A contract for deed (also called an executory contract or "owner financing") is an arrangement in which a buyer pays the seller in installments and does not receive legal title until the balance is paid in full. The seller keeps title in the meantime, which is what creates the buyer's risk.

Because the buyer builds equity while holding no title, problems arise if the seller defaults on an underlying mortgage, places a lien on the property, sells it to someone else, or tries to cancel the contract and keep the payments. Buyers can find themselves having paid for years with nothing recorded in their name.

Texas has enacted specific statutory protections for these arrangements — including seller disclosure and conversion requirements — because of the history of abuse in contract-for-deed sales. An attorney can explain which protections apply to your situation and what remedies may be available if the seller violated them.

A lease-option gives a tenant the right to buy the property later, often with a portion of rent credited toward the purchase. Disputes arise over whether the option was properly exercised, how much credit applies, and whether the arrangement should be treated like a contract for deed under Texas law.

The firm is based in Austin and represents clients throughout Texas, primarily in Travis County, Williamson County, and Bastrop County.

Board certification by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization recognizes attorneys who demonstrate substantial experience in a specific area of law, pass a rigorous examination, and receive peer review.Brent Devere is board certified in four areas: consumer law, commercial law, residential and commercial real estate law, and consumer bankruptcy law. Working with a board-certified attorney means your case is handled by a lawyer with proven knowledge, experience, and commitment in their field.

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