Has the property had any major repairs or renovations?

Start with the seller's disclosure. In most states, the seller is legally required to fill out a disclosure form listing known material defects, past repairs, and renovations. This should tell you about roof replacements, foundation work, water damage history, HVAC replacements, electrical or plumbing updates, and any other significant work. Beyond the disclosure, pull the permit history from the local building department. Any major work that was done with permits will be on file, including the type of work, when it was done, and whether it passed final inspection. This is public record and you or your agent can request it. Your home inspection will also reveal signs of past work. An experienced inspector can spot patches in drywall that suggest plumbing or electrical repairs behind the walls, evidence of foundation repair, newer materials mixed with older ones, and other indicators that work has been done. If the seller says no major work has been done but the inspector finds evidence to the contrary, that's a red flag worth investigating further. And if the permit records show work that isn't on the disclosure, that's a conversation your agent needs to have with the listing agent before you proceed.

Start with the disclosures. Sellers are usually required to share known material repairs or issues, especially anything that affects value or safety. But it’s based on what they know, so don’t rely on that alone. Then check permits. Major work like roofs, electrical, plumbing, or additions typically requires permits. Your local city or county records will show what was done and if it was properly closed out. Also look at the listing history and ask your agent direct questions. Sometimes you’ll see patterns or recent updates there. Most important is your inspection. A good inspector can spot signs of past repairs, shortcuts, or work that wasn’t done right. Use all four together. Disclosures, permits, history, and inspection. That’s how you get the full picture.

Start with the disclosures. Sellers are required to share known material repairs or issues, especially anything that affects value or safety. But it’s only what they know, so don’t rely on that alone. Check permits next. Major work like roof, electrical, plumbing, or additions usually requires permits. City or county records will show what was done and if it was properly closed. Look at listing history and ask direct questions. Sometimes recent updates show up there. Then confirm everything with your inspection. A good inspector will spot signs of past repairs or work that wasn’t done right. Use all four. Disclosures, permits, history, and inspection. That’s how you get the full picture.

The seller should answer honestly when providing the seller disclosure notice, a required form in Texas, with exceptions. However, trust but verify is always a good policy. Using the expertise of an agent you trust is also always a good idea

A good agent should be able to fifure this out. The seller is ususally supposed to disclose only current active material defects.