Getting a mortgage in Houston follows the same basic path as anywhere in Texas, but the details that shape your monthly payment are very local. Property taxes in Harris County and neighboring counties, MUD taxes in many suburban neighborhoods, homeowners insurance and, for some properties, flood insurance all affect how much home fits your budget.
This guide walks through each step in order, so you know what to expect, which documents to gather and where Houston-specific costs come into play. If you would rather talk it through, a Texas United Mortgage loan officer can help you map out your own timeline.
Richard Haskell is an experienced Senior Mortgage Loan Officer with a proven track record of excellence in the financial services industry. His expertise includes sales, credit analysis, FHA financing, VA loans, and sales management. Richard is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and expertise to his clients, leveraging his degree from Webster University to provide a solid foundation in finance.
Throughout his career, Richard has consistently achieved outstanding results by understanding his clients' needs and customizing solutions to meet their unique financial goals. His commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity ensures a seamless and successful loan process for every client.
The most exciting and enjoyable part of a real estate transaction for Reef has always been financing. Today Reef enjoys managing Texas United Mortgage where he works and mentors borrowers, realtors, his team of loan officers, and staff! When not exceeding clients' expectations, Reef enjoys spending time with his wife Valerie and his two daughters. Reef’s hobbies include golf and tennis!
Prior to Reef’s Mortgage/Real Estate career, Reef graduated at Texas A&M University. After graduation, Reef took a teaching/coaching position at The Woodlands High School, located in The Woodlands, Texas.
Scott attended college in his home state of Indiana while playing tennis in college. Wanting to start a new life after school in a new state he moved to Texas 13 years ago. When moving to Houston, he worked as a tennis coach teaching younger children. Alongside working with Reef, Scott also began to invest in real estate and flip houses.
After finishing his career in tennis he moved on to being a loan officer, where he now works at Texas United Mortgage, as a producing loan originator and the operations manager assisting Reef Merhi, Kristy Taylor and Team! He is very passionate about what he does and loves helping people. People know Scott as being a family man. He enjoys spending time with his wife and three children – Case, Cali & Crew. Scott’s hobbies include woodworking, golfing, fishing and playing tennis.
Claudia is a fifth-generation Texan and longtime Woodlands resident since 2004. A dedicated professional in the Texas real estate industry since 2001, she has successfully navigated and closed a wide range of transactions, always ensuring contracts meet every agreement and condition. Claudia is known for her high fiduciary standards, consistently acting with integrity, confidentiality, and the best interests of her clients at the forefront.
Today, Claudia brings her experience and energy to Texas United Mortgage, where she serves as Executive Assistant to Reef and the team. Her goal is to keep the team moving efficiently by ensuring meetings are organized, schedules/files are coordinated, communication flows smoothly, and key administrative tasks bridge gaps in operations.
In addition to her role at Texas United Mortgage, Claudia continues to serve clients as a Texas Realtor, combining her deep industry knowledge with a passion for helping families achieve their homeownership goals.
Outside of work, Claudia treasures time with her husband and two sons. She is an active member of Faith Bible Church, where she enjoys serving her community. When she’s not working or volunteering, you’ll likely find her RVing with her family, enjoying the outdoors, or staying active with regular workouts.
Pull your credit reports, look for errors and compare your monthly debts with your income. Lenders review credit history, debt-to-income ratio, employment and savings, and the requirements differ by loan program.
2. Build a budget around the full Houston payment
A mortgage payment usually includes principal, interest, property taxes and homeowners insurance, plus mortgage insurance on some loans. In the Houston area, also ask whether a home sits in a MUD and whether its flood zone may require flood insurance. Our MUD tax calculator and Texas homeowners insurance guide can help you estimate.
3. Choose a loan program
Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo and non-QM options such as bank statement and DSCR loans each have different down payment, credit and property rules. See the program overview below.
4. Get pre-approved
A loan officer reviews your credit, income and assets and issues a pre-approval letter showing the loan amount you may qualify for. Learn more on our Houston mortgage pre-approval page.
5. Shop for a home and make an offer
With a pre-approval in hand, you and your real estate agent can write offers within a clear price range. Once a seller accepts, your loan moves into processing.
6. Complete processing, appraisal and underwriting
Expect to provide updated pay stubs and bank statements and to explain any unusual deposits or credit items. The lender orders an appraisal, title work begins, and you will need a homeowners insurance policy in place before closing.
7. Close, then plan for your homestead exemption
At closing you sign your loan documents and bring any remaining down payment and closing costs. After you own and live in the home, you may be able to apply for the Texas homestead exemption, which can reduce your taxable value. Try our homestead exemption calculator.
Documents to gather
Most borrowers provide a photo ID, recent pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns, recent bank statements and details on current debts. Self-employed borrowers may be asked for more documentation or may consider a bank statement loan. Keep an eye on today's Houston mortgage rates as you plan.
Texas United Mortgage, LLC (NMLS #2442778) is based in The Woodlands and works with borrowers across Texas, including Houston, Katy, Fort Worth, Austin and San Antonio.
Multiple loan options to compare
As a broker, we can help you compare conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo, bank statement and DSCR options and review rates, fees and terms side by side. Program availability depends on your situation and the property.
Clear communication from start to close
Your loan officer explains each step, tells you what documents are needed and keeps you updated through underwriting and closing. Call 888-505-1718 or get a custom quote.
Choosing a Loan Program for Your Houston Purchase
Step three is where many buyers have the most questions. The right fit depends on your credit, down payment, type of income, any military service and the property itself. Eligibility depends on the borrower and property, so a loan officer can help you compare options side by side.
Conventional, Jumbo and Non-QM Loans
Conventional loans are not insured by a government agency. They may allow a modest down payment for qualified buyers, and private mortgage insurance is typically required with less than 20% down.
If your loan amount is above the conforming limit, a jumbo loan may be an option. Self-employed borrowers may look at a bank statement loan, and investors buying Houston-area rentals may consider a DSCR loan.
FHA, VA and USDA Loans
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and often have more flexible credit guidelines, with mortgage insurance required. VA loans serve eligible veterans, service members and some surviving spouses and may not require a down payment. USDA loans may be available to eligible buyers in qualifying areas outside the urban core.
Buyers who need help with upfront costs can also explore down payment assistance in Texas. Eligibility depends on the borrower and property.
Getting a Mortgage in Houston: FAQs
How long does it take to get a mortgage in Houston?
Many purchase loans close roughly 30 to 45 days after an accepted offer, but timing depends on the loan program, appraisal, title work and how quickly you return documents. Getting pre-approved before you shop can shorten the process once you are under contract.
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Houston?
Minimum credit scores vary by loan program and lender. Government-backed options such as FHA loans often allow more flexibility than conventional loans, and a loan officer can review which programs fit your credit profile.
How much down payment do I need?
It depends on the program. VA and USDA loans may not require a down payment for eligible borrowers and properties, while conventional and FHA loans offer low down payment options, and down payment assistance may help with upfront costs.
What costs besides principal and interest should Houston buyers expect?
Plan for property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance on some loans, HOA dues where applicable, MUD taxes in many suburban neighborhoods and flood insurance if the property is in a flood zone that requires it.
Should I get pre-approved before I start looking at homes?
Yes. A pre-approval shows you a realistic price range and signals to Houston sellers that a lender has already reviewed your finances. Visit our Houston pre-approval page or start a rate quote.
