Can you buy a West Lake Hills home without stepping on a plane? If you are relocating or living abroad, the idea can feel risky and fast-paced. You want clear steps, trusted local eyes on the ground, and airtight security from offer to closing. In this guide, you will learn our video-first, end-to-end process that lets you shop, offer, inspect, and close from anywhere, with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Why buy in West Lake Hills remotely
West Lake Hills is a primarily single-family city just west of downtown Austin, known for hillside lots, view properties, and limited inventory. Homes often have canyon or downtown views, and lot topography can vary widely. The area is served by Eanes ISD, and buyers often review attendance zones as part of their research.
Competitive listings can move quickly, so speed and strong representation matter. You should plan for quick decision windows, a solid pre-approval or proof of funds, and a clear inspection plan that fits the local terrain. Many hillside properties benefit from targeted inspections for foundations, retaining walls, drainage, and potential flood or erosion risks.
Our video-first buying workflow
We have built a step-by-step system that keeps you informed and in control from your current time zone.
Step 1: Intake and planning
- Live Zoom or FaceTime to define budget, timeline, neighborhoods, and lot or view preferences.
- Deliverables: buyer profile, must-have list, a decision matrix, and your dedicated point person on our team.
- We confirm your preferred communication platform and meeting times across time zones.
Step 2: Financing and pre-approval
- If you are financing, we connect you with a lender who understands West Lake Hills and, if needed, foreign-national programs.
- International buyers often need a larger down payment, plus passport and foreign income documents.
- Deliverables: written pre-approval or proof of funds for cash purchases.
Step 3: Property identification and live video showings
- Primary method: real-time video tours via Zoom or FaceTime, including approach, street views, driveway grade, and parking.
- Supplementary media: professional photos, 3D tours, and drone footage when available.
- We record sessions with consent and upload them to a secure portal so you can review, compare, and share with decision makers.
- Best practice: line up multiple live tours on the same day for side-by-side comparison.
Step 4: Offer preparation and contract review
- We review the Texas Real Estate Commission forms live on screen so you understand each clause in plain English.
- You sign most documents electronically using a secure e-sign platform.
- We coordinate earnest money transfer, and we explain the Option Period and Option Fee norms in Texas.
Step 5: Inspections and due diligence
- You can join the general inspection by video and receive a detailed report with photos and clips.
- We add specialty inspections for hillside or complex lots when needed, such as structural, geotechnical, septic, tree risk, or drainage.
- We order survey and title work, review exceptions, and handle repair or credit negotiations with written amendments.
Step 6: Appraisal and underwriting
- Your lender orders the appraisal, and we coordinate access.
- We track underwriting items and help you respond to conditions on time.
Step 7: Closing from anywhere
- Many title companies support eClosing or Remote Online Notarization. If that is not available, we arrange a mail-away signing with a local notary and secure courier.
- We review your Closing Disclosure together on Zoom, then finalize signing and funds wiring.
- We coordinate key pickup, secure code handoff, or courier delivery.
Step 8: Post-closing support
- We help with key and lockbox handoff, utility transfers, and a list of vetted local service providers.
- If you will not occupy the home, we can introduce property managers and contractors.
Local nuances that matter
- Topography and views: Driveway slope, retaining walls, and drainage can affect value and maintenance. Plan for targeted inspections early.
- Limited inventory: Desirable homes can draw multiple offers. A strong pre-approval or proof of funds helps you move quickly when you find the right fit.
- Public records and permits: Title, survey, and local permit history can clarify easements, setbacks, and driveway or hillside work.
Security and wire-fraud safeguards
Wire fraud is a known risk in real estate. We follow strict protocols so your funds stay safe.
- Always verify wiring instructions by phone using a trusted, previously confirmed number.
- Use secure portals for documents and sensitive information, not regular email.
- Be cautious with any last-minute changes to wiring details. Call to confirm before you send funds.
Financing for international buyers
Foreign nationals can purchase in Texas. If you seek financing, expect different underwriting standards.
- Down payments may be higher, often 20 to 30 percent or more for foreign nationals.
- Lenders may request passports, foreign tax returns, and proof of assets.
- Cash purchases simplify logistics, but plan for international wires and currency conversion timelines.
If you expect ongoing U.S. tax obligations, you may need to obtain an ITIN. If a seller is a foreign person, withholding rules can apply. Always consult your lender, title company, and tax advisor about your specific situation.
What to expect with inspections
In West Lake Hills, thoughtful due diligence can protect your long-term enjoyment and costs.
- General inspection with livestream and same-day report.
- Specialty inspections as needed: structural engineer, geotechnical, septic, drainage or erosion, and tree assessments.
- Option Period: We negotiate time for unrestricted inspections and follow-up bids, then we seek repairs or credits before the period ends.
eSigning and notarization explained
Federal and state laws generally allow electronic signatures for most transaction documents. Title companies and lenders often accept secure e-sign platforms for contracts and disclosures. Some closing documents still require notarization. Many title companies offer Remote Online Notarization or a mail-away alternative if RON is not available.
Sample timeline you can plan around
- Financed purchase: about 6 to 9 weeks from intake to closing, depending on appraisal and underwriting.
- Cash purchase: about 3 to 5 weeks, subject to inspections, survey, and title.
Your specific timeline can vary with inventory, response times, and the complexity of due diligence.
Hebrew-language support
If you prefer to communicate in Hebrew, we offer bilingual support throughout your purchase.
- Live Zoom walkthroughs with Hebrew interpretation.
- Translated summaries of key contract sections and disclosures, with the understanding that the English forms govern legally.
- Scheduling that respects time zone differences and communication preferences.
Quick checklist to stay on track
- Obtain pre-approval or proof of funds.
- Set up secure video, e-sign, and file-sharing access.
- Shortlist homes, then schedule same-day live tours.
- Book general and specialty inspections early in the Option Period.
- Confirm wiring instructions by phone before sending funds.
- Prepare ID and notarization plan for closing.
How we keep you in control
- You see what we see in real time through live video tours and recorded sessions.
- You receive clear, plain-English explanations of each Texas contract and addendum.
- You get a single point of contact coordinating lender, title, inspectors, and specialty vendors.
- You stay secure with verified wiring and encrypted document handling.
When you are ready to buy in West Lake Hills from anywhere in the world, our team pairs on-the-ground expertise with a proven, video-first workflow so you can move with confidence and speed.
Ready to explore homes from your time zone? Book a Free Strategy Call with Karin Howard.
FAQs
Can I buy a West Lake Hills home entirely remotely?
- Yes, most steps can be done remotely using live video tours, electronic signatures, remote inspections, and either eClosing or a mail-away signing coordinated by the title company.
How do I handle inspections if I am abroad?
- Join the inspection by live video, receive a detailed report with photos and clips, and add specialty inspections for hillside, structural, or drainage concerns as needed.
What is the Option Period in Texas?
- It is a negotiated period during which you can conduct inspections and cancel for any reason, in exchange for an Option Fee paid to the seller.
How do I safely wire earnest money and closing funds?
- Call the title company using a trusted phone number to confirm wiring instructions, use secure portals, and never act on last-minute changes sent by email without verbal confirmation.
What financing should I expect as an international buyer?
- You may need a larger down payment and additional documents, such as a passport and foreign income verification, and you might face different underwriting standards than U.S. residents.
Do I need to travel for closing if notarization is required?
- Many title companies offer Remote Online Notarization, and if not available, they can arrange a mail-away signing with a local notary and secure courier in your location.
