Texas Real Estate Contract: Different Types and Key Terms to Include
Quick Facts — Real Estate Contract Lawyers (Texas)
- Avg cost to draft a Real Estate Purchase Agreement: $880.00
- Avg cost to review a Real Estate Purchase Agreement: $580.00
- Lawyers available: 63 Texas real estate lawyers
- Clients helped: 60 recent real estate contract projects in Texas
- Avg lawyer rating: 4.93 (6 reviews)
What is a Texas Real Estate Contract?
A Texas real estate contract, also known as a residential purchase and sale agreement, is a legally binding contract that is entered into by a buyer and a seller to facilitate a real estate sale. It is common for buyers and sellers to hire realtors and real estate agents to help with the transaction, but it is also possible to complete the sale on your own.
The contract is initiated when a buyer provides the seller with a valid offer in writing. If the seller accepts the offer, the two parties will negotiate the real estate contract terms that will govern the sale. The contract becomes legally binding and enforceable when it is signed by both parties as long as it adheres to all applicable real estate and contract law.
Common Texas Real Estate Contracts
The most common Texas real estate contracts are those approved by the Texas Real Estate Commission, or TREC. There are several types of TREC contracts, and each contract has a different purpose.
- Standard Residential Purchase Agreement (1-4 family). The most commonly used form because it is for the purchase and sale of residential homes under four units. This form can be used for single family homes, duplexes, triplexes, and quads.
- Condominium Purchase Agreement. Used for buying or selling condominiums when the sale does not include developers and builders.
- Farm and Ranch. Used when selling a farm or ranch, this contract includes clauses relating to land rights, zoning, and other issues that are more specific to farm and ranch land.
- New Home Contract (completed construction). Used when purchasing and newly built and finished home. This home has not been previously owned by another homeowner.
- New Home Contract (incomplete construction). Used when purchasing a home that has not been constructed or completed. Closing will occur after the home is completed and this form should not be used for condos or when the closing date is set prior to completion of the home.
Can Anyone Use a TREC Contract?
Yes. TREC contracts are available for public use so anyone buying or selling a house is free to utilize these contract forms. These forms however were created and approved by the Texas Real Estate Commission and were meant to be used by licensed real estate brokers and agents who are trained to correctly complete these forms. Any mistakes on these forms could lead to an invalid real estate contract and a financial loss.
If you are buying or selling a property, it is highly recommended that you consult with a licensed realtor or real estate attorney to assist in the transaction. A professional can walk you through the process and ensure you understand all the terms of the real estate contract.
4 Essential Elements of a Texas Real Estate Contract
In Texas, the 4 essential elements that make a real estate contract valid and legally binding include:
- A valid offer and acceptance of the offer
- A legal purpose for the contract
- Mutual assent or agreement between the parties
- Consideration
Real estate contracts must also be in writing and signed by both parties before they are considered valid and binding.
Is Texas a Buyer Beware State?
In Texas, the principle of “buyer beware” only applies to multi-family properties. When selling a single-family home, sellers are required to provide the buyer with a seller’s disclosure notice and other state required disclosures.
When selling a multi-family property, the buyer does not have the protections of required disclosures. The buyer is responsible to do their due diligence and have the property inspected for defects before agreeing to finalize the sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Jose P.
I am a corporate lawyer with expertise working with small businesses, venture capital and healthcare. Previously, I worked at large law firms, as well as head attorney for companies. I graduated from Harvard College and University of Pennsylvania Law School. I speak 5 languages (Spanish, French, Italian and Russian, plus English), visited over 60 countries, and used to compete in salsa dancing!
"Was an absolute pleasure working with them. I plan on working with them a lot in the future."
Jeremiah C.
Jeremiah C.
Creative, results driven business & technology executive with 27 years of experience (17+ as a business/corporate lawyer). A problem solver with a passion for business, technology, and law. I bring a thorough understanding of the intersection of the law and business needs to any endeavor, having founded multiple startups myself with successful exits. I provide professional business and legal consulting. Throughout my career I've represented a number large corporations (including some of the top Fortune 500 companies) but the vast majority of my clients these days are startups and small businesses. Having represented hundreds of successful crowdfunded startups, I'm one of the most well known attorneys for startups seeking CF funds. I hold a Juris Doctor degree with a focus on Business/Corporate Law, a Master of Business Administration degree in Entrepreneurship, A Master of Education degree and dual Bachelor of Science degrees. I look forward to working with any parties that have a need for my skill sets.
"Jeremiah was pleasant to speak to and provided high quality work. I appreciate that he took the time to call me personally instead of a paralegal. Work delivered early and high quality! Highly recommend"
Jonathan G.
Small Business Attorney licensed in Texas and Colorado. Based in Dallas, appointments available in DFW area.
"I've enjoyed working with Jonathan and will continue to work with him after this initial step is complete"
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Bryan B.
Experienced attorney and tax analyst with a history of working in the government and private industry. Skilled in Public Speaking, Contract Law, Corporate Governance, and Contract Negotiation. Strong professional graduate from Penn State Law.
