Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB977

Caption

Relating to the authority to transfer real property in the name of an entity.

Impact

This legislation has the potential to simplify transactions for businesses and other entities involved in real estate. By allowing entities to designate an individual through a straightforward affidavit, the bill reduces the bureaucratic hurdles currently faced during property transfers. This is especially beneficial for corporations and limited liability companies, which often engage in numerous transactions. Furthermore, the affidavit can serve as conclusive proof of the matters stated within, thus protecting bona fide purchasers and mortgagees from any liabilities arising from reliance on the affidavit.

Summary

SB977 aims to clarify and streamline the process by which a domestic or foreign entity can transfer real property. The bill establishes that an active entity can execute and record an affidavit that designates an individual authorized to transfer an estate or interest in real property on behalf of the entity. This legal framework aims to facilitate property transactions involving entities by providing a clear and accessible mechanism for establishing authority without needing complex legal documentation each time property is transferred.

Conclusion

Overall, SB977 represents a significant step towards modernizing property transfer laws in Texas, balancing the need for procedural efficiency with the need for security in real estate transactions. As the bill moves forward, it will be important to address any concerns from stakeholders to ensure that the law serves its intended purpose without opening doors to potential exploitations.

Contention

While the bill aims to promote efficiency in property transactions, there may be concerns regarding the potential for misuse of the affidavit process. Critics might argue that the reduced scrutiny can lead to unauthorized transfers, especially if the designated individual does not genuinely represent the entity's interests. Ensuring that the affidavit is executed under penalty of perjury is an essential safeguard; however, some stakeholders may still worry about the adequacy of these protections, particularly in cases involving disputes over property ownership.

Companion Bills

TX HB1833

Same As Relating to the authority to transfer real property in the name of an entity.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4279

Relating to business entities and nonprofit entities.

TX SB1514

Relating to business entities and nonprofit entities.

TX SB1246

Relating to authorized investments of public money by certain governmental entities and the confidentiality of certain information related to those investments.

TX SB147

Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.

TX HB179

Relating to the ownership of real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.

TX HB47

Relating to the ownership of real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.

TX HB3844

Relating to certain procedural requirements for public improvement districts and transfers of property located in public improvement districts.

TX SB1958

Relating to certain procedural requirements for public improvement districts and transfers of property located in public improvement districts.

TX HB3495

Relating to the investment authority of certain state agencies and the confidentiality of certain information related to those investments.

TX HB124

Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.

Similar Bills

TX HB45

Relating to the release of a property owners' association assessment lien.

TX HB1833

Relating to the authority to transfer real property in the name of an entity.

MS HB1351

Affidavit of Scrivener's Error; revise recording of.

TX HB1228

Relating to payment and collection of assessments and other charges owed to a property owners' association and foreclosure of a property owners' association assessment lien.

AZ HB2116

Small estate; affidavit; limits

TX HB3945

Relating to a title insurance company affidavit as a release of lien.

LA SB32

Provides for small succession procedures. (8/1/24)

MS SB2764

Manufactured homes; create affidavit of ownership.