How to Buy a Home in San Antonio: A Step-by-Step Local Guide

Buying a home is one of the biggest milestones in life—especially in a growing city like San Antonio, Texas. Whether you’re relocating, purchasing for the first time, or moving up to a larger home, understanding the local process can make a world of difference. 

With more than 18 years of experience helping buyers navigate the San Antonio market, Tami Price, Realtor® has refined a proven approach that blends education, preparation, and strategy. This guide walks you through each step of the process, from pre-approval to closing day, with practical insights to help you make confident decisions. 

Step 1: Assess Your Readiness and Financial Goals 

Before diving into listings, evaluate your financial position. Lenders typically recommend keeping housing expenses under 30% of your gross monthly income. 

Key considerations: 

• Review your credit score (620+ is often ideal for conventional loans). 

• Calculate how much you can comfortably afford—not just what you qualify for. 

• Factor in closing costs, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. 

Buyers in San Antonio benefit from a variety of loan options, including VA loans, FHA, USDA rural programs, and Texas-specific down payment assistance programs. If you’re a military buyer, VA financing can eliminate the need for a down payment and remove mortgage insurance, saving thousands over time. 

Step 2: Get Pre-Approved by a Local Lender 

Getting pre-approved early gives you a competitive edge in today’s market. Local lenders familiar with Bexar, Comal, and Guadalupe Counties can guide you through regional taxes, insurance rates, and HOA requirements. 

Why pre-approval matters: 

• It sets your true budget. 

• Sellers take your offer more seriously. 

• You’ll know your interest rate and monthly payment estimates up front. 

Pro tip: Choose a lender who communicates quickly and specializes in your loan type—especially if you’re using VA financing or exploring first-time buyer incentives. 

Step 3: Partner with a San Antonio Real Estate Expert 

Working with an experienced Realtor who knows the market can save you both time and money. Tami Price, Realtor®, has spent nearly two decades guiding buyers through the complexities of new construction, resale homes, and VA loan assumptions. 

Your agent’s role includes: 

• Identifying suitable neighborhoods and school districts. 

• Scheduling showings and virtual tours. 

• Evaluating home values and market trends. 

• Crafting competitive offers while protecting your interests. 

A strong buyer’s agent isn’t just there to open doors—they’re your advocate through every stage of negotiation and due diligence. 

Step 4: Explore San Antonio’s Neighborhoods 

San Antonio offers an incredible range of communities—each with its own character, amenities, and price point. 

Popular Areas for Buyers in 2025: 

• Alamo Ranch / Stillwater Ranch: Modern homes, newer schools, and community pools. 

• Stone Oak: Top-rated schools and upscale amenities near 281 North. 

• Boerne & Fair Oaks Ranch: Hill Country living with small-town charm. 

• Cibolo & Schertz: Easy commute to Randolph AFB and family-oriented communities. 

• Redbird Ranch / Riverstone at Westpointe: Popular among military families for newer construction and proximity to Lackland AFB. 

Each area offers different price per square foot averages and HOA structures, so local guidance helps narrow your search to neighborhoods that match your budget and lifestyle. 

Step 5: Begin Your Home Search 

Once you’ve identified your preferred area and budget, it’s time to start viewing homes. 

Your Realtor will use the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to access the most current listings, including new homes that may not yet appear on public sites. 

Tips for a successful search: 

• Keep an open mind—many homes look better in person. 

• Focus on floor plans and functionality rather than décor. 

• Compare Days on Market (DOM) to assess pricing trends. 

• Ask about potential VA-assumable loans, which may offer lower interest rates than current market levels. 

Step 6: Make a Competitive Offer 

When you find “the one,” your agent will prepare a purchase offer based on recent comparable sales, local demand, and your budget. 

In San Antonio’s 2025 market, strategic offers still matter. Some sellers value flexibility—like a quick closing or limited contingencies—over a slightly higher price. 

Your offer will typically include: 

• Purchase price 

• Earnest money deposit (1–2% of the price) 

• Option fee for inspections (commonly $100–300) 

• Financing terms and closing timeline 

Tami Price, Realtor®, emphasizes communication and transparency during negotiations to ensure buyers secure the best terms while protecting their financial interests. 

