RealEstate
People buy homes from another city, state, or country every day. A licensed local agent who knows the market — and can walk properties for you — makes the process clearer.
Start with a clear brief
Share your budget range, must-haves, timeline, and whether you need to sell elsewhere first. John W Lang can introduce you to a licensed agent in the area where you want to buy through his referral network. Outside Texas, that agent is licensed where the property is; John does not represent you there.
Tours without living nearby
Ask about live video walk-throughs, recorded tours, and a trusted local showing when you visit. Photos and listing descriptions help, but they are not a substitute for someone on the ground who can flag condition issues, neighborhood context, and commute realities.
Contracts and the Texas option period
In Texas, buyers and sellers typically use contract forms promulgated by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Many contracts include a negotiated option period: for an option fee, you may terminate for any reason within that window. Use it for inspections and due diligence. Practices differ in other states — your local agent should walk you through their forms and deadlines.
Title, earnest money, and closing
Earnest money and option fees are usually delivered on the timeline in your contract. Title companies commonly handle Texas closings; other states may use attorneys. Remote closings (mail-away or electronic, where allowed) are often possible — ask early. We do not refer title companies, attorneys, or lenders.
Insurance and taxes
Get homeowners (and, where relevant, flood) quotes from your own insurance provider before you are deep under contract. Review property taxes and any MUD or special district for the address. See Texas property taxes for out-of-state buyers.
Related: Closing cost checklist · Request an agent introduction
Educational information only — not legal, tax, financial, or lending advice. Rules and amounts change. Confirm details with the appropriate official source, your own tax or legal advisor, and the licensed real estate agent you choose. We do not refer mortgage lenders, insurance agents, or other non-real-estate professionals.