Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Home Buyers in Boerne, Texas

1. Assess Your Finances

• Credit & Debt: Pull your credit report and work on paying down high-interest balances. A credit score of 620+ will open more mortgage options.
• Savings for Down Payment: Aim for 3%–20% of your target home price. In Boerne, starter homes often range from $300K–$450K, so you’ll want $9K–$90K saved.
• Emergency Fund: Keep 2–3 months of living expenses aside so you’re covered after closing.

2. Explore First-Time Buyer Programs

• My First Texas Home (Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation): Offers competitive rates and down-payment assistance.
  Kendall County Assistance: Check local grants and tax-abate programs for first-time buyers in Boerne’s extra-territorial jurisdiction.
  

3. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

• Shop Local Lenders:
• Danny Palmer, Palmer Lending Group (San Antonio)
  
• Bethany Bump, Legacy Mutual Mortgage (Boerne)
  
  

Pre-Approval Benefits:

• Shows sellers you’re serious
• Clarifies your budget
• Locks in an interest rate (in most cases)

4.Partner with a Local Real Estate Agent

• Why an Agent Matters: We know Boerne’s micro-markets, Hill Country views vs. historic downtown, and can spot value before you do.
• Our Team: As residents of Stone Creek Ranch and top producers in the Hill Country, we guide you through contracts, negotiations, and inspections.

5. Define Your “Must-Haves”

• Neighborhoods:
• Fair Oaks Ranch for great schools and golf-course living
• Waterstone for newer construction and amenities
• Historic Boerne for walkability and character
• Home Features: Number of bedrooms, yard size (pets? kids?), single-story vs. two-story, finish level.

6. Begin Your Home Search

• MLS Alerts: Set up daily email alerts for new listings matching your criteria (“Boerne homes for sale,” “Boerne realtor”).
• Open Houses & Showings: Plan weekends to tour 3–5 homes, compare pros and cons side by side.

7. Make an Offer & Negotiate

• Market Data: We use recent sold-price comps to craft a competitive offer.
• Earnest Money: Typically 1%–2% of the purchase price, held in escrow to show good faith.
• Negotiation Points: Price, closing date, repairs, and any seller concessions.

8. Inspections & Due Diligence

• General Inspection: Identifies any major structural, roofing, or plumbing issues.
• Specialty Inspections: Termites (common in Texas), HVAC, septic systems (if applicable).
• Repair Requests: We’ll help you request reasonable fixes or credits based on findings.

9. Finalize Your Loan & Close

• Appraisal: Lender orders to confirm value; you’ll review for any adjustments.
• Walk-Through: Usually 24–48 hours before closing to verify agreed-upon repairs.
• Closing Day: Sign loan documents, pay closing costs (typically 2%–5% of loan amount), and get your keys!