In this quick guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about how to transfer utilities so you can focus on scheduling movers, settling in, and enjoying your new home—without the stress of overdue bills.

When to start the utility transfer process

How to transfer utilities when moving starts with timing—begin the process at least a month before your move so you have enough time to notify your current service providers and set up utility services at your new address while avoiding service gaps or delays. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth transition.

Step 1: Get organized

Changing utilities when moving is much easier with a well-planned approach. Gather important billing information, such as your account numbers, and create a list of phone numbers for each utility provider. Make a checklist to track important dates for service cut-off, final meter readings, moving days, new provider account activation, and other key milestones.

Step 2: Assess your utility needs

Planning how to switch utilities when moving involves multiple services and providers. While your electric and water bill are typically the primary considerations, here’s a list of additional services you’ll need to address:

• Natural gas 
• Trash
• Recycling
• Sewage 
• Internet 
• Cable
• Home security

Remember that you’ll need to cancel utilities in your old home for each service and set up new accounts in your next one. You may need to contact utility companies multiple times to coordinate cut-off and activation dates. If you’re unsure of your energy needs, scheduling a home energy audit is a great way to pinpoint efficiency, comfort, and cost savings.

Step 3: Timing your utility transfer

In addition to researching how to transfer your electric service to the new owner or tenant, working out when to switch utilities can save headaches and unnecessary expenses on both ends. The goal is to turn off gas, electricity, water, and sewer services from your current utility providers shortly before departing and have new utility accounts with your preferred providers up and running before moving day. 

Step 4: Notify your current utility providers

Contact each utility company in advance to arrange a transfer or cancellation. Some service providers need to schedule a technician to turn off your service, conduct a final reading, and determine any unpaid balances. Notifying utility providers at least 30 days before your move date is generally recommended, but check with each company for specific deadlines.

Step 5: Setting up utilities in your new home

With the groundwork for how to change utilities when moving out of your old property covered, it’s time to research utility providers in your new location. The most important tasks include contacting:

• Electricity utility service providers: Compare rates and plans carefully, especially if you’re moving to a deregulated energy market where you can choose your provider.
• Water and sewer utilities: Water meters and sewage utility bills are often managed by local municipalities, so check with your city or county office to see who your provider is.
• Natural gas service providers: Some cities have multiple gas providers, so check online reviews and get referrals from friends and family before deciding.
• Trash and recycling services: Many areas provide government-run waste management services, while others require you to contract a private provider or organize removal via your homeowner’s association (HOA).

Consider making a spreadsheet to track contact information, account numbers, installation appointment dates, and non-essentials like internet and cable.

Step 6: Confirm final bills and deposits

Mastering how to transfer electric service contracts and other essential utilities with minimal hassle can be accomplished by following this simple 6-step process:

1. Schedule final readings to ensure accurate billing and prevent overcharges.
2. Settle outstanding balances to avoid overdue bills impacting your credit.
3. Return equipment like internet routers, cable boxes, and smart meters to avoid additional fees.
4. Verify deposit refunds and confirm when you can expect reimbursement.
5. Request a final bill statement for your records.
6. If you don’t use online billing, update your address to ensure you receive the final documentation.

Following these steps helps ensure transparency and prevents important billing information from being lost/misplaced across multiple homes. 

Special considerations for buyers, sellers, and renters

Though the principles on how to transfer utilities are the same regardless of your situation, the steps for changing providers may differ slightly depending on whether you’re renting, selling, or buying.

Tip tips for how to transfer utilities when renting

 Ask your landlord or leasing office for the names and numbers of your current utility companies, and double-check your lease agreement to see if there are extra fees for specific services like waste removal.

Top tips for how to transfer utilities from seller to buyer

 If you’re deactivating a service or transferring utilities to the new owner, leaving utilities on until closing day allows buyers to do a final walkthrough and check everything is working correctly. In some transactions, having a title company transfer utilities on your behalf may be possible.

Top tips for how to transfer utilities when buying a house

Get current providers’ information from your real estate agent or directly from the seller, and check with the HOA to see if there are any extra charges, start-up fees, or outstanding balances for specific utilities. Some utility companies require a deposit or transfer fee, so always have your credit card or checking account number ready when making calls.

