Moving to Central Texas? Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Buy
Relocating to Central Texas sounds exciting—and it is—but many out-of-state buyers make costly mistakes before they ever get the keys to their new home. As a Central Texas real estate expert, I’ve helped hundreds of buyer's transition smoothly, and I can tell you this: the market here plays by different rules.
If you’re planning a move to the Austin area, here’s what you need to know before you buy.
1. Central Texas Is NOT One-Size-Fits-All
When people say they’re “moving to Austin,” they often end up in surrounding areas like Kyle, Buda, San Marcos, or Lockhart. Each city offers a completely different lifestyle, price point, and commute.
* Kyle & Buda – Fast-growing, family-friendly, and more affordable than Austin
* San Marcos – College-town energy with river access and great value
* Lockhart – Small-town charm with historic character and lower price points
Choosing the wrong area is one of the biggest mistakes I see out-of-state buyers make.
2. Property Taxes Can Surprise You
Texas has no state income tax—but property taxes are higher than many other states. New construction homes can also have estimated taxes that increase after purchase.
If you don’t understand how taxes are calculated here, your monthly payment could jump significantly after year one.
3. New Construction Isn’t Always the “Easy” Option
Many relocation buyers are drawn to new construction—but there’s a catch:
* Builder reps represent the builder, not you
* Pricing, incentives, and upgrades can be confusing
* Contracts are very different from resale homes
* Having your own representation can save you thousands and prevent costly missteps.
4. The Market Moves Differently Here
Central Texas doesn’t behave like California, Florida, or the Northeast.
* Some homes still move fast
* Others sit longer and offer negotiation opportunities
* Interest rates and inventory shifts create micro-markets within each city
* You need a local strategy—not a national assumption.
5. Commute and Infrastructure Matter
That “20-mile commute” might look easy on a map—but traffic along I-35 can quickly change your daily routine.
Knowing:
* Peak traffic patterns
* Backroad options
* Future development plans
…can make or break your decision.
6. You Need a Local Advocate
Relocation isn’t just about finding a home—it’s about understanding a completely new market, contracts, taxes, and neighborhoods.
That’s were working with a local expert makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Central Texas is an incredible opportunity—but only if you approach it the right way. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you time, money, and stress—and help you land in the right home the first time.
If you're planning a move, don’t go in blind. Reach out directly—I'm here to help you make a smart move.
— Allen Deaver - Central Texas Real Estate Expert
Asset Realty
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