A tenant can stay while you consider selling
If managing a rental has become more work than you want, I can discuss buying it with the tenant still there. You don’t have to ask anyone to move just to request an offer.
Tell me the address, whether the house is occupied, and what you know about its condition. If there’s a disagreement about rent or the lease, mention it. I can start the conversation while those questions are still open.
How the lease, rent, and deposits are handled
I’ll ask about the signed lease, any written changes, rent received or unpaid, and the security deposit. These affect the closing discussion. If an amount is disputed or an agreement is missing, tell me before reviewing the sale paperwork.
Under Texas law, the new owner becomes liable for the tenants’ security deposits from the date of the deed. The new owner must give each tenant a signed statement with the deposit amount. The old owner stays liable until the deposit is handed over or assumed.
Before closing, ask who will prepare that statement and how the deposit handover or assumption will be documented. Check that the tenant’s name and deposit amount are correct.
This is general information, not legal advice. A Texas attorney can help with disputed deposits or agreements.
If the tenancy is month-to-month
A month-to-month tenancy ends one month after notice, or on a later date stated in the notice, unless the parties agreed otherwise in writing. Check your agreement before choosing a date.
If you’re considering ending the tenancy, ask an attorney to review the agreement and proposed notice. You can also discuss selling with the tenant in place. Asking for an offer doesn’t require a move-out date.
When the rental has become too much work
Repairs can be hard to arrange when you live far away or can’t keep answering calls about the house. Tell me what needs work, what’s underway, and whether you have an estimate. You can ask about selling before finishing repairs.
If late rent is part of the problem, a short description is enough to start. Keep private tenant information out of the website form.
If the house is vacant, you may be deciding whether to prepare it for another tenant or sell. Tell me about its condition, belongings left behind, and any trouble arranging access or overseeing work.
How an offer becomes a sale
I review the condition, rental information, nearby comparable sales, and expected costs before considering an offer. Asking is free and doesn’t commit you to selling. If it fits, the price and terms go in writing for you to review.
I walk through the house before closing at a title company. Tell me how to arrange access with the tenant and when you’d like to close. The title company confirms the earliest date once the title work is done. My guide to the offer and closing process explains the steps.
I may close on the house myself or assign the purchase contract to another investor I work with, on the same price and terms. I’ll tell you in writing before you sign anything. Send the address below and tell me whether the rental is occupied or vacant.
Sources
Texas Property Code sections 92.105 and 91.001(b), (e).