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Howdy, Texas real estate adventurers! 🤠

This week’s edition is packed with the kind of stories that make you do a double-take.

Dallas has officially claimed the throne as the No. 1 real estate market for 2025 — find out what propelled this Texas titan to the top. Plus, step inside the jaw-dropping $13M Southlake estate that’s turning heads with its luxury-meets-resort vibe.

And if you think you’ve seen everything in modern living, wait until you catch a glimpse of the barndominium redefining Texas chic.

Buckle up, because these stories are guaranteed to get you talking!

📰 Upcoming in this issue

• Dallas Takes the Crown: No. 1 Real Estate Market for 2025 🏙️

• A Mansion Beyond Dreams: $13M Southlake Estate is Texas' Priciest 🏠

• Black Gold: Austin’s New Barbecue Spot Where Design Meets Smoke 🍖

• Step Inside Lonestar Landing: A Modern Barndominium Marvel in Texas 🏡

• The Perks of Joining a Property Owners Association: A Friendly Guide

• Exploring Dinosaur Valley State Park: A Journey Back to the Cretaceous Period 🦕🌳

• Reconnect with Nature: Retirement Living Near Top State Park in Texas

📈 Trending news

• San Antonio's Surprising Boom: How It Became Texas’ Homebuilding Powerhouse

• Elon Musk's Secret Digs: The Truth About His Austin Hideaway

• Southeast Texas BBQ Spot Boasts a Whiskey List Worthy of Big-City Cheers

• Rubenstein’s $20M Investment Transforms Former PepsiCo HQ in Dallas

• Barndominium Bliss in Texas: Liberty Hill Property with Pool, Guest House, and More!

Dallas Takes the Crown: No. 1 Real Estate Market for 2025 🏙️ read the full 448-word article here

Article published: October 31, 2024

Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) has claimed the No. 1 spot in the Urban Land Institute’s (ULI) 2025 real estate market forecast, signaling its explosive growth. Rising from third place last year, this triumph is fueled by strong post-pandemic recovery and an 11% employment surge since early 2020.

The Uptown area, now dubbed “Y’all Street,” is attracting major financial investments like Goldman Sachs’ $500 million campus. Despite this boom, Dallas remains surprisingly affordable, with median home prices still below the national average.

Key Takeaways:

• 🌟 Climbing Rankings: Dallas claimed No. 1 in ULI’s 2025 forecast, leaping from third place and maintaining a top-10 status for six years.

• 🏗️ Economic Magnet: Major players like Goldman Sachs and Bank of America are anchoring headquarters in Dallas’ Uptown, boosting its prestige.

• 📈 Booming but Balanced: Despite a 38% home price surge since 2020, Dallas’ median prices remain under the national median of $400,000.

• ☀️ Sun Belt Stronghold: The Sun Belt claims 13 of the top 20 ULI spots, with Texas dominating the list.

A Mansion Beyond Dreams: $13M Southlake Estate is Texas' Priciest 🏠 read the full 469-word article here

Article published: November 1, 2024

The Real Deal highlights the stunning luxury of a $13 million estate in Southlake, Texas. Spanning 20,700 square feet, this property boasts not only six bedrooms and a gym but also a bowling alley, three game rooms, and a media room designed for movie premieres.

Situated on 7 acres and priced at $630 per square foot, it stands as the most expensive home on the Texas market this month. After a recent sale and a 4% price increase, it reflects the trend of rising prices in Southlake’s ultra-luxury market.

Key Takeaways:

• 🏌️ Beyond Essentials: This home boasts a bowling alley, indoor golf, and three game rooms, redefining luxury expectations.

• 🚙 Space for a Fleet: With a 10-car garage, even car enthusiasts have their needs met in style.

• 💸 Skyrocketing Values: Southlake's high-end listings are appreciating fast, with price-per-square-foot hikes echoing market demand.

• 🏡 Opulent Rivals: Another estate nearby jumped 50% in price to $27M after viral fame for its extravagant amenities.

