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Hey there, Texas trailblazers! 🤠✨

The Texas real estate market is buzzing with big moves—from ultra-luxury estates redefining high-end living in Dallas to Eva Longoria trading Hollywood lights for Texas nights, this week’s edition is packed with the biggest real estate moves in the Lone Star State.

If you're eyeing Texas real estate—whether for a dream home, an investment, or just to stay ahead of trends—this edition is for you.

Let’s get started!

📰 Upcoming in this issue

• This $13.7M Ultra-Luxury Estate Redefines Preston Hollow Living 🏡✨

• Texas Set to Overtake California—Here’s Why 📊🏡

• KFC Moves Headquarters to Texas 🍗🏡

• Austin’s Celebrity Hot Spot: Inside Matt’s El Rancho 🌮🎬

• Inside a Massive Shell-Only Barndominium in Texas 🏡🔨

• The Best Prefab Homes You Can Buy on Amazon in 2025 🏡🛠️

• Eva Longoria: From Hollywood Glamour to Authentic Country Living in Texas

📈 Trending news

• Barndominiums: The Perfect Blend of Rustic and Modern Living

• Texas Homes for $5K? The Hidden Land Deals You Need to See

• 388-Acre Texas Development Gets a New Name—Meet Briarley

• Inside Austin’s Most Expensive Home – A Luxury Tour

• Texas Real Estate in 2025: What’s Next for Home Prices and Growth?

This $13.7M Ultra-Luxury Estate Redefines Preston Hollow Living 🏡✨ explore the full listing here

Article published: February 21, 2025

A strikingly modern estate has just hit the Preston Hollow market, bringing 11,800 square feet of luxury to Dallas’ elite real estate scene.

Featured in The Real Deal, this $13.7 million masterpiece, built by Atrium Fine Homes, stands out with its asymmetrical facade, an elevator, a two-story study with a spiral staircase, and a cabana with a full bath and kitchenette.

With a summer kitchen, a covered outdoor living area, and an upper-level entertainment deck, this estate is built for both grand entertaining and private relaxation.

If you're in the market for ultra-modern elegance in Dallas’ most prestigious neighborhood, this might just be your dream home.

Key Takeaways:

• 🏡 A modern architectural statement: Unlike the traditional chateaus of Preston Hollow, this home brings sleek, contemporary design to the neighborhood.

• 🍷 Built for luxury living: Featuring a prep kitchen, cabana, summer kitchen, and an entertainment deck, every detail is designed for comfort and style.

• 🚗 Room for every ride: A five-car garage ensures plenty of space for luxury vehicles and collectibles.

• 💰 One of Dallas’ hottest listings: At $1,161 per square foot, this home is among the most exclusive properties in the city this year.

Texas Set to Overtake California—Here’s Why 📊🏡 read the full 1,200-word article here

Article published: February 18, 2025

California’s soaring housing costs continue to drive a massive migration to Texas—and if current trends hold, Texas is projected to become the most populous state by 2045.

In Texas on Track to Overtake California in One Notable Category, SFGATE highlights the key factors fueling this shift. Realtor.com’s latest report reveals that Californians are 56% more likely than other movers to cite affordability as their reason for relocating to Texas. Other motivators include climate (37%), job opportunities (36%), and homeownership potential (31%).

However, despite the ongoing exodus, California’s overall population actually grew by 0.6% last year, thanks to foreign immigration and shifting domestic migration patterns.

The battle between the Golden State and the Lone Star State is far from over.

Key Takeaways:

• 🏡 Housing costs are the biggest factor: 80 of the 100 most expensive U.S. ZIP codes are in California, pushing residents to Texas' more affordable market.

• 🌍 California's population is still growing: A 0.6% increase in 2024 was driven by international arrivals, despite continued domestic migration losses.

• 🔥 Wildfires may be fueling the shift: With billions in damages from 2017 to 2021, some Californians are moving to avoid natural disasters.

• 📈 Texas is gaining momentum: If trends continue, Texas is on pace to surpass California as the most populous state by 2045.

KFC Moves Headquarters to Texas 🍗🏡 read the full 1,200-word article here

Article published: February 23, 2025

Texas just scored another major corporate relocation—this time, KFC is moving its U.S. headquarters to Plano, joining its Yum! Brands sibling, Pizza Hut Global.

In KFC Makes Big Move to Texas—Cementing State as the Fastest-Growing Place in the Country, SFGATE highlights the continued corporate migration to Texas, fueled by low taxes, a strong job market, and business-friendly policies.

With Texas already ranking No. 1 in housing permits, the state is well-prepared to absorb new demand as 100+ corporate employees and 90 remote workers relocate.

This move solidifies Texas' position as the nation’s economic powerhouse, further accelerating its fastest-growing status.

