- Updated for 2027
- Free for homeowners
- Any condition
- No obligation
- You choose who to talk to
Selling a house with tenants in Texas.
You can sell a Texas rental while someone lives there, and the tenant's lease usually comes along with the house. Here is how the Texas rules shape the process.
Tell us about your home
Texas · Free, private and no obligation.
With tenants · Texas
How it works in Texas.
Most Texas residential landlord-tenant law sits in the Texas Property Code, mainly Chapter 92 on residential tenancies, with related rules in Chapters 24, 54 and 91. A change in ownership usually does not end a lease, so a buyer generally steps into the landlord's shoes and the tenant keeps the rights the lease gives them. That is why many Texas rentals are sold to buyers who are comfortable taking on an existing tenant.
Showings take some planning. Texas has no state statute that sets a notice period for landlord entry, so the lease is the main rulebook. Many leases allow entry for showings with notice, while others are silent. Being clear and respectful with your tenant about timing usually makes the sale smoother. A Texas landlord-tenant attorney can review your lease before you list.
Texas specifics
What to know in Texas.
The lease usually survives a sale
In Texas, a change in landlord usually does not terminate the lease. A tenant with a fixed-term lease can generally stay through the end of the term under the same terms, and the new owner takes over as landlord.
Entry depends on the lease
Texas has no state law that regulates when a landlord may enter a rental. The lease controls, and it may allow entry by prospective buyers with or without notice. If the lease is silent, the landlord may need the tenant's permission except for emergencies or repairs.
Quiet enjoyment still applies
Texas courts treat a right to quiet enjoyment as part of every lease. Entering more often than necessary, at unreasonable times, or in ways the lease does not allow can create problems, so scheduling showings with the tenant is a good habit.
Security deposits move to the buyer
Under Texas Property Code Section 92.105, the new owner becomes liable for returning tenants' security deposits from the date it takes title and must give each tenant a signed statement confirming the deposit amount. The former owner stays liable until the new owner receives or assumes the deposit, unless a written contract says otherwise.
Month-to-month tenancies
When there is no written lease or the lease has expired, a Texas tenancy usually continues month to month. Either side can generally end it with one month's advance notice. An attorney can confirm the notice that applies to your tenant.
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules can change and every situation is different, so confirm the details for your case with a Texas attorney or the appropriate office.
Your options
There is more than one path.
List with an agent, occupied or after the lease ends
An agent can market the home to the widest group of buyers and coordinate showings with your tenants. Waiting until the home is vacant opens it to buyers who want to live there, but it may mean a period with no rent. Selling while occupied keeps income coming but can make showings harder.
Offer the tenants a chance to buy
Your tenants already know the home and may want to stay for good. If they can get financing, this can be a smoother sale with less disruption for everyone. In some places tenants have specific rights when a rental is sold, so check local rules either way.
Explore offers from investors and professionals
Some investors look for rentals they can keep operating with the current tenants. Through a platform like Doorbloom, you can describe the property and lease situation, hear from interested professionals, and choose whether to talk to anyone. Compare any offer with what a listing might bring before deciding.
How it works
Three clear steps.
- 1
Tell us about your home
Share the address, condition and your timeline. It takes about a minute, and we only ask what is needed for the next step.
- 2
Review who is interested
Real estate investors and professionals review your home. You see who they are before anyone gets your contact details.
- 3
Choose your next step
Talk to the people you want, compare your options, or decide not to sell. There is no pressure and no obligation.
Questions
Questions from Texas homeowners.
Can I sell my Texas rental house with a tenant living in it?
Yes. A change in ownership usually does not end the lease, so the buyer generally takes over as landlord under the existing lease terms. Some owners wait for a lease to end, and others sell to buyers who want a tenant in place.
How much notice does a Texas landlord need to give before a showing?
Texas has no state statute setting a notice period for landlord entry. The lease decides, and many leases allow showings with notice. If the lease is silent, ask the tenant for permission and agree on times together.
What happens to the tenant's security deposit when a Texas rental is sold?
The new owner becomes responsible for returning the deposit from the date it acquires title and must give the tenant a signed statement with the exact deposit amount. The seller remains responsible until the deposit is transferred or assumed, so handle it clearly at closing.
Can I ask a Texas tenant to move out before I sell?
A tenant with a fixed-term lease can usually stay until the lease ends unless the lease or an agreement allows otherwise. Month-to-month tenancies can generally be ended with one month's notice. A Texas landlord-tenant attorney can confirm the right steps for your lease.
Is Doorbloom buying my house?
No. Doorbloom is a platform that connects Texas homeowners with real estate investors and professionals. Any offer comes from them, and nothing is binding until you sign a purchase agreement.
What does it cost?
Creating an account and telling us about your home is free for homeowners.
Texas cities
Explore the next step when you are ready.
Tell us about your Texas home. It is free, and you stay in control of who you talk to.
Tell us about your home