Buying a home in Central Texas? Here's every step.
From “can I qualify?” to keys in hand — plus how to compare South Austin, Buda, Kyle, and Bastrop, and the new-construction tax math most relocating buyers miss. Grab the free Buyer's Guide.
Everything you need to buy in Central Texas with confidence
Can You Qualify?
How home financing really works, and exactly what lenders look at.
What It Really Costs
Cash to close and the true monthly payment behind the listing price.
The Process, Step by Step
A realistic timeline and who's doing what, from first look to closing.
Choosing a Home
New construction vs. resale, how to tour, and common buyer mistakes.
Making the Offer
How to write one that gets accepted, and how to use your option period.
Inspections & Appraisal
What they actually tell you — before you're locked in.
Contract to Closing
Title, survey, what you'll sign, and what not to do before closing.
Four Printable Checklists
Every deadline that matters, from your first tour to your first 30 days.
The right question isn't “Austin?” It's “which part?”
- ✓South Austin — closest to downtown, with five ZIP codes that each live very differently.
- ✓Buda — small-town charm and newer homes just south of the city.
- ✓Kyle — more home for your money without giving up a growing city.
- ✓Bastrop — a historic river town and one of the region's fastest-growing corners.
- ✓Plus the honest tax math on what a “cheaper” home in a MUD or PID district actually costs — the piece most buyers miss.
People who trusted the process
"We were relocating on a tight timeline into a brand-new market, and Brandon made it so much more manageable. He pulled together detailed builder payment comparisons and helped us focus on what actually mattered. He felt like someone in our corner the whole time — could not recommend him more!"
"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."
"From the moment we spotted the 'For Sale' sign on our dream property to closing day, Brandon was incredible. He tackled every challenge with solutions, made sure we understood each step, and always kept things moving. Everyone was aligned to make the deal happen — and they delivered. Highly recommend!"
Meet Brandon Holley
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 helped buyers — including many relocating from out of state — figure out which of these markets actually fits them.
This guide is the exact process I walk buyers through, from the first “can I qualify?” to the keys in your hand — matched to the Central Texas city that fits your commute, budget, and life.
Buying in Central Texas: quick answers
Which Central Texas city is right for me?+
What does it actually cost to buy here?+
How far are Buda, Kyle, and Bastrop from Austin?+
What school districts serve these areas?+
Do I need my own agent as a buyer?+
Is this guide really free?+
INQUIRE
Begin the Conversation
Whether buying or selling, every residence represents a chapter worth honoring. I will guide you through the process with the care and discretion it deserves.
A real reply from me, usually the same day
Not sure which market fits? Describe your commute and budget and I'll tell you
Ask anything about the process, the costs, or the contract
Zero obligation, and I'll tell you if now isn't the right time
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