Key Takeaways:

• 🏢 Texas is attracting major brands: KFC joins Realtor.com and Pizza Hut Global in relocating to Texas for business-friendly advantages.

• 📈 More jobs, more housing demand: Over 100 corporate employees will move, adding to Texas' booming real estate market.

• 💰 A tax-friendly business climate: Texas’ no corporate or personal income taxes continue to lure big-name companies.

• 🍕 Yum! Brands consolidates in Plano: The Pizza Hut campus expanded in 2016, and now KFC joins as part of the growing corporate hub.

Austin’s Celebrity Hot Spot: Inside Matt’s El Rancho 🌮🎬 read the full 1,200-word article here

Article published: February 23, 2025

Austin’s Matt’s El Rancho isn’t just a Tex-Mex institution—it’s a celebrity magnet.

In Austin Tex-Mex Favorite Matt’s El Rancho is a Celebrity Hot Spot, MySA highlights the A-listers who can’t resist the legendary fajitas, enchiladas, and margaritas. From Will Ferrell and Dennis Quaid to Serena Williams and Matthew McConaughey, this eatery has seen it all.

Even President Lyndon B. Johnson was a fan, famously having their chiles rellenos flown to D.C. by jet. And the restaurant’s famous Bob Armstrong Dip—a queso, taco meat, and guacamole combo—has become a Tex-Mex icon.

Whether you’re after celeb sightings or just incredible queso, Matt’s El Rancho delivers.

Key Takeaways:

• 🎬 Star-studded dining: A-listers like Billy Bob Thornton, Charlie Day, and Shia LaBeouf have all been spotted here.

• 🌮 Presidential-approved Tex-Mex: LBJ loved Matt’s El Rancho so much, he had food flown to the White House.

• 🔥 Home of the legendary Bob Armstrong Dip: This queso-meat-guacamole creation became a national Tex-Mex staple.

• 📸 The wall of fame keeps growing: If you visit, check out the photo wall near the bar for a glimpse of past celebrity guests.

Inside a Massive Shell-Only Barndominium in Texas 🏡🔨 watch the full 14-min video here

Video published: February 24, 2025

Ever wondered what goes into building a shell-only barndominium? Texas Best Construction takes us inside a 3,100 sq. ft. living space + 1,600 sq. ft. shop in Terrell, Texas, showcasing the framing, exterior finishes, and layout before interior customization begins.

This two-story barndominium features a massive great room, a luxury primary suite, an open loft, and a 1,500+ sq. ft. shop area. The front porch overlooks a scenic pond, making it the perfect countryside retreat.

From exterior metal panels and custom windows to framing for kitchens, bathrooms, and storage areas, this tour breaks down what’s included in a shell-only build—and what isn’t.

Key Takeaways:

• 🏡 3,100 sq. ft. of living space + 1,600 sq. ft. shop: This barndominium includes a spacious great room, loft, and massive storage areas.

• 🛠️ Shell-only = exterior finishes only: Framing, metal panels, and windows are installed, but interior work like plumbing and HVAC is up to the owner.

• 🌅 Designed for country living: A wraparound porch and floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking pond views.

• 📐 Customization potential: With a loft for extra living space and an open shop layout, owners can personalize the interior however they like.

The Best Prefab Homes You Can Buy on Amazon in 2025 🏡🛠️ Watch the full 10-min video here

Video published: February 21, 2025

Looking for a faster, more affordable way to own a home? Prefab homes are the answer—and you can even buy them on Amazon.

In Best Prefab Homes You Can ACTUALLY Buy on Amazon 2025, Consumer Betterment showcases 10 modular homes, ranging from tiny cabins to full-size modern retreats.

With pre-installed plumbing, insulation, and energy-efficient materials, these homes are easy to set up and built to last—whether you need a primary home, guest house, or vacation getaway.

Key Takeaways:

• 🏡 Tiny to full-size options: Homes range from 20-ft foldable cabins to spacious 3-bedroom modular houses.

• 🛠️ Ready for all conditions: Many feature fire-resistant panels, soundproof insulation, and earthquake-proof structures.

• 💰 Cost-effective & energy-efficient: Prefabs reduce construction costs while offering modern designs and smart layouts.

• 🚀 Quick & easy setup: Some kits are move-in ready in just weeks, with pre-installed plumbing and wiring.

Eva Longoria: From Hollywood Glamour to Authentic Country Living in Texas

When you think of Eva Longoria, it’s easy to picture her gracing the red carpets of Hollywood or captivating audiences on television. Yet, there’s a side to the actress and philanthropist that’s a little more down-to-earth, quite literally. Longoria, born and raised in the picturesque town of Corpus Christi, Texas, has found solace in returning to her roots. Here’s a look at how she’s traded the bustling streets of Los Angeles for the serene landscapes of her home state, and how she’s making a difference in her community.