Quick tips for moving utilities hassle-free

Here’s a quick recap and some final thoughts on how to transfer utilities to ensure your move goes off without a hitch:

• Start early: Notify utility providers at least 30 days in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
• Create a checklist: Keep track of cutoff and activation dates to prevent service interruptions.
• Research thoroughly: Compare energy costs and service plans for the best deal.
• Keep records: Save confirmation emails and final bills so it’s easy to resolve any disputes.
• Call new providers on move day: Double-check you’ll have electricity, hot water, etc., ready to go before you move.
• Set up autopay: Ensure utility bills are paid on time by enrolling in autopay with your new providers.

Planning ahead and staying organized are key to successful utility transfers. 

Save on electricity plans with BKVE

Moving to a new home is the perfect time to reassess your electricity plan. BKVE provides affordable electricity plans for Texas residents with straightforward pricing and no hidden fees. Our fixed-rate plans come with transparent contracts and no usage requirements, making it easy to transfer electric service providers and understand precisely what you’re paying for.

With popular options like our Bluebonnet plan, it’s easy to stay powered up without breaking the bank! Explore our plans and make the switch today! 

FAQs

When you have questions about how to transfer utilities when buying a house or moving into a new rental, we have the answers. 

How much does it cost to transfer utilities?

Costs vary depending on your location and providers. Some utility companies charge transfer fees or security deposits, while others allow free service transfers. Contact each provider for specific costs and deposit requirements.

Can I have electricity in two houses when moving?

Yes, many utility providers allow you to temporarily keep services active at two addresses to ensure a seamless transition. 

Does the buyer or seller transfer utilities?

Sellers typically handle closing their accounts while buyers set up new services. However, some utility services may be transferred directly. Check with local providers for specific procedures.

Does the title company transfer utilities?  

While title companies may remind you about utility transfers before closing, they do not usually handle them. It’s best to handle these arrangements yourself to ensure everything is set up correctly.

Can I get same-day electricity? 

Most providers require advance notice to activate service. Contact BKVE to learn about our service activation timeline and schedule your electricity connection.

How do you transfer utilities to a new roommate?

Contact the utility company to update your account. Some providers require both parties to confirm the change, and a credit check may be needed for the new account holder.

The post How to Transfer Utilities: Ultimate Guide for Renters, Buyers, and Sellers appeared first on BKV Energy.

Gather information from the current homeowner 

One of the easiest ways to estimate electricity costs is by asking the current homeowner for past utility bills. This can provide real, location-specific data that reflects actual usage patterns. With a previous utility bill, you can also compare their current electricity with other electricity plans.

Tips for asking homeowners for utility information:

There is a chance the seller is hesitant to share utility information. If that is the case you can try any of the following approaches: 

1. Explain that utility costs are an essential factor in the purchasing decision for your offer. 
2. Offer to sign a non-disclosure agreement if privacy is their concern. 
3. Request an average of electricity costs rather than full bill details. 
4. Check with the local utility provider, as some may provide past billing data upon request. 

Questions to ask the homeowner  

If you succeed in acquiring a recent utility bill, it would benefit you to ask these questions so you can understand how electricity bills may fluctuate throughout the year.

• What’s the average monthly electricity cost? This provides a baseline for what to expect throughout the year.
• Are there seasonal fluctuations? Some homes may have high summer cooling costs or increased winter heating expenses. 
• What type of heating and cooling system is in place? Older systems may be less energy-efficient which can be replaced & reduce your energy usage.
• Are any of the major appliances rated ENERGY STAR Efficient? Appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers can significantly impact electricity usage. 
• How well is the home insulated? Poor insulation can lead to higher heating and cooling costs. 
• Are you signed up with a fixed or variable electricity rate plan? This can affect how much you pay per kWh over time with seasonal fluctuations in energy usage.
• Are there additional power-consuming features? Pools, hot tubs, or electric vehicle chargers can add to the monthly electricity bill. 

Leverage online energy calculators 

If past energy bills are available, online calculators can help estimate electricity costs based on home size, location, and appliance usage. One such resource is our energy cost calculator, which allows you to input details to estimate monthly electricity expenses. The information you will need from the past utility bill is outlined below:

• kWh usage: This measures exactly how much electricity was used in a given time period
• Energy rate: The price per kWh that you pay to your retail electricity provider
• TDU delivery rate: The per kWh charge you pay your regional utility for maintaining power lines and delivering electricity to your home
• TDU monthly delivery charge: TDUs charge a flat monthly fee, along with the per kWh rate, to maintain electricity infrastructure.

