Chapter 7: Step 2 – Build Your Team
Buying a home is not a solo project. You need a team of professionals to guide you, protect you, and make sure everything goes smoothly.
Here’s everyone you need on your side.
Your Core Team
| Role | What They Do | When to Hire |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate Agent | Guides you through the entire process, negotiates, handles paperwork | Day 1 |
| Lender | Provides your mortgage, handles pre-approval | Day 1 |
| Home Inspector | Inspects the property for issues | After offer accepted |
| Real Estate Attorney | Reviews contracts, handles closing (optional in Texas) | Before making an offer |
| Title Company | Conducts title search, handles closing | After offer accepted |
| Insurance Agent | Provides homeowners insurance | Before closing |
1. Your Real Estate Agent (That’s Me!)
Your agent is your advocate, guide, and negotiator.
What I Do for You:
- Help you find the right home
- Negotiate the best price and terms
- Guide you through the paperwork
- Coordinate with lenders, inspectors, and attorneys
- Protect your interests every step of the way
Why You Need an Agent:
- Sellers pay the commission (it doesn’t cost you extra)
- Agents have access to off-market and pre-market listings
- Agents know the local market, schools, and neighborhoods
- Agents handle the stressful parts so you don’t have to
2. Your Lender
Your lender provides the money to buy the home.
What They Do:
- Pre-approve you for a loan
- Lock in your interest rate
- Process your loan application
- Coordinate with the title company for closing
How to Choose a Lender:
- Get quotes from at least 2–3 lenders
- Compare rates, fees, and customer service
- Ask about first-time buyer programs
- Consider local lenders – they know the DFW market
3. Your Home Inspector
Your home inspector checks the property for problems before you buy it.
What They Check:
- Foundation
- Roof
- Electrical system
- Plumbing
- HVAC (heating and cooling)
- Appliances
- Pest damage (termites, etc.)
Why This Matters:
The inspection protects you from buying a money pit. If the inspector finds major issues, you can:
- Negotiate repairs
- Negotiate a lower price
- Walk away from the deal
Cost: $400–$800 (depending on the size of the home)
4. Your Real Estate Attorney (Optional in Texas)
In Texas, you’re not required to have a real estate attorney. But it’s a good idea if:
- You’re buying a complex property (commercial, co-op, etc.)
- You want extra protection
- You’re relocating from out of state
What They Do:
- Review contracts
- Handle title issues
- Represent you at closing
- Protect your legal rights
5. Your Title Company
The title company ensures the property has a clear title – meaning no one else owns it or has a claim against it.
What They Do:
- Conduct a title search
- Issue title insurance (protects you from future claims)
- Handle the closing and disbursement of funds
6. Your Insurance Agent
You need homeowners insurance before you can close on the home.
What It Covers:
- Fire, theft, and vandalism
- Liability (if someone gets hurt on your property)
- Personal property (furniture, electronics, etc.)
Cost: $1,000–$3,000/year (depending on the home)
Your Team Timeline
| Stage | Who You Need |
|---|---|
| Before You Search | Agent + Lender (for pre-approval) |
| When You Find a Home | Agent + Attorney (to review offer) |
| After Offer Accepted | Inspector + Title Company + Insurance Agent |
| Closing Day | Agent + Attorney + Title Company + Lender |