Texas House Bill HB899

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the foreclosure of certain liens on real property.

Impact

The implementation of HB 899 will directly influence how restrictive covenants are used in the state, primarily affecting real estate and property management practices. By requiring that new restrictive covenants include a homestead exemption from foreclosure, the bill aims to provide greater security for homeowners and protect their residences from financial claims linked to such covenants. This change may also lead to a reassessment of existing real estate contracts and property agreements to comply with the new regulation.

Summary

House Bill 899 addresses the issue of liens placed on real property through restrictive covenants. The bill amends the Texas Property Code by adding Section 202.010, which stipulates that a restrictive covenant may not impose a lien on real property to secure payment of a debt without exempting a homestead from such foreclosure. This provision serves to protect homeowners by ensuring that their primary residence cannot be jeopardized by liens associated with restrictive covenants put in place after the bill's enactment.

Contention

While the bill seeks to safeguard homeowners, there are potential points of contention regarding the implications for property developers and homeowners associations (HOAs). Opponents may argue that the limitations placed on liens could reduce the enforceability of certain covenants intended to maintain property values and community standards. Therefore, discussions around HB 899 may reflect a balance between protecting individual property rights and allowing for collective community agreements that could impact shared living environments.