Sponsored by

Howdy, Lone Star adventurers! 🌵

Welcome to this week’s journey through Texas real estate like you’ve never seen it before. From Colt McCoy’s surprising career pivot to multi-million-dollar ranches steeped in history and dream-worthy barndominiums, these stories reveal the bold moves, untapped potential, and quiet luxury shaping the Lone Star State.

Plus, we’re breaking down what you need to know about Buyer’s Representation Agreements—an essential game-changer for navigating today’s homebuying process.

Ready to dive into the untold stories and insider perspectives? Let’s get started.

📰 Upcoming in this issue

• From Quarterback to Real Estate Powerhouse: Colt McCoy’s Next Play in Fort Worth 🏈 

• $70M Greenlight: Gray Enterprises' Bold Plan to Transform Liberty County 🏘️

• A Barndominium Like No Other: 2,700 Sq Ft of Dream Living at Lake Fork 🏠

• Escape to Texas Paradise: Legendary $3.9M Ranch Hits the Market 🌅

• The Game-Changer for Texas Homebuyers: New Rules You Can’t Afford to Ignore 🏠

• George W. Bush: Rooted in Texas at the Bush Ranch

📈 Trending news

• Elon Musk's Texas Empire: A Glimpse Into His Billion-Dollar Real Estate Portfolio

• Must-Have Upgrades for Your Barndominium

• Inside the Ultimate 30x40 Man-Cave Barndominium

• Beloved Texas State Park Expands with Major Land Addition

• 9 Texas Towns That Take You Back in Time

From Quarterback to Real Estate Powerhouse: Colt McCoy’s Next Play in Fort Worth 🏈 read the full 1,170-word article here

Article published: January 9, 2025

After 14 years in the NFL, Colt McCoy is trading touchdowns for Texas real estate, and his next big win might just be in Fort Worth. In Fort Worth Inc.’s article “From Field to Fort: Colt McCoy Discovers Life After Football in Real Estate in Fort Worth”, McCoy takes us through his journey from football star to leader in one of the most dynamic industries in the country.

Now at the helm of HPI’s new Fort Worth office, McCoy likens his role to being a quarterback again: building a team with shared goals, passion, and vision. But this isn’t just another career move—it’s deeply personal. Fort Worth isn’t just where he lives; it’s where he’s planting roots, giving back to the community, and taking on the fastest-growing big city in America.

From shadowing family offices during NFL off-seasons to falling in love with real estate’s limitless possibilities, McCoy’s pivot proves that leadership and grit don’t just belong on the field.

Key Takeaways:

• 🏙️ Fort Worth Focus: McCoy leads HPI’s new office, launching a full-service real estate platform in the nation’s fastest-growing city.

• 🏡 A Passion for Real Estate: During his NFL off-seasons, McCoy dove into investing, development, and leasing, igniting his passion for the field.

• 🤝 Leadership Roots: Drawing from his days as a quarterback, McCoy is building a team with shared goals and a drive to create something special.

• ✝️ Faith and Family: McCoy credits his faith and proximity to his family in Tuscola and Fort Worth for guiding this new chapter in his life.

$70M Greenlight: Gray Enterprises' Bold Plan to Transform Liberty County 🏘️ read the full 580-word article here

Article published: January 9, 2025

How do you build a 2,500-acre dream community in one of the fastest-growing regions in the U.S.? With a $70 million bond and an unstoppable vision. Gray Enterprises, led by Eddie V. Gray, is spearheading a massive housing project in Liberty County’s River Ranch—and it’s set to redefine Southeast Texas living.

This bond will fund 1,930 homesites, just the beginning of an ambitious plan to deliver over 6,600 homes, apartments, shops, and restaurants by 2035. Backed by the National Finance Authority, the project brings together 15 powerhouse builders, including D.R. Horton and PulteGroup, with home prices ranging from $300,000 to $500,000+.

Strategically located just outside hurricane zones and amidst Houston’s booming population growth, River Ranch promises both safety and community. With aggressive builder incentives to combat high mortgage rates, this development is poised to meet Houston’s skyrocketing housing demand.

