The Texas Coast stretches for 377 miles,however, much of it remains undeveloped.This is likely to change since Texas continuesto lead the nation in population growth andjob creation and this beautiful coastal regionis the most affordable waterfront destination.Therefore, many are predicting this tobecome the hottest real estate market overthe next decade.
What has kept so much of the Texas Coastunderdeveloped? There are two main factors:No one has invested in the infrastructureto spur development, and most visitors stilltend to flock to more “destination – oriented”spots like South Padre Island and Galveston.
Port Aransas, located within a short drivefrom three of the state’s largest cities, is aquaint coastal community ideally locatedfor major new growth. “Port A” – as localscall it – is the only incorporated communityon Mustang Island. Established in the early1900s, this community covers 8 square miles.It is recognized as one of the nation’s finestareas for bird watching, sport fishing, beachcombing, parasailing and other outdooractivities.
Over the years, Port Aransas hasexperienced slow steady growth and hasimproved its community airport and ferrysystem. Until recently, this area has primarilydrawn visitors from Central and SouthTexas to its miles of beautiful beaches andburgeoning live music venues.
Port Aransas has also become popular withpeople from the Midwest, Northern Statesand as far away as Canada, as these visitorsseek to escape winter climates for sunshineand warm breezes, making activity on theisland year–round. Recent additions, such asthe Arnold Palmer Signature golf course, arehelping contribute to the island’s reputationas a blossoming destination for national andinternational travelers.
New developments are underwaycomplementing with older, more establishedproperties. Many of the older developmentshave done a fair job staying relevant in theeyes of potential owners and renters.
However, newer properties tend toinclude updated amenities and conveniencesattractive to investors. Some of theseproperties follow the New Urbanism style ofdesign, adding features such as a pedestrianfriendlycommunity built with narrow streets,a town center and homes built in a consistentarchitectural style.
Other properties planned for the area,such as the Palmilla Port Aransas, will offerresort–like amenities and the opportunity forresidents to keep their boats on–site, stepsaway from their condominiums, an amenitylacking at a majority of island properties.
When considering a property as a secondhome or for investment, there are severalcriteria to help determine what best meetsyour needs. Look at established propertiesand new developments and decide what thebest long–term decision is for you. Whetheryou plan to rent the property or live in it as aprimary or secondary residence, you shouldexpect to hold it for three to five years.
When considering an existing property,consider the need to spend additionalresources to update it now or in the courseof ownership. If there are immediateimprovements, your capital and time could bebetter spent on a newer property that shouldrequire less attention. Compare amenities ofvarious properties to determine if they meetyour needs or would interest others lookingfor a vacation rental. Coastal propertyshould provide alternatives to spending theday on the beach. Is there a pool, a varietyof common areas and easy access to localactivities?
Many non–coastal residents seek propertieswith direct beach access. The thought is theywill walk form their doorstep to the beach.That usually doesn’t turn out to be the case.Frequently, after making one trip luggingitems needed for a day in the sun, vacationersrealize it is much easier and less stressful toload the car and drive to the beach. Mostcoastal residents agree that the upkeep of ahome located on the beach is much greaterthan one located only a few hundred feetaway on the bay side.
Another vital consideration is the propertymanagement company. Properties withon–site management are more convenient forthe investor and the renter. The managementcompany assumes the caretaker role for theproperty, directing routine maintenance oremergency calls and being available to watchyour investment on a daily basis. It can alsohandle the rental process, help ensure theproperty is cleaned and put back in orderafter each renter leaves and assist rentersshould issues arise.
This region is a growing asset for the state.Its popularity will continue to spread as thepublic and private sectors work together onresponsible development and the creationof destination–focused amenities. The areaoffers the most affordable coastal propertyin the nation. Buyers looking for a promisinginvestment for the future or simply awonderful and reasonably priced vacationspot for your family and friends, now is agreat time to explore the Texas Coast.
