Buying your first home in Texas is a big step, and there is more help out there than most people realize. These are the free first-time home buyer resources I recommend, from down payment assistance and homebuyer classes to loan programs for veterans...
TDHCA homeownership programs offer down payment help for Texas buyers. Ask your lender if they work with TDHCA.
Texas Homeownership
Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation has down payment assistance and mortgage credit certificates for teachers, nurses, first responders and more.
TS AHC
HUD's guide to buying a home and finding approved housing counselors. Free advice from people who aren't selling you anything.
Buying a Home | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
CFPB's step-by-step guide to shopping for a mortgage. Compare at least three loan estimates to save money.
Buying a house | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
VA home loans with no down payment for eligible veterans. No PMI either, which saves money every month.
VA-backed Veterans home loans | Veterans Affairs
USDA loans for buyers in eligible rural areas, including parts of the Valley. Zero down payment if you qualify.
Single Family Housing Programs
Learn about FHA loans with low down payments and flexible credit rules. A common choice for first-time buyers.
FHA Loan Refinance and Home Purchase Loans at FHA.com
Fannie Mae's free HomeView homebuyer education course. Many down payment programs require a course like this.
HomeView Homeownership Education Course
Freddie Mac CreditSmart free credit and homebuying lessons. Great for building confidence before you apply.
Freddie Mac CreditSmart®
Check your credit reports for free before you apply. Fix errors early so you get a better rate.
Annual Credit Report
Realtor.com to search homes for sale and see school and neighborhood info.
Realtor.com
Zillow to browse listings and estimate your monthly payment, including taxes and insurance.
Zillow
Texas Real Estate Commission to verify a licensed agent before you sign anything.
Welcome to TREC
Redfin listings with tours and price history. Set alerts so you see new homes the moment they list.
Redfin
Find a free HUD-approved housing counselor near you. They can help you budget and find assistance programs.