Manually calculating your own energy usage

If the homeowner isn’t able to provide a past utility bill for any reason. You can follow these steps to estimate how many kilowatt hours your appliances and devices require. This will only be applicable if you know the exact appliances you plan to use.

1. Find the energy label for the major appliances you plan to use and look for the wattage.
2. Then divide that wattage by 1,000 to get the energy usage in kilowatts. (1000 watts = 1 kilowatt)
3. Next, calculate the kilowatt-hour usage of each appliance. Then, multiply the kilowatts by the average number of hours the appliance is used per day.
4. Take that average daily kilowatt-hour rate & multiply it by 30 to get the usage in an average month.
5. Lastly, multiply the average monthly kWh usage of the appliance by your average kWh rate on the Electricity Facts Label of the energy plan you are signing up for to get the electricity cost of that appliance.

Research local energy costs 

Electricity rates vary widely depending on location, electricity provider, and regional policies. The time of year is also a factor in estimating energy usage and costs. In Texas, electricity is often cheapest between late February and early May, and mid-September to early December. During these months energy companies typically offer lower prices due to demand being lower at that time.

Researching local rates will give you a better sense of potential costs. A few good websites that the Public Utility Commission of Texas maintains are:

• powertochoose.org
• powertosavetexas.org

These sites can help electricity shoppers to find low rates. When shopping there, be careful to avoid potential gimmicks that make plans appear cheaper than they actually are.

Factors affecting energy costs & electricity usage

• Local kWh rates: Look up the average cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in the area
• Climate and weather patterns: Homes in extreme climates (like a Texas summer) may have significantly higher electricity usage due to heating or cooling needs
• Thermostat settings: Research shows that in Summer every degree you raise the temperature, you can save up to 3% on your cooling costs
• Age of HVAC system: On average HVAC systems last 10-15 years. Upgrading to a modern & more efficient model can help reduce energy usage
• Age of roof: The type of shingle, materials used, the insulation levels, and the roof angle will all affect the heat retention or the ability of cool air to escape
• Major appliances: According to data from the EIA, refrigerators alone make up 8% of total average energy usage

Tips to Lower Electricity Costs 

If after your analysis the projected electricity bill seems high, there may be opportunities to reduce costs after purchasing the home. 

• Upgrading insulation & windows: Proper insulation reduces heating and cooling demands
• Replacing old appliances: Energy-efficient appliances consume less power
• Installing smart thermostats: Automated temperature control can optimize energy usage
• Install dimmer switches: Switch from regular on/off light switches to dimmer switches to control the brightness of your bulbs

In summary, the best way to estimate your electricity bills is by using real, location-specific data. The most accurate data will be previous utility bills. If those aren’t available, researching local energy costs and manually calculating your monthly energy usage will be the next best way to estimate your electricity bills.

Simple fixed rates lead to lower bills 

At BKVE, we offer straightforward, no-gimmick electricity plans designed to help Texans save money. The transparent pricing and excellent customer service we offer are perfect for first-time homebuyers or existing homeowners buying a new home.

Enter your zip code today to compare your options and find your plan. 

The post How to Estimate the Electric Bill for Your New House  appeared first on BKV Energy.

But how much does a house cost in Texas? The good news is that more space doesn’t necessarily equate to higher Texas housing prices. In fact, the Lone Star State ranks 22nd for median sale price despite ranking 11th for median house size.

Are you moving to Texas and looking to learn more about the housing market? Then you’re in the right place! Here’s everything you need to know. 

Texas housing market overview

As in other states, housing prices in Texas are not static. Instead, they are influenced by a range of factors, which typically include:

• Location: Properties in sought-after districts and popular suburbs are usually more expensive.
• Economic conditions: Real estate prices tend to rise during an economic upturn.
• Interest rates: Low interest rates push prices up, as demand increases when borrowers can access more favorable loans. High interest rates have the opposite effect.
• Construction and land costs: Land scarcity, high construction costs, and expensive labor equate to higher home prices. 
• Population growth: Regions with growing populations often witness rising real estate prices.
• Environmental factors: Homes in areas with a low risk of natural disasters are typically more expensive.