"Bryan was swift, communicative, and incredibly helpful. Will definitely work with him again!"
George O.
George Oggero is a down-to-earth lawyer who understands that his clients are human beings. He is a lifelong Houston resident. He graduated from St. Thomas High School and then Texas A&M University. He obtained his Doctor of Jurisprudence from South Texas College of Law in 2007. He is experienced in real estate, criminal defense, civil/commercial matters, personal, injury, business matters, general counsel on-demand, and litigation.
"George simply and clearly helped me understand the requirements associated with my business which saves me time, money and unnecessary paperwork!"
Don G.
Texas licensed attorney specializing for 22 years in Business and Contract law with a focus on construction law and business operations. My services include General Business Law Advisement; Contract Review and Drafting; Legal Research and Writing; Business Formation; Articles or Instructive Writing; and more. I am able to draft and review contracts, and have experience with, contract law and business formation in any state. For more insight into my skills and experience, please feel free to visit my LinkedIn profile or contact me with any questions.
"Don is very responsive, knowledgeable, efficient and professional."
July 29, 2021
Stanley K.
Stan provides legal services to small to medium-sized clients in the New England region, and throughout the U.S. and abroad. His clients are involved in a variety of business sectors, including software development, e-commerce, investment management and advising, health care, manufacturing, biotechnology, telecommunications, retailing, and consulting and other services. Stan focuses on the unique needs of each of his clients, and seeks to establish long term relationships with them by providing timely, highly professional services and practical business judgment. Each client's objectives, business and management styles are carefully considered to help him provide more focused and relevant services. Stan also acts as an outsourced general counsel for some of his clients for the general management of their legal function, including the establishment of budgets, creation of internal compliance procedures, and the oversight of litigation or other outside legal services.
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Browse Lawyers NowLawyer Reviews for Texas Real Estate Contract Projects
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"Ryenne was fantastic and answered all of our questions and provided clarity for us in negotiating a purchase agreement!"
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"Zachariah was prompt, thorough and very detail-oriented. He explained the human oversight and expertise was used throughout the whole process, after the initial clerical work which is completed by his AI legal software. The final work product was exactly what we needed and above and beyond what we hoped for. Thank you very much!"
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"William was knowledgeable and helped us review disclosures and prepare our purchase documents, but communication and turnaround times were often frustrating. There were repeated delays during a time-sensitive real estate transaction. Ultimately, the experience did not feel as organized or responsive as we needed."
Real Estate
Real Estate Contract
Georgia
WHAT ARE YOUR FEES TO PERFORM QUIT CLAIM DEED COMPLETE BUTTS COUNTY GEORGIA 30233
SON AND EX
Meghan T.
Hi. The cost for my practice to prepare a Quit Claim Deed is $99. The Cost for me to handle the closing is $250 plus recording fees. These costs apply for any county within the state of Georgia. Let me know if you have any more questions. Meghan K Thomas
Real Estate
Real Estate Contract
Georgia
How many years does a quick claim become effective?s
Number of years for quick claim to be effect ive
Meghan T.
A quit claim deed is effective upon execution so long as the deed is dated as of the date of signature. Execution means that the deed is signed, in front of a witness and a notary. The witness and notary must also sign the deed. Finally, the deed must be recorded. This means that the deed must be submitted to the Superior Court recording office of the County in which the property sits. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks, Meghan K Thomas
Real Estate
Real Estate Contract
Illinois
what is better to buy land or rent for construction in US?
we are a construction company from Ukraine, we are planning to build a cottage town in the USA
T. Phillip B.
I suppose it doesn't matter if you have the lease giving you permission and the lease is long enough to justify the building expense when you won't own it. But I'd buy the land so you could eventually sell the property with the building on it.
Real Estate
Real Estate Contract
New York
Can you purchase or refinance under a land contract?
I’ve been living here for 2 years. Currently have been working with my credit union and they are having a terrible time trying to understand the legalities of my land contract first off, and secondly they just don’t seem to know what they are doing. It’s been over 8 months, 4 different loan officers and I’m once again waiting for someone else to help finish this thing out. It’s only $60,000 with a $120,000 appraisal. So, as of now I am stuck paying 2.5x monthly under this land contract than I was promised would be an easy mortgage process. So any guidance in the right direction would be very helpful. It’s a New York home. 20 yr fixed, no balloon, with a (brace yourself) 12% apr. HELP ME PLEASE! One month I’m being told to authorize a credit check for a first time homebuyer grant method of mortgaging this property. The next it’s authorizing it for a refinance. I do have earnest money deposits for over $3,000 and another $3000 paid towards principal under this land contract also.
Jane C.
I suggest you speak with a New York real estate attorney. That attorney needs to review the documents related to the transaction.
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Review a real estate contract to make sure I am protected as a seller.
Location: Arkansas
Turnaround: Less than a week
Service: Contract Review
Doc Type: Real Estate Purchase Agreement
Page Count: 3
Number of Bids: 2
Bid Range: $400 - $800
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