Buying your first home in DFW in 2026 is doable. but the process has more moving parts than most people expect.
Step 1: Get preapproved (not pre-qualified) Pre-qualification is a soft estimate. Preapproval is a hard credit pull with verified docs (W-2s, paystubs, bank statements) and carries real weight with sellers. In a competitive DFW market, sellers often won't consider an offer without one.
Step 2: Know your real cash-to-close On a $350K home, plan for ~$11K-$28K cash depending on your loan type: - FHA (3.5% down + closing costs): ~$22K - Conventional 5% down: ~$26K - VA/USDA 0% down: just closing costs (~$11K)
Step 3: Pick the right neighborhoods Don't pick a "city". pick neighborhoods within cities. Fort Worth has 100+ neighborhoods with wildly different price points and vibes. Same for Dallas, Arlington, Plano. We'll narrow this down together based on your commute, schools, and lifestyle.
Step 4: Make an offer + go under contract A strong offer in DFW today usually includes: - Earnest money (~1% of purchase price) - Option fee (~$100-$500) for the inspection period - A reasonable closing date (35-45 days) - Minimal contingencies if you're competitive
Step 5: The 8-stage transaction Once under contract: 1. Under Contract. earnest money + schedule inspection 2. Option Period (~10 days). inspect + negotiate repairs 3. Appraisal Ordered. don't open new credit 4. Loan Processing. respond to lender same-day 5. Conditional Approval. final docs 6. Clear to Close. final walkthrough + wire instructions 7. Closing Day. sign, fund, get keys 8. Post-Closing. file homestead exemption by April 30
Want the full walkthrough? Ask Jason. he can answer questions specific to your situation 24/7.
Written by Torey Irving