Read Robbie English's Blog Articles

2-1 Buydown: Costs, Rules, and When It Helps

Looking at a mortgage that eases you into payments? A 2-1 buydown drops the rate 2 % the first year and 1 % the second, then settles at the note rate. Below you’ll find the mechanics, cost breakdown, and the buyer scenarios where it actually adds value. Table of Contents What Is a 2-1 Buydown? How t

How Many Units Can I Build on an Austin Lot?

How Many Units Can I Build on an Austin Lot? Austin's HOME reforms changed the old one-house-per-lot assumption. In many single-family districts, a qualifying lot may support up to three residential units, even with a minimum lot size of 1,800 square feet. But zoning is only the first check. Your ac

House Hacking Austin: A Practical Guide

Austin house hacking can start with a spare bedroom, a duplex, or a garage conversion that costs far less than buying a larger multifamily property. The right setup depends on your cash, privacy needs, financing, and the exact parcel. I’ll show you how to compare each path, check the rules, and test

First Time Home Buyer Texas Options

Buying your first home in Texas can feel expensive before you even see a house. The right program may reduce the cash needed for your down payment or closing costs, but every option has rules. Here are five paths worth reviewing, plus the questions to ask before you apply. Table of Contents Work Wit