Existing home buying
Are you ready to find your perfect home in Plano, Texas?
Purchasing an existing home can be a rewarding experience, and we’re here to guide you through the process every step of the way. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, our team of real estate experts is dedicated to helping you find the ideal existing home to suit your needs and budget.
Why Buy an Existing Home?
There are many advantages to buying an existing home, including:
- Established Neighborhoods: Existing homes are often located in well-established neighborhoods with mature trees and amenities.
- Move-In Ready: Unlike new construction, existing homes are typically ready for immediate occupancy, saving you time and hassle.
- Charm and Character: Many existing homes boast unique architectural features and charm that can’t be replicated in new construction.
The Home Buying Process
- Determine Your Needs: Before you start your search, make a list of your must-have features and preferred neighborhoods.
- Get Pre-Approved: Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will help you understand your budget and make you a more attractive buyer to sellers.
- Find the Right Real Estate Agent: A knowledgeable real estate agent can help you navigate the market, find homes that meet your criteria, and negotiate on your behalf.
- View Homes and Make an Offer: Tour homes that meet your criteria and work with your agent to make an offer on the home you love.
- Home Inspection: Once your offer is accepted, schedule a home inspection to identify any potential issues with the property.
- Negotiate Repairs (if needed): Based on the inspection report, negotiate with the seller to address any necessary repairs or issues.
- Closing: Attend the closing to sign the final paperwork, pay closing costs, and officially take ownership of your new home.
Why choose us?
At DFW1 Realty, we understand that buying an existing home is a significant decision. That’s why we are committed to providing you with personalized service and expert guidance throughout the home buying process. Our team of experienced agents is here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you find the perfect existing home for you and your family.
Ready to start your existing home buying journey? Contact us today to get started!
Buying with dfw1 realty - FAQ
How do I know if I’m really ready to buy?
Readiness is more than just liking houses on the internet. At DFW1 Realty, we help you look at income stability, savings, debt, and how long you plan to stay put so your purchase supports both your lifestyle and long-term financial goals. In one conversation, we can outline a realistic budget for the DFW market and create a clear step-by-step plan from “thinking about it” to “getting the keys.
How much home can I afford in DFW1?
We look beyond list price and focus on the true monthly cost: mortgage payment, taxes, insurance, HOA dues, utilities, and likely maintenance. Because we also build and work with high-efficiency and Zero Energy Ready–style homes, we can show you how energy performance may reduce monthly operating costs over time.
What credit score do I need to buy a home?
Different loan programs have different credit score requirements, but a better score usually means better terms and lower lifetime interest costs. We connect you with local lenders who will review your credit, explain your options, and help you build a plan if your score needs improvement—so you can buy with confidence, not guesswork.
How much do I need for a down payment?
You don’t always need 20% down to own a home in DFW1; many buyers qualify with a smaller percentage depending on the loan program. We help you compare options, explore potential assistance, and structure offers—including possible seller or builder incentives—so your down payment and closing costs are as manageable as possible.
What are closing costs, and can DFW1 Realty help with them?
Closing costs are the fees and prepaid items needed to finalize your purchase, such as lender charges, title fees, taxes, and insurance. At DFW1 Realty, we plan for these costs upfront and, when possible, negotiate seller or builder contributions or incentives so that some of your closing costs may be offset, subject to lender and program rules.
How long does it take to buy a home?
Once you’re under contract, most financed purchases in our market close in about 30–45 days, depending on inspections, appraisal, and lender timelines. We give you a clear roadmap of each step and keep you updated so you always know what’s happening and what comes next.
What’s the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on basic information; pre-approval is a more detailed review with supporting documents and a credit check. Sellers and builders take pre-approved buyers more seriously, so we strongly recommend pre-approval before we start writing offers, especially in competitive areas.
Do I really need an agent—especially for new construction?
Yes. Builder sales reps work for the builder; we work for you. Because DFW1 Realty is also involved in land development and high-efficiency construction, we understand contracts, timelines, and construction quality from the inside and use that knowledge to protect your interests, review options, and monitor the build from contract to closing.
Should I buy new construction or an existing home?
New construction can offer modern design, warranties, and strong energy efficiency, while existing homes may provide established neighborhoods, mature landscaping, and unique character. We help you compare both paths—looking at total cost of ownership, area growth, and long-term value—so you can choose the option that truly fits your lifestyle and investment strategy.
What inspections do I need, including for a new home?
We recommend a general home inspection for almost every purchase, plus additional inspections when needed (foundation, roof, pool, etc.). For new construction, we often suggest phase inspections during key steps of the build so issues are caught early and addressed before closing.
