Imagine owning a piece of land you rarely check on, only to find out that someone accidentally built a house on your property. It’s a puzzling scenario that has real-world legal implications. This blog post explores the key legal concepts that determine whether or not you can keep the house and the rights of the […]
Category: Real Estate Law
Thinking About Hard Money Lending in Texas? Do You Need a License?
Hard money lending can be an attractive opportunity for those looking to diversify their investments or enter the real estate market in Texas. However, one common question that arises is whether you need a license to operate as a hard money lender in the state. The short answer: generally, no, if you are lending on […]
Selling Property in Texas? Find Out If You Can Skip the Disclosure
When selling a residential property in Texas, most sellers are required to fill out a seller’s disclosure. This document helps inform potential buyers about the condition of the property, including any known issues or past damage. However, there are specific situations and exemptions where a seller may not need to complete this form. Below, we […]
What Landlords Need to Know About Emotional Support Animals
When it comes to emotional support animals (ESAs) in rental properties, landlords in Texas face a unique set of legal challenges. Specifically, many landlords wonder whether they can deny certain breeds, such as Pit Bulls or Dobermans, especially when there are concerns about safety. The reality is that emotional support animals are protected by federal […]
How to Navigate a Short Sale and Avoid Foreclosure
A short sale occurs when the value of your home is less than the mortgage balance, meaning you owe more than the property is currently worth. This situation became all too common during the 2008 subprime mortgage crisis when many homeowners found themselves “underwater” on their homes. Short sales became a practical option for those […]
How Should Landlords Handle Abandoned Property in Texas?
As a landlord in Texas, dealing with abandoned property left by tenants can be a tricky situation. Whether the tenant has left a sofa, old clothes, or other personal belongings behind, landlords must handle the situation legally. Here’s a breakdown of how you can manage abandoned property as a Texas landlord. Understanding Tenant Abandonment Abandonment […]
How to Navigate Property Disputes with an Ex in Texas
When a relationship ends, dealing with jointly-owned property can be complicated, especially when one person wants their name removed from the mortgage and deed. In Texas, there are several legal options available to resolve these disputes and protect your financial interests. Key Options for Resolving Property Disputes Unilateral Right of Partition What It Is: Texas […]
Can You Legally Evict Your Roommate in Texas?
Whether or not you can legally evict your roommate in Texas depends largely on the nature of your living arrangement and the legal status of your roommate in relation to the property. Roommate on the Lease If your roommate is on the lease, you both have equal rights to occupy the property under the lease […]
How to Use an Elderly Parent to Lower Your Property Taxes
In Texas, homeowners over the age of 65 can benefit from significant property tax exemptions, which can offer substantial financial relief. Understandably, some families consider transferring property ownership to an elderly parent to take advantage of these exemptions. However, this approach comes with potential risks and complications that must be carefully navigated. Here’s what you […]
Do You Need to Disclose a Death When Selling Your Texas Home?
When selling a house in Texas, sellers must complete a Seller’s Disclosure Notice, as required under Texas Property Code Section 5.008. This document is crucial for ensuring that potential buyers are fully informed about the property’s condition. One common question sellers often have is whether they need to disclose a death that occurred on the […]