What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know Right Now
February is a strategic planning month for real estate across Houston and the surrounding suburbs. Buyers are preparing for spring competition, while sellers are deciding whether to list now or wait for peak season. From Katy and The Woodlands to Cypress and Sugar Land, these are the most common questions we’re hearing right now—and the practical answers buyers and sellers need.
BENJAMIN YOINGCO | REALTOR®
1. What credit score do I need to buy a home in Houston in 2026?
Credit score requirements depend more on the loan program than the lender itself. Many Houston buyers qualify with lower scores through FHA, VA, or USDA programs, while conventional loans typically require higher scores but may offer better long-term terms for well-qualified buyers.
What matters most is your full financial picture—income stability, debt-to-income ratio, cash reserves, and payment history. A buyer with a moderate credit score and strong income can sometimes qualify more easily than someone with a higher score but heavy debt. Getting a local pre-approval early helps clarify your true buying power before competition ramps up this spring.
2. How much are closing costs for buyers in the Houston area?
Buyer closing costs in Greater Houston typically range from 2%–4% of the purchase price. The exact amount depends on your loan type, lender fees, title company charges, prepaid taxes, and insurance escrows.
The good news? Many buyers offset these costs by negotiating seller concessions or using builder incentives, especially in new construction communities in suburbs like Katy, Cypress, and Conroe. Reviewing estimated closing costs early allows you to budget accurately and avoid surprises at the closing table.
3. Should Houston buyers lock their interest rate or wait in 2026?
Rate-lock decisions are personal and should align with your timeline and risk tolerance, not market speculation. Some buyers prefer locking early for certainty, while others choose float-down options if their lender offers them.
Key factors include contract length, new construction timelines, and current market volatility. A strong lender strategy considers how long your transaction will take and what protections are available if rates shift before closing.
4. What documents do lenders require for mortgage pre-approval?
Most lenders will request the following:
- Recent pay stubs
- W-2s or tax returns
- Bank statements
- Government-issued identification
- Employment verification
Self-employed buyers or those with multiple income sources may need additional documentation. Preparing these items early can speed up pre-approval and strengthen your negotiating position when you find the right home.
Why February Matters for Houston Buyers and Sellers
February is when smart buyers get organized and sellers finalize listing strategies. Inventory typically rises in early spring, and prepared buyers often have an advantage. Sellers who price correctly and prepare now can capture strong demand as activity accelerates across Houston’s high-turnover suburbs.
Whether you’re buying or selling this February, expert guidance matters. Get started with a free Houston market consultation. Reach out to Jennifer Yoingco, REALTOR®, and her team, The Houston Suburb Group. They’ll help you get ready to EXPERIENCE LIVING IN HOUSTON TEXAS!
BENJAMIN YOINGCO | REALTOR®
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