What you will learn inside
- I share the tactics that help buyers win without overpaying.
- You get the inside view on inspections, contingencies, and timing.
- I reveal what listing agents hope you never ask.
- You finish with a playbook you can use on your very next offer.
Evan Hitch, MBA, dual-licensed Texas REALTOR® and Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #2716178. Two Licenses. One Hitch.
Key takeaways from this guide
After years of representing buyers across Greater Houston, I have learned that the small moves make the biggest difference. This guide pulls together the tactics I use to help buyers win the right home without overpaying or getting burned.
One of the first secrets is getting pre-approved, not just pre-qualified. A pre-approval means a lender has verified your income, assets, and credit, which makes your offer far stronger in a seller's eyes. When multiple offers land on a table, the pre-approved buyer usually wins over the pre-qualified one.
Timing matters more than people think. Homes that sit on the market longer often give you room to negotiate, while fresh listings in busy areas may draw competition. I track days on market for you so we know when to move fast and when to take our time.
Inspections are where buyers save or lose real money. Never skip a professional inspection, even on new construction. I also recommend specialized checks when the situation calls for it, like a foundation or sewer inspection on an older home. The money you spend up front can prevent a much larger surprise later.
Negotiation does not end at the contract. After the inspection, you can ask the seller to repair issues, credit you money at closing, or adjust the price. I help you decide which requests are worth making and which ones risk killing a good deal.
Another secret is watching your earnest money and option period. In Texas, the option period gives you a set number of days to inspect and walk away for a fee. I coach buyers on how long to ask for and how to protect that earnest money so you are never trapped.
The biggest secret of all is having an agent who represents only you. The listing agent works for the seller. When you have me in your corner, you get someone negotiating for your best interest from the first showing to the closing table.
Frequently asked questions
Do I really need my own agent?
Yes. The listing agent represents the seller. Having your own agent costs you nothing in most transactions and gives you a dedicated advocate for price, terms, and inspections.
What is an option period?
In Texas, it is a set number of days where you pay a fee for the right to inspect the home and walk away for any reason. I help you choose the right length for your situation.
Can I negotiate after the inspection?
Absolutely. You can ask for repairs, a closing credit, or a price reduction based on what the inspector finds. I help you prioritize the requests most likely to succeed.
Is a pre-approval better than a pre-qualification?
Yes. A pre-approval carries more weight because the lender has verified your finances. Sellers take pre-approved offers more seriously.
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Have a question this guide did not answer?
Call or text 281-400-0414, or send a message. I answer questions the way I would want my own questions answered: directly.