Ask an Expert: Q&A with Dorothy Butler Law Firm
We sat down with the experts at Dorothy Butler Law Firm to learn more about how lawyers can aid in real estate transactions, property tax disputes, and more. Here’s what they had to say.
Words by Nichole E. Humes, Esq.
What are the most important legal considerations when purchasing a home?
I believe that there are generally two. First, that the parties clearly and adequately detail what their agreement actually is. For example, if the drapes are not going to be included with the house, make sure the contract reflects that. Secondly, buyers need to ensure that the sellers are conveying good, clear title to them. This is usually handled by an independent title insurance company.
What are some common mistakes made by first time home buyers?
Not understanding what they have agreed to in writing, not protecting themselves with the appropriate contingencies, and not understanding all the time deadlines written into sales contracts.
What steps should buyers take to avoid those mistakes?
Review all of your documents – each and every page, word for word. If you don’t understand what you are signing, make sure you discuss in detail with your representative, whether it be a lawyer or a realtor.
Why is it important to have a lawyer assist in real estate transactions?
To be fair, not every real estate transaction requires a lawyer. However, when the deal is a bit out of the ordinary or there are unconventional terms, I would recommend discussing it with an attorney before you sign the contract. It likely won’t be as expensive to confer with an attorney as you would expect, especially considering the underlying transaction is likely valued in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Also, every time that a realtor told their clients to “get a lawyer” during my own career, they weren’t wrong!
Property taxes are on the rise. How can East Austin home owners keep their rates fair?
Candidly, they can’t, other than being active in local elections for those entities that determine the tax rates because the rates are set by the county governmental units. However, homeowners may be entitled to have the appraised value of their home lowered which will ultimately lower the amount of taxes paid (but not the tax rate itself). There are also various exemptions that certain homeowners may be entitled to that may reduce the amount of property taxes paid. The most common are the homestead exemption, agricultural exemption, and the over 65
exemption.
Did You Know?
We help clients lower the amount they owe in property taxes each year. You can also rest assured you aren’t paying a dollar more than you should on your property taxes. The 2022 deadline is coming up fast, so give us a call before May 15.
Contact:
151 E. Mercer Street, Suite E
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
(512) 699-5632
(512) 369-3535 (fax)
