Happy first day of Spring! It’s time to get your home ready for the warmer weather! Get ahead of the game with our helpful tips for spring cleaning and maintenance. From deep cleaning your kitchen to exterior inspections, we have all the tips you need to make your home sparkle and shine.
INTERIOR
• Inspect and change out HVAC filters. • Clean kitchen sink disposal. • Clean range hood filters. • Inspect your fire extinguisher(s). • Get your air conditioning system ready for summer; empty drain pans, check hose connections for leaks. • Consider getting an HVAC technician to service your system biannually. This will help it run optimally year-round. • Inspect your attic crawl spaces. Look for signs of vermin infestation. Contact a pest control professional if any concerns arise. • Run water and flush toilets in unused spaces. • Check water softener and add salt if needed. • Test your water heater’s pressure relief valve. • Test smoke/carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if necessary. • Spring cleaning! Now is the time to give your house a deep clean.
EXTERIOR
• Get your lawn ready for the warm temperatures. Clear your yard of any debris and aerate your lawn if needed (you might need a professional to do this.) • Early spring is the best time to lay pre-emergent herbicide. This will prevent weeds from growing. • Check exterior drainage & clean out gutters. • Inspect the exterior of your home for soil erosion and add fill dirt/sod if needed. • Inspect roof for damage, leaks and missing shingles. • Inspect exterior walls including eaves for any cracks or holes where insects or critters could enter. • Check seals around windows, caulk if necessary. • Check for loose, warped or splintered boards on your deck/patio. Now is a good time to seal/stain if needed. • If you stored your lawn furniture for the winter, bring it outdoors and give it a rinse or wash with a mild detergent. • Go ahead and have a little fun! Plant seasonal flowers to add color to your landscape. Flowers that thrive in spring in North Texas are cosmos, marigolds, zinnias and pentas.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the area, there’s always something new to discover about your neighborhood. With that in mind, we created a Fast Facts sheet for cities and neighborhoods all over the DFW area. Our DFW Area fast facts have detailed real estate insights, things to do, places to shop and some of our favorite restaurants in each area.
Mesquite, Texas, is a bustling suburban city located east of Dallas. With a rich history rooted in its Western heritage, Mesquite offers a blend of modern amenities and small-town charm. The city boasts numerous parks, recreational facilities, and cultural attractions, making it a vibrant community with a strong sense of identity and community pride.
Head to our website now to get all the details you need to stay up-to-date and in-the-know about your local neighborhood. Your community is waiting for you! republictitle.com/dfw-area-city-fast-facts
POPULATION
148K
AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD INCOME
$58K
MEDIAN AGE
38
HOUSING
62% OWN 38% RENT
AVERAGE SALES PRICE
$301K
AREA ACTIVITIES & FEATURES
• SPRAY ZONE AT CLAY MATHIS PARK • WESTLAKE SPORTS CENTER • MESQUITE GOLF CLUB • TOWN EAST PARK • PASCHALL PARK DISC GOLF • PORTER PARK • MESQUITE ARTS CENTER • CORNER THEATRE • CELEBRATION STATION • SAMUELL FARM • FLORENCE RANCH HOMESTEAD | HISTORY EXHIBIT
FAVORITE LOCAL DINING & DRINK SPOTS
• ATHENEOS GREEK VILLAGE CAFÉ • YIA YIA’S HOUSE OF GYROS • POSADOS CAFÉ • CAFÉ DEL RIO • BUBBA’S 33 • • DIA DE LOS TACOS • MESQUITE BBQ SINCE 1959 • • ALEJANDRO’S AT FRONT STREET STATION • BEAR CAVE COFFEE • BIG BOI’S CHICKEN AND WAFFLES • JOE’S PIZZA & PASTA • DOS PANCHAS • THE BULL’S PEN CAFÉ • • TINO’S RESTAURANT • MESQUITE DINER • PEPPER’S CAFE • • COUNTRY DINER CAFE • CATFISH COVE • JUICY SEAFOOD AND BAR • JAMAICA COOK SHOP • BLACK BEAR DINER • KAZE SUSHI & HIBACHI • MR TERIYAKI •
FAVORITE LOCAL SHOPPING
• MY STYLE BOUTIQUE • BELLA’S WESTERN WEAR • TOWN EAST MALL • BIRDS OF A FEATHER SHOPPE TOGETHER • • ANTIQUE GALLERY •
AVERAGE DRIVE TIMES
• DOWNTOWN DALLAS | 25 MINUTES • DALLAS LOVE FIELD AIRPORT | 35 MINUTES • DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT | 35 MINUTES • AT&T STADIUM & GLOBE LIFE FIELD | 45 MINUTES • DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH | 60 MINUTES
