Realtor guide: ag valuation at closing

Your buyers who are purchasing land with ag valuation need to know one thing: the old owner's tax break doesn't transfer. They have until April 30 to file a new application.

One-page buyer's guide (printable PDF)

Drop this into the closing packet or email it to your buyers. It explains the deadline, what they need, and their options.

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Copy-paste messages for your buyers

Use these to send your buyer a quick heads-up. Just copy and paste.

Text message

Quick heads-up: if your new land has ag valuation, it usually doesn't carry over at closing. You'll likely need to file your own application with the county appraisal district by April 30. Here's a guide: https://keepmyacres.com/

One more thing about your new land: if it's currently on agricultural valuation, the valuation usually ends at closing. You'll likely need to file your own application with your county appraisal district by April 30 to keep it. Here's a guide that explains what to do: https://keepmyacres.com/

Key dates for your buyers

Jan 1

Filing window opens

Buyers can start submitting applications to their county appraisal district.

Apr 30

Filing deadline

File with the county appraisal district by April 30. Late filings incur a 10% penalty on the tax difference.

Up to 1 year

Late-filing grace period (2026 law)

If the land stays in the same use and is managed by the same people, buyers have up to one year from closing to file with no penalty (HB 1244).

More information

For detailed guidance on agricultural and wildlife valuation in each Texas county, visit the ag valuation guide.

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