Buying a House Without a Buyer's Agent in Texas: What to Know

Some buyers want to make an offer without hiring their own agent. Maybe you found the home yourself, you're buying from a builder, or you've bought before and feel comfortable. I'm a mortgage broker, not a real estate agent, so I can't advise you on the contract itself, and I won't tell you whether to use an agent or skip one. That's your call. What I can do is lay out what the job involves, so if you're buying a house without a buyer's agent you know exactly which tasks land on your plate, and how your loan fits in.

In Texas, real estate license holders must give you a notice called Information About Brokerage Services (form IABS 1-2), published by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). According to TREC, a license holder must disclose their representation status at the time of first substantive communication with a party about specific real property.

The notice explains the roles you'll run into:

Is it legal to buy a house in Texas without a buyer's agent?

Yes, buyers can make their own offers. TREC says its contract forms are available for public use, though they are intended primarily for trained license holders and TREC suggests contacting a license holder or attorney for assistance.

Who does the listing agent represent if I don't have an agent?

The listing agent represents the seller. Ask for the Information About Brokerage Services notice and confirm in writing who represents whom before you discuss your budget or motives.

Can one agent represent both the buyer and the seller?

According to TREC's notice, an intermediary broker may represent both sides only with written consent from both parties, and the broker cannot favor one side or disclose confidential information without authorization.

Does having no agent change how my mortgage works?

Not the loan itself, but you'll want to be extra careful with contract deadlines for financing and the appraisal. I can walk you through the lender side, and an attorney can answer questions about the contract.

Do I still need a pre-approval?

Yes. The CFPB advises getting preapproval before making an offer, since you may have only days to arrange financing once a seller accepts.