Survey + T-47 / T-47.1

Step 9 of 29 · Selling the W home in Texas, without an agent

What this is

A survey is a drawing that shows your property's boundaries, where the house sits, fences, and any easements or encroachments. The "T-47" documents are sworn statements about a survey's accuracy.

Why it matters

Buyers and their lenders want to know exactly what they are buying and that nothing is in the wrong place.

What the documents are

T-47 Affidavit — a sworn, notarized statement from you saying an existing survey is still accurate (nothing has changed since it was drawn).
T-47.1 Declaration — a newer, similar statement that does not need to be notarized.

The 2025 change

As of January 3, 2025, the TREC contract's survey paragraph (¶6C) lets you provide an existing survey with a T-47 (notarized) or a T-47.1 (not notarized). Importantly, getting a brand-new survey is now optional for the buyer — the buyer "may" obtain one, but does not have to.

How to do it

Find your old survey (from when you bought, or ask the title company).
Ask the title company which form to sign — T-47 or T-47.1 — for your situation.
If you made changes since the survey (a new fence, pool, or addition), tell the title company. The old survey may no longer be accurate.

The law, in plain English

This is governed by the survey paragraph (¶6C) of the TREC contract. There is no statute number you need to memorize.

Good to know: An accurate survey can prevent boundary disputes later. Keep yours in your records.

Watch out: Do not sign a T-47 swearing the survey is accurate if you know it is not. That can come back on you.

Sources: TREC form changes (Jan 3, 2025) · TREC contract forms

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