Black Gold: Austin’s New Barbecue Spot Where Design Meets Smoke 🍖 read the full 1,056-word article here

Article published: November 4, 2024

Founder Mems Davila, a former musician and now pitmaster extraordinaire, has transformed a decades-old van-customization shop into an “elevated” dining space where guests are immersed in the art of barbecue — from every table, you can watch the 22-foot custom smokers named Stevie Ray and Jimmy at work.

Design firm 3 Fold faced a maze of engineering and permitting challenges to bring Davila’s vision to life, embedding industrial pits in a dining room adorned with sleek leather banquettes and playful pendant lighting. And it’s not just the visuals — expect duck-fat fries, hibiscus-spiked cocktails, and a pit room that might make you forget you’re in a barbecue joint.

Key Takeaways:

• 🔥 Barbecue Theater: Every seat offers a view of custom 22-foot smokers, turning barbecue into a performance art experience.

• 🍹 Nostalgic Flavors: Spiked drinks and dishes like jalapeño creamed spinach nod to the founders’ childhood memories in the Rio Grande Valley.

• 🛠️ Design Masterpiece: 3 Fold Design overcame city regulations to create a pit room that’s as central as the kitchen itself.

• 🦆 Unique Eats: Beyond brisket, try wild game dishes and reverse-seared duck with poblano cream — this isn’t your standard BBQ.

Step Inside Lonestar Landing: A Modern Barndominium Marvel in Texas 🏡 watch the full 21-min video here

Video published: October 26, 2024

In their latest video, Texas Best Barndominium presents Lonestar Landing, a striking blend of rustic charm and modern craftsmanship located in Wills Point, Texas. This 1,760-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bathroom home boasts a spacious 964-square-foot carport and 438-square-foot porches, perfect for gatherings or quiet relaxation.

Notable features include a stunning stone fireplace with custom cabinetry and a kitchen showcasing a bold granite island paired with satin oak cabinets. Priced at $430,000, this build exemplifies Texas Best's attention to detail with 2x6 studded walls, a Zip system exterior, and exceptional craftsmanship throughout.

Key Takeaways:

• 🪵 Crafted to Perfection: Custom cabinetry scribed against stone adds high-end detail to the living room’s focal wall (2:57).

• 🔧 Innovative Layout: The home features a step-down shower with pebble stone flooring, enhancing the master bath’s spa-like feel (12:37).

• 🍽️ Kitchen Elegance: A spacious island, all-drawer lower cabinetry, and pendant lighting create both function and flair (4:26).

• 🚗 Flexible Spaces: The 964-square-foot carport doubles as entertainment space — perfect for Texas-style gatherings (16:52).

The Perks of Joining a Property Owners Association: A Friendly Guide

So, you’ve found that perfect piece of land - maybe it’s a sprawling ranch, a cozy lot near a lake, or a slice of paradise nestled in the hills. Before you dive into building your dream home or creating your ideal weekend getaway, let’s chat about a little something called a Property Owners Association (POA). Now, before you roll your eyes and think “rules, rules, rules,” let’s explore how a POA can actually enhance your experience as a landowner.

What is a POA, Anyway?

Think of a Property Owners Association as a community of like-minded folks coming together to keep the vibe of their neighborhood just right. It's not about being a strict enforcer; it's about creating sensible guidelines that everyone agrees on. When you buy land, joining a POA can be like having a team of friendly neighbors watching out for each other.

Protecting Property Values

One of the biggest benefits of a POA is that it helps maintain property values. By establishing reasonable guidelines on things like home designs, landscaping, and overall upkeep, a POA helps ensure that everyone’s property looks good. This means your investment is protected, and your neighbor’s messy yard won’t drag down your home’s value. It’s a win-win!

Building a Strong Community

A POA fosters a sense of community among residents. Whether it’s organizing events, social gatherings, or even casual meetups, having a POA can help you connect with your neighbors. After all, who wouldn’t want to share a backyard BBQ or a holiday potluck? It’s a great way to make new friends and create lasting memories.

