ask george & chuck
Oct. 13, 2008

Tax exemptions, landlords collecting double rent
Answers to real estate questions as appearing
in the Houston Chronicle

Dear George: How do I apply for a homestead exemption?

Answer: Contact the office of your county appraisal district and ask for a residential homestead exemption form. A residential homestead exemption, along with any other exemptions for which you might qualify, is applicable to the owner of record as of January 1 of each year.

Dear George: Our 12-month lease began July 2, 2007, but we had to leave the area before our lease was up. We located a replacement tenant who moved into the home on June 29, 2008. We paid rent through the end of June, so we feel we're owed two days of rent. The owner, through the REALTOR® property manager, refuses to refund us the prorated rent. Isn't it illegal for a landlord to collect double rent?

Answer: Was the replacement tenant charged rent for the two days you are claiming a refund? You need to find out this fact. One way to open the lines of communication is to call the Texas Association of REALTORS® Ombudsman Program at 800/873-9155. This program is designed to handle situations where a consumer has a problem with a particular REALTOR®. A trained volunteer called an ombudsman will listen to your side of the isses and will contact the REALTOR® with whom you are having the problem to listen to his side. You could also sue the property owner before a justice of the peace, where you can represent yourself.