HOME LOANS & LENDERS IN DALLAS-FORT WORTH
Property Tax & Homestead Savings Estimator
Estimate your yearly property taxes and how much a Texas homestead exemption could save you. Rates load automatically from 2025 public records for eight DFW counties. This is separate from the payment calculator above, which shows property taxes without a homestead exemption.
Optional: add another taxing unit (MUD, PID, special district)
| Taxing unit | Rate | Exemption | Est. tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Choose your area and select Estimate My Taxes. | |||
Other taxing units: some properties are also in a MUD, PID, emergency services district or other special district. These are handled case by case, so check your appraisal district account for the full list of units that tax your property and add any extra rate above.
Estimate only, not tax or legal advice. Uses 2025 tax rates from the Texas Comptroller and exemptions published by the county appraisal districts and title companies. School district exemptions reflect the 2025 law: $140,000 for homesteads, plus $60,000 for homeowners 65 or older or disabled, plus any local option. City and county exemptions vary and can change each year. Does not include the 10% homestead appraisal cap, 65+ tax ceilings or partial-year proration. New buyers usually pay without the homestead exemption until they qualify and file. Filing is free through your county appraisal district. Confirm your exemptions and rates with your appraisal district.
Compare Loan Programs
Every buyer's situation is different. Here's a quick look at the most common loan programs and who they tend to fit best.
| Program | Who it's often a good fit for | Program minimum down payment (general guidelines) | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | Buyers with steady income and solid credit | 3% to 5% for qualified buyers (20% avoids PMI) | Monthly mortgage insurance (PMI) may apply until you build enough equity |
| FHA | Buyers building their credit or who want a lower down payment | 3.5% with a credit score of 580+ | Government-backed; includes mortgage insurance; the home must meet FHA property standards |
| VA | Eligible veterans, service members and surviving spouses | 0% for eligible borrowers | No monthly mortgage insurance; requires proof of eligibility from the VA |
| USDA | Buyers purchasing in eligible areas outside major city centers | 0% in eligible areas | Income limits and location rules apply; some DFW suburbs may qualify |
| ITIN | Buyers who file taxes with an ITIN instead of a Social Security number | Commonly 10% to 20%, varies by lender | Offered by select lenders; usually requires tax returns and work history |
| DSCR (Investor) | Investors buying rental property or refinancing their investment homes | Commonly 20% to 25% | Qualification is based mostly on the property's rental income, not personal income |
| Hard Money (Investor) | Investors buying fix-and-flips or homes that need work, or who need to close quickly | Commonly 10% to 30% of the purchase price, varies by lender | Short-term loan (often 6 to 24 months) with higher rates and upfront fees; based mostly on the property and your plan to sell or refinance |
| Jumbo | Buyers purchasing above the standard loan limits | Commonly 10% to 20% | Typically stricter credit and savings requirements |
Minimums are set by program guidelines and can change. Your required down payment depends on your credit, income, property and lender. Program details, eligibility and terms vary by lender. This is general information, not an offer of credit or a commitment to lend. Talk with a licensed loan officer about your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I get pre-approved before looking at homes?
A pre-approval shows sellers you're a serious buyer and tells you what price range fits your budget. In a competitive market, many sellers expect it before they'll consider an offer.
How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the loan program, your credit and the lender. The table above shows general program minimums, and a lender can tell you exactly what you'd need.
What are closing costs?
These are the fees to finalize your loan and purchase, like appraisal, title and lender fees. They're separate from your down payment. In some cases, the seller can help pay part of them.
Can I buy a home if my credit isn't perfect?
Often, yes. Some programs are designed for buyers who are still building their credit. A lender can review your options and suggest steps to improve your approval chances.
Do I have to use one of your recommended lenders?
No. You can work with any lender you choose. We share lenders we've had good experiences with, but the choice is always yours.
How long does pre-approval take?
Many buyers get pre-approved within a few days once the lender has their documents, like pay stubs, bank statements and tax returns.
Entrust Realty Group is a team with OnDemand Realty and is not a mortgage lender. All loans are subject to credit approval, and terms and programs are set by the lender. You are not required to use any lender we recommend, and Entrust Realty Group does not receive compensation for lender referrals. Equal Housing Opportunity.