate Cash-to-Close
Understanding your total cash needed at closing prevents surprises. This includes down payment, closing costs, prepaids, and reserves.
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Explore Down Payment Assistance Options
Texas has several down payment assistance programs. Patrick walks through the most common ones and how to see if you qualify.
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Use a Mortgage Broker Who Can Shop Rates
A broker compares multiple lenders to find you the best rate and terms. Patrick explains why this can save you thousands over the life of your loan.
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Work With a Proven Agent Who Can Negotiate
The right agent protects your interests, negotiates repairs, and guides you through the entire contract-to-closing process. Patrick shows you what to look for.
Continue Learning
Read the transcript of this video, word for word, in a simple text format.
Put these tips into action with the financing plan in Patrick's Texas mortgage guide.
Read about the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make and how to avoid them before you start your search.
Not sure where to begin? Patrick answers where to start when buying your first home in plain language.
Have Questions About What You Watched?
Patrick is happy to answer your specific questions about buying your first home in San Antonio or the Texas Hill Country.
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About Patrick Kevin Fagan, REALTOR®
Patrick Kevin Fagan is a Texas Real Estate Sales Agent (#454749) with AXEN Realty LLC and a Senior Loan Officer (NMLS ID #877741) with NEXA Mortgage, LLC (NMLS #1660690). He brings 23+ years in mortgage lending and 19 years in real estate, serving homebuyers, homeowners, and sellers across Greater San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country.
