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When it comes to buying or selling a home in Texas, you’ll quickly realize: real estate in the Lone Star State plays by its own rules. Whether you’re relocating from out of state or just curious about how Texas compares, understanding these differences can give you a real advantage in today’s market.
Here’s what sets Texas real estate apart—and what it means for buyers and sellers in Ponder, Denton, Justin, Krum, Northlake, Corinth, and surrounding areas.
1. No State Income Tax (Yes, Really!)
Let’s start with the financial perk everyone loves: Texas has no state income tax. That means more take-home pay—which can make a huge difference when budgeting for a home. However, this also means property taxes are higher than in many other states, something buyers should factor into monthly costs.
📍 Local Tip: Denton and Flower Mound tend to have slightly higher property tax rates compared to smaller towns like Ponder or Justin.
2. Homestead Exemptions Offer Real Savings
Texas offers a homestead exemption that can help reduce your taxable value and provide protection from creditors. This is something not all states offer, and it’s a major benefit for homeowners looking to save over time.
💡 Pro Tip: You must apply for your homestead exemption after closing—it’s not automatic!
3. The “Option Period” Is a Texas Thing
One of the biggest surprises for out-of-state buyers? The option period. This is a short window (usually 5–10 days) where the buyer can back out for any reason after the contract is signed—usually in exchange for a small fee.
It’s a uniquely Texan layer of protection that allows for inspections and negotiation with far less risk.
4. Closing Costs Are Typically Split Differently
In Texas, buyers often pay for their title insurance, while in many other states, this cost falls to the seller. However, these terms can be negotiated in the contract. Knowing these norms helps you avoid surprises at the closing table.
5. Land, Space, and… More Land
In cities like Corinth, Northlake, and even parts of Denton, it’s still possible to find homes on larger lots than you’d see in places like California or the Northeast. In rural areas like Ponder and Justin, acreage is common—and so are custom homes, barndominiums, and new construction on private land.
6. HOAs Are Very Common
From master-planned communities in Flower Mound to brand-new builds in Denton or Justin, homeowners associations (HOAs) are a standard part of many Texas neighborhoods. Understanding HOA rules, dues, and amenities is key when comparing properties.
7. Fast Growth = Hot Markets
Texas continues to see a massive influx of buyers relocating from out-of-state, especially to Denton County and North Texas towns like Corinth, Ponder, and Justin. That means competition, rising prices, and the need to act fast when you find the right home.
8. Texas Is a Non-Disclosure State
This is a big one. Texas does not require the sale price of a home to be made public. That means Zillow and other online estimates may not be as accurate as in other states. Having a knowledgeable local agent (hi, that’s me!) who can access real data is crucial when pricing your home or making an offer.
Final Thoughts
If you’re moving to or investing in Texas, don’t assume real estate works the same way it does back home. From taxes to contracts to market dynamics, the Texas real estate landscape is truly one of a kind.
Whether you’re buying your first home in Denton, upgrading in Northlake, or selling land in Ponder or Justin, I’m here to guide you every step of the way with insight tailored to your local market.
Let’s talk Texas real estate—local, smart, and done right.
📲 Contact me today for a no-pressure consultation. I’d love to help you navigate your next move with confidence.
