# CNAT Title > Community National Title, a real estate title company in DFW and Austin. ## Posts - [How Long Does Closing Take in Texas?](https://cnattitle.com/how-long-does-closing-take-in-texas/): Most financed home purchases in Texas close in about 30 days from the signed contract to the closing table. Cash purchases can close in as little as a week to ten days, because there is no lender underwriting to wait on. A typical 30-day timeline Week 1. Earnest money and option fee are delivered, the […] - [Earnest Money in Texas: How It Works and When You Get It Back](https://cnattitle.com/earnest-money-in-texas/): Earnest money is a good-faith deposit the buyer makes shortly after going under contract, typically around one percent of the sales price in Texas. It is not an extra fee. It is held safely by the escrow agent and credited toward your down payment and closing costs at the closing table. How much, and when […] - [New Texas Homeowner? File Your Homestead Exemption (It Is Free)](https://cnattitle.com/texas-homestead-exemption-new-homeowners/): If you bought a home in Texas and live in it as your primary residence, filing your homestead exemption belongs at the top of your to-do list. It is free, it takes a few minutes, and it lowers your property tax bill every year you own the home. What the homestead exemption actually saves Two […] - [The Texas Option Period, Explained](https://cnattitle.com/texas-option-period-explained/): In a Texas home purchase, the option period is a negotiated number of days at the start of the contract when the buyer can terminate for any reason and get their earnest money back. The buyer pays the seller a small option fee for that unrestricted right. Inspections and repair negotiations happen inside this window. […] - [What Does Title Insurance Cover in Texas?](https://cnattitle.com/what-does-title-insurance-cover-in-texas/): Title insurance protects your ownership of a property from problems that happened before you bought it, like forged deeds, missing heirs, or old liens that were never released. You pay one premium at closing, and an owner’s policy protects you for as long as you or your heirs own the home. In Texas, the state […] - [Who Pays Closing Costs in Texas?](https://cnattitle.com/who-pays-closing-costs-in-texas/): Both the buyer and the seller pay closing costs in Texas, but they pay for different things. By custom, the seller pays for the owner’s title policy and the buyer pays the costs tied to their loan, with the escrow fee split down the middle. And almost every line item is negotiable in the contract. […] - [How Federal CDFI Funding Cuts Could Impact Texas Homebuyers and Real Estate Transactions](https://cnattitle.com/how-federal-cdfi-funding-cuts-could-impact-texas-homebuyers-and-real-estate-transactions/): A Quiet Policy Change With Loud Consequences for Texas Real Estate If you’re not familiar with Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), you’re not alone, but you’ve likely benefited from their work without knowing it. These specialized lenders help finance home purchases for buyers who don’t fit the conventional lending mold: self-employed borrowers, first-time buyers with […] - [Home Equity Investments Under the Microscope: What Texas Real Estate Professionals Need to Know](https://cnattitle.com/home-equity-investments-under-the-microscope-what-texas-real-estate-professionals-need-to-know/): A New Player in Home Financing Is Drawing Regulatory Attention If you haven’t heard of Home Equity Investments (HEIs) yet, you likely will soon. These financial products, which allow homeowners to access their equity without monthly payments or interest charges, are projected to exceed $5 billion in volume by 2026. But as HEIs grow in […] - [What the Real Brokerage-RE/MAX Merger Means for Texas Real Estate Agents and Your Next Transaction](https://cnattitle.com/what-the-real-brokerage-re-max-merger-means-for-texas-real-estate-agents-and-your-next-transaction/): A Major Shift in Real Estate Is Underway. Here’s What You Need to Know The real estate industry just witnessed one of its most significant consolidations in recent history. Real, a technology-driven brokerage that’s been reshaping how agents work, announced it will acquire RE/MAX, one of the most recognized names in real estate, in an […] - [How New Home Inspection Trends Are Changing Texas Real Estate Transactions in 2026](https://cnattitle.com/how-new-home-inspection-trends-are-changing-texas-real-estate-transactions-in-2026/): What’s Happening with Home Inspections, and Why It Matters to Your Transaction If you’ve noticed home inspections taking longer or becoming more comprehensive lately, you’re not imagining things. The home inspection industry is experiencing significant changes that are reshaping how real estate transactions unfold, particularly in fast-growing Texas markets like Austin, San Antonio, and the […] - [What 10 Years of Housing Data Reveals About the 2026 Market and the Signals to Watch](https://cnattitle.com/what-10-years-of-housing-data-reveals-about-the-2026-market-and-the-signals-to-watch/): The