If you are in the process of studying to build a custom home in Texas or are just planning on doing so, then there are numerous things you need to know before starting construction. Building a house in Texas is not as easy as moving into one, and there are a lot of legalities and quirks that you need to be aware of. Here is some general information about building a custom home in Texas that you might find useful.
The Zoning And Planning Process
One of the first things you need to do before starting construction is to determine what zoning and planning laws apply to your site. Just because a particular area of Texas is categorized as “rural” does not mean that you can automatically build whatever you want in that location. There are regulations that apply to all properties, and you will need to familiarize yourself with them. You will also need to meet with the city or county planning department to go over your project and get any necessary permits. You will find that most cities in Texas are very hands-on when it comes to planning and zoning, so it is essential that you work with an experienced professional who knows the process.
Getting The Legal Obligations Out Of The Way
One of the biggest hassles that you will encounter as a home builder is dealing with the legalities associated with the property. What do you own? What rights do you have? Who is responsible for what? These are all questions that you need to ask yourself before starting work on the house. You should also consult with an experienced attorney who can advise you on drafting appropriate contracts and providing legal support as you navigate the process.
Texas Custom Homes: What They Are And How To Build Them
If you are in the process of studying to build a custom home in Texas then you will need to familiarize yourself with what these homes are and how they are built. Essentially, a Texas custom home is a residential building that is designed and built according to specific plans and with input from the community. To avoid any misunderstandings, it is essential that you understand what these homes are and that you consult with an experienced builder who is familiar with the process. You should study the Texas Custom Homes Act and learn about the benefits that homeowners enjoy because of the unique building process that is used in this state.
Taxes
When you sell your home you will need to pay capital gains tax. This tax will be based on the difference between your sales price and the previous owners’ acquisition price. You also need to pay property taxes on the land that you occupy. Some towns and cities in Texas require homeowners to pay a special utility usage tax. These taxes can add up quickly, so it is essential that you have the money available when the time comes.
Health And Safety
In addition to taxation, you need to be aware of your legal obligations when it comes to safety. When you start building you will need to take care of any necessary building code inspections, verify that your contractors are insured and meet wage/hour standards and that they use approved materials. You also need to be aware of your legal obligations in terms of health and safety. This means that you will need to be sure that your house is structurally sound and that it will comply with all health and safety standards. The information above should get you started, but you should consult with a local real estate lawyer for assistance with the legalities associated with building a house in Texas.
If you are in the process of studying to build a custom home in Texas or just want to be prepared for the possibility, then it is essential that you familiarize yourself with the legalities involved. Consulting with an experienced lawyer who is familiar with the process will help you get through it as quickly and smoothly as possible and allow you to enjoy your new home.
