Matt Layman
Buying a Home in Austin, Texas – Step One: Get Pre-Approved for Mortgage Financing
Buying a Home in Austin, Texas – Step One:
Get Pre-Approved for Mortgage Financing
This is the first post in a series designed to get you prepared for what to expect when you are considering buying a home in the Austin area. I intend to link to the other parts as soon as they have been written.
When you are ready to begin shopping for a home to buy, it is best to start by determining how much you can afford, so that you don’t waste time with properties that are out of your price range. I realize that this is not the glamorous or exciting part to buying a home in Austin, but it is a necessity and not as painful as you may think.

Mortgage
But how do you begin?
Our team works with a trusted network of mortgage professionals who can assist you in getting pre-approved for a loan so that you can comfortably begin looking at homes with the assurance that you can obtain the proper financing. Give us a call anytime and we can provide some names to get you started. But the fact of the matter is I have ONE trusted mortgage professional that I send all of my business to because I have complete trust and confidence in his services. He has proven himself to be on top of the ball, detailed, operates out of honesty and integrity, under promises and over delivers, and always beats deadlines. His name is: Chad Mullenix an Executive Mortgage banker with LeaderOne Financial.
Chad Mullenix’s Contact Information:
Mobile: 512.657.8017
Office: 512.356.9436
Email: Chadmullenix@leader1.com
Feel free to speak to any mortgage professional that you would like to – I just happen to recommend Chad since he does such an outstanding job and operates out of the same motto as me: Service based! Like I said I have a network of trusted mortgage professionals if you desire to compare apples to oranges in regards to the fees.
Pre-Approval vs. Pre-Qualification
Generally, our mortgage contacts can help you with a pre-qualification by getting some basic information (address, social security numbers, etc.) over the phone or internet. This only takes a few minutes, including pulling your credit report.
In order to get fully pre-approved, you will be required to provide all of the normal documentation required, which would include:
* Full loan application
* 2 years of tax returns, W-2 forms
* Year-to-date pay stubs
* A couple of months’ worth of bank statements
* List of monthly debt, account numbers, minimum payments, and balance
* Address of mortgage company or landlord for past 2 years
* Driver’s license
* If VA financing is wanted, you will need your VA Certificate of Eligibility (DD214)
In Austin, most lenders will require you to pay for your credit report and property appraisal upfront. This would run $400 or thereabouts. The appraisal is a third-party assessment of the value of the home you choose.
Comparing Lenders
If you choose to purchase a new home, many builders have mortgage companies that will offer large incentives to use them. Sometimes, the offer is too good to pass up. We can help you to compare “apples to apples” by looking at the estimates provided by lenders that you speak with. A GFE (good faith estimate) is the only way to easily compare quotes. Sometimes, you might get a lower interest rate from one place, but they charge exorbitant fees. We can help you to avoid potential pitfalls.
I always require that my clients begin the loan process before we begin looking actively at homes together, in order to best spend my time and yours. Believe me, it is much more productive this way. As I have said many times to potential buyers, you would hate to find “the perfect home”, only to later realize that you won’t be able to get a mortgage for it.
If you have any questions at all, please feel free to call me anytime at 512-771-0754 (cell) or email: mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
Next step – Selecting an Area of Town, including factors to consider – post coming soon!
Keep Austin Rockin’
Matthew C. Layman
Austin’s Rock’in REALTOR®
Austin Texas Homes, LLC.
Cell: 512-771-0754
mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
http://austinsrockinrealestateblog.com/
https://twitter.com/matthewclayman
12612 Tierra Grande
12612 TIERRA GRANDE TRL, AUSTIN, TX 78732
MLS #: 5296150
$319,900 – Active – 18 Days on Market
House for Sale in River Dance Ph 04, Steiner Ranch, in Austin, Texas
Bedrooms:3Bathrooms:2Square Ft:2045Acres:0.203Garages:2Year Built:2009
For a more detailed listing of this property, please visit:
http://www.realtyaustin.com/idx/homes/texas/austin/78732/12612-tierra-grande-trl/5296150.html
6213 TASAJILLO TRAIL AUSTIN, TX 78739
