Tired of Taxes? Here's What Texas Voters Can Do About It This November

What tax-related decisions are on the 2025 Texas ballot—and how might they impact your wallet and property?

Texas voters face major decisions this November that could reshape the state’s approach to property taxes, capital gains, inheritance taxes, and more. From homestead exemptions to water infrastructure funding, these propositions will directly affect your homeownership costs, investment strategy, and long-term financial planning.

Key Tax Propositions to Watch in 2025

Here are some of the most impactful proposals on the ballot:

Proposition 2 (SJR 18): Capital Gains Tax Ban

What it says: “The constitutional amendment prohibiting the imposition of a tax on the realized or unrealized capital gains of an individual, family, estate, or trust.”

Why it matters: This would solidify Texas' reputation as a no-income-tax state and prevent any future attempts to introduce capital gains taxes. For homeowners and real estate investors, it ensures that appreciation in property value won’t face a surprise state tax.

Proposition 4 (HJR 7): Water Infrastructure Funding

Why it matters: Texas is growing fast—and so is its need for a reliable water supply. This amendment would fund critical projects to prevent shortages caused by aging infrastructure, droughts, and population spikes. A strong water system supports home values, livability, and regional growth.

Proposition 5 (HJR 99): Tax Exemption on Animal Feed

Why it matters: While this seems niche, it supports Texas’ farmers and ranchers by reducing overhead. Agricultural health directly affects land values and economic strength, especially in rural or transitional areas.

Proposition 6 (HJR 4): Securities Tax Ban

Why it matters: This protects against future taxation of securities transactions, which benefits individual investors and those managing portfolios for retirement or income. It adds another layer of financial stability for Texas residents.

Proposition 7 (HJR 133): Tax Exemption for Veterans’ Spouses

Why it matters: This provides meaningful financial relief to surviving spouses of veterans, reinforcing Texas' support for military families and potentially impacting local tax bases in veteran-heavy communities.

Proposition 8 (HJR 2): Inheritance Tax Ban

Why it matters: This would constitutionally ban inheritance or “death” taxes in Texas, protecting family wealth and real estate assets across generations.

Proposition 9 (HJR 1): Inventory and Equipment Tax Exemption

Why it matters: This reduces the tax burden on large and small business equipment and property used to generate income, which can encourage investment and expansion.

Proposition 10 (SJR 84): Tax Exemption for Homes Destroyed by Fire

Why it matters: This measure would provide much-needed relief to homeowners rebuilding after fire-related destruction—helping them recover without an unfair tax penalty.

Proposition 11 (SJR 85): School Tax Exemption for Elderly or Disabled Homeowners

Why it matters: Provides expanded property tax relief for some of Texas’ most vulnerable residents.

Proposition 13 (SJR 2): Increased School Tax Exemption for Homeowners

Why it matters: This would raise the homestead exemption from $100,000 to $140,000, helping homeowners save significantly on their annual property tax bills.

Proposition 17 (HJR 34): Property Tax Exemption for Border Security Infrastructure

Why it matters: While specific to a type of development, this could incentivize construction of security infrastructure by reducing tax obligations on those investments.

Why It Matters for You

As a homeowner, investor, or buyer across Texas—from Alliance DFW to Surfside Beach—these proposals could directly affect what you pay in property taxes and how you plan long-term. Voting for measures that reduce or prevent taxation can protect your wealth, while infrastructure funding propositions like Proposition 4 help ensure livability and property value growth.

Final Takeaway

From homestead exemptions to banning capital gains and inheritance taxes, the 2025 ballot offers Texans a unique chance to shape how our state manages taxes, growth, and property rights. Stay informed and vote for what will best support your future in Texas real estate.

Call to Action

Texans: make your voice heard this November. Register, review your sample ballot, and show up at the polls. Your property, your taxes, and your financial future depend on it.