Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB234

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to mandatory sales price disclosure of commercial or industrial real property sales; providing a civil penalty.

Impact

If enacted, HB234 would modify Chapter 12 of the Texas Property Code by introducing a new section that stipulates penalties for non-compliance. Specifically, property purchasers who fail to disclose the sales price when transferring ownership will incur a civil penalty amounting to 5% of the sales price. This legislation not only aims to protect the integrity of real estate transactions but also to provide municipalities and the state with better data to inform property taxation and real estate assessments.

Summary

House Bill 234 seeks to mandate the disclosure of sales prices for commercial and industrial real property transactions in Texas. This bill aims to enhance transparency within the real estate market by requiring that the sale price be included in any recorded conveyance of such properties. Proponents believe that this provision would assist in creating a clearer picture of market values and reduce instances of undervaluation or tax evasion that might arise in property sales.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB234 appears cautiously optimistic among its supporters, who argue that price disclosure will benefit both consumers and the state by fostering a fairer market. However, there are concerns raised by some stakeholders about the additional administrative burden this requirement might impose, as well as its potential to inadvertently affect market dynamics. Critics suggest that mandated disclosure could lead to increased scrutiny and may discourage transactions if buyers fear punitive measures for non-compliance.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between transparency and privacy in real estate transactions. While supporters assert that disclosure will curb dishonest practices and promote comparable valuations, opponents fear that enforced transparency might infringe upon the proprietary business practices and strategic decisions of property buyers and sellers. The debate around HB234 highlights the tension between regulatory oversight and the economic implications of such mandates on the Texas real estate market.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB622

Relating to mandatory sales price disclosure in commercial and industrial real property sales; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB700

Relating to disclosures for certain commercial sales-based financing transactions, the effect of certain commercial sales-based financing contract provisions, and the registration of commercial sales-based financing brokers and providers; authorizing a fee and providing a civil penalty.

TX SB2677

Relating to disclosures for certain commercial sales-based financing transactions and the registration of commercial sales-based financing brokers; authorizing a fee and providing a civil penalty.

TX HB2496

Requires disclosure of sales prices in real estate sales

TX HB784

A BILL to amend and reenact ยงยง 58.1-3 and 58.1-609.3 of the Code of Virginia, relating to retail sales and use tax; commercial and industrial exemptions; disclosure of data center operator exemption.

TX SB319

Providing for a property tax rebate for certain real property used for residential or commercial and industrial purposes when such property sells in a qualifying sale for less than 97% of the county appraised value.

TX HF2047

A bill for an act relating to pricing disclosure of lodging, ticketing, and food platforms, and providing civil penalties.

TX HB784

RS and UT; commercial and industrial exemptions, disclosure of data center operator exemption.

TX HB06967

An Act Concerning The Assignment Of Post-loss Homeowners And Commercial Property Insurance Benefits And Revising Disclosure Requirements For Home Improvement Contractors And Salespersons.

TX HB961

Retail Sales and Use Tax; commercial and industrial exemptions, data centers.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.