Housing Market Isn’t What It Seems on the Surface If you’ve been following housing headlines lately, you might feel like you’re getting mixed signals. Some reports show strength, others predict slowdowns, and everyone seems to have a different take on where we’re headed in 2026. Here’s the truth: the market is more nuanced than […] - [The Homeownership Assumption: Why Younger Buyers Are Rewriting the Rules in Texas](https://cnattitle.com/the-homeownership-assumption-why-younger-buyers-are-rewriting-the-rules-in-texas/): When the American Dream Gets a Rewrite For decades, the path seemed clear: graduate, get a job, buy a house, build equity, retire comfortably. But if you’re a real estate professional in Texas, you’ve likely noticed something shifting. That 28-year-old software engineer in Austin isn’t jumping at your pitch about building generational wealth. The young […] - [Why Your Title Company Does More Than You Think: The Human Expertise Behind Every Closing](https://cnattitle.com/why-your-title-company-does-more-than-you-think-the-human-expertise-behind-every-closing/): Technology Speeds Things Up. But It Can’t Protect Your Property Rights We live in an age where you can buy almost anything with a few clicks. So when you’re purchasing a home, it’s natural to wonder: why does the title process take so long? Can’t artificial intelligence just handle all this paperwork instantly? The short […] - [ADUs in Texas: How Accessory Dwelling Units Are Changing the Real Estate Landscape](https://cnattitle.com/adus-in-texas-how-accessory-dwelling-units-are-changing-the-real-estate-landscape/): The Quiet Housing Revolution Happening in Texas Backyards Drive through many Texas neighborhoods today, and you might notice something new: small, thoughtfully designed structures tucked behind existing homes. These aren’t just fancy sheds, they’re Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and they’re quickly becoming one of the most practical solutions to housing affordability, multigenerational living, and property […] - [How Local Housing Fees Can Derail Development Projects: What Texas Real Estate Professionals Should Watch For](https://cnattitle.com/how-local-housing-fees-can-derail-development-projects-what-texas-real-estate-professionals-should-watch-for/): The Affordable Housing Paradox Affecting Your Transactions Here’s an irony that’s impacting real estate markets across the country: local governments trying to solve affordable housing challenges are sometimes making it harder to build homes at all. For real estate professionals in Texas, understanding this trend isn’t just about policy, it’s about anticipating what could stall […] - [Why Mortgage Licensing Should Matter to Every Texas Real Estate Professional](https://cnattitle.com/why-mortgage-licensing-should-matter-to-every-texas-real-estate-professional/): The Hidden Risk That Could Derail Your Next Closing If you’re a real estate agent, investor, or title professional in Texas, there’s a compliance issue quietly gaining momentum that deserves your attention: mortgage licensing for private lenders. While it might sound like regulatory minutiae, the consequences of working with improperly licensed lenders can be severe, […] - [The Rental Market Has Entered Its Infrastructure Era: What Texas Real Estate Professionals Need to Know](https://cnattitle.com/the-rental-market-has-entered-its-infrastructure-era-what-texas-real-estate-professionals-need-to-know/): Why the Rental Market Shift Matters to Your Business If you’ve noticed rental transactions taking up more of your workday, you’re not imagining things. The rental market across Texas, from Austin’s booming downtown high-rises to Houston’s sprawling suburban communities, has fundamentally changed. What was once considered a secondary revenue stream for many real estate professionals […] - [Beyond the Sales Pitch: How Real Estate Professionals Should Evaluate Technology](https://cnattitle.com/beyond-the-sales-pitch-how-real-estate-professionals-should-evaluate-technology/): The Tech Overload Challenge in Real Estate Walk into any real estate conference, and you’ll be bombarded with technology vendors promising to revolutionize your business. Open your inbox, and you’ll find a dozen PropTech companies claiming their platform is the “game-changer” you’ve been waiting for. For real estate professionals and title companies alike, the challenge […] - [What Texas Real Estate Professionals Need to Know About AI-Powered Land Intelligence](https://cnattitle.com/what-texas-real-estate-professionals-need-to-know-about-ai-powered-land-intelligence/): The Future of Land Search Has Arrived in Texas If you’re a real estate professional in Texas, you’ve likely experienced the frustration: a client wants to know if that vacant lot can be subdivided, a developer needs zoning information across multiple counties, or a buyer wants to understand what can actually be built on a […] - [How Off-Market Deals and Investor Competition Are Reshaping Texas Real