Whether you are buying your first home, relocating on military orders or moving up to a larger house, getting a mortgage in San Antonio follows a predictable sequence. Knowing each step ahead of time helps you avoid surprises and keep your purchase on schedule.
Local Factors for San Antonio Buyers
Bexar County property taxes: San Antonio is in Bexar County. The tax rate on a home depends on the taxing units tied to its address, such as the city, school district and other local entities.
Insurance and escrow: Property taxes and homeowners insurance are major parts of a Texas mortgage payment and are usually paid through an escrow account.
Military and veteran buyers: San Antonio has a large military and veteran community, with several installations that make up Joint Base San Antonio, so VA loans are a common option to explore.
Homestead exemption: After you own the home and live in it as your primary residence, you may apply for the Texas homestead exemption, which can reduce its taxable value.
Richard Haskell is an experienced Senior Mortgage Loan Officer with a proven track record of excellence in the financial services industry. His expertise includes sales, credit analysis, FHA financing, VA loans, and sales management. Richard is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and expertise to his clients, leveraging his degree from Webster University to provide a solid foundation in finance.
Throughout his career, Richard has consistently achieved outstanding results by understanding his clients' needs and customizing solutions to meet their unique financial goals. His commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity ensures a seamless and successful loan process for every client.
The most exciting and enjoyable part of a real estate transaction for Reef has always been financing. Today Reef enjoys managing Texas United Mortgage where he works and mentors borrowers, realtors, his team of loan officers, and staff! When not exceeding clients' expectations, Reef enjoys spending time with his wife Valerie and his two daughters. Reef’s hobbies include golf and tennis!
Prior to Reef’s Mortgage/Real Estate career, Reef graduated at Texas A&M University. After graduation, Reef took a teaching/coaching position at The Woodlands High School, located in The Woodlands, Texas.
Scott attended college in his home state of Indiana while playing tennis in college. Wanting to start a new life after school in a new state he moved to Texas 13 years ago. When moving to Houston, he worked as a tennis coach teaching younger children. Alongside working with Reef, Scott also began to invest in real estate and flip houses.
After finishing his career in tennis he moved on to being a loan officer, where he now works at Texas United Mortgage, as a producing loan originator and the operations manager assisting Reef Merhi, Kristy Taylor and Team! He is very passionate about what he does and loves helping people. People know Scott as being a family man. He enjoys spending time with his wife and three children – Case, Cali & Crew. Scott’s hobbies include woodworking, golfing, fishing and playing tennis.
Claudia is a fifth-generation Texan and longtime Woodlands resident since 2004. A dedicated professional in the Texas real estate industry since 2001, she has successfully navigated and closed a wide range of transactions, always ensuring contracts meet every agreement and condition. Claudia is known for her high fiduciary standards, consistently acting with integrity, confidentiality, and the best interests of her clients at the forefront.
Today, Claudia brings her experience and energy to Texas United Mortgage, where she serves as Executive Assistant to Reef and the team. Her goal is to keep the team moving efficiently by ensuring meetings are organized, schedules/files are coordinated, communication flows smoothly, and key administrative tasks bridge gaps in operations.
In addition to her role at Texas United Mortgage, Claudia continues to serve clients as a Texas Realtor, combining her deep industry knowledge with a passion for helping families achieve their homeownership goals.
Outside of work, Claudia treasures time with her husband and two sons. She is an active member of Faith Bible Church, where she enjoys serving her community. When she’s not working or volunteering, you’ll likely find her RVing with her family, enjoying the outdoors, or staying active with regular workouts.
Estimate the full monthly payment, including principal and interest, Bexar County property taxes for the specific address, homeowners insurance, any mortgage insurance and HOA dues. Pull your credit reports, dispute errors and keep balances low before you apply.
2. Choose a loan program
Compare VA, conventional, FHA and other options (outlined below) based on your credit, savings, service history and the home you want to buy.
3. Gather documents and get pre-approved
Provide a photo ID, pay stubs or Leave and Earnings Statements, W-2s or tax returns, bank statements and details on your debts. If you plan to use a VA loan, you will also need a Certificate of Eligibility, and a loan officer can help you request it. A pre-approval shows sellers you are prepared, but it is not a final loan commitment.
4. Shop for a home and make an offer
Share your pre-approval with your real estate agent so you tour homes in your range. If you are relocating on military orders, tell your loan officer and agent your report date so the timeline can be planned around it.
5. Lock your rate, appraisal and underwriting
After your offer is accepted, finalize your application, decide when to lock your rate and order the appraisal. VA purchases use a VA appraisal. Avoid new credit or large unexplained deposits while underwriting reviews your file.
6. Close and file for your homestead exemption
Review your Closing Disclosure, which you will receive at least three business days before closing, against your Loan Estimate. After you move in, file for your homestead exemption if the home is your primary residence.
Why San Antonio Borrowers Choose Texas United Mortgage
Experience with VA and military moves
Texas United Mortgage, LLC (NMLS #2442778) is a Texas mortgage brokerage based in The Woodlands that helps buyers in San Antonio and Bexar County, including veterans and service members using VA benefits.
Compare your options
We can help you compare VA, FHA, conventional, USDA, jumbo, bank statement and DSCR options, including rates, fees and terms. Eligibility depends on you and the property.
Clear communication
You'll know what documents are needed and where your loan stands through closing. Call 888-505-1718 or get a custom quote.
Choosing the Right San Antonio Home Loan
The best fit depends on your credit, income, savings, service history and the property. Eligibility depends on the borrower and property.
VA Loans
Available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members and some surviving spouses. VA loans may allow no down payment and do not require monthly mortgage insurance; a VA funding fee may apply unless you are exempt. Learn more about Texas VA loans and today's VA loan rates.
Conventional and Jumbo Loans
Conventional loans can finance primary homes, second homes and investment properties, with mortgage insurance generally required below 20% down. Loan amounts above conforming limits may need a jumbo loan.
Yes, if you are an eligible veteran, active-duty service member or qualifying surviving spouse and the home will be your primary residence. Eligibility depends on the borrower and property, and VA loans may allow no down payment.
Do I need a Certificate of Eligibility before applying for a VA loan?
You can start the process without one, but the lender will need your Certificate of Eligibility to complete the VA loan. A loan officer can help you request it.
How are property taxes figured on a San Antonio home?
San Antonio is in Bexar County, and the tax bill depends on the home's appraised value and the rates set by the taxing units for that address. Filing a homestead exemption on your primary residence can reduce the taxable value.
What if I am buying in San Antonio on military orders?
Get pre-approved early and share your report date with your loan officer and agent. That lets everyone plan the contract, appraisal and closing around your move.
Do I need 20% down to buy in San Antonio?
No. Many conventional and FHA options allow less than 20% down, VA and USDA loans may allow none for eligible borrowers, and down payment assistance may help with upfront costs.
Start your San Antonio mortgage with a local Texas lender
Ask a licensed loan officer about VA eligibility, Bexar County costs and your loan options, or get your custom rate quote.
Texas United Mortgage, LLC · NMLS #2442778 · 2170 Buckthorne PL STE 200, The Woodlands, TX 77380 · 888-505-1718