Eva Longoria’s early life in Corpus Christi, a charming coastal city known for its friendly vibe and stunning sea views, was a far cry from the glamorous Hollywood scene she would later enter. She’s spoken often about the peace and simplicity of her childhood, and it’s clear that these formative years left a lasting impression on her. The natural beauty and close-knit community of Corpus Christi provided a stark contrast to the hectic pace of the entertainment industry.

In recent years, Longoria has made a conscious decision to return to Texas, seeking a quieter, more peaceful lifestyle. Her retreat to the countryside is a thoughtful choice, reflecting her desire to embrace a simpler way of life, away from the relentless spotlight of Hollywood. The rolling hills and sprawling landscapes of Texas provide the perfect backdrop for a life more attuned to nature and personal fulfillment.

Eva Longoria’s Texas ranch is more than just a getaway; it’s a cozy country retreat and her sanctuary where she and her family can immerse themselves in country living. Nestled in the heart of Texas, in the quiet community of Bastrop – nearly equidistant from both San Antonio and Houston, the ranch offers vast open spaces, picturesque views, and a tranquil environment that’s a stark contrast to the metropolitan hustle of Los Angeles.

The property features a charming ranch-style home that blends rustic elegance with modern comforts. Longoria has put a lot of thought into creating a space that feels both luxurious and inviting, incorporating elements that celebrate the natural beauty of the Texas landscape. The design often reflects her personal taste, with warm, earthy tones and stylish, yet practical furnishings.

One of the highlights of Longoria’s ranch life is her engagement with the land. She’s embraced aspects of farm life, including tending to the ranch’s animals and maintaining the property. This hands-on approach not only keeps her connected to her surroundings but also adds a layer of authenticity to her country experience.  Longoria has shared glimpses of her life on the ranch through social media and interviews, often showing off the time she spends with her animals. Whether it’s feeding horses, caring for chickens, or simply enjoying the serene landscape, these activities underscore her commitment to living a grounded and fulfilling life.

Family is at the heart of Longoria’s ranch life. The expansive property provides ample space for her to create lasting memories with her loved ones. The ranch’s outdoor spaces are perfect for activities like barbecuing, playing with her young son, and hosting family gatherings.

Longoria has mentioned how much she values the slower pace of life on the ranch, which allows her to fully engage with her family and enjoy activities like hiking, horseback riding, and simply relaxing by the campfire. The ability to stargaze from her ranch, far from city lights, is a particular highlight, offering a clear view of the night sky that’s both awe-inspiring and peaceful.

Beyond her personal enjoyment of the ranch, Eva Longoria has used her property to support her local community. The ranch often serves as a venue for charitable events and fundraisers, reflecting her commitment to giving back. She is not just about writing checks or making appearances.  Longoria genuinely immerses herself in her community. She participates in local events, supports small businesses, and uses her platform to raise awareness about issues that matter to her. By engaging with her hometown in meaningful ways, she reinforces her bond with the community and makes a tangible impact.

While she is involved in numerous charitable causes, a few Texas-based charities she has been connected to include the Eva Longoria Foundation (focuses on supporting Latinas through education and entrepreneurship programs), The Texas Children’s Hospital (its mission is to provide high-quality pediatric care and improve the lives of children and their families), Casa de Esperanza de los Niños (supports children and families in crisis), Hispanic Scholarship Fund (supports Hispanic students across the country through scholarship and educational resources), and the San Antonio Food Bank (helps to address food insecurity and support in local communities). These connections highlight Longoria’s commitment to supporting education, health, and family welfare in Texas and beyond.

Sustainability is a key aspect of Longoria’s approach to ranch life. She’s made efforts to implement eco-friendly practices on the property, such as using renewable energy sources and adopting sustainable farming techniques. This commitment to the environment aligns with her values and enhances her overall experience of living in harmony with nature.

Longoria’s dedication to her roots is a testament to her values and her desire to lead a life of purpose and connection. Her story serves as a reminder that even amidst the glitz and glamour of fame, the allure of home and the desire to give back can create a fulfilling and grounded existence.

In essence, Eva Longoria’s return to Texas is more than a physical move; it’s a heartfelt journey back to the place where her story began. It’s about finding peace, embracing simplicity, and staying connected to the community that shaped her. Through her actions, she’s not only carving out a new chapter for herself but also making a positive difference in the lives of those around her.

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Why It Matters

Texas real estate isn’t just making headlines—it’s shaping the future. With record-breaking home sales, major corporate relocations, and high-profile residents making the move, the state continues to cement itself as a powerhouse for growth and opportunity. Whether you're looking for your next dream home, an investment, or just keeping tabs on the latest trends, these shifts are worth watching.

Until next time—stay ahead, stay informed, and enjoy the read!

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

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