Estate](https://cnattitle.com/how-off-market-deals-and-investor-competition-are-reshaping-texas-real-estate/): A Quiet Shift That’s Changing Everything If you’ve been in the Texas real estate market lately, you’ve probably noticed something different. Homes are selling before they hit the MLS. First-time buyers are getting outbid by cash offers. Properties in the $100,000-$300,000 range seem to disappear overnight. What you’re witnessing isn’t just a hot market, it’s […] ## Pages - [2026 Local School District Ratings](https://cnattitle.com/resources/school-ratings/): Realtor & Client Resource 2026 Local School District Ratings DFW Metroplex + Austin Area Explore official 2026 A-F accountability ratings for local public school districts, sourced from TXSchools.gov and the Texas Education Agency. Search TXSchools.gov Browse Local Ratings Ratings are preliminary and may change following TEA review, appeals, or updates. DFW Metroplex Source: TXSchools.gov | […] - [Austin Homestead Exemption](https://cnattitle.com/homestead-exemption/austin/): All markets Property Tax Savings Austin Homestead Exemption If you bought a home in Texas and live in it as your primary residence, the homestead exemption lowers your property tax bill every year you own the home. You file once, with your county appraisal district, and it is completely free. It is free to file. […] - [Homestead Exemption](https://cnattitle.com/homestead-exemption/): Property Tax Savings File Your Homestead Exemption If you live in your home as your primary residence, the homestead exemption lowers your property taxes every year. You file once, directly with your county appraisal district, and it is completely free. Pick your market to find your county. Dallas – Fort Worth DFW Metroplex Dallas, Tarrant, […] - [DFW Homestead Exemption](https://cnattitle.com/homestead-exemption/dfw/): All markets Property Tax Savings DFW Homestead Exemption If you bought a home in Texas and live in it as your primary residence, the homestead exemption lowers your property tax bill every year you own the home. You file once, with your county appraisal district, and it is completely free. It is free to file. […] - [News & Insights](https://cnattitle.com/blog/): CNAT Blog | News & Updates - [Wire Fraud Warning](https://cnattitle.com/wire-fraud/): Protect Your Closing Funds Wire Fraud Warning Wire fraud is the single biggest financial threat in a real estate transaction. Criminals steal down payments and closing funds by sending buyers fake wiring instructions that look completely legitimate. Once money is wired to a fraudster, it is often gone within hours. CNAT Title will never change […] - [404](https://cnattitle.com/404-2/): Oops! We can't seem to find that page..... - [Glossary](https://cnattitle.com/glossary/): Title & Closing Reference Glossary of Title Terms Plain-English definitions of the words you will see on your contract, your title commitment, and at the closing table. Tap any term to expand it. A to E F to M N to S T to Z A to E Abstract of Title A condensed history of […] - [Privacy Policy](https://cnattitle.com/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy CNAT Title website is owned by Community National Title, LLC, DBA CNAT Title, which is a data controller of your personal data. We have adopted this Privacy Policy, which determines how we are processing the information collected by CNAT Title, which also provides the reasons why we must collect certain personal data about […] - [Commercial](https://cnattitle.com/commercial/): Commercial Closings Where Experience Meets Execution. Buying or selling commercial real estate comes with unique challenges. Hidden liens, easements, or ownership restrictions can derail transactions. Where Knowledge Drives Success Retail, Industrial & Office Spaces Expert handling of office buildings, retail centers, and industrial properties. More Info Multifamily & Apartment Complexes Title solutions for residential investment […] - [Right Of Way](https://cnattitle.com/right-of-way/): Right Of Way Clearing the Way for Progress From highways to utility projects, CNAT Title is the trusted partner for seamless Right of Way acquisitions and transactions across Texas. what are… Right of Way Transactions Right of Way projects come with unique challenges. Multiple stakeholders, regulatory hurdles, and tight timelines. CNAT Title ensures clear titles, […] - [Residential](https://cnattitle.com/residential/): Residential Closings Your Home, Your Future. We Make It Happen Whether you’re buying, selling, or refinancing Need to send your earnest money & option fee? Bank Shot Send your Earnest Money & Option Fee with Secure, Flexible Payments Send Payment Want to estimate your closing costs? CNAT Agent ONE Instant Estimates and direct answers for […] - [Contact Us](https://cnattitle.com/contact-us/): Contact Us need to send your order? - [Faq](https://cnattitle.com/faq/): Frequently Asked Questions By Topic General Questions What is title insurance, and why do I need it? Title insurance is a specialized insurance policy that protects property buyers (and lenders) from