So, how do these factors influence home prices in Texas? The state’s housing market is characterized by a robust economy and a growing population. There are many great reasons to move to Texas, which contributes to an influx of around 395,000 new residents each year. However, the hot summers and variable winter weather also make the Lone Star State prone to unpredictable conditions. Thus, many variables interplay.

Let’s dig into some details to find out more. According to the Texas Real Estate Research Center:

• The average cost of a house in Texas is $335,494.
• Current trends indicate a fall in home sales and a continued rise in building permits.
• New listings have increased by almost 14%.
• Properties spend an average of 61 days on the market.

Of course, generally speaking, property prices will always rise over time. However, percentage increases vary from month to month.

Average home price in Houston

A diverse economy, varied cultural offerings, and plentiful job opportunities in key industries like healthcare, technology, and aerospace are just a few reasons people are moving to Houston.

Houston home prices range from $220,000-$665,000 between neighborhoods. Cheaper areas include Great Inwood, Mid West, Sunnyside, and Alief, while pricier suburbs include Greater Heights, Memorial, Garden Oaks, and Montrose. 

Average home price in Dallas

D Town’s dynamic job market, vibrant arts scene, and excellent schools make it one of the most desirable cities for families and professionals alike. However, if you’re considering moving to Dallas, it’s essential to know that home prices vary considerably between neighborhoods.  

Dallas home prices can be as low as $170,000 in cheaper suburbs like Vickery, Bertrand, and Wolf Creek. In highly desirable areas like Greenway Park, Lakewood Park, and Preston Hollow, prices can reach between $1.2 million and $2.2 million.

Average home price in Austin

The state capital is predominantly known for its music and nightlife scene, scenic parks and lakes, and burgeoning tech industry. As Austin’s population continues to rise, the real estate market has become increasingly competitive, and many buyers find themselves competing in multiple offers. 

Austin home prices range between $349,500 and $2.6 million. More affordable housing is available in suburbs like West Campus, Bluff Springs, and Slaughter. However, you can expect to pay seven-figure sums in neighborhoods like Barton Hills, River Place, and Tarrytown. 

Average home price in San Antonio

San Antonio is known for its friendly community and fiesta scene. It’s also a haven for BBQ and Tex-Mex lovers and is widely regarded as the birthplace of the breakfast taco. It has a metro area with a lower cost of living than most other cities nationwide, making it an attractive location for first-time buyers. 

Properties regularly sell here for considerably less than the average house in Texas. The most affordable neighborhoods include Prospect Hill, Eastlawn, and Highland Hills, while Downtown, Northwood, and Stone Oak locations have a higher price tag. You can expect to pay anything between $150,000-$627,000. 

Average home price in Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi is known as America’s ‘birdies’ city. Its beautiful beaches and relaxed lifestyle make it an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between urban and coastal living. Most residents own their homes, so demand can be high, although listing prices are generally reasonable. 

Corpus Christi defies the usual trend for Texas home prices, as Downtown and Westside listings are the lowest, whereas Southside and Mustang Island locations on the coast have a higher median price. Newly listed homes typically range between $139,000-$417,500. 

Average home price in Abilene

Another of Texas’ cities renowned for its friendly community and low housing costs, Abilene is an excellent option for first-time buyers. It’s also a very walkable city and is home to plenty of local history, excellent cuisine, and year-round family attractions.  

Active listings in Abilene are lower than many other house rates in Texas, with homes selling

for as little as $112,000 in North College. Even in pricier districts like Far Southside and Lytle Area, sales prices rarely reach the $400,000 mark. 

Average home price in Lubbock

With a consistent population growth of around 1.11% annually, Lubbock is home to a vibrant cultural scene. Its many colleges and universities contribute to a youthful and diverse vibe. People moving to Lubbock are typically those looking for a small-town feel with city amenities. 

Home prices in Lubbock start significantly below the average home price in Texas, with some realtors listing Arnett Benson properties for as little as $85,000. Even more desirable areas like Maedgen, Preston Smith, and Raintree tend to have a low median home price of around $215,000-$240,000. The most expensive neighborhood is Regal Park.

Average home price in Midland-Odessa

Odessa and Midland are at the center of the oil boom in the Permian Basin. As such, this region thrives on the petroleum industry and regularly attracts buyer demand from oil industry workers searching for a conveniently located slice of Texas real estate. 

