The cost of holding an empty house
Texas has no state income tax, so local governments rely heavily on property taxes, and those bills keep coming whether anyone lives in the house or not. Many homeowner policies also limit coverage once a property has been vacant for a set period, commonly 30 or 60 days. Check your policy, because an uninsured leak or fire is the most expensive outcome of all.
Out-of-town owners
If you live elsewhere, we can arrange access with a lockbox or a key holder, and Texas title companies can usually handle signing remotely or through a mobile notary.
How we can help
- A written offer, with our numbers explained
- No commission or fee charged by us
- No repairs, cleaning or showings
- You choose the closing date
- Closing at a Texas title company
- We tell you in writing if we may assign the contract
This page is general information about Texas, not legal, tax or financial advice. For your situation, talk to an attorney or tax professional.
Frequently asked questions
Do you buy houses with the utilities turned off?
Yes. We may ask to have power on for our walk-through, but it is not a requirement to make an offer.
The house has been empty for years. Is that a problem?
No. Long-vacant houses often need the most work, which is exactly what we buy.