Key Takeaways:

• 🌆 2,500-Acre Masterpiece: River Ranch will include 6,600+ homes, apartments, shops, and restaurants, completed in phases by 2035.

• 💸 $70M Bond Secured: The National Finance Authority is fueling 1,930 homesites in Liberty County to kickstart the project.

• 🚜 Top Builders on Board: 15 major builders, including D.R. Horton and PulteGroup, will deliver high-quality, mid-range homes.

• 📈 Houston Housing Boom: With 140,000+ residents added in 2023, Houston’s population surge ensures strong demand for the development.

A Barndominium Like No Other: 2,700 Sq Ft of Dream Living at Lake Fork 🏠 watch the full 15-min video here

Video published: January 11, 2025

What do you get when you combine rustic charm, modern elegance, and Texas-sized customization? 1845 Barndominiums’ latest masterpiece: a stunning 2,700 sq. ft. barndominium at Lake Fork. In The Barndo Channel’s episode, “Lake Fork Barndominium Reveal: A 2,700 sq ft Dream Home from 1845 Barndominiums,” we’re taken inside a truly unique home that’s sure to leave you in awe.

With a Hawaiian Blue and Brilliant White exterior, coffered ceilings, custom beams, and a sprawling 43-ft back porch, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is a perfect blend of beauty and functionality. Inside, you’ll find a media room, a library, and even an office tucked neatly off the garage. Every detail—down to the built-in cabinetry and natural light—is designed for comfort and style.

Whether you’re dreaming of wide-open Texas living or just curious about barndominiums, this reveal offers serious inspiration.

Key Takeaways:

• 🌟 Coffered Ceilings & Custom Beams: A checkerboard ceiling pattern adds sophistication rarely seen in barndominiums.

• 🛋️ Custom Layouts Galore: Includes a media room, office, and library—all tailored to the homeowner’s vision.

• 🖌️ Striking Exterior Design: Hawaiian Blue siding, Brilliant White trim, and gray stone wainscoting create a bold, modern look.

• 🌞 Natural Light Everywhere: Large windows and French doors brighten every corner, even on cloudy Texas days.

Escape to Texas Paradise: Legendary $3.9M Ranch Hits the Market 🌅 read the full 820-word article here

Article published: January 12, 2025

What if you could own a piece of Texas history—a place where sprawling 190-acre landscapes meet the tranquil hum of nature? The Pharme, a one-of-a-kind retreat in Wills Point, has just hit the market for $3.9 million, and it’s the stuff of Lone Star dreams.

Originally built by legendary real estate broker Robert Grunnah, this breathtaking estate blends rustic charm with modern luxury. Imagine sipping coffee on the porch of the 5,600-square-foot home, shaded by pecan trees, while horses roam the pastures and the sunrise paints the horizon.

This is more than a property—it’s an escape. Complete with nine serene ponds, horse-breeding facilities, and a legacy of love for nature and family, The Pharme offers a rare chance to embrace peace without sacrificing access to Dallas, just an hour away.

Key Takeaways:

• 🌟 A Sanctuary Like No Other: 190 acres of pristine Texas countryside, perfect for privacy, relaxation, and reconnecting with nature.

• 🏠 Elegant Ranch Living: A 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath home designed for comfort, with shaded porches and stunning views.

• 🐎 Equestrian Bliss: Features pastures and former horse-breeding facilities for authentic ranching opportunities.

• 🪵 A Timeless Legacy: Created by real estate legend Robert Grunnah, this estate reflects a lifetime of care, nature, and family values.

The Game-Changer for Texas Homebuyers: New Rules You Can’t Afford to Ignore 🏠 read the full 660-word article here

Article published: January 10, 2025

Buying a home in Texas just got a new playbook. Starting August 2024, all homebuyers nationwide must sign a Buyer’s Representation Agreement before viewing properties. While this might sound like a hassle, in Texas, it’s business as usual—but now with added clarity and fairness for everyone involved.

