What Are the Steps to Buying Your First House in the Wichita Falls TX Real Estate Market?

Table of Contents

What are the steps to buying your first house in the Wichita Falls TX real estate market?

Buying your first home in Wichita Falls follows a clear step-by-step process—starting with financial preparation, loan pre-approval, and neighborhood selection, then moving through showings, negotiations, inspections, and closing. Working with Tim Lockhart, Wichita Falls real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty, helps you move forward with clarity.

Why Buying Your First Home in Wichita Falls Makes Sense

If you’re planning to buy home for the first time, Wichita Falls offers one of the most affordable real estate markets in North Texas. Home prices remain attainable compared to larger metros, commute times are short, and neighborhoods provide strong long-term value.

Step 1: Review Your Budget and Credit

Start by understanding your income, savings, debts, and credit score. Many first-time buyers in Wichita Falls qualify for FHA, VA, or USDA loans.

Step 2: Get Pre-Approved

A lender pre-approval helps you understand your buying power and strengthens your offer in competitive situations.

Step 3: Choose the Right Neighborhood

First-time buyers often focus on Faith Village, Edgemere, University Park, and neighborhoods near Sheppard AFB.

Step 4: Tour Homes With a Buyer’s Agent

A buyer’s agent helps you evaluate condition, pricing, and resale potential.

Step 5: Make an Offer

Your offer includes price, terms, and contingencies based on market data.

Step 6: Inspections and Appraisal

Inspections protect you from unexpected repairs, while the appraisal confirms value.

Step 7: Final Loan Approval

Underwriting confirms loan terms and closing costs, which typically range from 2–4%.

Step 8: Closing Day

Closing usually occurs 30–45 days after contract acceptance.

Why Work With Tim Lockhart

Tim Lockhart is a Wichita Falls real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty and a retired Air Force officer, bringing deep local and military relocation expertise.

First-Time Home Buyer Checklist (Wichita Falls, TX)

StepAction ItemWhy It Matters
1Confirm budget and monthly comfort rangePrevents overbuying and protects long-term finances
2Get pre-approved with a trusted lenderStrengthens offers and shortens closing timelines
3Explore VA, zero-down, and first-time buyer programsReduces upfront costs and improves affordability
4Choose the right Wichita Falls neighborhoodAligns commute, schools, and lifestyle
5Tour homes and compare valuesAvoids emotional overpaying
6Submit a strategic offerImproves chances in competitive listings
7Complete inspections and appraisalProtects against costly surprises
8Review closing costs and final numbersEnsures no last-minute financial stress
9Close and get the keysOfficially become a homeowner

Helpful Resources for Buyers in Wichita Falls

If you’re exploring different buying paths, these guides may help:

VA Loan vs. Conventional Loan: Which is best for buying a home in Wichita Falls?
Buying a Home With Zero Down Payment: Learn creative and program-based options.
PCS Orders to Sheppard AFB: How to buy a home stress free

Each guide is designed to answer common buyer questions and support smarter decisions.

Common Questions About Buying Your First Home

How long does it take to buy a home in Wichita Falls?
Most buyers complete the process in 30–45 days after going under contract, depending on financing and inspections.

Can first-time buyers use VA loans in Wichita Falls?
Yes. VA loans are commonly used by military and veteran buyers near Sheppard AFB and often allow zero down payment.

Is Wichita Falls affordable for first-time buyers?
Compared to many Texas markets, Wichita Falls offers lower median prices and strong value for entry-level buyers.

About Tim Lockhart

Tim Lockhart, REALTOR®, is a RamseyTrusted real estate agent and retired U.S. Air Force Major serving Wichita Falls, Iowa Park, and Burkburnett, TX. Since becoming licensed in 2012, Tim has closed over 300 transactions, specializing in military relocation, listings, farm & ranch, and investment properties. He leads the Lockhart Real Estate Team at Keller Williams Realty and ranks among the top 10% of Keller Williams Lonestar DFW agents. Tim holds the MRP designation and has 45+ 5-star reviews across Zillow, FastExpert, and Google.

Share This: