Contracts

Under Texas law, if both a deed and a subsequent written contract address the same property but conflict, courts generally give priority to:

AThe earlier document
BThe deed (recorded instrument) over the unrecorded contract✓ Correct
CWhichever instrument was drafted by an attorney
DThe contract since it reflects the most recent agreement

Explanation

Under the merger doctrine, once a deed is delivered and accepted, the purchase contract merges into the deed. If the deed and contract conflict on a term, the deed generally controls for property rights (while the contract may control for collateral obligations). Recording gives priority over unrecorded instruments under Texas's race-notice statute.

Related Texas Contracts Questions

Practice More Texas Real Estate Questions

1,500+ questions covering all exam topics. Start free — no signup required.

Take the Free Texas Quiz →