MICHAEL G. JOHNSON · DALLAS REAL ESTATE
GUIDE UPDATED OCTOBER 4, 2026
A beautiful home deserves careful questions.
Due diligence turns attraction into understanding. Your real estate agent can help organize questions and coordinate the process within the agreed scope. Inspectors, lenders, insurers, surveyors, attorneys and other specialists answer the matters that require their expertise. Contract deadlines determine when many decisions must be made.
Condition, improvements and documentation.
Review available disclosures and discuss inspections suitable for the property. Roof, structure, foundation, mechanical systems, drainage and prior repairs can deserve attention. Specialty inspections may be appropriate for pools, major trees or other features. Ask about permits, warranties and repair documentation rather than relying on cosmetic appearance.
For a renovation, compare the visible result with the work history. For new construction, ask about specifications, warranties, completion milestones and inspections. No single checklist replaces a property-specific evaluation.
The land beneath the home.
Review the survey and title-related documents with the appropriate professionals. Boundaries, easements, encroachments, access, setbacks and restrictions can affect your plans. If you want to expand, add a pool or change an exterior, investigate the relevant municipal and association approvals before assuming the work is possible.
Dallas conservation or historic district rules can add address-specific considerations. Greenway Parks is one example of a designated conservation district. Consult the applicable ordinance and the City for the property you are evaluating.
Flood information and insurance.
Use FEMA’s flood map resources as part of your property research, then discuss the address and coverage with an insurance professional and lender. Map designations are one input; site drainage, prior events and the availability and cost of insurance also deserve attention. Obtain a quote appropriate to the property before relying on an estimated budget.
Taxes and homestead questions.
Check the correct appraisal district for the address and review the property’s record and taxing jurisdictions. Dallas Central Appraisal District provides property search and homestead application guidance for properties within its jurisdiction. Properties elsewhere in North Texas may use a different district.
Do not assume the seller’s exemptions transfer to you or that the current bill is your future bill. Discuss ownership, occupancy, eligibility and application requirements with the relevant district; obtain tax advice for your situation.
Search Dallas Central Appraisal District ↗
DCAD homestead application guidance ↗
Condominiums and association-governed properties.
Review the applicable declarations, rules, budgets and available financial information. Ask about regular fees, current or proposed assessments, maintenance responsibilities, master insurance, reserves, litigation and restrictions affecting your intended use. Confirm parking, storage and other rights in the actual documents.
A residence can be excellent while its building or association presents obligations you did not expect. Understand both before deciding.
Keep a decision record.
- What do we know, and which document supports it?
- What remains unresolved, and who can answer it?
- What does the answer mean for cost or intended use?
- Which contractual deadline applies?
- Do we proceed, renegotiate or seek further professional advice?
This guide is general planning information. Your contract, property and circumstances determine the relevant decisions. Bring your questions to a consultation and involve qualified professionals where needed.