Best Real Estate Attorneys in Austin

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Austin, Texas?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Austin Police Department is 512-974-2000.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Austin, Texas?

  You can get copies of police reports for incidents related to your case by checking the Austin Police Department's online database or contacting the department at 512-974-5212. Requests can also be made online at https://services.austintexas.gov/police/reports/index.cfm.

• Should you get an attorney for real estate matters in Austin?

  While state laws do not require you to retain legal counsel, getting an attorney for real estate matters in Austin can help you mitigate the common risks involved in buying or selling property, such as tax-related or zoning issues. Even if you don't face these issues, lawyers can still assist you in keeping track of and completing the necessary documentation for your real estate matters.

• What kinds of information are real estate sellers required to disclose to you in Austin?

  Generally, applicable laws in Austin require sellers to provide interested buyers with a seller's disclosure notice outlining information such as the property's current physical condition, material defects throughout the location, and structural issues in and around the house. Sellers are not required to disclose information that would stigmatize the property, such as crimes committed in and around the property unless the buyer asks if the previous event caused material defects.

• What are some things you can do to minimize the risks of first-time homebuying in Austin?

  First-time homebuyers in and around Austin should thoroughly review and negotiate contracts and real-estate-related documents required in the home-buying process, keeping track of what these documents stipulate about their ownership responsibilities and the costs involved in buying a home. In addition, you can gather as much information regarding the property's included features and local laws set by authorities, such as property managers and homeowners' associations, before purchasing the property.

• Who is responsible for cleaning up contaminated groundwater or soil in Austin real estate?

  Generally, Austin landowners are responsible for the costs involved in cleaning up contaminated soil or groundwater on their property, except if they can prove that the contamination was caused by a different entity or event. Proving this involves providing a preponderance of evidence that the contamination was caused solely by an act of war, an act of God, an act or omission of a third party, or any combination of the previous three.

• In Austin, what happens if the property you wanted to buy was damaged before you could close the deal?

  Generally, you have three options as an Austin homebuyer, namely, you could rescind the contract and get back your earnest money, accept the home in its damaged condition, or allow the seller to make the necessary repairs to return the property to its previous state. It is usually advised to accept the home in its damaged state and use the seller's insurance policy to make the repairs yourself.