Pre-Existing vs New Construction Homes: Which Is Right for You?

So they say. Fredricksburg is getting too crowded. They say it's just a tourist town. But let me ask you this. If you actually look beyond Main Street, because if you're thinking Fredericksburg is just wineries and tourists coming in on the weekends, you're really missing out. I'm guessing there are still places where you can wake up to quiet morning, stretch out on acres of land, and enjoy those hill country views without the traffic, the crowds, or the high prices. So today we're breaking down the best rural subdivisions in for an expert places you can actually move to and live out your hill country dream. And make sure you stick around, because there are some newer developments that could be complete game changers. This is interesting. Now, we're not starting in any particular order today, but we are starting with a neighborhood that truly captures the serenity of the Texas Hill Country, while still being close to everything that Fredericksburg has to offer. All right, picture this you're waking up, grabbing your coffee, and stepping out onto your porch with nothing but rolling hills, exotic animals, and the sound of the breeze. Just 20 minutes northeast of downtown Fredericksburg, right off Ranch Road two seven, two one. This place is surrounded by wineries, so if you love a good glass of red or white, it's basically Paradise. I love wine in the lot sizes. Well, they're pretty decent. We're talking 3 to 10 acres, so you're not living on top of your neighbors. You get privacy space and views that make every sunset feel like a postcard. But here's the deal. Although most of the lots in Vineyard Ridge have already sold, we are starting to see more homes come on the market in the neighborhood. So if you're looking for something that's already built, this is a great spot to keep an eye on. For the lots that are still available. Land prices start in the mid 200,000 and go up from there. A custom build in here. You're looking at $785,000 and up for 2200 plus square foot home, and some of the bigger states are well over $1 million. And just to give you an idea what's out there, there's a three bedroom, 2.5 bath custom home sitting on 6.8 acres, offering over 2200ft² of space. It's got that open layout everyone loves a big stone fireplace and a covered back porch, perfect for soaking in those hill country views. It's now under contract, and it's easy to see why the property is fully fenced and ready for animals, extra space or just room to breathe. This is what Hill Country living is all about. Now we've talked about the serene charm of Vineyard Ridge, but now let's talk about something a little bit more high end. So just ten minutes north of downtown Fredericksburg, you have Boot Ranch. And this isn't just a neighborhood. This is a whole experience. Boot ranch is one of the most exclusive communities in the Texas Hill Country. But it's not your typical high end spot. It's a private club community where you're buying into a lifestyle, not just a house. At the heart of it all is a 7250 yard championship golf course designed by PGA legend House. And even if your golf skills start and finish at mini golf, you'll find that there is plenty to love here. Think resort style pool, fitness center, spa and outdoor sports courts that are all about making the most of this stunning landscape. This is nice. Now let's go and talk about the homes boot ranch offers custom estates, shared ownership, Sunday houses and lock and leave luxury homes, move in ready homes, start around $2.5 million. But if you're dreaming of building your own masterpiece estate, home sites go from $700,000 to over $3 million, depending on acreage and views. One listing that caught a lot of attention is this four bedroom, four bathroom custom home sitting on 2.28 acres with vaulted ceilings, limestone finishes and an 18ft accordion door that opens up to the outdoor living space. It's perfect for taking in those hill country views. Listed at $3.85 million, it's a great example of the craftsmanship and attention to detail you'll find in this community, and it's now pending. After drawing strong interest from buyers who know quality when they see it. And one of the best things about Boot Ranch is the multi-generational membership. Once you buy your whole family, your kids, your grandkids, your parents, all of them can have access to the amenities. It's a luxury. But with the focus on family and community, making it one of the most rare subdivisions in all of the state of Texas. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a full time luxury retreat, or an investment in one of Texas's most prestigious communities, Boot Ranch is in a league of its own. After experiencing the luxury exclusively of Boot Ranch, let's head over to Post Oak Lakes. It feels like a breath of fresh air for all you nature lovers. Just ten miles east of downtown Fredericksburg off of highway 290, this community feels like your own private retreat, with small lakes, mature post oak trees, and spacious home sites. What's different about Post Oak Lakes is how small and how private it really is. You're tucked away in a quiet little neighborhood, but still close enough to get to me and a coffee shop within ten minutes. You know, it's rare to find that kind of seclusion without feeling completely cut off from town. And because it is such a tight knit community, homes really don't come up for sale very often, which makes it feel like even more of a hidden treasure. You will see custom ranch style beauties to modern country homes, with prices starting in the mid 800 and thousands. And if you're going all in on a larger custom build, expect to hit that seven figure range. A great example of what you find here. Postal quakes. Is this home on 80 South Buckhorn Trail. It's over 3700ft² with vaulted ceilings, a stone fireplace, and a renovated kitchen all sitting behind a gated entrance. There's even a key pool, expansive patios and a backyard set up perfectly for entertaining or just enjoying