Preserving Heirs’ Property in Bexar County
A growing, often invisible threat to generational wealth—and a clear opportunity for philanthropic action.
New analysis from Asset Funders Network and partners reveals how unclear property titles are putting thousands of homes at risk across Bexar County in south-central in Texas.
~12,000 homes
92% single-family
Higher tax delinquency risk
51,000+ older homeowners
Heirs’ property limits families’ ability to build and protect wealth, while increasing the risk of displacement and neighborhood instability. With targeted investment, these outcomes are preventable.
The Scale—and the Stakes
This is not a marginal issue—it is embedded in the core housing stock across Bexar County in south-central Texas.
Estimated heirs’ properties by residential type.
Where Risk Is Concentrated
Risk is not evenly distributed.
Certain neighborhoods face significantly higher likelihood of properties becoming heirs’ property—creating a clear opportunity for targeted, place-based investment.
The Cost of Inaction
Properties with potential title issues are significantly more likely to fall behind on property taxes—putting families at greater risk of foreclosure and loss.
“Every week they call on the phone. Plática participant