Buying a home in Texas is a big step, and understanding the process can save you stress, time, and money. Texas has its own rules for disclosures, inspections, property taxes, and closing procedures, so it helps to know what to expect before you sign any contract. This guide breaks everything down in a simple and human-friendly way.
Key Things Every Texas Homebuyer Should Know
1. Sellers Must Disclose Property Problems
Texas law requires most home sellers to fill out a Seller’s Disclosure Notice. This document tells you what the seller knows about the home: leaks, electrical issues, foundation problems, and more. Always read it carefully, but remember it is not a replacement for a full inspection.
2. Get a Home Inspection
Hire a licensed inspector to check the overall condition of the home. If needed, order extra inspections for the roof, foundation, plumbing, or pests. Good inspections help you avoid expensive surprises later.
3. Understand the Title and Title Insurance
A title company will check if the home has any issues like unpaid taxes, liens, or ownership conflicts.
While Texas does not force you to buy owner’s title insurance, it is highly recommended because it protects you if someone later challenges your ownership.
4. Know the Closing Process
Once your offer is accepted, several steps follow:
- Paying earnest money
- Completing inspections
- Getting the appraisal
- Finalizing your mortgage
- Reviewing the title report
- Signing closing documents
Deadlines matter, so stay organized throughout the process.
5. Property Taxes and Homestead Exemption
Texas property taxes can be high. After you buy the home, apply for a homestead exemption with your county appraisal district. This exemption can reduce your yearly taxes and increase your financial protection.
What to Do Before You Make an Offer
a. Get Pre-Approved and Review the Seller’s Disclosure
A strong pre-approval helps you understand your budget and makes your offer more attractive to sellers.
Use this to identify possible issues and ask questions early.
b. Check HOA Rules (If Applicable) and Get or Review a Survey
Some neighborhoods have HOAs with rules on parking, pets, home changes, and monthly fees. Read the HOA documents before buying.
A property survey shows boundaries, fences, easements, and possible encroachments. Do not skip this step.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the inspection because the home “looks fine.”
- Trusting an old survey without confirming boundaries.
- Ignoring contract deadlines (inspection period, financing, appraisal).
- Assuming “as-is” means you have no rights, sellers must still disclose known problems.
- Not getting legal help when title issues or contract disputes appear.
Simple Homebuyer Checklist
- Get a mortgage pre-approval
- Review the Seller’s Disclosure
- Order a full home inspection
- Request or buy a new survey
- Review the title commitment
- Decide on owner’s title insurance
- Confirm your closing costs
- File for homestead exemption after closing
- Do a final walkthrough before closing
When You Should Talk to a Lawyer
Consider contacting the Law Offices of Udo Ezeamama if you experience:
- Confusing or unfair contract terms
- Title problems or surprise liens
- Survey or boundary disputes
- Issues with the seller or title company
- Unclear disclosures or suspected misrepresentation
An attorney helps protect your money, your rights, and your peace of mind during the biggest purchase of your life.
Final Thoughts on Key Things Every Texas Homebuyer Should Know
Buying a home in Texas is exciting, but it also requires careful attention. The most successful buyers take time to understand disclosures, get the right inspections, and review all documents before signing. A strong title search, a clean survey, and a well-reviewed contract help protect you from future legal or financial problems.
Property taxes in Texas are higher than in many states, so plan for them and apply for your homestead exemption as soon as you qualify. Always watch your contract deadlines; missing one can cost you your earnest money or even the home.
Most importantly, do not hesitate to ask questions or get legal help. A Texas real estate attorney can explain your contract, review your title documents, and guide you through the process so you close safely and confidently.
Need Legal Help With Your Texas Home Purchase?
The Law Offices of Udo Ezeamama is here to guide you through every step from contract review to closing. Contact us if you need professional guidance or want to ensure your home purchase is legally protected.