problems with the title (ownership) history. It covers issues such as past ownership claims, unpaid liens, or title defects that could threaten your property […] - [Austin](https://cnattitle.com/austin/): AUSTIN CNAT Central 1317 W 6th St. Austin, Texas 78703 M – F | 9:00am – 5:00pm (512) 474-2362 ClosingTeam@cnattitle.com < Back CNAT Midtown 1708 W. Koenig Ln. Austin, TX 78756 M – F | 9:00am – 5:00pm (512) 474-2362 ClosingTeam@cnattitle.com < Back 306 N. Lampasas St. Round Rock, TX 78664 Appointment only (512) 474-2362 […] - [Burleson](https://cnattitle.com/burleson/): BURLESON 501 SW Wilshire Blvd, Suite B Burleson, TX 76028 M – F | 8:30am – 5:30pm (817) 632-6326 orderdesk@cnattitle.com < Back to Locations 501 SW Wilshire Blvd, Suite B Burleson, TX 76028 M – F | 8:30am – 5:30pm (817) 632-6326 orderdesk@cnattitle.com < Back to Locations - [Frisco](https://cnattitle.com/frisco/): FRISCO 7075 Main Street Frisco, TX 75034 M – F | 8:30am – 5:30pm (972) 587-0867 teamfrisco@cnattitle.com < Back to Locations 7075 Main Street Frisco, TX 75034 M – F | 8:30am – 5:30pm (972) 587-0867 teamfrisco@cnattitle.com < Back to Locations - [Fort Worth](https://cnattitle.com/fort-worth/): FORT WORTH 2800 S Hulen St., Ste 102 Fort Worth, TX 76109 M – F | 8:30am – 5:30pm (817) 632-6326 teamfw@cnattitle.com < Back to Locations 2800 S Hulen St., Ste 102 Fort Worth, TX 76109 M – F | 8:30am – 5:30pm (817) 632-6326 teamfw@cnattitle.com < Back to Locations - [Dallas](https://cnattitle.com/dallas/): DALLAS 14800 Quorum Drive, Suite 150 Dallas, TX 75254 M – F | 8:30am – 5:30pm (972) 528-6071 addison@cnattitle.com < Back to Locations 14800 Quorum Drive, Suite 150 Dallas, TX 75254 M – F | 8:30am – 5:30pm (972) 528-6071 addison@cnattitle.com < Back to Locations - [Locations](https://cnattitle.com/locations/): LOCATIONS Austin Burleson Dallas Fort Worth Frisco Austin – Central (512) 474-2362 M – F | 9:00- 5:00 ClosingTeam@cnattitle.com Austin – Midtown (512) 474-2362 M – F | 9:00- 5:00 ClosingTeam@cnattitle.com Burleson (817) 632-6326 M – F | 8:30- 5:30 TeamFW@cnattitle.com Dallas (972) 528-6071 M – F | 8:30- 5:30 addison@cnattitle.com Fort Worth (817) 632-6326 […] - [Resources](https://cnattitle.com/resources/): RESOURCES Guides, Tools, and Strategies You Can Trust Realtors® & Brokers Realtors® & Brokers Homebuyers & Sellers Homebuyers & Sellers Mortgage Professionals Mortgage Professionals At CNAT Title, we provide a range of resources and solutions to support you—whether you’re a current or future homeowner, a dedicated agent guiding the way, or a trusted lender securing […] - [Join Us](https://cnattitle.com/join-us/): Join Us Do you want to learn more about the CNAT Team? Let’s Connect Email careers@cnattitle.com Phone (972)528 – 6071 Join Us Do you want to learn more about the CNAT Title team? Curious about current open positions? Let’s Connect Email careers@cnattitle.com Phone (972)528 – 6071 Explore Current Job Openings We’re always looking for talented, motivated, […] - [Services](https://cnattitle.com/services/): SERVICES In office, remote, or virtual – your preferences shape your experience Closing on your property should feel as exciting as it is rewarding. At community national title, we combine cutting-edge technology with a human touch to make the closing process effortless. Residential Buying, selling, or refinancing? We make closings seamless, secure, and stress-free. With […] - [Our Culture](https://cnattitle.com/our-culture/): OUR CULTURE It’s not really a secret. It’s just common sense. OUR CULTURE It’s not really a secret. It’s just common sense. At the core of everything we do, one powerful idea fuels our success: Dope  Culture. Dope  Culture. Dope  Culture. It’s not just a buzzword. It’s the heartbeat of who we are. At CNAT, we combine hustle […] - [Our Story](https://cnattitle.com/our-story/): OUR STORY Motivated by the belief that success is a shared journey… founded on the principle that growth happens together. Johnny Collins President …”strong relationships mean always showing up. That same mindset drives CNAT. We don’t just support our clients, we push them toward their goals. Plenty of title companies exist, but none invest in […] - [About Us](https://cnattitle.com/about-us/): ABOUT US 0 + Happy Clients 0 years Of Teamwork At Community National Title, we’re rewriting the rules of the title industry, Texas style. We bring a fresh, modern approach to every transaction, offering personalized service that feels more like a partnership than a process. We’re the perfect mix of innovation and experience, bold, energetic, […] - [Home](https://cnattitle.com/): Community National Title rewriting the rules of the title industry – one client at a time Open Title Send your next transaction to CNAT Title Established 2013 founded & fuELEdby relationships 20K+ Transactions can’t stop, won’t stop Dope Vibes dope people, doing dope things Services Closing On Your Property Should Feel As Exciting As It […] ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/cnattitle.com/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)