What is a Rural Subdivision in Texas?

A rural subdivision typically refers to a larger ranch or parcel of undeveloped real estate or land which has been broken into smaller tracts. These are most often intended to be utilized for residential development and usually lay outside of Fredericksburg City limits. And while there is an active market for existing Fredericksburg homes as well as a significant number of undeveloped lots or small acreage in rural subdivisions for new custom homes, this update discusses primarily rural subdivision acreage not yet improved (with a home, for example).

Gillespie County is a forward looking county and has implemented regulations regarding the development of rural subdivisions. (Go to http://www.gillespiecounty.org for more details). For the potential real estate developer or land owner, particular attention must be paid to the requirement that property to be subdivided cannot be broken into tracts smaller than 3 to 4 acres. This effectively limits the number of homes being built in the countryside and is intended to protect ground water both in terms of quantity used and quality available for future growth in Gillespie County.

Prices for small acreage tracts within rural subdivisions in and around Fredericksburg vary greatly in price-per-acre based upon several factors. One important factor is the restrictions of the subdivision. Upscale subdivisions typically require a much larger minimum square footage for homes and are usually located on the more desirable (thus higher priced) tracts. Conversely, subdivisions which permit mobile homes or houses with small square footage usually sell at a much lower price. Other factors affecting price would be the presence of views, live water and the distance from Fredericksburg. A recent closing representing one of the least expensive prices for a small tract within a rural subdivision is a 4.01 acre parcel that sold for $57,500. Much higher up the scale (and also more typical) is a tract that recently sold in Cool Water Ranch. This subdivision has a much higher minimum square footage requirement for homes. This 5.65 acre tract sold for $162,000. It is important to note that this tract has spectacular views.

The Fredericksburg real estate market is subject to a multitude of unique factors. As an experienced REALTOR® in the Fredericksburg and Texas Hill Country area, I understand how to find value in our local market. Please call me today to help you find the property that is right for you!