The Brink Report

Austin Real Estate News & Advice

Title Commitment and Survey in a Texas Home Purchase: What to Read and What Can Kill a Deal

James Brinkman

Published on: 08/09/2026

The title commitment and survey are where a clean-looking Texas home deal quietly dies. How to read Schedules A-D, when you need a new survey and a T-47, the area-and-boundary exception, and how the objection clock protects your earnest money.

title commitmentsurveyT-47TREC contractTexas title insuranceNorthwest Austinbuyer guideclosing

What Northwest Austin Buyers Should Know About Wood-Shake and Aging Roofs on the Wildland Edge

James Brinkman

Published on: 28/08/2026

Wood-shake and aging roofs on Austin's wildland edge can decide whether you can insure a home at all. What buyers should check on roof material, age, cost, and coverage during the option period, before making an offer near the preserve.

wood shake roofwildfirehome insuranceroof replacementnorthwest austinbuyer guide

What Buyers Should Know About Buying a Home With a Private Well or Septic System on Northwest Austin's Outer Edges

James Brinkman

Published on: 22/08/2026

Some homes on Northwest Austin's outer edges run on a private well or a septic system instead of city utilities. Here is what that changes for your inspection, your costs, and what to verify before you make an offer.

private wellseptic systemOSSFNorthwest Austinbuyer guideaerobic septicTravis Countyhome inspection

What Buyers Should Know About Long Canyon Before Making an Offer (78730)

James Brinkman

Published on: 22/08/2026

Long Canyon in 78730 is a hillside, preserve-adjacent pocket off RM 2222 near River Place and Steiner Ranch. Here is the honest buyer breakdown: schools, lots, commute, and what to check before you offer.

Long Canyon78730West AustinLeander ISDVandegrifthillside lotsbuyer guideBalcones Canyonlands Preserve