Sensible Guidelines for Peace of Mind

Imagine living in a neighborhood where everyone agrees to keep their front yards tidy and their homes well-maintained. That’s what a good POA can help achieve. They set sensible guidelines that everyone can follow, ensuring that the neighborhood stays looking sharp without turning into a dictatorial regime. Think of it as a gentle nudge towards keeping things neat and tidy - perfect for maintaining that good ol’ country charm!

Access to Amenities

Many POAs offer access to community amenities like parks, pools, or walking trails. These spaces can be perfect for family outings, weekend picnics, or just a relaxing stroll after a long day. Plus, these shared facilities often lead to fun activities and community bonding, making your land feel like part of a vibrant neighborhood.

Conflict Resolution

Sometimes, even the friendliest of neighbors can have disagreements. A POA can help mediate conflicts and provide a structured way to resolve issues. Instead of letting disputes fester, having a neutral party can make all the difference. Think of them as the peacekeepers of your community!

A Voice in Community Decisions

As a member of a POA, you get a say in decisions that affect your community. Want to improve the common areas? Need to address a concern? Being part of the POA means you have a voice in how things are run, allowing you to contribute to the community in meaningful ways. It’s a chance to be part of something bigger!

Guidance for Newcomers

If you’re new to the area or to land ownership, a POA can provide valuable resources and guidance. They often have information about local services, regulations, and even tips on homebuilding. This can be particularly helpful if you’re navigating the ins and outs of land development for the first time.

Wrapping It Up

Buying land is an exciting adventure and joining a Property Owners Association can make it even better. With sensible guidelines, a supportive community, and a focus on preserving property values, a POA offers an ideal balance of structure and freedom. So, before you throw on those boots and head off to your new slice of country heaven, consider the benefits of a POA - it might just be the perfect partner in your landowning journey! Happy ranch living! 🐴🌾✨

Exploring Dinosaur Valley State Park: A Journey Back to the Cretaceous Period 🦕🌳

Nestled in the rolling terrain of Glen Rose, Texas, Dinosaur Valley State Park is a hidden gem that transports visitors back millions of years to a time when dinosaurs roamed freely across ancient landscapes. This 1,500-acre park offers a unique blend of history, geology, and outdoor recreation that captivates nature enthusiasts, families, and budding paleontologists alike. Here’s what makes this park a must-visit destination and why it continues to intrigue both young and old.

A Prehistoric Wonderland: The Legacy of Dinosaur Tracks

The most compelling attraction of Dinosaur Valley State Park is its preserved dinosaur tracks, some of the best in the world. These fossilized imprints, embedded in the bed of the Paluxy River, are believed to be from the Cretaceous Period—about 113 million years ago. The tracks belong primarily to two types of dinosaurs: the three-toed Theropod, likely an ancestor of the infamous Tyrannosaurus rex, and the massive, round-footed Sauropod, similar to the long-necked Brachiosaurus.

Visitors can wade through the shallow river during the drier months and witness these historic footprints up close, making it a rare opportunity to literally walk in the footsteps of giants. The park offers maps and markers to guide explorers to the best track sites, allowing them to marvel at these natural relics that tell tales of prehistoric pursuits and behaviors.

The Natural Beauty of the Texas Hill Country

Beyond the dinosaur tracks, Dinosaur Valley State Park boasts lush forests, scenic trails, and expansive views of the surrounding Texas Hill Country. The park features over 20 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, providing a variety of paths for explorers of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk with panoramic views or a more rugged hike up limestone outcrops, the park has something to offer.

Birdwatchers will also delight in the abundance of local wildlife, with over 150 species of birds recorded in the area. Keep an eye out for the majestic turkey vulture soaring above or the flash of a painted bunting in the underbrush. For those keen on camping, the park’s campgrounds offer a serene backdrop, with the tranquil sounds of the Paluxy River serving as nature’s lullaby.

Outdoor Activities for the Whole Family

Dinosaur Valley State Park is designed with family fun in mind. Kids and adults alike can enjoy swimming in the river, picnicking under shaded pavilions, or fishing for catfish and bass. During weekends and holidays, park rangers often host educational programs, including fossil hunts, guided tours, and nature talks that provide deeper insight into the park’s history and the creatures that once roamed it.