$279,900 – Active – 62 Days on Market
House for Sale in Park West At Circle C Ph 01, in Austin, Texas
Bedrooms:3Bathrooms:2Square Ft:1985Acres:0.157Garages:2Year Built:1999
MLS #: 5879047
Extraordinary & Exquisite! Most “Distinct” home in ParkWest. UPGRADES GALORE $89k Worth, Beautiful Brazilian Hard Wood Floors throughout including Master, beds: 2 & 3, upgraded Travertin Tile Kitchen & wet areas, Gorgeous Granite Countertops, Tile backsplash, Under Cabinet Windows kitchen, Recessed Lights, Custom Built out Fireplace w/ Stone, Custom Stone Bar in kitchen, NEW water heater, Gated Community, Covered porch w/ tile. Minutes to pool school & shopping. Looking in Circle C Best Buy under $300k!
The new Formula 1 race track in Austin Texas has a name: Circuit of the Americas
The pinnacle of racing championships: Formula 1 and MotoGP are global events held in the worlds premiere designations. Creating week long festivals where ever they go. Now they will go FULL THROTTLE in Austin, TX.
At a new facility designed to provide one of the greatest fan experiences in the world called:
Circuit of the Americas
At 3.4 miles long and an elevation change of 133 feet it will be one of the most challenging courses in the world for drivers and one of the most exciting for spectators. This course has been designed for any and all classes or racing from motor power to human power but it’s much more than a race track.
It’s a world class destination for:
- Performance
- Education
- Business
And it’s poised to have a major impact on the local economy and the entire region:
- Estimated annual impact over $400,000,000 Million
- 1,110 new construction jobs created
With features that extend well beyond the pit lane:
- Conference Facilities
- Executive Meeting Suites
- Trauma Center and EMS Training Facility
- Law Enforcement Training Areas
- University and School Partnership Programs
- Expansive Live Music Space
Austin Texas is perfectly situation by both American coasts along with Canada and Central America. Austin is home to thinkers, innovators, entertainers, philanthropists, to one of the countries most vital technology hubs, and to the friendliest and most welcoming folks in the state of Texas.
Austin has been recognized for being:
- Voted top 2 “Best Cities” in the U.S. (Money Magazine)
- Voted Top 3 “Hippest Cities” in the U.S. (Forbes)
- Known as “The Live Music Capital of the World”
- Voted #1 “Best City for the Next Decade” (Kiplingers)
Formula 1 is the world’s most watched sport on television annually — boasting 600,000,000 million viewers and over 180 countries.
Circuit of the Americas is the United States new home for the World Champions bringing the World to Austin and Austin to the World!
Watch this awesome video: Circuit of the Americas
If you are a Formula 1 or MotoGP racing fan thinking about visiting Austin to attend the race when it opens up – drop me a line or give me a call. Let me know how I can assist with your visit to Austin. Id be glad to point you in the right direction on where to stay, what cool places to explore, and what wonderful restaurants and local dives to eat at.
If your thinking about visiting Austin because you are attracted to one of the many different reasons people fall in LOVE with AUSTIN - and interested in getting a closer look at the local real estate market because you seriously considering a move or relocating- I would love to be your Tour Guide & Ambassador to this special place on earth we call Austin!
The only way to get a closer look is to come visit and explore this Rock ‘in town we call Austin. The term that I’m sure you have heard: “Keep Austin Weird” is a marketing slogan but it’s also who we are – were weird because we are special and different. Unlike any other city in the world. Trust me but don’t take my word for it.. come explore and find out for yourself. That’s what I did back in 1999 I came down for a long three day weekend and three months later my bags were packed and I was officially moved in just in time to celebrate New Years in my new city! Now that I’ve lived in Austin for over 10 years I get to claim the title Austinite – it’s a title I wear proudly and so can you …. so let me help.
Just call me Cell: (512) 771.0754 or email: mlatxrealestate@gmail.com Come plant your roots in Austin …we would love to have you!
If you are all ready living in this Rock ‘in town we call Austin and looking to move-up or become a first time home buyer please give me a call. I enjoy working with locals as much as I do new folks relocating to our beloved city. I would love to assist in helping you find your next dream home.
Keep Austin Rock ‘in,
Matthew C. Layman
Austin’s Rock ‘in Realtor®