When it comes to purchasing a home, the excitement of finding the perfect property can often overshadow the importance of ensuring the title is clear and free of any disputes. Yet, overlooking this crucial step can lead to significant financial and legal ramifications. This is where title insurance steps in as a guardian of your investment, providing assurance and protection against unforeseen risks. In this Republic Title Tip, we delve into the significance of title insurance for homebuyers, shedding light on why it’s an indispensable aspect of the real estate transaction process.
What Is Title Insurance?
First and foremost, let’s unravel the concept of title insurance. In essence, title insurance is a specialized type of insurance that indemnifies homeowners against loss arising from defects in the title or ownership of a property.
Unlike other forms of insurance that protect against future events, title insurance is a one-time premium and focuses on mitigating risks associated with past events that may affect the property’s legal ownership.
Why Is Title Insurance Necessary?
Consider this: When purchasing a home, you’re not just acquiring the physical structure and land. You’re also buying the legal history.
By conducting a comprehensive title search, title insurance companies unearth any potential clouds on the title, such as unpaid taxes, liens, undisclosed heirs, or unresolved legal disputes. If an issue arises after purchase, title insurance provides coverage for loss, costs, attorney’s fees, and expenses, thereby shielding homeowners from financial liabilities that could otherwise jeopardize their investment.
Title Insurance for Ownership Disputes
One of the primary risks title insurance protects against is the threat of ownership disputes. Imagine purchasing your dream home, only to discover months or even years later that another party has a legal claim to the property.
Such scenarios can arise for various reasons, including errors in public records, forged documents, or undisclosed heirs asserting their rights to the property. Without title insurance, resolving these disputes can entail lengthy and costly legal battles, potentially resulting in the loss of your home and investment.
Title Fraud, Errors, and Property Easements
Moreover, title insurance also guards against title defects that may arise post-purchase. These defects can range from errors or omissions in the title documentation, fraud, or forgery, to someone else having an easement on your property, or no access to your property. Without adequate protection, homeowners could find themselves facing substantial financial burdens to rectify these issues or even risk losing their property altogether.
Republic Title understands the significance of title insurance in safeguarding their clients’ investments. As a trusted resource and industry expert, they go above and beyond to ensure your real estate transactions are conducted with the utmost diligence and integrity. Their team of experienced professionals conducts thorough title searches, leveraging technology and industry expertise to identify and mitigate any potential risks to your investment.
Republic Title offers a range of title insurance policies tailored to meet the unique needs of homeowners and lenders alike. Whether you’re purchasing a new home, refinancing an existing mortgage, or conducting a commercial real estate transaction, Republic Title can provide comprehensive coverage and exceptional service at every step.
Title insurance is not just another box to check off during the home-buying process — it’s a critical safeguard covering title risks. By partnering with Republic Title, you can trust your real estate transactions are in expert hands, backed by decades of industry experience and a commitment to excellence.
Despite mortgage rates continuing to fall from their elevated level, housing sales haven’t rebounded. The average price has fallen alongside home sales, with homes costing $2,000 less than in November. Single-family starts increased while permits moved downward. Homes sat on the market for longer in December as average days on market reported its first increase since the beginning of the year.
