Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to Daughtrey Law Firm, your trusted partner for expert legal guidance in real estate law and oil and gas law across Texas. Whether you’re a property owner, developer, or investor, navigating legal complexities such as road agreements, mineral rights, easements, or commercial leases requires a team that understands the intricacies of Texas law to. Our experienced attorneys specialize in crafting tailored solutions to protect your rights, enhance property value, and ensure compliance with state regulations. From Houston real estate agreements to statewide oil and gas lease negotiations, we are committed to providing clear, actionable advice to meet your legal needs. Explore our services and Frequently Asked Questions to discover how we can support your next project or transaction.

General Questions About Daughtrey Law Firm

What services does Daughtrey Law Firm offer?

Daughtrey Law Firm specializes in Texas real estate and Texas oil and gas law. Whether you need help with buying or selling property, drafting contracts, understanding mineral rights, or handling easements, Mr. Daughtrey, our experienced attorney, can provide expert legal solutions.

Who do you serve?

We assist individuals, families, businesses, and investors in Texas, including rural areas like east Texas and the Permian Basin, as well as urban areas like Houston. Our clients range from first-time homebuyers to large-scale landowners and oil and gas companies.

Do you offer consultations?

Yes, we provide consultations at a standard fee beginning at $350.00 for 50 minutes on a strategy session. This session allows us to review your case, answer your questions, and recommend the best course of action.

Why should I choose Daughtrey Law Firm?

We focus exclusively on real estate and oil and gas law, giving you tailored advice and solutions. Our multidisciplinary team members are well-versed in Texas property laws, making us a trusted partner for protecting your rights and interests.

Can you help with rural property issues?

Absolutely. We handle issues like agricultural exemptions, easements, and mineral rights for rural landowners across Texas.

Real Estate Law FAQs

What is a general warranty deed in Texas?

A general warranty deed guarantees the buyer that the seller has full ownership, and that the property is free from liens or claims. We draft and review these deeds to ensure your rights are protected.

How does owner financing work in Texas?

Owner financing allows the seller to act as the lender. Instead of using a bank, the buyer makes payments directly to the seller or the seller’s loan servicer. We prepare legally sound owner financing contracts that comply with Texas law and protect both parties.

What are the benefits of owner financing?

Owner financing is faster, more flexible, and often easier for buyers with less-than-perfect credit. For sellers, it can lead to higher returns on interest. The Daughtrey Law Firm can help structure these agreements while ensuring compliance with Dodd-Frank regulations.

What is a release of lien in Texas?

A release of lien is a document that clears the property of any mortgage or debt that has been fully paid. We assist in drafting and filing this document to protect property owners.

What qualifies for an agricultural exemption in Texas?

Land used primarily for farming, ranching, or wildlife management may qualify for an ag exemption. This can significantly reduce property taxes. Our team can guide you through the requirements and application process.

What is a standard Texas lease?

A standard lease outlines the terms of renting property, such as rent amount, lease duration, and tenant/landlord responsibilities. We draft customized lease agreements to suit your needs.

What should I know about leasing commercial property in Texas?

Leasing commercial property involves negotiating terms, zoning compliance, and reviewing complex lease agreements. The Daughtrey Law Firm can ensure the lease agreement protects your business interests.

What are easement laws in Texas?

Easements grant someone limited access to your property, like utility companies. We help negotiate fair terms and resolve disputes involving utility easements or access rights.

How can I protect my property from squatters in Texas?

Texas law allows property owners to evict squatters and prevent adverse possession claims. We also assist in drafting clear lease agreements and resolving disputes to protect your property.

What are the rules for utility easement rights in Texas?

Utility easements allow companies to run pipelines, cables, or power lines across private property. We ensure these agreements are fair and protect your land's value. We can get you a deal that protects your land on your terms instead of the pipeline company’s terms.

Oil and Gas Law FAQs

What are mineral rights in Texas?

Mineral rights give you the ability to extract and profit from resources like oil and gas beneath your land. We help you lease, sell, or buy these rights while protecting your interests.

What is the difference between surface rights and mineral rights?

Surface rights allow you to use the land's surface, while mineral rights let you extract resources underneath. Mineral rights are called the dominant estate in Texas. We ensure contracts clearly define these rights to avoid conflicts.

How can I lease my land for oil and gas exploration?

Leasing involves granting an exploration company the right to extract resources in exchange for royalties. The Daughtrey Law Firm can negotiate leases to secure fair terms and protect your property. Some leases can last a hundred years, so negotiating at the beginning and before you sign is critical.

What is a gas pipeline easement?

A gas pipeline easement grants a company the right to install and maintain pipelines on your land. We review and negotiate these agreements to protect your surface rights.

What are the tax implications of leasing mineral rights?

Income from royalties is taxable and may include deductions for production costs. We guide you on potential tax implications and ensure your leases comply with Texas law.

Can I sell my mineral rights in Texas?

Yes, you can sell mineral rights separately from your surface property. The Daughtrey Law Firm handles the sale process to ensure clear title and fair terms.

What is the Dodd-Frank impact on seller financing for mineral rights?

Dodd-Frank regulations require compliance with consumer protection laws for lenders. We draft contracts that meet these requirements for smooth transactions.

What is soil testing, and why is it important?

Soil testing assesses land quality for construction, agriculture, or resource extraction. We ensure soil testing clauses are included in land leases or sales agreements.

How can I check for abandoned oil and gas wells near me?

