I've been in your situation very recently. Single, no kids, and now on my 2nd home in Tyler. Purchased first at 27 and second at 32.

My thoughts gathered from my brief experience:
1. In your situation, only buy if you are for sure going to be in that house for 5 years, preferably 7 if you have less than a 20% down payment.
2. Buy what someone else will want to buy from you. This means a standard floor plan of 3/2, etc. Don't buy the 2/1 or whatever unless it's a steep discount.
3. Make sure you understand what elementary school you fall under. This seems to be one of the biggest factors in demand in Tyler. (No imperical evidence, just casual observation).
4. Really consider the costs of home ownership after the actual purchase. Do you enjoy yard maintenance? Can you afford a yard guy if you don't? Do you really want to budget for maintenance? My time is limited, and sometimes feel home ownership is not worth the time it takes. Renting frees up time, but has other drawbacks to weigh.
5. Try to amortize it over 15 years. With rooms rented you should be able to swing that (even if your loan is set up 30 years, add that extra principal to effect 15 years).
6. Buy close to your work if that makes sense.
7. Avoid foundation issues or signs of termites

Before you buy and get tied down for a while, move to town first and rent the first year. If you know you are going to be here a while, there is no hurry. Houses are always for sale.
Figure out the "patterns" you follow and live around.
Get to know the area. (Schools, shopping, churches, etc.)
Then buy.