01Define objectives
Primary home, second home, investment intent, timing, and must-haves.
02Choose representation
Work with a licensed Texas broker. At Global Collective, brokerage is led by Suzie Castillo, Founder & Broker.
03Evaluate financing
Cash vs mortgage; start lender conversations early for cross-border files.
04Obtain preapproval
When financing, a preapproval strengthens offers — subject to underwriting.
05Search
Curated search across The Woodlands and North Houston with live IDX.
06Tour
In person, video, or clustered visit days.
07Analyze property
Taxes, HOA/MUD, flood diligence questions, condition, and comps context.
08Prepare offer
Texas residential contracts use promulgated forms in most cases.
09Negotiate
Price, timing, repairs, and option terms.
10Execute contract
E-sign is common for remote buyers.
11Deliver earnest money
Deposit to title/escrow per deadlines.
12Begin option period
If negotiated — a window to terminate for any reason after paying the option fee.
13Inspect
Hire independent inspectors; specialty inspections as needed.
14Negotiate repairs or credits
Use written amendments — not informal promises.
15Appraisal
Lender-ordered when financing.
16Loan underwriting
Document conditions; cross-border packages need extra time.
17Title review
Read the commitment and exceptions.
18Insurance
Bind homeowners (and flood if required) before closing.
19Final walkthrough
Confirm condition per contract.
20Closing disclosure
Financed buyers receive timing-controlled disclosures.
21Closing
Documents and signatures — remote options where title allows.
22Funding
Lender/title funding must complete before possession in financed deals.
23Possession
Keys/access per contract.
24Post-closing
Utilities, HOA, and ownership setup.
