The mortgage process has the same basic steps everywhere, but a fast-moving market like Austin adds real time pressure to a few of them. I’m Robbie English, REALTOR, Broker with Uncommon Realty, and here’s the process with the parts that actually matter locally called out.
1. Know Your Financial Starting Point
Pull your credit report and check it for errors before you apply for anything. Conventional loans generally want a credit score of 620 or higher, though better scores get better rates. Lenders also look at your debt-to-income ratio, generally wanting it at 43% or lower including the new mortgage payment, so gather recent pay stubs, tax returns, and W-2s ahead of time to speed up the process.
2. Figure Out What You Can Actually Afford
Run the numbers with a mortgage calculator using realistic rates and terms, and don’t stop at the principal and interest. Property taxes in Central Texas run meaningfully higher than many buyers coming from out of state expect, and HOA fees vary a lot by community, so build both into your real monthly number before you set a budget.
3. Get Pre-Approved, Not Just Pre-Qualified
Pre-approval means a lender has actually reviewed your documentation and credit, not just asked you a few questions. In a competitive Austin market where homes can get multiple offers within days, a real pre-approval letter is often the difference between a seller taking your offer seriously and passing on it.
4. Shop More Than One Lender
Rates, fees, and closing costs vary meaningfully between lenders, and even a small rate difference compounds significantly over a 30-year loan. Ask specifically about origination fees and appraisal fees, since these can differ more than buyers expect, and confirm the lender is actually familiar with the loan programs you’re considering, whether that’s conventional, FHA, or a first-time buyer assistance program.
5. Complete the Full Application and Appraisal
Once you’ve picked a lender, the formal application requires detailed financial and property information, and you’ll likely need to supply additional documentation as underwriting reviews your file. The lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home’s value supports the loan amount, which is a separate step from a home inspection and shouldn’t be skipped even if the home looks obviously worth the price.
6. Review the Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure Carefully
The Loan Estimate spells out your rate, monthly payment, and closing costs; the Closing Disclosure you receive before signing is the final version of those numbers. Compare the two, since differences between them can signal a problem worth questioning before you sign anything.
7. Clear Underwriting and Close
Underwriting is the lender’s full risk review of your file, and being responsive to document requests during this stage keeps your closing date on track. At closing, you’ll sign the mortgage documents, pay any remaining closing costs, and get the keys.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do I need for a mortgage in Texas?
Conventional loans generally want 620 or higher for the best terms, though FHA loans can work with lower scores. Higher scores get better rates but aren’t a strict requirement to qualify.
How long does the mortgage process actually take?
From application to closing, plan on roughly 30 to 45 days for most conventional loans, though it can move faster or slower depending on the lender’s current volume and how quickly you supply requested documents.
Should I get pre-approved before I start touring homes?
Yes. In a competitive market, sellers take offers from pre-approved buyers far more seriously, and knowing your real budget before you tour homes saves time on properties outside your range.
If you want a referral to lenders who actually know the local market and move quickly, that’s something I’m happy to help with before you start your search.
If that’s useful, you might also want to read Best Austin Neighborhoods for LGBTQ+ Homebuyers in 2026 (Lifestyle, Walkability & Community) Infographic — it covers a related angle worth knowing about.
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