Aussie newbie looking to buy a house in Texas

[Vasily Voronin]

Hi everyone.

I'm an Aussie living at the moment in Moscow, hoping to buy a house in Round Rock Texas. I have no idea how the real estate market works in the States (but collecting information). Have a few questions. I would say a Big THANKS to those people who would share a few moments to answer them.

1. How long does it take to settle a deal for buying a single family home in Round Rock Texas (after finding the right place and placing an offer and when the offer is accepted)?

2. Do I have to be present in the country myself or can my sister (who moves to Round Rock soon) with the Power of Attorney purchase a house in my name? 

3. After purchasing a property (in cash) can I go the bank and get myself a line of credit with the house as a security?

4. Do I as an alien get taxed the same amount as local folks?

5. Is Round Rock a good place to buy a house, compared to other suburbs around Austin? 

And the last one. Where can I get more information on the subject, links I can use related to these questions? 

Thank you again for your time and patience.