Gather the Documents

Step 6 of 29 · Selling the W home in Texas, without an agent

What this is

Before you list, collect the paperwork about your home. Having it ready makes everything faster and calmer.

Why it matters

Buyers, lenders, and the title company will ask for these documents. Finding them now beats scrambling later.

What to gather

Your deed — the document that transferred the home to you. It shows how you hold title.
Your survey — a drawing showing your lot lines and structures (see Step 9).
Prior owner's title policy — the title insurance from when you bought. It can be useful to the title company.
Tax records — your property tax bills and any homestead exemption paperwork.
HOA documents — if you live in a community with a homeowners association, the rules and fee schedule.
Permits — records of any big work you had done.

Where to find them

The deed: county clerk's records, or the title company that handled your purchase.
The survey: your closing papers, or ask the title company.
Tax records: your county appraisal district.
HOA documents: the HOA or its management company.
Permits: your city or county building department.

How to do it

Make one folder (paper or computer) with everything.
Make copies.
Share what is needed with the title company early.

The law, in plain English

The deed must be recorded with the county clerk to be in the public record (more in Step 8). There is no single law listing these documents — this is simply good preparation.

Good to know: If you cannot find something, ask the title company. They can often pull records.

Watch out: Do not throw away your original closing papers. You may need them even years later.

Sources: Understanding the General Warranty Deed (TexasLawHelp) · TREC form changes (survey)

← Back to the checklist