Shannon Meuse, a seasoned agent with All City Real Estate, calls the agreement a "win-win for both buyers and agents." This document guarantees that agents act in the buyer’s best interest, while buyers commit to loyalty and transparency. It’s not just paperwork—it’s a partnership.

By defining responsibilities, payment terms, and expectations upfront, this agreement clears the air for smoother transactions, deeper trust, and fewer surprises. Think of it as the ultimate “team contract” for your real estate journey.

Key Takeaways:

• 🤝 True Advocacy: Agents are legally bound to prioritize your best interests, offering loyalty, confidentiality, and transparency.

• 📄 Zero Guesswork: Clear roles and expectations ensure both sides know exactly what to expect throughout the homebuying process.

• 💵 Who Pays What: The agreement outlines agent compensation, avoiding last-minute financial confusion.

• 🔑 Stronger Partnerships: Buyers and agents start on the same page, building trust from the first showing to the final signature.

George W. Bush: Rooted in Texas at the Bush Ranch

When you think of George W. Bush, your mind might immediately go to his eight years as the 43rd President of the United States, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, or his legacy in the political world. But for Bush, life after the presidency has been a story of returning to his roots - literally. Nestled on a 1,583-acre property in McLennan County, Texas, the Prairie Chapel Ranch, affectionately known as "Bush Ranch," has become a place where the former president can reconnect with nature, reflect on his time in office, and engage in philanthropic efforts that matter to him. And, as anyone familiar with Texas knows, owning land here is about more than just a place to live - it's about a way of life.

The Bush Ranch: A Texas Sanctuary

Located about 25 miles from Waco in the heart of Texas, the Bush Ranch is far more than just a vacation home. It's a place where George W. Bush has found solace, peace, and a deep sense of purpose after stepping out of the White House. The sprawling ranch is situated in an area known for its rolling hills, wide-open spaces, and extensive wildlife - a classic portrayal of the beauty and serenity that draws many Texans to own land.

Bush purchased the property in 1999, and it quickly became a place of refuge for him and his family. Prairie Chapel Ranch is more than just a home - it's a testament to Bush’s love for the land, the lifestyle, and the values that Texas embodies. The ranch became especially important during his presidency, serving as a retreat from the hectic nature of political life. During his time in office, Bush often hosted world leaders at the ranch, making it a site for diplomacy and a symbol of Texas hospitality and strength.

Even in retirement, the ranch remains a place of personal reflection. It’s a site where Bush can escape from the spotlight, enjoy his love for painting, and spend quality time with his wife, Laura, and the family. The ranch itself has an old-world charm, with a rustic, yet comfortable, main house. There’s no shortage of space for walking, riding, or simply enjoying the quiet of nature. For Bush, it’s a place to recharge and find balance in a life that’s rarely quiet.

Living Off the Land: A Texan Tradition

For George W. Bush, being a landowner in Texas is about more than just having a place to retreat to - it’s a way of life that embodies values he holds dear. As many Texans will tell you, owning land is about understanding the responsibility that comes with it, the history that’s tied to it, and the connection to the environment that it fosters.

Bush has long been a proponent of conservation and the environment. During his time as governor of Texas and as president, he supported efforts to protect the state’s natural resources, including wildlife preservation and the cleanup of polluted sites. At the ranch, Bush continues to value these traditions, ensuring the land is used in ways that respect both the history of Texas ranching and the future of environmental stewardship. The sprawling fields, dense forests, and waterways on his property all offer opportunities to experience the state’s rich wildlife, and Bush has worked to maintain a balance between responsible land management and natural beauty.

While the Bush Ranch isn’t a working ranch in the traditional sense, Bush has been involved in ranching culture. He’s learned the ropes of ranch life, from caring for cattle to maintaining the land, which he sees as a vital part of who he is as a Texan. There’s something grounding about tending to the land, something that reminds Bush of the importance of self-reliance, hard work, and respecting the land - a connection to Texas that extends back generations.

