What Documents Do You Need to Sell a Home in Rockwall?
Selling your home in Rockwall? Before the “For Sale” sign even goes up, it’s important to gather all the necessary paperwork to ensure a smooth sale—and avoid last-minute delays.
Texas real estate law requires sellers to disclose key information, prove ownership, and provide documentation that supports the buyer’s due diligence process. Whether you're working with an agent or selling on your own, having these documents ready can save time, build buyer confidence, and keep your transaction on track.
Here’s a breakdown of the essential documents you’ll need when selling a home in Rockwall.
1. Property Deed
This document proves that you legally own the home and have the right to sell it. Most homeowners have the deed from when they purchased the property. If not, your title company or real estate attorney can help you retrieve a copy.
2. Seller’s Disclosure Notice (Texas Property Code §5.008)
This is one of the most important documents you'll provide. Texas law requires most sellers to disclose known issues with the property, including:
Roof leaks or foundation problems
Plumbing, electrical, or HVAC malfunctions
Pest or water damage
Renovations or additions
Neighborhood nuisances
In Rockwall, this is typically the TREC Seller’s Disclosure Notice, and buyers expect it upfront—often even before making an offer.
3. Survey (if available)
A property survey shows the boundaries of your lot and the placement of structures, fences, easements, and encroachments. If you have a copy from when you purchased the home, it may still be valid. If not, a new one may be required during the sale.
4. HOA Documents (if applicable)
If your home is part of a homeowners association, you’ll need to provide:
HOA bylaws and rules (CC&Rs)
Dues amounts and payment status
Resale certificate (ordered from the HOA)
Contact info for the HOA or management company
In Rockwall, many neighborhoods have active HOAs, so plan ahead—some associations take days or weeks to process resale documents.
5. Mortgage Payoff Information
Your title company will need the most current payoff statement from your mortgage lender. This ensures your loan is paid off from the proceeds of the sale at closing.
Pro Tip: Don’t use the balance from your last statement—it needs to include daily interest and any potential fees.
6. Receipts and Documentation for Repairs or Upgrades
If you’ve made significant improvements—like a new roof, updated kitchen, or major repairs—keep copies of:
Contractor invoices
Permits (if required)
Warranty documents
Buyers love seeing documented upgrades—it gives them peace of mind and can help justify your asking price.
7. Utility Bills or Service Contracts (Optional but Helpful)
Providing utility info (like average monthly bills) can help buyers understand ongoing costs. If you have service contracts for pest control, HVAC maintenance, or security systems, include those too—they may be transferable and attractive to buyers.
8. Previous Title Policy (if available)
If you purchased title insurance when you bought your home, providing the old policy could save the buyer money on their new policy—and help speed up the title process.
9. Completed TREC Forms and Contract Documents
When you list with a real estate agent in Texas, you’ll also need to complete:
Listing agreement
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for homes built before 1978)
Information About Brokerage Services (IABS)
Any addenda required for your sale (e.g., third-party financing addendum)
Your agent will walk you through each form to ensure full compliance.
Final Thoughts
Having your paperwork ready from the start shows professionalism, builds buyer trust, and helps prevent costly delays. Whether you're working with a Rockwall real estate agent or selling on your own, this documentation is essential to keeping the process smooth and legal.
Thinking about selling your Rockwall home?
Let’s talk. I’ll provide a personalized prep checklist and help you navigate every step of the process—from paperwork to closing.