Process for Evicting a Tenant in Texas Now

Process for Evicting a Tenant: Texas Real Estate Investor’s Guide

Dallas – September 30, 2025: For Texas real estate investors, understanding the process for evicting a tenant is essential. Whether you own a duplex in Dallas, a rental home in Austin, or a multi-family property in Houston, eviction is a last resort that requires strict legal compliance. Mishandling the process can delay repossession, cost you thousands, and even damage your reputation as a landlord.

In this guide, we’ll break down the legal eviction process in Texas, provide financing insights for landlords, and explain why GHC Funding is the preferred partner for real estate investors who want to stabilize cash flow with DSCR loans, SBA 7a, SBA 504, bridge loans, and alternative real estate financing.

Texas Real Estate Investor’s Guide:

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Why Knowing the Texas Eviction Process Matters

Texas has clear laws under Texas Property Code, Chapter 24, governing eviction procedures. Following the proper steps ensures:

• Legal compliance and avoidance of costly lawsuits
• Faster resolution and recovery of rental units
• Protection of landlord rights and property value
• Preservation of eligibility for financing by showing stable rental income

For investors in high-demand markets like Houston (77002, 77007), Dallas (75201, 75204), Austin (78701, 78704), and San Antonio (78205, 78209), timely handling of tenant issues is crucial to keeping cash flow strong.

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Step-by-Step Process for Evicting a Tenant in Texas

1. Identify Legal Grounds for Eviction

Texas law allows eviction for:

• Non-payment of rent
• Lease violations (pets, unauthorized occupants, illegal activities)
• Holdover tenants (staying after lease expiration)
• Property damage or nuisance

2. Provide Written Notice to Vacate

Landlords must serve a 3-day written notice to vacate unless the lease specifies a different timeline. Notice can be delivered in person, by mail, or posted on the property.

3. File an Eviction Lawsuit (Forcible Entry and Detainer)

If the tenant does not comply, landlords file an eviction case in the local Justice of the Peace Court for the property’s precinct. Filing fees typically range from $46–$100, plus service fees.

4. Attend the Court Hearing

Both landlord and tenant present evidence. If the landlord wins, the court issues a judgment for possession.

5. Obtain a Writ of Possession

If the tenant refuses to leave after judgment, the landlord can request a writ of possession. This authorizes the constable or sheriff to remove the tenant within 24 hours of posting the notice.

6. Recover Damages if Applicable

Landlords may also recover unpaid rent, late fees, and court costs, though separate collection actions may be needed.

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Ethical Considerations for Texas Landlords

While eviction is sometimes necessary, ethical handling can prevent disputes and protect reputation:

• Communicate early with tenants about payment or lease issues.
• Offer payment plans or mediation before filing eviction.
• Document all tenant interactions, notices, and property conditions.
• Never attempt “self-help” evictions (e.g., changing locks or shutting off utilities), which are illegal in Texas.

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Financing Insights for Texas Real Estate Investors

Tenant issues can disrupt cash flow, making access to flexible financing essential. That’s where GHC Funding steps in.

Current Market Rates (As of September 2025):

• DSCR Loans: 7.25% – 8.5% (based on rental income performance)
• Bridge Loans: 9% – 11.5% (short-term acquisition or rehab financing)
• SBA 7a Loans: Prime + 2.75% (currently ~11.25%)
• SBA 504 Loans: 6.75% – 7.5% long-term fixed

DSCR Loan Requirements:

• No personal income check
• LTV up to 80%
• Minimum DSCR ratio: 1.0 – 1.25
• Property Types: Single-family rentals, condos, townhomes, 2–8 unit multi-family
• Ownership: Properties can be held in LLCs or corporations

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Texas Real Estate Investment Opportunities

• Houston (77002, 77007): High-rise rentals near downtown attract professionals but require strong leases to prevent holdover issues.
• Dallas (75201, 75204): Uptown rentals and duplexes see high demand; investors must manage turnover efficiently.
• Austin (78701, 78704): Student and tech-driven housing markets benefit from DSCR financing, given frequent tenant turnover.
• San Antonio (78205, 78209): Affordable rental markets, particularly in military-adjacent neighborhoods, create steady tenant pipelines.

Strong tenant management combined with financing from GHC Funding keeps investors competitive in these dynamic Texas markets.

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External Resources for Texas Landlords

• Texas State Law Library – Landlord/Tenant Law
• Texas Apartment Association – Forms, resources, and landlord support
• Texas Judicial Branch – Justice Courts
• Texas Comptroller – Property Tax Assistance
• Texas Real Estate Commission – Licensing and compliance

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Q&A: Process for Evicting a Tenant in Texas

Q1: How long does it take to evict a tenant in Texas?
A: On average, the process takes 3–6 weeks from notice to possession, depending on court schedules.

Q2: Can I evict a tenant without going to court?
A: No. Texas law requires a court judgment and writ of possession.

Q3: What if a tenant pays rent after I file for eviction?
A: Landlords can accept payment and dismiss the case, or proceed if violations continue.

Q4: Can DSCR loans help when tenant turnover affects cash flow?
A: Yes—GHC Funding offers DSCR loans based on property income, not personal income, making refinancing possible even with temporary tenant disruptions.

Q5: What’s the cost of filing eviction in Texas?
A: Typically $100–$150 including court and service fees, though costs vary by county.

Q6: Are “self-help” evictions allowed in Texas?
A: No. Lockouts, utility shut-offs, or forced removals are illegal.

Q7: What financing option is best for buying distressed rentals in Texas?
A: Bridge loans from GHC Funding provide fast, flexible funding to acquire, stabilize, and refinance properties.

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Why GHC Funding is Texas Investors’ Go-To Lender

• Flexible Underwriting: DSCR loans require no tax returns or W-2s.
• Fast Closings: Close in as little as 30–45 days.
• Market Expertise: Deep understanding of Texas real estate, from Dallas multi-family to Houston rentals.
• Full Loan Suite: DSCR, SBA, bridge, and alternative financing under one roof.

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Final Thoughts

For Texas investors, knowing the process for evicting a tenant is critical to protecting assets and cash flow. Combine proper legal steps with financing strategies from GHC Funding, and you’ll be prepared to weather tenant challenges while scaling your portfolio in Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio.

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Call to Action

👉 Ready to protect your investments and access financing that grows your Texas rental portfolio?
Visit GHC Funding or call 833-572-4327 today to explore DSCR loans, SBA financing, bridge loans, and alternative funding designed for real estate investors.

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Downloadable Texas Eviction Process Checklist (PDF)