Texas · statewide
Texas home loans from a Texas loan officer.
From Odessa to everywhere else in Texas. Here's what's different about getting a mortgage in Texas and how to make sure your Loan Estimate reflects it.
Can you help me anywhere in Texas?
Yes. I'm licensed in Texas and help buyers and homeowners statewide, from the Permian Basin to DFW, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio. The process runs by phone, text, and secure document upload, and closings happen at a title company near the property. I'm based in Odessa.
What's different about Texas mortgages?
Texas has a few rules you won't find elsewhere. There's no real estate transfer tax, title insurance premiums are set by the Texas Department of Insurance, and cash-out loans on homesteads follow Section 50(a)(6). Property taxes are often a big share of the payment, so escrow estimates matter.
- No transfer tax: Section E is usually just recording fees.
- Title premiums are promulgated by the state; other title fees can vary.
- Surveys: ask if the seller's existing survey can work with a T-47 affidavit.
- Homestead exemption: file with your county appraisal district after you move in.
- Cash-out on a homestead: a total-lien limit and a 12-day wait.
Loan types for Texas buyers
FHA, conventional, and VA cover most Texas home purchases. Self-employed borrowers can look at bank statement loans, and investors can look at DSCR loans. The right fit depends on your credit, savings, and the property.
FHA · Conventional · VA · Bank statement · DSCR
Texas property taxes and your payment
Texas property taxes are set by local taxing units like the county, city, and school district, so rates vary by address. Your Loan Estimate's escrow should be based on the actual property, not a placeholder. Use my payment calculator with your county's rate to see the real monthly number.
Payment calculator with Texas property tax · Texas Comptroller: property tax
For illustration only. Not a commitment to lend, a Loan Estimate, or an offer of credit. Your actual figures depend on your full application, credit approval, property, and the loan program. John Stafford NMLS #2470539 | GoRascalJohn powered by GoRascal Inc. NMLS #2072896. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Google reviews
What people say after closing
Real words from real borrowers on my Google Business Profile.
“John came in at a time when I need someone that was honest and trustworthy. I was already working with another lender, my gut told me things didn't feel right. He offered his support and was resourceful. Never pushy but offered his assistance, if needed. The best decision I ever made! …Truly grateful for him!”
“Excellent service and most reliable person is John he helped my family and I out and made the process super easy and seamless he will definitely be my lifetime go to for all my Loan needs!”
“John made the process painless.”
Reviews from Google. Quoted verbatim; individual experiences vary.
Common questions
Is there a transfer tax in Texas?
No. The Texas Constitution prohibits a real estate transfer tax, so Section E on a Texas Loan Estimate is usually just recording fees.
Who pays for the owner's title policy in Texas?
It's negotiated in your purchase contract. In many Texas deals the seller pays, but check yours.
When should I file my Texas homestead exemption?
After you own and live in the home. File with your county appraisal district; it's free.
Do you lend outside the Permian Basin?
Yes. I'm licensed statewide in Texas and work with buyers all over the state.
Free Loan Estimate review
Got a Loan Estimate? Send it to me.
Send me your Loan Estimate and I'll look it over myself. I'll tell you straight what looks off, what looks fine, and whether I can do better. If your offer is solid, I'll say so.
Before you send it: cover your Social Security number and loan number. Texas and Tennessee loans. John Stafford NMLS #2470539 | GoRascalJohn powered by GoRascal Inc. NMLS #2072896.