The Complete Buyer's Guide · Free PDF

From “can I qualify?” to keys in hand.

A smart, honest guide to buying a home in Central Texas — what it takes to qualify, what it really costs, how the process works, and every checklist you need. No pressure, just a clear plan.

Instant PDF No spam, ever Includes 4 printable checklists
Free PDF The Complete Buyer's Guide by Holley Homes Realty — cover
What's inside

Clarity, confidence, and a plan — without the overwhelm

01

Can You Qualify?

How home financing really works, and exactly what lenders look at.

02

What It Really Costs

Cash to close and the true monthly payment behind the listing price.

03

The Process, Step by Step

A realistic timeline and who's doing what, from first look to closing.

04

Choosing a Home

New construction vs. resale, how to tour, and the common buyer mistakes.

05

Making the Offer

How to write one that gets accepted, and how to use your option period.

06

Inspections & Appraisal

What they actually tell you — before you're locked in.

07

Contract to Closing

Title, survey, what you'll sign, and what not to do before closing.

08

Four Printable Checklists

Every deadline that matters, from your first tour to your first 30 days.

Why buyers keep this one on their desk

Buying a home is exciting — and, honestly, a little overwhelming

  • Know whether you can qualify — and exactly what lenders actually look at.
  • See what it really costs — the cash to close and the monthly payment behind the listing price.
  • Follow the process step by step, with a realistic timeline and no surprises.
  • Write an offer that gets accepted — and use your option period the right way.
  • Understand inspections, appraisals, and title documents — and what they really tell you.
One thing to keep with you
"You don't need to know everything right now. You just need to know what matters, what comes next, and who's in your corner."
— From The Complete Buyer's Guide
175+
Closed deals
10 yrs
Guiding Central Texas buyers
4
Printable checklists inside
Free
No-obligation guide
What clients say

People who trusted the process

★★★★★

"Brandon was absolutely amazing throughout our home-buying journey. My husband found him through his YouTube videos, and after watching we knew he was who we wanted. As first-time buyers we had endless questions, and he made everything feel manageable and stress-free. We're now in our first home and couldn't be more grateful."

A
Amber Dopen
First-time buyer · Google review
★★★★★

"My husband and I just bought our first home and would've been lost without Brandon. He walked us through the whole process, never pressured us, and always gave honest advice. He really knows his stuff."

A
Angela Miller
First-time buyer · Google review
★★★★★

"As first-time homebuyers deciding on a new build, we're so fortunate to have had Brandon. He always knew what to ask the builder — even when we had no idea what to ask — checked in regularly, and handled all the details so we felt supported the whole way. Can't recommend him highly enough!"

M
Megan McLane
First-time / new-build buyer · Google review
Brandon Holley, Broker/Owner, Holley Homes Realty
Your local expert

Meet Brandon Holley

Broker / Owner · Holley Homes Realty

Central Texas is a market I know deeply. I was named a FastExpert 2026 Top Agent, and over the past 10 years and 175+ closed deals across Austin, Buda, Kyle, and Bastrop, I've guided buyers through this exact process.

This guide is everything I'd tell you if you were sitting across from me — from the first "can I qualify?" to the keys in your hand. No pressure, just a clear plan.

"My job is to make this feel clear, not complicated. No pressure, just good information so you can decide what's right for you."
Common questions

Buying a home: quick answers

Is now a good time to buy?+
It depends far more on your situation than the headlines — your budget, your timeline, and how long you plan to stay. The guide walks through how to think about it honestly instead of trying to time the market.
How much do I need for a down payment?+
Often less than people expect. There are low- and zero-down loan types and Texas assistance programs. The guide breaks down down payments, what lenders look at, and the full cash-to-close picture. [Verify current program details before publishing.]
What does it actually cost to buy a home?+
Beyond the price, there's your cash to close and the real monthly payment — taxes, insurance, and any district costs included. The guide works the numbers on a sample home so you see the full monthly picture, not just the sticker price.
How long does buying a home take?+
From accepted offer to closing is often around 30 to 45 days, though it varies. The guide lays out a realistic timeline and shows exactly who's doing what at each step.
Do I need my own agent as a buyer?+
Yes — buyer representation means someone is advocating for you, not the seller. The guide explains how it works, what to expect, and the questions every buyer should ask.
Is this guide really free?+
Yes — completely free and no obligation. Enter your name and email and the PDF is sent to you right away. It's simply the best way I know to be helpful before you ever decide whether to work with me.

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What you actually need to qualify, and what you don't

Every cost in a Texas purchase, including the ones nobody warns you about

How the written buyer agreement works now, and what to ask before you sign

Zero spam, just the guide and the occasional helpful update