Prices for houses and mortgages vary considerably. Sellers in Grassland Estates and Green Tree North usually post new listings between $645,000 and $797,000. However, more options exist for lower-priced properties in areas like Wildwood, Permian Estates, and Wiltshire Park, where even the highest median home price is still under $300,000.

Average home price in San Angelo 

Home to the Concho River Walk with its extensive walking trails, gardens, and parks, San Antonio’s rich history and strong sense of community make it one of the safest Texan cities for families and retirees alike. Although it has a small population compared to most other locations on this list, the pace of economic growth makes it an attractive base for businesses. 

Homes are often bought and sold in San Antonio for less than in other regions of Texas. The average house price ranges from $124,000 to $450,000. However, only two of the city’s suburbs (Nasworthy and Country Club) regularly sustain sales listings over $400,000.

Average home price in El Paso

The Census Bureau data reveals El Paso’s population to be under 700,000, making it one of the state’s smaller cities. Known for its rich border culture with heavy Mexican influence, El Paso is a vibrant, binational community where good food and cultural fusion are intertwined into everyday life.

In highly desirable, central neighborhoods like Bear Ridge and Thunderbird, sale prices are typically close to $550,000. However, in outer suburbs like Mountain View and Morningside Heights, the average house price drops down to as little as $184,000 to $204,000.

Costs of buying a house in Texas

You’ll need to thoroughly weigh the pros and cons of living in Texas before reaching a decision on where to buy your new home. However, your research shouldn’t stop once you have a firm understanding of Texas housing prices in your preferred area. Here are a few additional considerations to be aware of:

• The price of homeowners’ insurance varies significantly between cities.
• Many communities have homeowners’ associations that impose additional fees.
• The energy market in Texas is deregulated, so the cost of electricity plans may fluctuate.

Additionally, you’ll need to accrue ample savings to ensure you can afford all the outlays associated with buying a house in Texas. Examples include your down payment, realtor fees, attorney fees, title insurance, closing costs, and property taxes. 

Save on electricity plans with BKVE

As you navigate the exciting journey of homeownership in Texas, it’s essential to consider every aspect of your financial commitment, including your electricity costs. 

At BKVE, we offer affordable, fixe-rate Texas electricity plans with competitive rates designed to save you money, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your new home. Whether you’re embracing downtown living or suburban bliss, our customer-centric approach ensures you receive the best service possible.

Enter your zip code to compare your options today. Your perfect energy plan is just a click away!

The post Texas Housing Prices: The Buyer’s Guide appeared first on BKV Energy.

Whether you’re already a resident, planning your move, or buying a house in Texas from out-of-state, preparation and planning are key to securing your dream home. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about how to buy a house in Texas so you can navigate the local real estate market and begin house-hunting with confidence. 

Things to know before buying a house in Texas

Before diving head first into the process of buying a house in Texas, there are a few crucial factors you must familiarize yourself with:

• Property taxes: Texas ranks sixth-highest for property taxes nationwide, so you’ll need to consider how this will impact your monthly mortgage payment.
• Homeowners insurance: Costs can vary significantly based on location, especially in areas prone to natural disasters like flooding and tornados.
• Market conditions: Texas housing prices vary considerably by city, so you’ll need to monitor the latest trends and market shifts carefully.
• Home inspection requirements: The Lone Star State has strict inspection protocols set by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). 
• HOA regulations: Many communities have homeowners associations with specific rules and fees that you’ll need to understand before buying a house in Texas.
• Legal procedures: The home-buying process in Texas is regulated by unique laws, such as the Real Estate License Act, the Inspector Act, and the Timeshare Act. So, consulting a real estate attorney is essential.
• Utilities and energy: Texas has a deregulated energy market, so how electricity pricing works here is different than in many other states. 
• Climate considerations: The seasons in Texas can be extreme, so it’s essential you choose a location with summer weather and winter conditions that meet your expectations and lifestyle requirements. 
• Title insurance: Most mortgage lenders and loan programs will only support a purchase if you buy a title insurance policy.
• Minimum credit score: To buy a home in Texas, most lenders typically require a credit score of at least 620 or higher.

By carefully weighing these considerations along with the various other pros and cons of moving to Texas, you can plan and budget more efficiently. 

10 steps to buying a house in Texas

Now you’re familiar with the background information, it’s time to work through each stage of the process in steps. To buy a house in Texas with minimal stress, we recommend the following strategy. 

