Texas real estate law applies to a wide range of property-related matters, and many Houston residents eventually encounter legal issues involving ownership, boundaries, or possession. Property disputes can delay transactions, cause financial harm, and even lead to lawsuits. Understanding the most common types of real estate disputes in Houston is the first step toward protecting your rights and avoiding unnecessary complications.
If you are facing a property issue, a qualified real estate law attorney in Houston can help guide you through your legal options and resolve the matter efficiently.
1. Partition Actions Between Co-Owners
Partition actions are among the most common real estate disputes in Houston. These arise when two or more people jointly own property and cannot agree on how it should be used, sold, or divided.
For example, siblings may inherit property together, or two unrelated individuals may invest in a property jointly. If one party wants to sell and the other does not, a partition action can help break the deadlock.
Under Texas law, there are two main forms of partition:
- Partition in kind – The court physically divides the land between the co-owners.
- Partition by sale – The court orders the property sold and divides the proceeds among the owners.
A Houston real estate law attorney can help file or respond to a partition lawsuit and ensure that your financial interests are protected during the process.
2. Title Disputes and Ownership Challenges
A title dispute occurs when two or more parties claim ownership of the same property. This type of conflict often involves unclear records, incomplete transactions, or overlapping deeds.
Title disputes may involve:
- Gaps in the chain of title
- Competing claims from heirs or prior owners
- Boundary disagreements affecting ownership
- Errors in public property records
Resolving a title dispute typically requires a formal legal action known as a trespass to try title lawsuit. This process allows the rightful owner to establish legal ownership and remove invalid claims.
If you’re involved in a title dispute, it’s important to speak with a real estate law attorney in Houston who can gather documentation, examine the title history, and file the necessary court proceedings.
3. Adverse Possession Claims
Adverse possession is a legal doctrine that allows someone to claim ownership of property they do not legally own if certain conditions are met. In Texas, this may occur if a person occupies land openly, continuously, and without permission for a certain number of years.
To successfully claim adverse possession, the occupant must show:
- Continuous possession of the land
- Open and visible use
- Hostile use (without permission)
- A claim of right to the property
These cases can become contentious, especially when the rightful owner discovers the claim years later. If someone is attempting to take your property through adverse possession—or if you believe you may have a valid claim—it’s critical to seek advice from a Houston real estate law attorney to evaluate your position and take appropriate legal steps.
4. Fraudulent Title or Deed Claims
Fraudulent real estate transactions are an increasing concern in the Houston area. Some individuals attempt to claim ownership of property using forged signatures, false information, or improperly filed documents.
These cases may involve:
- Forged deeds
- Deeds signed under duress or without consent
- Misrepresentation of ownership in sales
- Filing of false documents with the county
If you suspect that a property deed or title has been altered or fraudulently obtained, you may need to initiate a trespass to try title action or another court proceeding to clear your title and restore your property rights.
A qualified real estate law attorney in Houston can help investigate the claim, identify fraudulent activity, and correct title issues through proper legal channels.
Legal Help for Real Estate Disputes in Houston
Real estate disputes often escalate quickly and can lead to long-term financial harm if not addressed. Whether you are dealing with a co-owner disagreement, fraudulent deed, or someone trying to claim your property through adverse possession, taking prompt legal action is essential.
At the Law Office of Emily A. Bohls, we help Houston property owners resolve real estate disputes through focused legal representation. We work to protect your ownership rights and reach practical resolutions under Texas law.
We offer legal services in:
- Houston real estate law
- Houston real estate lawyer consultations
- Real estate law attorney representation in Houston and Harris County
In addition to real estate matters, our firm also handles Texas probate cases, guardianship proceedings, and criminal expunctions. If your property issue overlaps with estate or probate concerns, we can assist with a comprehensive legal solution.