Home Sales Fall Alongside Listings
Mortgage rates continued to fall, but their elevated level remains problematic for homebuyers as Texas’ total home sales fell 1.9 percent month over month (MOM) to 25,430 (Table 1). Among the Big Four, San Antonio reported the only gain in home sales, jumping 7.1 percent to 2,684. Houston’s home sales decreased by 16.6 percent, losing over 1,000 sales in December. Austin and Dallas also experienced losses, falling by 9.2 percent and 3.5 percent, respectively. The gap between Houston and Dallas widened as Houston reported poor monthly sales. Despite rates falling, they remain elevated, resulting in an affordability problem for homebuyers.
The state’s average days on market (DOM) climbed to 57, marking the first increase since April. This increase suggests longer listing times could be approaching. All four of the major metros experienced increases in DOM with Houston (50 days) and Dallas (49 days) rising by seven and four days, respectively. Austin (77 days) and San Antonio (68 days) had minor fluctuations from the previous month.
Housing supplies remained elevated, but active listings fell for the first time since May, falling to 103,395 listings. San Antonio (12,254) was the only one of the Big Four to post a monthly increase at 1 percent. Austin had the largest drop in active listings with a 13.3 percent loss to 8,307 listings. Dallas (22,056) and Houston (24,770) had moderate reductions. Despite the fall in active listings in December, levels are still on pace with 2019.
The state’s new listings fell 1.89percent to 42,658 in December. All four of the major metros posted monthly decreases of between 2 and 4 percent. Austin had a 2 percent decrease to 3,766 listings while San Antonio had the largest decrease at 4 percent. Amid the fall in active listings, the months of inventory (MOI) experienced a small decrease to 3.6 with Austin contributing heavily to the fall, dropping over 10 percent.
Mortgage Rates Continue to Plunge
Treasury and mortgage rates continued to fall amidst rumors of interest rate hikes being finished. The ten-year U.S. Treasury Bondyield fell 48 basis points to 4.02 percent. Likewise, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation’s 30-year fixed-rate fell 62 basis points to 6.82 percent. If rates continue to fall into the start of 2024, housing affordability should improve.
Permits Unchanged, Starts on the Rise
Texas’ single-family construction permits moderated just shy of a quarter of a percent decrease from November, falling to 12,392 issuances. Dallas and San Antonio had monthly dips falling 5.3 percent and 12.9 percent, respectively. Houston and Austin both experienced minor fluctuations of less than ten issuances.
Construction starts grew while construction permits remained effectively unchanged, according to data from Dodge Construction Network. Single-family starts increased 2.5 percent MOM to 12,222 units. Despite the Texas increase, San Antonio (8,08 starts) reported the only monthly increase among the Big Four, rising 20.6 percent. Austin (1,392 starts) fell 13.6 percent, making the ratio of Austin to San Antonio starts fall under the typical 2:1 ratio. Dallas (3,250 starts) and Houston (3,448 starts) continued to outperform the rest of the state, combining for 55 percent of total starts.
The state’s year-to-date total single-family starts value climbed to$29.8 billion, up from $27.7 billion in November. Starts values continued to mirror 2019 values since May, however, value fell just outside the $1 billion dollar threshold in December. Houston and Dallas accounted for over 60 percent of the state’s construction value.
Median Home Prices Fall Despite Big Four Rising
Texas’ median home price fell 0.7 percent to $332,300 (Table 2). Among the Big Four metro areas, Dallas posted the only decrease, falling by 1 percent. Austin saw the greatest price boost with a 4.2 percent gain, raising the price to its highest level since January. Home prices across the Big Four remain above pre-COVID prices.
Home prices continued to hover around $200,000-$300,000 and $300,000-$400,000, accounting for 26 and 24 percent of total home sales, respectively.
The Texas Repeat Sales Home Price Index (Dec 2004=100) fell 0.9 percent MOM but remains 2 percent up from the previous year. Houston had the highest annual appreciation at 2.6 percent YOY increase while Austin showed the lowest annual appreciation at negative 3 percent.
