Texas REALTORS® Score Major Legislative Victory in 2025!

The 89th Texas Legislative Session has come to a close and Texas REALTORS® are celebrating a tremendous success at the Capitol. Many REALTOR®-friendly bills were passed into law, including all six of our top-priority legislative goals. This session marks one of the most impactful for REALTORS®, property owners, and future homeowners across the Lone Star State.

Agency Bill SB 1968 Becomes Law
Among the biggest wins: SB 1968, the long-anticipated Texas REALTORS® agency bill, has officially been enacted! This law will take effect January 1, 2026. This legislation strengthens agency practices in Texas and reflects years of advocacy by REALTORS® across the state.

More REALTOR® Backed Bills Cross the Finish Line
In addition to SB 1968, three other REALTOR®-supported bills received the Governor’s signature:

SB 1567 – Protects tenants in college towns by banning occupancy limits based on tenant relationships.

SB 15 – Allows for higher-density residential development in certain parts of large cities, helping to address housing supply challenges.

SB 785 – Requires cities to permit HUD-code manufactured homes in at least one residential zoning classification, increasing affordable housing options.

Major Property Tax Relief for Texans
Homeowners and businesses can also expect significant property tax relief thanks to several key bills:

For Homeowners:

SJR 2 / SB 4 – Raises the homestead exemption from $100,000 to $140,000 (pending voter approval on November 4, 2025; effective January 1, 2025).

SJR 85 / SB 23 – Increases the elderly/disabled exemption from $10,000 to $60,000 (effective January 1, 2025).

For Transparency and Business Investment:

HJR 1 / HB 9 – Exempts $125,000 of income-producing personal property (effective January 1, 2026).

SB 1025 – Ensures clearer ballot language on local tax increases (effective May 24, 2025).

SJR 18 – Prohibits the implementation of a state capital gains tax (pending voter approval on November 4, 2025).

A Session of Strategic Wins
These accomplishments reflect the power of strong member engagement, relentless advocacy, and strategic partnerships with elected officials. We extend our deep gratitude to Governor Greg Abbott, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Burrows, and the many legislators who worked alongside Texas REALTORS® to turn these priorities into reality.