A T-47 Residential Real Property Affidavit is a notarized document used in Texas real estate transactions to confirm that an existing property survey accurately reflects the current condition of the property. The seller provides this affidavit along with an existing survey to affirm that no changes have been made to the property that would impact the survey's accuracy. This saves the buyer from the expense of obtaining a new survey, provided the existing one is still valid and acceptable to the title company and lender.
When is a T-47 Required?
A T-47 is required when:
The seller is providing an existing survey to the buyer as part of the contract.
The property has not undergone substantial changes (e.g., additions, new structures, pools, fences, or other alterations) since the survey was originally completed.
If the property has been significantly altered, a new survey will likely be needed.
Instructions for Completing a T-47
Review the Survey
Locate the existing survey for your property. Carefully review it to confirm there have been no substantial changes to the property’s boundaries, structures, or improvements.
Download the T-47 Form
Obtain a T-47 Residential Real Property Affidavit form. Your real estate agent or title company can provide this, or you can find it online through a reputable source.
Complete the Form
Fill out the T-47 affidavit with the following details:
Seller's name and property address.
Date of the survey and the name of the surveyor.
Indicate whether there have been any changes or improvements since the survey. If there have been no changes, state that explicitly.
Sign Before a Notary
The T-47 affidavit must be signed in the presence of a notary public. Be sure to bring a valid ID for notarization.
Provide to Title Company
Submit the completed and notarized T-47 affidavit along with the survey to the title company handling the transaction. This allows them to determine if the existing survey can be accepted.
Keep a Copy
Retain a copy of the affidavit and survey for your records.
Important Notes:
Ensure the survey matches the current condition of the property. If there have been changes (e.g., new pool, fence, or deck), a new survey may be required.
Providing a valid survey and T-47 affidavit can save the buyer money and streamline the closing process.
By offering an accurate survey with a T-47 affidavit, you increase the likelihood that the title company will accept the survey, potentially making your property more attractive to buyers.