Texas is huge, and every metro has its own pace. Buyers here compare Houston, the Dallas and Fort Worth area, Austin, San Antonio, and the base towns. If you are planning a purchase in 2027, this guide covers Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Killeen, the loan types we can help you compare, and the state housing agency that may be worth a look. Shay Yates and the True North Yates Group team are a small, Springfield, Missouri based team licensed to lend in Texas, and we answer the phone. You can also read our Texas page for a quick overview.
Where buyers are looking in Texas
Here is a quick tour of places we hear about often. This is not a ranking and not advice about where anyone should live. It is simply a starting point for your own search.
Houston
The largest city in Texas and one of the biggest markets in the country, with a huge range of neighborhoods and a lot of new construction around Katy, Conroe, and The Woodlands.
Dallas
The center of a huge Dallas and Fort Worth metro, with a wide range of neighborhoods and busy suburbs from Frisco to McKinney.
Austin
The capital and a fast growing metro, with suburbs across Williamson County such as Round Rock and Georgetown.
San Antonio
A large city with a big military presence from Joint Base San Antonio, and a growing suburban ring toward New Braunfels.
Killeen
Next to Fort Hood, with one of the largest military and Veteran communities in the state.
Loan programs to know in Texas
Most Texas buyers end up choosing among a handful of loan types. We compare them side by side for your situation, with no pressure.
- Conventional loans. A flexible choice for buyers with solid credit, and often a good fit for larger purchases or second homes.
- FHA loans. Government insured loans designed with flexible credit and smaller down payments in mind, a common route for first-time buyers.
- VA loans. A benefit for eligible Veterans, service members, and some surviving spouses. Fort Hood, Joint Base San Antonio, and Fort Bliss give Texas one of the largest military communities in the country, so VA loans come up often.
- USDA loans. Many Texas towns and rural areas outside the big metros may be USDA eligible, so check an address on the USDA map.
- First-time buyer programs. Help from TDHCA, covered below.
First-time buyer help from TDHCA
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) is the state agency behind homebuyer programs in Texas. TDHCA offers the My First Texas Home program for first-time buyers, with optional down payment help, and the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) offers Home Sweet Texas. Both go through participating lenders and may require homebuyer education, so ask us whether you may qualify.
Program details, limits, and which lenders take part are set by the agency and can change, so please check the agency's own site, TDHCA, for the latest. We do not want to promise anything the agency has not. What we can do is look at your situation and tell you honestly what to ask about.
A local thing worth asking about
Property taxes in Texas vary by county and taxing district, and some newer subdivisions have extra districts that can add to the yearly bill. Ask for the tax estimate on any home you are considering.
How we work with Texas buyers
The path is the same wherever you are buying. First comes a no pressure conversation about your goals and your budget. Next we look at loan options and, if it makes sense, get you pre-approved so your offer stands out. Once you are under contract, we keep you posted at every step, from the appraisal to the closing table, and we explain each document in plain English. If a question comes up at 9 at night, send a text.
Next steps
Not sure where to start? Start with a simple conversation. We will listen first, then map out a plan that fits your timeline. You can see where we lend on our states we serve page, read the Texas page, send us a note on the contact page, or start your application. Shay and the team are just a text away.
Frequently asked questions
Is Shay licensed to help with a home loan in Texas?
Yes. Shay Yates (NMLS 2172921) is licensed through Southwest Funding to originate loans in Texas. Licensing details are on our Texas page, and you can verify any loan officer at nmlsconsumeraccess.org.
Does Texas have a first-time buyer program?
Yes. TDHCA offers My First Texas Home and TSAHC offers Home Sweet Texas, both through participating lenders. Ask us whether you may qualify.
Why do property taxes matter in Texas?
They vary by county and taxing district, and some newer subdivisions have additional districts. We will help you look at the estimate before you decide.
Do I need to live in Missouri to work with you?
No. Our team works with buyers in Texas and other states by phone, text, and secure online tools, so you can apply and move through the process from home. Reach us any time on the contact page.
This post is general information, not financial advice or a commitment to lend. Programs and eligibility vary and are subject to credit and property approval. Talk with a loan officer about your situation.