Bill > HB733

This bill adds a new subchapter to the Texas Property Code that requires sellers of residential real property in platted subdivisions to verify the citizenship or legal residency status of potential purchasers before entering into certain types of contracts. Specifically, the bill applies to contracts that allow immediate property possession with periodic payments or contracts that combine a purchase option with a residential lease. Sellers must obtain proof of citizenship or legal residency through documents such as a U.S. passport, citizenship certificate, social security number with state-issued photo ID, or a foreign passport with a legal residency document from the Department of Homeland Security. Additionally, sellers must file an affidavit confirming citizenship verification and a copy of the contract with the county clerk within 30 days of executing the contract. The bill creates a criminal penalty for non-compliance, starting as a Class B misdemeanor and escalating to a Class A misdemeanor for a second offense and a state jail felony for three or more offenses. The law will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to contracts entered into on or after that date. The bill defines residential real property as improved or vacant land designed for residential occupancy, excluding commercial real property.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB733