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Tierras Texanas / Guides

Guides on land in Texas

Clear explanations, with Texas law and the official source cited. Every guide says when to talk to a lawyer and where to find free help.

Inheritance and property titles

Heirs' property: what it is and how to put the land in your name

When the land or home is still in a deceased relative's name: the risks and the ways to fix it.

Affidavit of heirship

What it is, when it works, how to fill it out and record it, and when it isn't enough.

Homestead exemption for heirs

How to lower taxes on an inherited home even if it's still in your parent's name.

Small estate affidavit

For small estates without a will: the $75,000 limit, the 30-day wait and what happens to the home.

Heirs' partition: when the family can't agree

If a sibling wants to sell your parents' land: partition, the right to buy their share and what to do if you're sued.

Probate with and without a will

How probate works in Texas, the 4-year deadline for a will and what to do with a will from Mexico.

Taxes

Agricultural valuation (ag exemption, 1-d-1)

How to pay less tax on rural land: who qualifies, how many animals your county requires and rollback taxes.

Back taxes and how to avoid the tax sale

Penalties, payment plans, the 65+ deferral and the right to redeem the property.

Scams and protection

In Texas, a notary is not a lawyer

What a notary can do with your land, what they can't, and how to check a lawyer.

Reference

Bilingual glossary

63 Texas land terms, with the Spanish words families use.