Step 7: Schedule Inspections and Appraisal 

Once under contract, the termination option period begins. In Texas, the termination option period is a negotiated timeframe in a real estate contract that allows a buyer to terminate the contract for any reason. During this period, the buyer pays a non-refundable “option fee” to the seller for the right to terminate and get their earnest money back. This period, often lasting around 7-10 days, is also used for inspections and negotiating repairs. 

Common Inspections Include: 

1. General Home Inspection

This inspection is performed after a home goes under contract. The goal is to identify any issues—structural, mechanical, or safety-related—before closing. Inspectors evaluate the roof, foundation, HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, and more. The findings help buyers negotiate repairs or price adjustments before moving forward.

• New Construction Inspection

A new construction inspection ensures that a recently built home meets quality and safety standards before move-in. It often includes a phased approach—foundation, framing (pre-drywall), and final inspection. Even new homes can have code violations or workmanship errors, making this a smart step before closing.

• Pool/Spa Inspection

This inspection evaluates the pool or spa’s condition and safety. Inspectors check the structure, plumbing, electrical components, pumps, filters, heaters, and safety barriers (like fences and gates). The goal is to ensure proper function and compliance with local safety regulations.

• Termite / WDIR Inspection

Also called a Wood Destroying Insect Report (WDIR), this inspection identifies signs of termites, carpenter ants, or other pests that damage wood. Many lenders require this for home loans. Inspectors look for active infestations, damage, and conditions that could attract pests, such as moisture or wood-to-ground contact.

• Sewer Scope Inspection

A sewer scope inspection uses a camera to examine the home’s main sewer line. It helps identify clogs, cracks, tree root intrusion, or pipe collapse. This is especially valuable for older homes or properties with large trees, as sewer repairs can be costly if undetected before purchase.

An independent inspection helps uncover potential repairs or safety concerns. 

If you’re financing, your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home’s market value. In the case of VA loans, the appraiser also checks that the home meets VA minimum property standards. 

Step 8: Finalize Your Loan and Prepare for Closing 

After inspections and appraisal are complete, your lender will finalize underwriting and issue a clear to close. 

Before closing: 

• Review your Closing Disclosure for accuracy. 

• Schedule a final walk-through 24–48 hours before settlement. 

• Arrange for utilities to be transferred to your name. 

Closings in Bexar County typically occur at a title company, where documents are signed, funds are distributed, and ownership officially transfers. 
Tami Price personally coordinates with title representatives to ensure smooth, on-time closings—especially for military families on tight PCS timelines. 

Step 9: Move In and Register for Local Benefits 

Once the deal is finalized, it’s time to celebrate and settle in. 

New homeowners in San Antonio should: 

• File for their Texas Homestead Exemption. 

• Update mailing and voter registration addresses. 

• Familiarize themselves with Bexar County property tax schedules. 

• Explore community events and local resources. 

For military families, Joint Base San Antonio and surrounding communities offer relocation services, spouse employment programs, and social networks that make transitions easier. 

Why Local Expertise Matters 

San Antonio’s real estate market is unique—shaped by military relocation patterns, seasonal demand, and rapid new-home development. 

Working with a local expert like Tami Price, Realtor®, means you benefit from: 

• Deep neighborhood insight across Northwest, Northeast, and West San Antonio. 

• Proven strategies for VA assumptions, builder negotiations, and seller concessions. 

• Transparent communication from start to finish. 

Her experience across hundreds of transactions ensures that every buyer—first-time or experienced—receives personalized, informed guidance. 

Real Data Snapshot – 2025 Market Overview 

According to SABOR (San Antonio Board of REALTORS®): 

• The median price of a single-family home in 2025 is around $323,000, slightly up from 2024. 

• Inventory averages 3.6 months, offering balanced conditions for both buyers and sellers. 

• VA loans account for nearly 20% of total purchases in Bexar County—one of the highest rates in Texas. 

These trends reinforce San Antonio’s affordability and steady demand, making it one of the most sustainable housing markets in the state. 

The Bottom Line 

Buying a home in San Antonio doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right preparation, financing, and local expertise, you can approach every stage with confidence. 

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, relocating under PCS orders, or searching for a new construction home, Tami Price, Realtor®, provides the insight and advocacy needed to make your move successful. 

Contact Tami Price, Realtor®.