I wouldn't use a realtor, I'd use use an Independent/Exclusive Buyer's Agent. A realtor always works for the seller and owes THEM fiduciary responsibility not YOU. That means anything you tell them as far as budget, negotiating strategy, etc, they will be passing that info to the seller because they are required to.
Also, a realtor is going to steer you towards listings with their own agency so that they can receive both ends of the commission.
A buyers agent works for you and owes you the fiduciary responsibility, plus he doesn't care what house you buy or from whom.
You can have a realtor serve as one if you get an agreement with them that they are representing you as a buyers agent, but really I think it's better to go with an independent whose sole business comes from exclusively representing buyers.
Google "houston exclusive buyers agent" to find some local ones.
Welcome to Houston.
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