1. Assess your finances

Developing a solid understanding of your financial situation is essential before buying property in Texas. In addition to accessing your credit report, you’ll need to gather other relevant documents to apply for a mortgage loan or down payment assistance. Examples include proof of gross monthly income, bank statements, W-2 forms, and your tax returns.

2. Get pre-approved for a mortgage

Securing a mortgage pre-approval letter is an essential aspect of the home-buying process because it shows sellers that you’re a serious contender. It pays to shop around and compare interest rates from multiple lenders to get the best deal. You’ll also need to plan ahead, as it typically takes seven to sixty days for any mortgage lender to review your income, employment history, and credit score to assess your debt-to-income ratio.

3. Find a real estate agent

Contracting a knowledgeable local real estate agent is essential for navigating the complexities of buying a house in Texas. Non-residents, in particular, will benefit from the experience of tenured agents who can provide valuable insights into neighborhoods, pricing, and potential issues. Due to recent changes in state legislation, buyers must pay their own agent commission, which is typically around 2.87% of the property value. 

4. Begin house hunting

With your finances in order and an agent by your side, it’s time to start looking for your new home. Presumably, you’ll already have researched the broad options, such as moving to Dallas or relocating to Houston. You’ve likely also considered a list of the safest cities and the best cities for families. Now it’s time to fine-tune the details by exploring neighborhoods across Texas that fit your lifestyle and budget. 

5. Make an offer

Once you find a home you love, work with your agent to submit a competitive offer. Factors to consider include:

• The home’s condition
• How long it has been on the market
• Current market trends

Remember that in a seller’s market (where demand outpaces supply), you may need to offer more than the asking price.

6. Get a home inspection

Texas laws require sellers to disclose any known issues; however, an independent inspection may still prove invaluable in uncovering hidden problems, such as structural damage or pest infestations before buying a house. Texas home inspections cost between $200 and $500 on average—a small price to pay for peace of mind.

7. Review and finalize the contract

If any issues are discovered, you can ask the seller to fix them or negotiate a lower price before settling on a closing date. The best real estate agents will help you navigate these discussions, ensuring that all contingencies are included in your contract to protect you from unforeseen issues in the closing process.

8. Secure homeowners insurance

Obtaining homeowners insurance is one of the mandatory requirements to buy a house in Texas if you’re purchasing through a mortgage lender. Prices vary based on factors like location and the home’s value. However, the average cost of annual home insurance in Texas is around $4,400. This is over double the national average of $1,915. So, it pays to shop around for policies that offer the best coverage for your needs.

9. Close on your new home

To finalize the sale, you’ll need to sign all the necessary documentation and pay closing costs, which are usually around 2-5% of the purchase price. Closing costs typically include:

• Appraisal fees
• Lender fees
• Attorney fees
• Transfer tax
• Title and escrow charges

Reviewing the closing disclosure form carefully is essential to avoid any unexpected charges.

10. Move in and settle

After closing, it’s time to move into your new Texas home! This is the exciting part, where you get to pick out fixtures, flooring, furnishings, etc. To ensure a smooth transition, you’ll also need to set up utilities, including water, gas, and electricity. Remember that Texas has a deregulated energy market, so it’s always worth exploring your options thoroughly to find the best plan.

What do you need to buy a house in Texas? 

With the nuts and bolts of how to buy a home in Texas covered, let’s get you up to speed with a checklist of what you’ll need before you get started: 

• Good credit score: Higher credit scores usually equate to better interest rates.
• Minimum down payment: For Federal Housing Association (FHA) loans, the minimum down payment is usually at least 3.5%.
• Pre-approval letter: This essential document outlines the amount you are eligible to borrow based on your unique financial profile.
• Steady income: Most lenders look for at least two years of steady income in the same field.
• Savings for closing costs: Being prepared with a savings buffer prevents last-minute financial stress.
• Homeowners insurance: This is essential for buying a home in Texas if you need to secure a mortgage.
• Identification and documentation: Valid ID, Social Security number, and other financial documents like pay stubs and bank statements. 

Understanding these requirements helps prepare you for the financial commitment involved in buying a house and empowers you to approach lenders with confidence. 