Source – Joshua Roberson and Koby McMeans (February 20, 2024)
When navigating complex property transactions in Texas, having a trusted partner like Republic Title can make all the difference. Republic Title has long been recognized as a reliable resource for homeowners and real estate professionals, offering invaluable insights and solutions for various issues, including the critical aspect of survey deletion coverage. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive understanding of this essential component of title insurance.
What is Survey Deletion Coverage?
Survey deletion coverage, also known as survey coverage or survey amendment, covers any errors and omissions by a surveyor. This coverage provides assurance the survey of the property is accurate, that all improvements are accurately depicted, and that the property lines are properly defined.
Equally important — what survey coverage does not insure. Survey coverage does not insure against matters, conflicts, discrepancies, or encroachments that are shown on the survey.
In a standard title policy there is an exception for “any discrepancies, conflicts, shortages in area or boundary lines, or any encroachments or protrusions, or any overlapping of improvements.” When survey coverage is purchased, the exception is revised to read only “shortages in area” which provides the insured with significant additional coverage, as explained below.
What is Required to Obtain Survey Coverage?
To obtain survey deletion coverage in Texas, you typically need the following:
a. A current survey that accurately reflects the property lines, improvements, any easements, setback lines, or other items that are located on the property. If the Seller in a transaction has an existing survey it may be possible to use the survey as long as there have not been any changes to the property since the survey was prepared. If the Seller has an existing survey be sure to check the appropriate boxes in Paragraph 6 of the TREC 1-4 Family Contract (the “TREC contract”) and deliver the survey and the T-47 to the Buyer and Title Company within the number of days stated in the contract. The survey will be reviewed by the Title Company and must meet certain criteria and standards to be accepted. If an existing survey is not acceptable to the title company a new survey will be required, and the party responsible for that is negotiable and is set out in paragraph 6C(1) of the TREC Contract.
b. A new survey may be required in certain circumstances. If the Seller does not have a survey, if they have made changes to the property since the last survey was done, or if an existing survey is not acceptable to the Title Company, a new survey would have to be ordered. The party responsible for paying for the new survey is negotiable, and is set out in Paragraph 6C of the TREC Contract. It is important to note that a new survey cannot be prepared until the title work has been completed, so keep that in mind when calculating the number of days the parties have in Paragraph 6 to provide the new survey.
c. Request Survey Deletion Coverage: This is typically requested by checking the appropriate box in Paragraph 6A(8)of the TREC. The party who will be responsible for paying the premium for survey coverage is negotiable and can be set out in Paragraph 6A(8)(ii). The cost for survey coverage on a residential transaction is 5 percent of the basic premium. See the chart below for some examples of the cost:
Even with survey coverage, it is important to note that a Title Company will add any necessary exceptions for items disclosed on the survey thereby removing those items from coverage in the title policy even when survey coverage is provided. For example, if the survey shows that a fence encroaches on to the neighbor’s property, the Title Company will revise the title commitment to add an exception. The Buyer would have an opportunity under the TREC Contract to object to the new exception under Paragraph 6D of the TREC Contract. If no objection is made, and the Buyer purchases the property, and a dispute arises regarding the fence, it would not be covered under the Title Policy.
Why is the Phrase “Shortages in Area” Not Deleted from the General Exception?
One notable aspect of survey deletion coverage in Texas is that the phrase “Shortages in Area” is not deleted from the general exception. This phrase is included in standard title insurance policies, and it signifies that the Texas Department of Insurance prohibits title companies from insuring exact acreage. In other words, the title insurance policy does not provide coverage for discrepancies in the property’s area or size.
The reason for not deleting this phrase is to take into account the fact that Surveyors and Appraisers may use slightly different methods and technologies to measure property area, and discrepancies can arise. By retaining the “Shortages in Area” phrase, it clarifies that the title insurance policy does not guarantee the property’s exact size, only the boundaries and encroachments.
