Your Legal Checklist Before Closing on a Home in Texas

You've found your dream home, the offer has been accepted, and the closing date is circled on your calendar. But before you take the final step in your Texas home purchase, it's critical to ensure that every legal detail is in place.

At The Keller Firm, we've worked with buyers who were just days away from closing when unexpected legal issues—such as unresolved title issues or one-sided contract terms—threatened the entire deal. That's why we created thisLegal Checklist for Texas Homebuyers to help you close confidently, and why we offer our Property Protection Package to guide you through every stage of the process.

 

1. Review the Sales Contract Carefully

By now, you've likely signed theTREC One to Four Family Residential Contract or a custom agreement. But have you truly reviewed it with a legal lens?

Checklist:

• Are all buyer contingencies clearly stated (financing, appraisal, inspections)?
• Are closing costs and obligations assigned fairly?
• Are termination and earnest money refund conditions clear?

 

 How We Help: Our Property Protection Package includes a full review of your sales contract, so you understand what you're signing—and your rights if something changes.

 

2. Examine the Title Commitment Thoroughly

Before closing, you should receive a title commitment from the title company outlining what the title insurance will and won't cover. This document often reveals:

• Existing liens or encumbrances
• Easements or rights-of-way
• Boundary conflicts or deed restrictions

Checklist:

• Are there any exceptions that concern you?
• Have all liens been resolved or released?
• Are you clear on which encumbrances will remain after closing?

 How We Help: We analyze your title documents to uncover risks the insurance may not cover—and work with title professionals to resolve issues early.

 

3. Confirm the Property Survey Is Accurate

Surveys identify boundaries, fences, encroachments, and easements—crucial elements that can affect property use and future value.

Checklist:

• Does the survey match the legal description and title?
• Are there visible discrepancies (e.g., neighbor's fence, driveway encroachments)?
• Does the title commitment match the survey results?

 How We Help: Our team reviews your survey report and raises objections when needed to protect your ownership rights before you close.

 

4. Address Inspection Findings and Repairs

Texas buyers typically have the right to inspect the property and negotiate repairs or credits during the option period. But what if something was missed or repairs weren't done properly?

Checklist:

• Were all inspection findings addressed or negotiated?
• Are repair receipts and warranties available?
• Do you have time to re-inspect before closing?

 How We Help: We review inspection reports and contractor communications to help ensure you're not inheriting undisclosed or unaddressed issues.

 

5. Understand Your Title Insurance Policy

Many buyers assume that title insurance covers everything—but that's rarely the case. Standard policies often exclude zoning issues, restrictive covenants, or known defects.

Checklist:

• Have you reviewed the policy's exceptions and exclusions?
• Do you understand what is—and isn't—covered?
• Is enhanced coverage available, and should you consider it?

 How We Help: Our attorneys explain your policy's fine print, so you're not caught off guard if a dispute arises after closing.

 

6. Review HOA and Restrictive Covenant Documents

If the property is in a subdivision, it may be subject to Homeowners Association rules or deed restrictions.

Checklist:

• Have you read the HOA bylaws and restrictions?
• Are there use limitations that conflict with your plans (e.g., rentals, renovations)?
• Are dues, assessments, and compliance history disclosed?

 How We Help: We flag concerning clauses in HOA and covenant documents that could affect your use and enjoyment of the property.

 

7. Final Walkthrough and Documentation Review

Before signing the closing documents, schedule afinal walkthrough to confirm the home is in agreed-upon condition.

Checklist:

• Are all negotiated repairs complete?
• Are all personal property items (appliances, fixtures) accounted for?
• Do the closing documents match your expectations and contract terms?

 How We Help: We're available to review your closing documents and help resolve any last-minute concerns that could derail your closing.

 

The Keller Firm's Property Protection Package: Legal Confidence from Day One

This package was built to give Texas homebuyers peace of mind and professional legal support throughout their purchase. It includes:

• Title, Survey & Inspection Review
• Contract & Closing Guidance
• Title Insurance Insight
• Risk Awareness & Issue Resolution

 

From your first contract signature to the keys in your hand, we're here to help you protect your most important purchase.

Ready to protect your investment? Contact us at 214-775-0817 or visit The Keller Firm to learn more.