5 Things Every Out-of-State Buyer Should Know About Austin

1. Property Taxes Are Higher Than You Think

Texas has no state income tax, but property taxes in Travis County average 1.8–2.2% of assessed value. On a $550,000 home, that's roughly $10,000–$12,000 per year. Make sure your lender includes this in your monthly payment estimate so there are no surprises at closing.

2. Always Check the Flood Zone

Austin's creeks and watersheds mean some properties sit in FEMA flood zones even when they don't look like it. Flood insurance can add $1,500–$3,000 per year, and it's mandatory if you're in a designated zone with a federally-backed mortgage. I pull flood maps for every property before a showing.