Abandoned oil and gas wells can pose safety and environmental risks. We assist in conducting land surveys and ensuring property disclosures include relevant details.

What is a PSA in real estate and oil and gas?

A PSA (Purchase and Sale Agreement) outlines terms for buying or selling property or mineral rights. We draft and review PSAs to protect your interests.

Specialized Legal Topics

What is an owner financed promissory note?

It’s a document outlining payment terms for a property sale. We draft these notes to ensure all terms, such as interest rates and repayment schedules, are clear and legally binding.

What are Texas leasing contracts?

Texas leasing contracts govern residential and commercial rentals. The Daughtrey Law Firm can ensure leases comply with Texas real estate laws and protect landlords and tenants.

What qualifies for an ag exemption in Texas?

Land must meet size and use requirements, like active farming or ranching. We assist with helping you determine if you meet Texas ag exemption qualifications.

How do I buy mineral rights in Texas?

Buying mineral rights involves negotiating terms of purchase and conducting title searches. The Daughtrey Law Firm can ensure you get a clear title and fair deal.

What is a warranty deed in Texas?

A warranty deed guarantees clear ownership and title transfer. We draft and review deeds to ensure your property purchase is secure.

Legal Procedures and Contracts

What is a lien search, and why is it important?

A lien search is a process to check if there are any unpaid debts, such as unpaid judgments, mortgages or tax liens, attached to a property. It’s crucial before buying or selling to ensure the title is clear. The Daughtrey Law Firm can perform thorough lien searches to safeguard your transaction.

What are the requirements for owner financing in Texas?

Owner financing in Texas must comply with Dodd-Frank regulations, which ensure fair lending practices and protect buyers and sellers. We draft legally compliant contracts that include repayment terms, interest rates, and other essential details.

What is the cost of a lawyer consultation?

Our standard consultation fee begins at $350.00, which covers a 50-minutes session to review your case, answer questions, and provide tailored legal advice. This fee helps us deliver personalized and professional guidance.

What is a lease-to-own agreement?

A lease-to-own agreement allows tenants to rent a property with the option to purchase it later. It’s a flexible solution for buyers who need time to secure financing. We prepare contracts that clearly outline payment terms and purchase conditions. Sometimes you hear the term contract for deed.

What is a wraparound mortgage?

A wraparound mortgage is a seller-financed loan where the buyer makes payments to the seller, who continues paying the original mortgage. We structure wraparound agreements to ensure compliance with Texas real estate laws and protect all parties involved. Recent legislation has created new burdens for the seller in these transactions.

Property Law and Disputes

What is the redemption period in a foreclosure?

In Texas, the redemption period allows certain property owners to reclaim their foreclosed property within a limited timeframe, usually for tax-related foreclosures. The Daughtrey Law Firm can guide you through the redemption process to help save your property.

How do I evict a tenant in Texas?

To evict a tenant legally, landlords must provide proper notice, file an eviction suit, and follow court procedures. We assist landlords at every step to ensure compliance with Texas landlord-tenant laws.

What are Texas fence laws?

Texas fence laws govern property boundaries and the responsibilities of adjoining landowners for building and maintaining fences. Texas has a well developed set of laws relating to fencing due to its agricultural history. If you have a boundary dispute or questions about your rights, we can help resolve them.

What is an easement by necessity?

An easement by necessity grants access to landlocked property that cannot be reached otherwise. If you need to establish or challenge an easement, our firm can help secure your rights.

Surface and Mineral Rights

How do I handle disputes over surface rights?

Surface rights disputes often arise when landowners and mineral rights holders disagree over land use. We negotiate and, if necessary, litigate these conflicts to protect your property and interests.

What qualifies as ag exempt land?

Land that is primarily used for farming, ranching, or wildlife management may qualify for agricultural tax exemptions. We help clients meet Texas agricultural property tax exemption requirements and file applications.

What is an affidavit of heirship?

An affidavit of heirship is a legal document used to transfer property when the owner has passed away without a will. It names the rightful heirs and helps avoid lengthy probate processes. Our firm handles the preparation and filing of these affidavits.

How do I protect my mineral rights?

Protecting your mineral rights involves negotiating leases that secure fair royalties, ensuring clear ownership, and resolving disputes with surface rights holders. Our firm has decades of experience in safeguarding your interests.

Can I lease my land for solar energy?

Yes, leasing land for solar energy can provide a steady income stream. We negotiate lease agreements that balance financial benefits with the preservation of your land.

Regulations and Compliance

What is the Dodd-Frank rule for seller financing?

The Dodd-Frank Act imposes rules to protect buyers in seller-financed transactions, such as ensuring fair lending terms and compliance with consumer protection laws. We draft contracts that meet these requirements while protecting sellers’ interests.

How do I find abandoned wells on my property?

Abandoned wells can pose safety and environmental risks. We work with specialists to identify abandoned wells, ensure compliance with reporting requirements, and guide you through remediation processes if necessary.

What are the rules for Texas real estate closing laws?

Texas requires that real estate closings follow strict processes, including clear title transfers, proper documentation, and compliance with state laws. Title insurance is a highly regulated industry and can get complex quickly. Our firm can ensure your transaction meets all legal requirements for a smooth closing.

What is a property title dispute?

A title dispute occurs when ownership or legal rights to a property are unclear or contested. We help resolve title disputes by conducting detailed research, negotiating with other parties, and, if needed, representing you in court to protect your property rights.

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Phone: 713.669.1498

Address: 2525 Robinhood Street, Houston, Texas 77005