http://austinsrockinrealestateblog.com/
cell: 512.771.0754
https://twitter.com/#!/matthewclayman
Video Tour of 1015 Deerhound Place – Chandler Creek – Round Rock, TX home for sale
This is a walking virtual tour of my new listing in the Chandler Creek subdivision at 1015 Deerhound Place Round Rock TX 78664. This cute starter home was originally built by KB Homes. This charming single story home was built in 2002, has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1524 sq ft. This lovely home is in “mint” condition and showcases fresh paint. When you look at the other homes within the neighborhood this home stands heads and shoulders above the competition along with being priced competitive. The home features an open floor plan, carpet in the family room, hallways and bedrooms, Laminate in the entry, bathrooms, kitchen, and breakfast area. A unique Texas chandelier in the breakfast area conveys. When you walk into this home you will see a pride of ownership in how they have taken great care of this charming home. Close to major Round Rock entertainment, shopping, nightlife and minor league Baseball with the Round Rock Express.
Another advantage to living in Round Rock is that you are close to major employers like: Dell, Inc., Sears Customer Care, Scott & White Healthcare, Texas Guaranteed Student Loan, St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center, Dresser Wayne, Inc., Seton Medical Center Williamson, Wheeler Asphalt Coatings, Cintas Corporation, Centex Machining, Inc., and much more. Why commute 30 minutes to an hour each way to work spending quality time behind the steering wheel of a car and wasting money on gas when you could walk, bike or have a short drive to work. Reclaim your life back and live near your work.
If you have any questions or if you would like to schedule an appointment to tour this lovely home listed at 1015 Deerhound Place Round Rock, TX. 78664 MLS #6459172 or any others in the Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock MLS, please give me a call anytime at 512.771.0754 or email me at: mlatxrealestate@gmail.com Matthew is your local Neighborhood Expert for the Chandler Creek subdivision.
If you are looking to relocate to the Austin, Lakeway, Cedar Park, Round Rock, or Pflugerville areas ask me for the Austin Texas relocation package and I will gladly email you a copy for free.
I look forward to hearing from you soon. Feel free to call me today to schedule a tour of this “Rock ‘in Round Rock home” within the Chandler Creek subdivision off of East Old Settlers Blvd in Round Rock. This beautiful 3 bedrooms/2 bath starter home will not last long. If you would like more information or pictures regarding this lovely home – I’m just a phone call away.
Keep Austin Rock ‘in,
Matthew C. Layman
Austin’s Rock ‘in Realtor®

http://austinsrockinrealestateblog.com/
cell: 512.771.0754
https://twitter.com/#!/matthewclayman
Open House in Avery Ranch this Sunday by Matthew Layman – 16628 Barrhead Cove
Open House in Avery Ranch – this Sunday May 1st from 3:00pm to 6:00pm at the address of 16628 Barrhead Cove Austin TX 78717 hosted by Austin’s Rock’in Realtor ® and Avery Ranch Neighborhood Expert Matthew Layman. The house is located in the Avery Ranch “East” phase of the subdivision near the inter-section of Billingham Trail and Avery Ranch Blvd.
The Avery Ranch Master Plan community is tucked between Cedar Park and Round Rock, the golf community of Avery Ranch sits in a scenic, hilly area of northwest Austin. With tennis courts, pools, and five separate community centers, this neighborhood offers exceptional recreation – including the striking 18-hole golf course, recently named one of the Top 5 Courses in Austin. Avery Ranch’s neighborhoods (all connected by walking trails) feature large houses and town homes – mostly built in 2000 or later, with views of the golfing greens and 60-acre Avery Lake. Nearby thoroughfares 183, 620, and I-35 take residents to downtown Austin, tech employers and even Lake Travis. Entertainment is a cinch, with the Alamo Drafthouse at Lake Creek, Lakeline Mall and outlet shopping in Round Rock a short drive away. In neighboring Cedar Park, a large entertainment complex – complete with a sports venue, shops and restaurants.
This stunning ranch home features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 living rooms, 2 dining rooms, a sun-room, study, and much more.

