How to Sell Land in Texas: Closing, Taxes and Timeline
Updated September 2026 by Cooper and Jennifer Best, Best Land Holdings.
In Texas we focus on Central Texas, with most of our activity in Bastrop and Caldwell counties between Austin, Lockhart and Smithville. If you own land in Texas you no longer want, this guide explains how a sale works here: who handles closing, what taxes and fees apply, how long it takes, and what drives value.
Where we buy in Texas
We currently buy in 2 Texas counties: Bastrop County, Caldwell County. Each county page has local details. Not on the list? Call anyway; we still look at parcels statewide.
How closing works in Texas
Texas sales close through a title company, which issues the title commitment, handles escrow and records the deed with the county clerk.
When you sell to us, we close through a licensed Texas title company. You can sign with a mobile notary wherever you live; you do not need to travel to Texas.
Transfer taxes and closing costs in Texas
Texas has no real estate transfer tax. Recording fees are small, and we cover them along with every other closing cost. We also pay title work, recording and notary fees, so the offer you accept is what you receive, minus any back taxes or liens, which are paid from proceeds.
Texas property tax programs to know about
Much Texas land has an agricultural (open-space) special appraisal. If the land changes to a non-agricultural use, a rollback tax applies for the prior three years the land received the lower appraisal, plus interest. The appraisal district calculates it, and the purchase contract should say who pays.
Back taxes on Texas land
If your property taxes are behind, you can still sell. The closing agent gets a payoff from the county and pays it from the sale proceeds. Penalties and interest grow over time, and unpaid taxes can eventually lead to a tax sale, so it is better to act sooner. See selling land with back taxes.
How long it takes to sell land in Texas
A listed land parcel can take many months to sell. Selling direct, most of our sellers have a written offer within 48 hours and close in 2 to 4 weeks. Estates, missing heirs or title problems can add time; we flag them early.
What drives land value in Texas
- Distance to Austin and the SH-130 and SH-71 corridors drives strong demand in Bastrop and Caldwell.
- Floodplain along the Colorado and San Marcos rivers can reduce buildable area.
- Utility access (water supply corporation meters, electric) is a key question for rural lots.
Beyond these, value comes down to recent comparable sales, road access, size, utilities, terrain and flood zones. Read how vacant land is priced, then ask us for a number with the comps behind it.
Common Texas situations we help with
- Inherited land and land held by an estate
- Land with back taxes or liens
- Landlocked parcels
- Owners who want monthly payments instead of cash
- Out-of-state owners who want to close by mail
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a real estate agent to sell land in Texas?
No. You can sell directly to a buyer. The closing is still handled by a licensed Texas title company, which protects both sides.
Who pays closing costs when I sell land in Texas?
It varies by contract. When you sell to us, we pay the normal closing costs, including the transfer tax or recording fees described above.
Can I sell my Texas land if I live in another state?
Yes. Most of our sellers do. Documents are signed with a mobile notary near you.
How fast can I sell land in Texas?
Most sellers have a written offer within 48 hours and close in 2 to 4 weeks, depending on title.
See our Texas land page for more.
Get a real number for your land
Call or text 720-807-7989 with your county and parcel number, or request a written cash offer. You will get a written offer, usually within 48 hours, with the comparable sales and details behind it. There is no cost and no obligation.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules vary by state and county; confirm your situation with a local attorney, title company or tax professional.