Thinking about buying a home in Dallas?
Whether you’re purchasing your first home in Lakewood, upgrading in Highland Park, or investing in a rental property in Oak Cliff, the process can be exciting—and legally complex. While realtors handle negotiations and inspections, a Dallas real estate attorney ensures your investment is protected at every step.
At Wallace Law, PLLC, we guide homebuyers across the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex through secure, stress-free closings. Here are 7 legal issues you shouldn’t overlook before signing on the dotted line.
1. Title Issues & Ownership Disputes
Before buying, you need to be sure the seller has clear, marketable title to the property. Common title problems in Texas include:
- Unreleased liens
- Easements or encroachments
- Unprobated estates
- Fraudulent transfers
A title search isn’t enough—you need a legal review to spot red flags that title companies may miss.
2. Homeowner Association (HOA) Restrictions
Many Dallas neighborhoods have active HOAs with bylaws that affect:
- Landscaping and fencing
- Parking
- Leasing to tenants
- Short-term rentals (e.g., Airbnb)
Ask your real estate attorney to review the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) so you’re not blindsided later.
3. Disclosures and Seller Liability
Texas sellers must complete a disclosure notice, but not all issues are revealed. Common hidden problems include:
- Previous foundation repairs
- Flooding history
- Mold or pest issues
An attorney can analyze the seller’s disclosure and advise you on legal recourse if major defects are uncovered after closing.
4. Financing Contingencies
Your purchase contract should include language that protects you if your financing falls through. A poorly written contract can leave you:
- At risk of losing your earnest money
- Bound to a contract you can’t fulfill
A real estate lawyer will help ensure financing contingencies and deadlines are crystal clear.
5. Closing Document Errors
Mistakes in the Closing Disclosure, deed, or settlement statement can delay your transaction or create future legal headaches. An attorney:
- Reviews documents before closing
- Identifies improper fees or tax prorations
- Ensures your ownership interest is recorded correctly
6. Zoning and Use Restrictions
Planning to remodel, build a pool, or rent out a guest house? Local Dallas zoning laws may prohibit certain uses—even if the previous owner had approval. A lawyer can confirm:
- Zoning classification
- Permitting requirements
- Grandfathered exceptions
7. Homestead and Property Tax Issues
Texas has strong homestead protections, but they can be lost or waived unknowingly during closing. An attorney helps:
- Ensure your homestead is properly filed
- Verify current property tax status
- Protect you from surprise tax liens
Don’t Go It Alone—Work With a Dallas Real Estate Attorney
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. At Wallace Law, PLLC, we represent homebuyers throughout Dallas with experienced, personalized legal guidance—whether you’re closing on a home in University Park or relocating to Frisco.
📞 Call us today at (214) [706-9191] to schedule a consultation with a Dallas real estate attorney.
📍 Serving Dallas, Highland Park, Plano, University Park, McKinney, Frisco, Fort Worth, Arlington, and the surrounding DFW area.