What is the Benefit of Purchasing Survey Coverage?
The primary benefit of purchasing survey coverage is protection against unexpected boundary issues and encroachments. Here are some key advantages:
a. Legal Protection: Survey coverage offers legal and financial protection in case a dispute arises regarding the property’s boundaries or improvements. For example, if someone claims ownership of a portion of your land or that they have a right to use a portion of your land, the title insurance company will step in to defend your rights and potentially cover any financial losses.
b. Potential Cost Savings: In the event of a boundary dispute involving a matter covered in your title policy, the title insurance company may be required to cover legal expenses and potential settlements, saving you from bearing these costs yourself.
Why Should You Not Use Old Surveys When Buying a New Home?
Using old surveys when buying a new home can be risky for several reasons:
a. Changes Over Time: Property boundaries and improvements can change over time due to various factors, including renovations, construction of new structures, installation of new fences along a boundary line, or land erosion. An old survey may not accurately reflect these changes.
b. Encroachments: An old survey may not identify encroachments from neighboring properties or other issues that have developed since the survey was conducted. This could lead to boundary disputes and costly legal proceedings.
c. Title Insurance Requirements: Most title insurance companies require a current survey to provide survey deletion coverage. Using an old survey may result in the denial of coverage or additional costs to update the survey.
d. Lender Requirements: If you are obtaining a mortgage loan to purchase the property, your lender may also require a current survey to ensure the property’s boundaries, easements, and setback lines are accurately defined.
In Texas, survey deletion coverage is a crucial aspect of title insurance that can protect homeowners in certain property disputes and from financial losses related to property boundaries and improvements. Republic Title’s commitment to serving as a trusted resource for homeowners and real estate professionals is evident in its expertise and dedication to secure property transactions in Texas.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the area, there’s always something new to discover about your neighborhood. With that in mind, we created a Fast Facts sheet for cities and neighborhoods all over the DFW area. Our DFW Area fast facts have detailed real estate insights, things to do, places to shop and some of our favorite restaurants in each area.
McKinney is a historic city with a charming downtown area that exudes small-town charm. Known for its preserved 19th-century buildings and unique shops, McKinney offers a glimpse into the past while embracing modern development. The city is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community, making it an attractive place to live for those seeking a blend of history, cultural experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Head to our website now to get all the details you need to stay up-to-date and in-the-know about your local neighborhood. Your community is waiting for you! republictitle.com/dfw-area-city-fast-facts
POPULATION
203K
AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD INCOME
$122K
MEDIAN AGE
37
HOUSING
66% OWN 34% RENT
AVERAGE SALES PRICE
$600K
AREA ACTIVITIES & FEATURES
• ADRIATICA VILLAGE | DINING, SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX • HUB 121 | DINING, LIVE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT • DOWNTOWN MCKINNEY | SHOPPING, ENTERTAINMENT & DINING • HERD NATURAL SCIENCE MUSEUM | EXHIBITS & WILDLIFE SANCTUARY • LANDON WINERY | TEXAS WINERY & TASTING ROOM • PLAY STREET MUSEUM
• ANTIQUE COMPANY MALL • THE GROOVY COOP • WHITE ROCK SOAP GALLERY • MCKINNEY HAT COMPANY • HOME-OL-O-GY • GOODIES TEXAS • MAIMEE LOU • THE LITTLE RED HEN • LAUNDRY KATE • ROSAS + LAVANDA • PETALS & VINE • DIGGIN’ IT • LED ZEPPLIN RECORDS
AVERAGE DRIVE TIMES
• DOWNTOWN DALLAS | 35 MINUTES • DALLAS LOVE FIELD AIRPORT | 40 MINUTES • DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT | 30 MINUTES • AT&T STADIUM & GLOBE LIFE FIELD | 45 MINUTES • DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH | 52 MINUTES
January 2024 brought a surge in North Texas real estate listings, with Collin County leading at a 25% increase in new listings compared to the same period last year. Dallas County follows suit with a commendable 14% uptick, while Denton and Rockwall counties record rises of 12% and 32%, respectively. Tarrant County, while still showing growth, experiences a more modest increase of 6% in new listings. While days on market varied—Collin improved by 1.8%, Dallas increased by 9%, Denton dropped by 13%, and Rockwall rose by 6%—closed sales were up in all counties except Tarrant, which saw a 4% decrease.
