As we kick off the spring selling season, many of our clients are thinking about buying or selling a home.

Completing the purchase or sale is one of the most exciting moments in that process. After you sign all the closing documents, money is transferred from the buyer to the seller, and buyers receive the keys to the new home.

Unfortunately, criminal hackers have found a way to insert themselves into the process and ruin it for everyone. While identity theft is always a risk, the latest development specifically targets real estate closings. Hackers are successfully accessing the email accounts and document management systems of Mortgage Lenders, Title Companies and Real Estate agents across the country with the intent to commit wire fraud.

As a homeowner, you’re entitled to a homestead exemption that will discount the property taxes you’re required to pay on your primary residence. 

The filing period is January 1 to April 30, so if you moved in 2017, now’s the time to file. Below are the links to exemption forms. 

• Travis County: Mailing Address: P.O. BOX 149012, Austin, TX 78714-9012 or File Online 
• Williamson County:Mailing Address: 625 FM 1460, Georgetown, TX 78626-8050 File Online
• Hays County: Mailing Address: 21001 IH 35 North, Kyle, Texas 78640
• Bastrop County: Mailing Address: P.O. Box 578, Bastrop, TX 78602 or Call 512-303-1930 ext. 22
• Burnet County: Mailing Address: P.O. Box 908, Burnet, TX 78611-0908
• Llano County: Mailing Address: 103 E. Sandstone St., Llano,