When it comes to selling a home in Texas, full transparency isn’t just polite—it’s required by law. Texas property disclosure laws are designed to protect both buyers and sellers by ensuring important details about a home’s condition are clearly communicated. At Manfred Sternberg & Associates, we help Houston residents navigate these legal obligations to avoid disputes and ensure smooth real estate transactions.

Understanding the Texas Seller’s Disclosure Notice

Texas law requires most home sellers to complete a Seller’s Disclosure Notice. This document provides detailed information about the property’s condition, including structural issues, plumbing or electrical problems, and any known hazards. It must be delivered to the buyer on or before the date the purchase contract is signed.

Some of the specific disclosures include:

• Previous flooding or water damage
• Termite infestations or other pest-related issues
• Foundation cracks or settling
• Roof defects or leaks
• Legal issues such as boundary disputes or unpermitted improvements

Failure to provide this notice could give the buyer the right to terminate the contract—or even sue for damages if problems are later discovered.

Who Is Exempt?

Not every seller is required to fill out a disclosure form. Common exemptions include:

• Transfers between family members
• Foreclosure sales
• Estate sales by executors or trustees
• New construction homes (builders may have separate obligations)

Even when not legally required, offering disclosures in these cases may still be wise to avoid potential liability.

Why Full Disclosure Matters

Providing an accurate and complete disclosure helps to:

• Build trust with the buyer
• Prevent legal disputes after the sale
• Protect the seller from accusations of fraud or misrepresentation

If a buyer later discovers an undisclosed issue—especially one the seller knew about—the legal consequences can be serious, including lawsuits and financial liability.

Get Legal Guidance Before You List

Selling a home is more than a financial transaction—it’s a legal process that requires careful attention to detail. At Manfred Sternberg & Associates, we advise Houston homeowners and real estate investors on how to meet Texas disclosure requirements and protect themselves from costly litigation.

Contact us today to make sure your property sale is handled legally and confidently.