For the more adventurous, horseback riding is available with trails that wind through the park’s scenic terrain. Those who prefer a slower pace can try geocaching—a modern treasure hunt using GPS devices—or simply unwind by skipping stones along the riverbank.

The Iconic Dinosaur Statues

One of the park’s most charming features is its pair of life-sized dinosaur statues that greet visitors at the entrance. Originally created for the 1964–1965 New York World’s Fair and later relocated to the park, these models of a 70-foot-long Apatosaurus and a towering Tyrannosaurus rex evoke nostalgia and serve as perfect photo opportunities. Though they aren’t scientifically accurate by today’s standards, these statues symbolize the enduring fascination with dinosaurs and add a whimsical touch to the park’s prehistoric theme.

Planning Your Visit

Dinosaur Valley State Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild and the river is often clearer, revealing more of the preserved tracks. It's recommended to check the park’s website or call ahead to learn about current river conditions, as water levels can affect track visibility.

Why It Matters: Connecting Past and Present

Dinosaur Valley State Park isn’t just a recreational site; it’s a bridge between our present world and the deep past. It stands as a testament to the natural history that shapes our understanding of Earth’s incredible timeline. Visiting the park offers an opportunity to connect with that history in a tactile way, fostering a sense of wonder about the creatures that dominated the landscape long before humans appeared.

Whether you’re a dinosaur enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply in search of a unique outdoor adventure, Dinosaur Valley State Park invites you to step back in time and experience a slice of the prehistoric era.

Dinosaur State Park – Upcoming Events

Saturday, November 16^th

8:30 a.m. – Bird Walk

Stroll through the park looking and listening for different bird species.

10 a.m. – Track Talk

Hear the 113-million-year-old story of the state’s dinosaur tracks.

11 a.m. – Overlook Hike

Grab your boots and join a ranger for a hike to the best view in the park!

2 p.m. – Atlatl – Dart Throwing

Do you have what it takes to be a prehistoric hunter? Try your hand at the atlatl and see if you could have survived in the land before time!

Saturday, November 23^rd

10 a.m. – Track Talk

Hear the 113-million-year-old story of the state’s dinosaur tracks

2 p.m. – Denio Site Hike

Walk down to the Paluxy River to check out dinosaur tracks that are in peril of disappearing due to erosion.

8 p.m. – Star Party

Observe planets, stars, and galaxies up close with the help of knowledgeable astronomers.

Learn more: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/dinosaur-valley/park_events

Reconnect with Nature: Retirement Living Near Top State Park in Texas

Retirement beckons, and with it comes the allure of leisurely days, adventure-filled escapades, and the serenity of nature. For active adults seeking the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation, Texas emerges as an unparalleled haven. Boasting a tapestry of landscapes, vibrant communities, and an abundance of recreational opportunities, the Lone Star State stands as an epitome of retirement bliss.

Dinosaur Valley State Park near The Ranches at Star Hollow

Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, Texas, showcases well-preserved dinosaur tracks along the Paluxy River, inviting visitors to explore hiking trails, campgrounds, and swimming holes amidst nature and ancient history. The drive from The Ranches at Star Hollow is a scenic journey through the Texas countryside, with smooth roads and picturesque views, promising an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and outdoor adventurers alike.

Presented by The Ranches at Star Hollow: Acreage Lots Starting at Only $49,912!

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Located near Dinosaur Valley State Park, this property provides the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and peaceful relaxation. With the flexibility to build now or later and excellent financing options available — including special military/vet programs — this is your chance to own a piece of the beautiful Texas countryside.

Why It Matters

These aren't just stories — they’re game-changers in Texas' real estate and lifestyle landscape.

Knowing why Dallas is the market champion or what makes luxury properties soar in value equips you with insights that can influence your next move. From booming markets to boundary-pushing homes, understanding these shifts helps you stay ahead of trends that can shape everything from investment strategies to your dream living situation.

Don’t just read about it; be part of the conversation that shapes tomorrow’s Texas.

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

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