Homestead protections
Texas's homestead exemption is unusually strong. Tex. Const. art. XVI § 50 protects up to 10 acres (urban) or 200 acres (rural) of homestead property from forced sale by most creditors — with carve-outs for purchase money (mortgage), taxes, mechanic's liens, and a few specifically authorized loans like home equity loans (capped at 80% LTV with strict disclosure rules).
TREC residential contracts
Most Texas residential transactions use Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC)-promulgated contract forms (the most common: One to Four Family Residential Contract — Resale). Buyers typically get an option period (a paid right to terminate for any reason) and a financing contingency.
Deed types
General Warranty Deed (full title warranty by grantor), Special Warranty Deed (warranty only against grantor's own acts), Deed Without Warranty / Quitclaim (conveys whatever interest the grantor has, if any). Most residential conveyances use General or Special Warranty.
Title insurance
Texas rates are set by the Texas Department of Insurance (not negotiable). Owner's policy is typically paid by the seller in residential transactions; lender's policy is typically paid by the buyer (custom may vary by county).
Property tax protest
Property tax appraisals are conducted by county appraisal districts. Owners can protest valuations annually (typical deadline: May 15 or 30 days after notice, whichever is later — Tex. Tax Code § 41.44). Appeal options include ARB (Appraisal Review Board), then district court or arbitration.
→ Find a Texas real estate attorney or a TBLS-certified Commercial / Residential Real Estate specialist.