Buying a House in North Texas: 3 Things Out-of-State Buyers Need to Know
Buying a house in North Texas comes with a few local quirks. First, Texas has no state income tax, but property taxes are higher to balance this out. Second, our clay soil means you will need to actively water your foundation in the summer to prevent shifting. Finally, seasonal hail means you should always double-check the age of a roof and your insurance options before closing.
Moving to a new state is a massive transition. You have to find a new grocery store, a new doctor, and a new commute.
You also have to learn a new real estate market.
If you are moving to Dallas, Plano, or Richardson from out of state, the home buying process might look a little different than what you are used to. Texas has specific laws, specific weather, and specific soil.
At Housed Real Estate + Relocation, our job is to eliminate the surprises. We want you to buy a home with complete confidence. Here are the top three things we teach every out-of-state buyer.
Watch: The 2-Minute Buyer's Briefing
Prefer to watch instead of read? We put together a quick video explaining exactly what to expect when buying a house in the Dallas area. Press play to learn the basics before diving into the details below.
1. The Truth About Texas Property Taxes
You have probably heard the good news. Texas does not have a state income tax. This is a huge draw for professionals and businesses relocating to the area.
However, the state still needs to fund schools, roads, and emergency services. They do this through property taxes. Because we lack an income tax, our property tax rates are higher than the national average.
What you need to do:
- Look at the big picture: When calculating your monthly payment, do not just look at the mortgage principal and interest. Factor in the local tax rate. The rate changes slightly depending on whether you buy in Richardson, Plano, or Dallas.
- File your Homestead Exemption: If the house is your primary residence, you can file a Homestead Exemption. This lowers the taxable value of your home and caps how much your taxes can increase each year.
2. We Water Our Foundations Here
If you tell someone in New York that you need to water your house, they will look at you funny. In North Texas, it is a normal part of homeownership.
Dallas, Plano, and Richardson sit on expansive clay soil. When it rains, the soil absorbs water and expands. During our hot and dry summers, the soil loses moisture and shrinks. This shrinking and swelling can cause concrete slab foundations to shift or crack over time.
What you need to do:
- Use a soaker hose: Many homeowners run a porous soaker hose around the perimeter of their house. Turn it on periodically during dry months to keep soil moisture levels consistent.
- Do not panic over minor cracks: Small hairline cracks in drywall are common in Texas homes. During your inspection, an expert can determine the difference between normal settling and structural issues.
3. Roofs and Weather Expectations
North Texas gets plenty of sunshine. We also experience intense spring storms. Hail is a reality of living in this part of the country.
Because of this, roofs in the Dallas area are replaced more frequently than in other states. It is common for a 10-year-old house to already be on its second roof.
What you need to do:
- Check the roof age: When touring a home, this should be one of the first questions asked.
- Review the insurance: Get an insurance quote early in the buying process and understand your deductible for wind and hail damage.
We Are Your Local Guides
You can search for homes online all day. But an app cannot tell you if a house has foundation issues or explain local tax rates.
You need a guide who actually lives and works in these neighborhoods.
At Housed Real Estate + Relocation, we focus on education and transparency. We will never rush you into a sale. Our goal is to help you understand exactly what you are buying so you can enjoy your new Texas home for years to come.
Ready to start your North Texas home search?
Let’s connect and talk about your move.
Housed Real Estate + Relocation
204 E. Main Street Richardson, TX 75081
(214) 888-6864
Info@HousedRealEstate.com