The combination of a global pandemic and a wild real estate market in Texas have led to surprising changes in the process of buying and selling real estate. Because open houses and in-person home tours have not been as available recently, remote options have become more commonplace. In fact, many buyers and sellers are relying […]
Author: Philip Silberman
Civil Conspiracy in Texas
Texas courts acknowledge that two or more people may conspire against another and, in the process, cause damage to that person. If someone can prove that he or she has suffered damages as a result of others’ collusion, that person may file a lawsuit on the basis of civil conspiracy. Elements of Civil Conspiracy In […]
Recent Changes to Eminent Domain in Texas
First defined in the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution, eminent domain means that the government has the right to confiscate private property for public use. The property owner should be justly compensated for the property but cannot easily prevent the seizure of that private property. The Supreme Court confirmed the validity of […]
Inheritance and Estate Taxes in Texas
Writing a will is helpful for family members at an emotionally challenging time. Choosing beneficiaries and designating their assets is a major focus of estate planning. However, one issue that sometimes catches beneficiaries by surprise is the unexpected costs associated with assets the beneficiary may receive. Particularly concerning is the potential for inheritance and estate […]
New Regulations for Food Delivery Services in Texas
When the pandemic hit, more people than ever before turned to third-party food delivery services as restaurants closed and people hesitated to go out. Services such as DoorDash and GrubHub quickly found business booming. However, restaurants and customers began to complain about some of their practices. In response to these complaints, a new Texas bill, […]
Assumed Names in Texas
For any number of reasons, an individual or corporation may do business under an assumed name, also known as a DBA (Doing Business As). According to SOSDirect, “By filing an assumed name certificate, you are notifying the public that a particular business entity intends to conduct business under a name other than its legal name. […]
Seller’s Disclosures in Texas for Properties Owned by Estates
One of the main concerns for someone buying property is the condition of the property and any relevant information about that property. Seller’s disclosures exist to inform the buyer of issues that have been addressed, such as treatment for termites or previous flooding, and issues that may need to be addressed, such as roof replacement. […]
Holding Texas Bureaucrats Accountable for Rigged Bidding
In addition to their other responsibilities, city and county officials are often responsible for overseeing local projects to meet the needs of constituents, such as building roads and public buildings. Texas has in place specific statutes that local officials must follow to encourage competitive pricing and quality work. This competitive bidding process is governed by […]
Consideration For Texas Deeds
Because it identifies in writing the legal and equitable title of real property to its rightful owner, a deed is a critical document for anyone owning property. A Texas deed may come in one of several different forms; it could be a special warranty deed, a general warranty deed, a transfer on death deed, or […]
Gift Deeds in Texas
When a person wants to transfer real property to another person not listed on the original deed, one option in Texas for that type of transaction is a gift deed, which could take the form of either a special warranty deed or a general warranty deed. As its title indicates, the gift deed transfers ownership […]