If you own a home in Texas—or plan to—2025 is bringing some serious game-changer legislation that could impact your wallet, your HOA, and your long-term property strategy.
Here’s a breakdown of the most important new laws you should know about (without the legal mumbo jumbo):
1. Bigger Property Tax Breaks Are Coming
Thanks to Senate Bill 4, the standard homestead exemption is increasing from $100,000 to $140,000. For seniors and folks with disabilities, it could go up to $200,000.
Why it matters:
This translates into hundreds to over a thousand dollars in annual tax savings—real money back in your pocket. If you’ve got a homestead exemption filed, this could be your biggest win in 2025.
2. Solar Tile Protection: HOAs Can’t Block You Anymore
With House Bill 431, solar roof tiles are now protected, just like solar panels. That means your HOA can’t flat-out deny your request to install them.
Why it matters:
If you’ve been considering solar (but worried about HOA pushback), this clears the path for a more energy-efficient home—especially in sun-soaked Texas.
3. Drought? No More Fines for Dead Grass
Under House Bill 517, HOAs can’t fine you for brown lawns or dormant landscaping if there’s an active watering restriction in your area.
Why it matters:
Water conservation is becoming more critical, and homeowners shouldn’t be punished for doing their part. This law gives grace during and even after drought restrictions.
4. Political Conversations Allowed in HOA Common Areas
House Bill 621 now allows homeowners to host elected officials or candidate meetings in community areas—as long as they follow the same booking rules as everyone else.
Why it matters:
You can now use your HOA clubhouse or poolside pavilion to get informed or involved—without worrying about being shut down for “politics.”
5. Big Wins for Condo Owners
Condo Associations (COAs) are seeing major transparency upgrades:
COAs with 60+ units (or professional managers) must now maintain a public-facing website with governing docs.
They must register management certificates with the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC)—or risk penalties.
Resale certificate fees are capped at $375.
Board meetings can be held online or over the phone, and email voting is legit.
Why it matters:
Condo owners have more access to info, better control over fees, and more flexibility in how communities are run.
6. Solar Scams? Not in 2025
Senate Bill 1697 requires the state to publish a consumer-friendly solar guide covering tax credits, installation, and how to spot shady contractors.
Why it matters:
Thinking about adding solar? This law helps protect you from high-pressure or misleading sales tactics.
7. Insurance Reform on the Table
Two bills to watch:
SB 1643: State regulators will need to approve insurance rate hikes above 10%.
HB 1576: Offers grant money for home strengthening upgrades—like impact-resistant windows or wind protection.
Why it matters:
Home insurance in Texas is pricey. These moves aim to stabilize rates and help homeowners prep for storms (and maybe even lower premiums).
8. More Affordable Housing Options Coming
New zoning reforms are making it easier to build smaller homes, ADUs, and multifamily options—especially in urban and suburban Texas.
Why it matters:
This could ease the housing crunch and open up more inventory for buyers priced out of today’s market.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a current homeowner, landlord, condo owner, or shopping for your next place, 2025 brings a wave of new protections and opportunities.
If you’re wondering how these changes affect your specific situation—or your HOA or property taxes—I’m happy to help. Just reach out!