Philanthropy and Community Engagement: Giving Back to Texas and Beyond

George W. Bush has always been deeply involved in philanthropy, both during his presidency and in his post-presidential years. Through his work at the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas and his commitment to various global causes, Bush has used his platform to make an impact in the areas of education, veterans’ services, and global health. But his connection to Texas and the values he learned growing up in the state are at the heart of much of his work today.

One of his most notable philanthropic ventures is the Bush Institute, which focuses on a variety of causes including education reform, economic development, and the empowerment of women and girls around the world. The Institute also honors and supports veterans through initiatives like the Veterans Leadership Program, which helps former military personnel transition back into civilian life. Bush’s interest in education and youth development is also reflected in his Teach Freedom Initiative, which aims to strengthen civic education and promote an understanding of American history among students.

In addition to the initiatives connected to the Bush Institute, much of his work is tied to his belief in the power of community. Bush has always had a strong affinity for supporting local Texans, whether it’s through disaster relief efforts, community development projects, or supporting causes that uplift the most vulnerable. His family, too, shares a commitment to giving back, with Laura Bush being a champion for education and literacy across the state and the nation.

The ranch, with its expansive grounds and access to nature, often serves as a backdrop for philanthropic events, family gatherings, and retreats that bring together leaders from all walks of life to discuss important issues. It’s at the ranch where the former president, in a relaxed setting, can reflect on how to create meaningful change, both in Texas and around the globe.

A Legacy of Texas Values

George W. Bush’s connection to Texas is profound, and his deep ties to the land at Prairie Chapel Ranch reflect a broader narrative about the man and his legacy. It’s not just about being a landowner - being a Texan is a state of mind, a way of life that values independence, community, resilience, and hard work. Whether he's hosting a dignitary, spending time with family, or reflecting on his presidency, Bush’s ranch is a place where these values come to life.

Living in Texas is a privilege and a responsibility, and Bush takes that seriously. From his days in the governor’s mansion in Austin to his time in the White House, and now as a ranch owner in McLennan County, Bush has always carried with him the values instilled in him by his upbringing in Texas. His commitment to philanthropy, community development, and supporting global causes all have a clear connection to his roots in the Lone Star State.

In many ways, Prairie Chapel Ranch is the perfect microcosm of George W. Bush’s life - grounded, reflective, and always looking to the future. The ranch isn’t just a place to escape the public eye; it’s a reminder that, no matter how far he’s gone, Bush remains a man firmly anchored to the land, the people, and the values of Texas.

NEW: Take This Edition’s Poll 📊

Presented by Copper Stone Mountain: 10+ Acre Ridgetop Homesites with Barndo Shell—Just $139,900!

THIS WEEKEND ONLY: Discover a rare opportunity in the Texas Hill Country! Own 10+ acres of stunning ridgetop land, complete with a new 1,200 sq. ft. Barndominium shell for just $139,900 (Reg. $169,900). Larger 170+ acre tracts are also available!

Experience the perfect blend of privacy, nature, and modern convenience, featuring panoramic views, peaceful ponds, a meandering creek, and private paved roads. These homesites are just 15 minutes from Hamilton, TX, and centrally located for an easy 2-hour drive to Fort Worth or Austin.

With gated entrances, utilities, private wells, and flexible build options, this is your chance to secure your Texas retreat. Excellent financing options make it even easier to start your journey.

Why It Matters

These stories aren’t just about real estate—they’re about transformation, community, and opportunity. Whether it’s a football star redefining leadership in Fort Worth, a massive development reshaping Liberty County, or a ranch that blends legacy with luxury, they reflect the growing momentum in Texas.

Understanding these shifts gives you a front-row seat to a rapidly evolving market and, perhaps, a spark of inspiration for your next big move.

After all, in Texas, the possibilities are as vast as the horizon.

Hannah Collinsworth
Editor-in-Chief
Houston, Texas
Texas Property Round Up

P.S. – Don’t miss this rare opportunity presented by Century Oaks! Own 5 acres with a Barndo shell for just $89,900 (larger tracts also available). Enjoy the best of Texas Hill Country living with privacy, wooded landscapes, and modern utilities ready for your plans. Click here to learn more and start building your dream retreat today!