This large beautiful one-story home is priced at $259,900 – one of the best priced sq ft homes in ALL of AVERY RANCH MLS#9167928
Contact Listing Agent & Austin’s Rock ‘in Realtor ® Matthew Layman @ 512.771.0754 or email: mlatxrealestate@gmail.com anytime to set up a private showing.
The Home Features:
* 3 bedrooms / 2 baths
* Built in 2002 has 2,656 sq ft and priced at $97.85 per sq ft.
* 1-story Ranch style home
* Sun Room & Study
* Open Floor Plan
* Archways and rounded corners
* tile throughout
* wood laminate in the Master bedroom
* Stone Fireplace
* Covered Patio
* Corian countertops and Island in the kitchen
* Black Appliance package and gas cooking
* 2 wood “faux blinds
* great backyard for entertaining
* home is in excellent condition, was just professional power-washed on the outside so it’s showing beautifully!
* Refrigerator, Washer, & Dryer all convey (added bonus)




If you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule an appointment to see this lovely home at 16628 Barrhead Cove Austin, TX 78717 or any others in the Austin MLS, please give me a call anytime at 512.771.0754 or mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
The Open House will be held this Sunday May 1st from 3:00pm to 6:00pm- so come by and say Hi’. Register to win a Best Buy Gift Card as well.
Have a Rock ‘in Day,
Matthew C. Layman
Austins Rock ‘in Realtor ® Avery Ranch Neighborhood Expert
Austin Texas Homes, LLC
Cell: 512.771.0754
mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
New Homes coming to Harris Branch
Harris Branch #1 Neighborhood Expert & Austin’s Rockin’ Realtor Matthew Layman takes time out to share with you a new project by K B Homes called Parkside at Harris Branch. This project is currently under construction and has a ways to go.
If you would like more information about this new K B Homes project called Parkside at Harris Branch or any other homes for sale within Harris Branch please contact Matthew directly at 512.771.0754 or mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
Matthew is the leading real estate agent and neighborhood expert within Harris Branch and really has the pulse of what’s going on within this lovely Austin neighborhood. So make sure you subscribe to his blog and youtube channel to get the latest real estate news and information happening in and around you.
Keep Austin Rockin’
Matthew C. Layman
Cell: 512-771-0754
mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
http://austinsrockinrealestateblog.com/
https://twitter.com/matthewclayman
Realtor, Austin Texas Homes LLC.
Open House Today by Matthew Layman: 3004 Cohoba Dr Austin TX “Cherry Creek Subdivision” Home for Sale
Come say Hi’ Today: OPEN HOUSE from 1:00-5:30 pm at the address of 3004 Cohoba Drive Austin, TX 78748 located in the desirable Tanglewood Oaks section of the Cherry Creek Subdivision. This unique south Austin charm has 2 master bedrooms – one up and one down, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths.

3004 Cohoba Drive Austin TX 78748 For Sale
This lovely South Austin gem is priced to sell at $189,000. MLS #: 6707395
Contact Listing Agent: Matthew C. Layman at 512.771.0754 or email: mlatxrealestate@gmail.com anytime to set up a private showing.
The Home Features:
* 3 bedrooms/ 3 baths
* Built in 1998 has 1,555 square feet
* 2 stories
* Upgraded Granite Countertops in the kitchen
* Tile in Kitchen and Front Hall
* Stainless steel dishwasher & fridge
* Upgraded faucets/fixtures
* Dark rich 2″ faux blinds
* Sprinkler System (1 year old)
* Painted Garage floor and overhead adjustable storage units
* Accent Painted Walls
* Beautifully landscaped yard, well maintained with lots of love
* Architectural design has lots of character, the home has been kept in mint condition, and this charming home has a vaulted ceiling in the family room which makes for a dynamic living area.

Granite Countertops at 3004 Cohoba Drive For Sale by Matthew Layman with Austin Texas Homes, LLC.
If you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule an appointment to see this lovely home at 3004 Cohoba Drive Austin, TX 78748 or any others in the Austin MLS, please give me a call anytime at 512.771.0754 or mlatxrealestate@gmail.com
I will be here at the Open House until 5:30 pm today Sunday October 17th, 2010 - so come by and say Hi’. Register to win a Best Buy Gift Card as well.
Have a Beautiful Sunday,
Matthew C. Layman
Cell: 512.771.0754
mlatxrealestate@gmail.com

A beautiful back yard at 3004 Cohoba Drive Austin TX 78748
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