those hill country nights. This one closed back in December for $1.45 million, and really shows the lifestyle Post Oak Lakes has to offer. The best part? It's a place where neighbors actually know each other and host gatherings and embrace that easygoing hill country lifestyle. Following the nature filled charm of Post Oak Lakes, Seven Falls Branch takes things to a whole new level, but this combination of privacy, space and natural beauty. Situated about 15 miles northwest of downtown Fredericksburg, Seven Falls Ranch is a haven for those who crave wide open spaces, big rolling hills and natural springs. You know what really stands out about Simple Ranch is its space. You're looking at lot sizes anywhere from 5 to 20 plus acres. Good size place. Now most of the neighborhood is already fully developed, so buying it a lot and building a custom home on it really isn't an option in this neighborhood. But every so often one of these beautiful ranch style homes comes on the market, and when they do, they don't last long. The homes in this neighborhood typically are a mix of custom ranch style homes, contemporary style homes, but also your typical hill country rock style home. Now, prices typically start around 800,000, but depending on the lot size and the size of the home itself, you could be looking at prices quite a bit higher than that. It's definitely a spot for those who love a bit of luxury mixed in with that laid back country vibe. One standout property here is this three bedroom, 3.5 bath custom home. Sitting on 5.6 acres with panoramic bluff views you just don't see every day. The property features over 2400ft² between the main home and a two bedroom guest house, plus an oversize garage studio, shaded porches and even a steel storm shelter. Listed at $2.25 million, it's the perfect example of the craftsmanship in outdoor living. Seven Falls Ranch is known for. Now, let's shift our focus from the rolling hills of Seven Falls Ranch to a community that has a touch of rustic elegance and waterfront charm. The overlook at Bear Creek. If you're looking for the perfect blend of peaceful hill country living, but also being super close to town, this one is hard to be tucked away in. Gillespie County Overlook at Bear Creek is known for its rolling hills, wide open views, and spacious lots. Most properties give you plenty of room to spread out and the setting. It's classic hill country, lush landscapes, wildlife, and some of the best sunrise and sunset views around. And what's great is you're still just minutes away from downtown Fredericksburg, so whether that be a grocery run to be or dinner on Main Street, you're still pretty close to everything. And when you actually get back home, you feel like you're miles away from it all. Now, homes in this neighborhood can range anywhere from 500,000 up to about $2 million. Of course, it is. Depends on the size of the lot, size of the home. And of course, the view's a perfect example. 316 overlook Drive, sold back in March 2020 for this beautiful custom home, sits right in that sweet spot of the neighborhood and closed at $800,000. It really highlights the kind of craftsmanship, setting and overall lifestyle you can expect out here. You'll find a strong mix of custom and spec homes with that great community feel, all within our great school district here. Fredericksburg, which is great for those of you who are looking to settle down here within the Texas Hill Country. Moving on from the peaceful charm of Overlook at Bear Creek Water Ranch offers a different kind of escape, one that's all about space, privacy, and natural beauty. About ten miles northeast of downtown Fredericksburg, this neighborhood features lots ranging from 3 to 15 acres, giving you room to spread out and enjoy the open hill country landscape. If I want a spot to truly unplug, this would be pretty dang high on my list. Homes here often tucked behind groves of oak trees, creating that peaceful, hidden vibe. But don't worry, you're still close up. The Fredericksburg to grab dinner and run your errands without really any hassle. The homes themselves are a mix between contemporary style, custom built homes, but also your classical stone homes that fit seamlessly into the whole country landscape. Now, the prices generally start around $1 million, but can definitely exceed up to that 2.5 to $3 million mark. Here's one that really captures what this neighborhood is all about. Sold in April 2025, this three bedroom, 2.5 bath custom home sits on 5.58 acres and offers just under 2900ft² of living space. You've got soaring ceilings, a gourmet kitchen, a stone fireplace and even a detached 840 square foot workshop already plumbed for a bathroom. It was listed at $1.225 million and perfectly blends comfort, functionality and those classic Hill country views. One thing that makes this place special is its efforts to preserve the natural and beauty and environment the people of this neighborhood truly love the open spaces, the walking trails, and the natural beauty and views that come along with living in the hill country. For anyone craving privacy, room to spread out and a touch of luxury, Cool Water Ranch may be the perfect fit for you. 50 miles southeast of downtown Fredericksburg, this neighborhood offers a unique mix of open space, quality homes, and a focus on sustainability. It's conveniently placed between Fredericksburg and Comfort, giving you easy access to both. You know, one thing I really love about this place is the agrifood concept. The community actually has a centralized orchard and garden where the residents can come in and harvest fresh produce. You know, if I lived this neighborhood, I would probably be in that orchard and garden every day just picking fresh produce, because that's actually how I grew up. I grew up on 52 acres out in the harbor area, and we did that. We grow our own gardens, we harvest our own animals and there's nothing better than living off the land, the homes, it hit, it. Springs are all about that modern ranch style and contemporary fill, with