Buyer Guide

How to Protest Your Property Taxes in Texas (2026 Guide)

Learn how to protest your property taxes in Texas step by step. Key dates, evidence tips, homestead exemptions, and Austin-area specifics for 2026.

July 9, 2026Read more →

What Is an HOA and Should You Avoid Neighborhoods With One?

A complete guide for Texas homebuyers: what HOAs do, how much they cost in Austin, pros and cons, 2026 Texas HOA law changes, and questions to ask before buying.

July 8, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide11 min read

Homeowners Insurance in Texas: What Buyers Need to Know in 2026

A complete guide to Texas homeowners insurance for 2026: coverage types, average costs in Austin, windstorm and hail deductibles, what is excluded, and 7 ways to save money on your policy.

July 7, 2026Read more →

What Happens if My Appraisal Is Higher Than Purchase Price?

When your home appraisal exceeds your purchase price in Texas, you gain instant equity. Learn what it means for your loan, PMI, taxes, and next steps.

July 1, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide16 min read

Do I Need a Green Card to Buy a House in Texas?

No green card required to buy a home in Texas. Learn how non-citizens can purchase property using ITIN loans, FHA loans, and other financing options. Get expert guidance from Sully Ruiz.

June 29, 2026Read more →

Can I Buy a House With a Tax ID Number (ITIN) Instead of a SSN?

Yes — you can buy a house in Texas with an ITIN instead of a Social Security Number. Learn how ITIN mortgage loans work, requirements, down payments, and rates in 2026.

June 26, 2026Read more →

What Is a Home Inspection in Texas? A Buyer's 2026 Guide

Learn what a Texas home inspection covers, what it costs in Austin, and how buyers use the report during the option period. Includes 2026 checklist and FAQs.

June 17, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide10 min read

What Is Earnest Money in Texas Real Estate?

Earnest money in Texas is typically 1-3% of the purchase price. Learn how it works, when it is refundable, and how it differs from the option fee.

June 16, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide11 min read

Assumable Mortgage in Texas: How It Works in 2026

Assumable mortgages in Texas let buyers take over a sellers FHA or VA loan. Learn how assumptions work, requirements, pros, and cons in 2026.

June 16, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide8 min read

What Happens if My ITIN Expires While I Have a Mortgage in Texas?

Worried about your ITIN expiring while you have a mortgage in Texas? Learn what it means for your home loan and what steps you need to take. Contact Sully Ruiz for a free consultation.

June 10, 2026Read more →

How Do Property Taxes Work in Texas?

Understand Texas property taxes, key exemptions, and how to estimate the real monthly payment before you buy. Book a free consultation.

May 25, 2026Read more →

Can Two Families Buy a House Together in Texas?

Yes—if the loan, title, and exit plan are set up right. Learn how two families can co-buy in Texas and what to watch before you sign.

May 8, 2026Read more →

Is It Better to Rent or Buy in Austin in 2026?

See whether renting or buying makes more sense in Austin in 2026, with local market data, cost comparisons, and next-step guidance.

May 1, 2026Read more →

April 30, 2026Read more →

How Much Money Do You Need to Buy a House in Austin in 2026?

See how much cash Austin buyers may need in 2026 for down payment, closing costs, and monthly payment planning. Book a free consultation.

April 28, 2026Read more →

Can Self-Employed Buyers Use Bank Statement Loans in Austin?

Learn how self-employed buyers in Austin can qualify with bank statement loans, what documents you need, and when to talk to Sully Ruiz.

April 24, 2026Read more →

Can You Buy a House in Texas with No Credit History?

Yes, you may still qualify. Learn how alternative credit, rent history, and the right lender can help you buy a home in Texas.

April 22, 2026Read more →

What Documents Do You Need for an ITIN Loan in Texas?

Learn the ITIN loan documents Texas buyers need in 2026, plus Austin market context and next steps. Start with Sully Ruiz today.

April 21, 2026Read more →

How to Buy a House in Texas with an ITIN Number

Learn how to buy a home in Texas with an ITIN in 2026, what documents you need, and how to start with Sully Ruiz.

April 17, 2026Read more →

Can You Buy a House Without a Social Security Number?

Can you buy a house without an SSN in Texas? Learn the real options, documents, and costs, then talk with Sully Ruiz for a plan.

April 10, 2026Read more →

How to Start Investing in Austin Real Estate in 2026

Thinking about your first Austin investment property? Learn the numbers, risks, neighborhoods, and financing basics before you buy.

March 26, 2026Read more →

Understanding Closing Costs in Texas: A Complete Breakdown

Closing costs in Texas run 2%–5% for buyers and 6%–9% for sellers. Learn every fee line by line, with a real $400K Austin example and tips to reduce what you pay.

March 25, 2026Read more →

How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage in Austin: 2026 Guide

Step-by-step guide to getting mortgage pre-approved in Austin, TX. Learn credit score requirements, documents needed, and how much home you can afford in 2026.

Buyer Guide15 min read

Down Payment Assistance Programs in Texas (2026)

Texas homebuyers in 2026 can access up to $40,000 in down payment assistance. Learn which DPA programs cover Austin, how to stack them, and how to qualify.

March 24, 2026Read more →

March 23, 2026Read more →

ITIN Loans in Texas: How to Buy a Home Without a SSN

Yes, you can buy a home in Texas without a Social Security Number. Learn how ITIN loans work, what documents you need, down payment requirements, and step-by-step guidance for 2026.

Buyer Guide16 min read

First-Time Homebuyer Guide: Austin Metro 2026

Complete 2026 guide for first-time homebuyers in Austin, TX. Learn about loan options, down payment assistance programs up to $30K, and the best affordable suburbs.

March 20, 2026Read more →

March 15, 2026Read more →

Texas Property Tax Checklist: 3 Things Every Homeowner Must Do

Lower your Texas mortgage payment with 3 free steps: homestead exemption (40K off taxable value), annual insurance shopping, and protesting your appraisal before May 15.