Financial assistance and programs

Here’s a comprehensive list of the various government-backed loans and payment assistance programs available to eligible homebuyers:

• The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) offers down payment assistance programs and mortgage credit certificates.
• The Texas Homebuyer Program provides competitive mortgage interest rates and helps with down payment requirements for first-time and repeat buyers purchasing in targeted areas.
• The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) provides first-time homebuyers with low-interest home loan assistance.
• My First Texas Home program offers low-interest-rate mortgage loans to veterans and first-time home buyers.
• The Home Sweet Texas Home Loan Program provides home loans and down payment assistance to moderate-income families who want to buy a house.
• The Good Neighbor Next Door Program offers up to 50% discounts on listings in “revitalization areas” for teachers, police officers, firefighters, and EMTs.
• Various Federal programs help eligible buyers secure FHA loans, VA loans, USDA loans, etc. 

These financial assistance programs are designed to make homeownership more accessible. Researching and applying for these programs early in your journey can provide significant advantages and open doors to opportunities you may not have thought possible.

Save on electricity plans with BKVE

We hope you’ve found our information and resources about how to buy a house in Texas helpful in your research and planning. As you embark on your exciting homeownership journey, don’t forget to consider ongoing living expenses like utilities. 

At BKVE, we offer a variety of Texas electricity plans tailored to fit your needs and budget. Whether you prioritize competitive pricing, renewable energy options, or flexible payment plans, we have something for everyone. 

Enter your zip code today to compare your options and find your plan.  

The post How to Buy a House in Texas: What You Need to Know appeared first on BKV Energy.

1. United States Postal Service (USPS)

In order to forward your mail to your new home and ensure you receive any paper mail correspondence without interruption.

2. Your employer

To make sure there are no issues with your payroll and any other benefits you receive from your employment.

3. Banks, credit unions and other financial institutions

Make sure to notify your banks, credit unions, credit card providers, lenders, mortgage providers, and more of your new address to continue receiving statements and to comply with any potential accounts security requirements.

4. Insurance providers

Whether it’s home, renters, life or car insurance, your provider needs to be aware of your change of address to ensure proper delivery of information regarding your policies.

5. Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

Especially if you are moving out of state, you will need to notify the DMV of your new address to obtain a new driver’s license.

Other documents that will require updating:

• Driver’s license
• Passport
• Identification card
• Vehicle registration

6. Voter registration

If you are moving to a new county or out of state, make sure to register to vote under your new address so you can participate in any upcoming elections.

7. Electric, gas and water utility service providers

Be sure to terminate services at your old address and promptly schedule the start of new services at your new address to make sure you have access to essential utility services like electricity, gas, and water.

Moving to Texas and searching for an affordable electricity provider? Look no further than BKV Energy. Enter the zip code of your new address to find low fixed rate plans in your area.

8. Transportation mobile apps (e.g. Uber and Lyft)

You don’t want to accidentally call a taxi to your old home! Make sure to update your new home address in any apps you use to get around like Uber or Lyft.

9. Cable TV, streaming and internet service providers

To avoid interruptions in service, contact your cable and internet service providers about your new home address and work with them to facilitate a seamless transition during your move.

• Streaming: HBO, Netflix, Hulu, Peacock, Prime, Showtime
• Cable: Spectrum, Xfinity, Cox
• Internet: Google Fiber, Spectrum, AT&T

10. Delivery and subscription services

If you utilize Amazon Prime or other delivery service such as through your local grocery store, remember to update your account with your new address so you avoid sending important packages to the wrong place.

11. Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

Both national and state tax offices require your new address for tax return purposes.

12. Government benefits organizations (e.g. Social Security Administration)

If you receive benefits through the government such as Social Security, be sure to notify them of your change of address.

These benefits will require an update:

• Social Security
• Disability
• Medicare
• Medicaid
• Survivor Benefits
• Supplemental Security Income
• Food Assistance

13. Doctors, dentists and other health providers

To receive medical bills and private medical information at the right place, notify your health providers of your move.

14. Schools and education institutions

When you have family members enrolled in school, tell the administrative offices about your change of address.

15. Friends and family

Don’t forget to share your new address with friends and family members to keep in touch with the ones you love.

16. Memberships and clubs

Whether you’re a member of a local gym, social club or professional association, inform them of your new home address.

17. Veterinarians and microchips

If you own a pet, be sure to keep your veterinarian in the loop about your change of address, and don’t forget to update your personal information on your pet’s microchip. That way, if they get lost, your furry family member can more easily be reunited with you at your new home.

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