How do I know if I'm ready to buy a home?

Ready to buy? Consider these factors: stable income, good credit score (typically 620+), savings for down payment (3-20%), and steady employment. I offer a free consultation to help you assess your readiness.

What areas in Texas do you serve?

I primarily serve Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville, and Hutto. If you're looking in another Texas city, reach out - I have a network of trusted agents statewide.

How long does the home buying process take?

The typical timeline is 30-45 days from accepted offer to closing. However, finding the right home can take longer depending on the market. I help streamline the process while ensuring you don't rush into the wrong decision.

For buyers, my services are typically free as the seller pays the commission. For sellers, we discuss commission structure during our consultation based on your property and needs.

Do you speak Spanish?

Yes. All advice, calls, messages, and important documents are explained to you in Spanish.

Buyer Guide

17 posts

Buyer Guide13 min read

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 →

Buyer Guide13 min read

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 →

Buyer Guide13 min read

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 →

Buyer Guide13 min read

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 30, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide12 min read

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 28, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide12 min read

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 24, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide12 min read

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 22, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide13 min read

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 21, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide13 min read

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 17, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide13 min read

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.

April 10, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide14 min read

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 26, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide14 min read

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.

March 25, 2026Read more →

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 →

Buyer Guide14 min read

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.

March 23, 2026Read more →

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 →

Buyer Guide13 min read

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.

March 15, 2026Read more →

Buyer Guide12 min read

First-Time Homebuyer Guide for Hispanic Families in Austin, TX (2026)

Can you buy a home in Austin without a Social Security Number? Yes. Complete guide covering ITIN loans, down payment assistance, programs, and step-by-step process for Hispanic families.

March 6, 2026Read more →