In summary, the January 2024 real estate statistics paint a picture of a vibrant and dynamic market in North Texas. The surge in new listings signifies growing confidence among sellers, while variations in days on the market underscore the nuanced nature of local market conditions. Despite minor fluctuations, the overall trajectory remains positive, reaffirming North Texas as a robust hub for real estate activity.
Our stats infographics include a year over year comparison and area highlights for single family homes broken down by county. We encourage you to share these infographics and video with your sphere.
Love is in the air! If you’re looking for a sweet treat for your Valentine but don’t know where to go, fret not because we’ve got you covered with our list of our favorite sweet spots in DFW!
Pick out one delicious dessert or make it an evening and indulge your sweet tooth at multiple shops.
For a full PDF download of our Favorite Sweet Spots in DFW and more resources like this, visit the DFW Area Resources section on our website here: https://www.republictitle.com/dfw-area-resources/
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the area, there’s always something new to discover about your neighborhood. With that in mind, we created a Fast Facts sheet for cities and neighborhoods all over the DFW area. Our DFW Area fast facts have detailed real estate insights, things to do, places to shop and some of our favorite restaurants in each area.
Lewisville is a thriving city located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Known for its beautiful lake, Lewisville Lake, the city offers a range of outdoor recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. With a diverse community, a vibrant arts scene, and a variety of shopping and dining options, Lewisville provides residents with a blend of suburban comfort and urban amenities.
Head to our website now to get all the details you need to stay up-to-date and in-the-know about your local neighborhood. Your community is waiting for you! republictitle.com/dfw-area-city-fast-facts
POPULATION
113K
AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD INCOME
$83K
MEDIAN AGE
33
HOUSING
43% OWN 58% RENT
AVERAGE SALES PRICE
$463K
AREA ACTIVITIES & FEATURES
• HAWAIIAN FALLS WATER PARK • INTERSKATE ROLLER RINK • LAKE PARK GOLF CLUB • LEWISVILLE COMMUNITY THEATRE • LEWISVILLE LAKE • LEWISVILLE LAKE ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING AREA • OLD TOWN LEWISVILLE • THE LAKES AT CASTLE HILLS | GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB • THE TRIBUTE GOLF CLUB
FAVORITE LOCAL DINING & DRINK SPOTS
• 4THIRTEEN KITCHEN & SPORTS LOUNGE • 54TH STREET RESTAURANT & DRAFTHOUSE • 1845 TASTE TEXAS • BAJA RITA’S • BENDT DISTILLING CO. • J2 STEAKHOUSE • LARUE WINERY • PARMA PASTA & PIZZA • STARWOOD DINER • THE PERC COFFEE HOUSE • ZION MARKET • ZOCADOS
FAVORITE LOCAL SHOPPING
• BEASLEY’S FINE JEWLERY • FLOURISH FLOWERS & GIFTS • MAIN STREET MERCANTILE • ODIN LEATHER GOODS • SPARROW & CO.
AVERAGE DRIVE TIMES
• DOWNTOWN DALLAS | 27 MINUTES • DALLAS LOVE FIELD AIRPORT | 25 MINUTES • DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT | 15 MINUTES • AT&T STADIUM & GLOBE LIFE FIELD | 30 MINUTES • DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH | 36 MINUTES
Becoming a homeowner in Texas is a significant milestone, but it also comes with financial responsibilities. One aspect that new homeowners should be aware of is property taxesbut here’s the exciting part: Texas offers a range of property tax exemptions that can save you money and make your homeownership journey even sweeter. In this post, our friends at Republic Title share how exemptions can save you significant money while guiding you through the process of applying for them. So, get ready to discover how you can maximize your savings as a homeowner in the Lone Star State!
