McKinney · First-Time Buyers
Your first home in McKinney, explained step by step
Every step explained before you get to it, from pre-approval to closing day.
First-time home buyers in McKinney
If you're one of the first-time home buyers in McKinney, you have more options than you might think. Stonebridge Ranch has starter homes and patio homes inside an established community, and Craig Ranch has condos and townhomes close to restaurants and SH 121. Painted Tree has townhomes and cottage-style homes on the new-construction side.
You probably also have questions you haven't asked anyone yet. I'll answer every one, including the ones you think are basic.
What I walk you through
Your real budget. Pre-approval tells you what you can borrow. We also talk about what you want to spend every month, including taxes and HOA dues.
The paperwork. A Buyers Representation Document and the state-required disclosures, explained line by line, before I show you homes.
The money up front. Earnest money is typically about 1% of the price, and the option fee usually runs around $150 to $200. Both are held by the title company.
The full version is in first-time buyers and how I help you buy.
After your offer is accepted
You'll enter the option period, usually 7 to 10 days. The inspection typically happens in the first 4 days, and I negotiate the repairs for you, then collect receipts and photos of the finished work. I follow up with your lender, coordinate the appraisal, and do the final walkthrough with you before closing at the title company.
McKinney starter options
- Stonebridge Ranch: starter and patio homes with beach club, lake and trail access.
- Craig Ranch: condos and townhomes close to everything.
- Painted Tree: new townhomes and cottage-style homes from the low $400s (as of September 2026).
Ready when you are. Get in touch or call (469) 693-3839. See all McKinney neighborhoods, or go back home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there starter homes in McKinney?
Yes. Stonebridge Ranch has starter and patio homes, Craig Ranch has condos and townhomes, and Painted Tree has new townhomes and cottage-style homes.
What is the option period?
The days right after your offer is accepted, usually 7 to 10, when the inspection happens and repairs are negotiated.
How much is the option fee?
It's negotiated. For a typical single-family home it usually runs around $150 to $200, held by the title company.
McKinney
What first-time buyers looks like in McKinney
A historic downtown square, neighborhoods from 1980s Stonebridge Ranch to brand-new Painted Tree, and my home base for 20+ years.
- Why people choose it
- A lot of the city's life is outdoors, with plenty of activities built around kids and families. It feels a little less urban than Plano or Frisco, which is part of the appeal for many buyers.
- Schools
- Most of McKinney is zoned to McKinney ISD. Some areas, parts of Craig Ranch included, fall in other districts, so check the address.
- Getting around
- Most people commute by car.
- Nearby
- Historic downtown McKinney: renovated older buildings around the square, good restaurants, some nightlife, and something going on almost constantly, from farmers markets and Oktoberfest to parades and the Christmas festivities.
First-Time Buyers: keep exploring
Ready to make your move with Terri Egstad Real Estate?