How to Sell a House in Texas: A County-by-County Guide

Quick Overview

✅ Selling costs in Texas are often between 6% and 10% of the home’s sale price

✅ No state income tax—but watch out for property taxes

✅ Popular counties include Harris, Travis, Dallas, Bexar, and Tarrant

✅ Texas is a non-disclosure state—so pricing strategy matters

✅ Cash buyers and leaseback options are increasingly common

Understanding the Texas Market

Texas has one of the hottest real estate markets in the country—but it’s also one of the most complex. Whether you’re selling in Austin or out in East Texas, knowing your local market is essential. Texas has:

• High property tax rates (average ~1.6%)
  
  
• No transfer taxes on real estate
  
  
• Fast-moving suburban areas
  
  
• A mix of urban and rural buyers with different expectations
  
  

And remember: because Texas is a non-disclosure state, the final sale price of a home isn’t public record. That makes pricing it right more important than ever.

Step-by-Step: Selling Your Texas Home

Step 1: Understand Your County Rules

Each Texas county has its own rules around disclosures, inspections, and taxes. Here are five key counties to know:

🏡 Harris County (Houston area)

• Very active market with a wide range of home prices
  
  
• Flood zone disclosures required
  
  
• Property taxes can be high in some districts (~2.1%)
  
  

🏡 Travis County (Austin)

• Trendy, high-demand area with rising prices
  
  
• Investors are common buyers
  
  
• Be aware of seasonal fluctuations (fall and early spring are hot)
  
  

🏡 Dallas County

• North Texas market with lots of suburban demand
  
  
• Pre-inspections are common but not mandatory
  
  
• Price competitively—many homes still get multiple offers
  
  

🏡 Bexar County (San Antonio)

• More budget-conscious buyers
  
  
• Leasebacks are common in fast closings
  
  
• Homes in military zones may qualify for special services
  
  

🏡 Tarrant County (Fort Worth)

• Slightly slower pace than Dallas, but still competitive
  
  
• School districts matter a lot here
  
  
• Emphasize curb appeal and recent upgrades
  
  

Step 2: Price It Right

In a non-disclosure state like Texas, you can’t just check a final sale price on Zillow.

Instead:

• Ask a real estate pro for a comparative market analysis (CMA)
  
  
• Look at pending sales and list-to-close timelines
  
  
• Consider an as-is cash sale if your home needs repairs
  
  

Step 3: Disclose What’s Needed

Texas requires you to fill out a Seller’s Disclosure Notice unless you’re exempt. Most homeowners must disclose:

• Foundation problems
  
  
• Past flooding or drainage issues
  
  
• Termite damage
  
  
• HVAC, electrical, and roof age or issues
  
  

📌 Tip: Don’t skip this—it’s required and protects both parties.

Step 4: Prepare Your Home (Or Sell It As-Is)

If you’re aiming for top dollar, you’ll want to:

• Fix minor issues (leaky faucets, cracked tiles)
  
  
• Consider paint and landscaping
  
  
• Clean up clutter and stage key rooms
  
  

👉 But if that’s too much, an as-is sale to an investor or leaseback buyer could save you time and money.

Step 5: Market It Smartly

Even in a hot market, good marketing can boost your final price:

• Take professional photos
  
  
• Highlight Texas-specific features (like outdoor living, AC upgrades)
  
  
• Focus on low tax rates or high-performing schools
  
  

Or skip the hassle and go off-market with Sell2Rent, where you can get a cash offer and stay in your home as a renter.

Step 6: Close the Deal

In Texas, the closing process typically takes 30–45 days unless you’re selling for cash. Expect to:

• Pay 6% agent commissions (unless you sell direct)
  
  
• Pay title fees (shared with buyer)
  
  
• Provide any required HOA documents
  
  
• Possibly negotiate repairs after the inspection
  
  

What If You Want to Sell and Stay?

Texas homeowners are increasingly choosing sale-leaseback deals—especially retirees and people with equity but rising expenses.

With Sell2Rent, you can:

• Sell your home fast, often in 15 days
  
  
• Stay in place and rent it back
  
  
• Avoid showings, staging, and repairs
  
  
• Get cash to handle debt or life changes