Understanding Property Tax Exemptions
Property tax exemptions are a valuable tool designed to reduce the property tax burden for homeowners in Texas. These exemptions work by reducing the assessed value of your property, which in turn lowers the amount you owe in property taxes. It’s essential to be aware of the various exemptions available, as they can help you save money and improve your financial situation as a homeowner.
Different Types of Property Tax Exemptions in Texas
Homestead Exemption: The homestead exemption is perhaps the most well-known property tax exemption in Texas. It is available to any homeowner who uses their property as their primary residence. After a homeowner purchases a home they will generally be able to apply for a homestead exemption starting on Jan. 1 of the year after acquisition. A recent change in the law allows homeowners to apply for the homestead exemption immediately upon acquisition if their seller did not already have a homestead exemption on the property for that tax year.
Disabled Veteran Exemption: Disabled veterans in Texas are eligible for additional property tax exemptions on their homestead property based on their percentage of disability as determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (the “VA”). The exemption can range from a partial reduction to a full exemption from property taxes. To qualify, veterans must have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10 percent from the VA.
Over 65 Years of Age Exemption: Texans who are 65 years of age or older can apply for an additional property tax exemption on their residential homestead property. This exemption can provide a cap or freeze on school district taxes and can result in significant savings on property taxes. It’s important to note that this exemption can only be granted on property that is also the property owner’s homestead.
Agricultural Exemption: If you own property that is used for agricultural purposes you may qualify for an agricultural exemption. This exemption is designed to support the state’s agricultural industry and can significantly reduce property taxes on agricultural land. To qualify, you must meet certain criteria related to agricultural use.
Disabled Individual Exemption: Disabled individuals who are not veterans may also be eligible for a property tax exemption in Texas. To qualify, the disability must be certified by a relevant authority, such as the Social Security Administration, or a licensed physician.
How to File for a Tax Exemption in Texas
Now that you’re aware of the various property tax exemptions available in Texas, let’s explore how to apply for them:
Homestead Exemption: An application must be completed and submitted to your county’s appraisal district. The application typically requires proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or voter registration card, and may have specific deadlines, so be sure to check with your local appraisal district.
Disabled Veteran Exemption: The veteran must complete the necessary application and send it to the county appraisal district, and will need to provide documentation of their service-connected disability rating from the VA.
Over 65 Years of Age Exemption: To claim the over 65 exemption on your homestead property, you must complete the application and send it to the county appraisal district to provide proof of your age, and complete any additional required paperwork. Documents that can be used to prove your age can include a birth certificate or driver’s license.
Agricultural Exemption: Property owners seeking an agricultural exemption must demonstrate that their land is used primarily for agricultural purposes. Documentation such as farm income, agricultural productivity, and evidence of ongoing agricultural activities will be required.
Disabled Individual Exemption: To apply for the disabled individual exemption, you must fill out the appropriate application form and send it to the county appraisal district and provide documentation of your disability.
It is important to note that the exemption forms can be found and downloaded or printed from most local county appraisal district websites.
Property tax exemptions in Texas can significantly reduce the financial burden of homeownership, making it an essential aspect of understanding for new homeowners. Whether you qualify for the homestead exemption, disabled veteran exemption, over 65 years of age exemption, agricultural exemption, or disabled individual exemption, taking advantage of these tax incentives can lead to substantial savings over time. To ensure you receive the tax relief you deserve, be sure to research the specific requirements for each exemption and file the necessary paperwork with your county’s appraisal district. By doing so, you can make the most of the opportunities available to you as a new homeowner in the Lone Star State. Check out Republic Title’s convenient resource with more information on tax exemptions and contact information for local appraisal districts.