lot sizes ranging between 3 and 5 acres. Now, houses generally start at right around $1 million, but if you're looking for something more luxurious, you can find houses well into the two millions to close to $3 million in price. There's a gorgeous home currently listed that really shows off what this neighborhood has to offer a three bedroom, 3.5 bath German farmhouse inspired design. Sitting on five acres, it features over 3300ft², reclaimed barn beams, polished concrete floors and floor to ceiling windows overlooking the green space, plus a chef's kitchen and outdoor patio with a built in barbecue. Priced at 1.94 or 5 million, it's a perfect blend of luxury and that Hill Country charm Hidden Springs is known for. But what really makes this community stand out as its strong sense of connection amongst the residents? It's the type of place where you can grow your own food, really embrace the peace and quiet of country living, but also feel like you're part of a very tight knit community. They even host events at the Pavilion and the gathering spaces, making it really easy for everyone to truly enjoy living life in the Hill Country, leaving behind the sustainable charm of hidden Springs, we now head over to Settler's Ridge Estates. This neighborhood sits just two minutes northwest of Main Street off highway 290. So you're getting that hill country feel without sacrifice, missing a convenience. Now, it's not a gated neighborhood, but you'll notice that a lot of the residents here within this neighborhood have their own private entrances and their own gates, giving it that extra sense of privacy. Now, the locks here in Settler's Ridge are fairly big. You can find them anywhere between 3 to 7 acres, with enough room to build a guest house, a shop, or maybe even have a couple horses. What I really like is how natural and untouched this neighborhood feels, but also how close it is to towers proximity. You get those classic Gold Hill Country views, but during the springtime, this place really comes alive with the wildflowers lining the roadways and covering your front yard. It's an absolute beautiful sight to see. Now, homes here in this neighborhood can start anywhere from 800,000, but can easily exceed that $2 million range. A great example is 651 Homestead Drive, sold in March 2025 for just under $1.2 million. It was a beautiful custom built with plenty of space and those hilltop views everyone's after. And the best part? You're close enough to town that a trip to H-e-b or your favorite Fredericksburg restaurant is just a couple of minutes away. But when you pull into your driveway, it still feels like you're out in the country. And a quick local tip if you are looking for a neighborhood with a little bit of elbow room between you and your neighbors, but without you really feeling like you're too far out of town like some of the other neighborhoods we have discussed today, if you see a house or lot come on the market in this neighborhood, you need to jump on it quickly because they do not last very long. Now, if you're craving insane elevated views, Vista Ridge may be the place you should be looking in. Just 12 miles north of downtown Fredericksburg, Vista Ridge is a small private neighborhood made up of just ten large lots ranging from 10 to 15 acres. What really sets it apart is the grassy, rolling hills and wide open views. We're talking classic hill country scenery as far as the eye can see. Now, this neighborhood set up is just a little bit different to. There's usually around 3 to 4 different neighbors that share the same entry point. And they often call these flagship lots because of the long entry lots long driveways. Each private owner has two. Their home side. Now most of the land is open pasture, with a few lots here and there that have clumps of trees, but for the most part it is open pasture, which is great for farming and for raising livestock. And the entire subdivision is also an example which really helps out with the property taxes. It makes it just a little bit more affordable. Now here's the thing. Only one home has sold in Vista Ridge since the subdivision was developed. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. 746 Vista View Lane sold in November 2024, went for just under $2.4 million. A stunning custom home that really showed what's possible out here. With the right build and very similar to some of the other communities and subdivisions we talked about today. Lots and houses in this neighborhood do not come up for sale very often. So if you are focusing on Vista Ridge, definitely need to jump on it when you can if something does come onto the market. Lastly, if you are dreaming about Riverside living with even more room to spread out, high River ranch is where it's at. If you've been dreaming of owning a place with live water, sweeping views and privacy, this place checks every single box. High River ranch sits just outside of Fredericksburg and offers large acreage lots with direct access to the Petronella River. Some properties even give you 260ft or more of river frontage, where the water varies from shallow rock bottom areas perfect for waiting, to deeper pools. Ideal for fishing, swimming or kayaking on those hot summer days. And the best part? Most of these home sites do sit high above the river, so you get access to the river itself in the beautiful views without really having the risk of flood and having flood insurance. And if you're lucky, you may even catch the sound of small waterfalls, depending on how much rain we're getting that year, making it even more peaceful and rare spots within our area. And the neighborhood has reasonable HOA restrictions and underground utilities, so you know that you and your neighbors aren't going to have obstruct views by a bunch of power lines, which makes it a absolutely beautiful place to live. Now, if you're wondering what kind of home you can find out here, check out 165 High Ridge Lane. An entertainer's dream. Designed with hill country elegance and modern industrial touches, it sits on over 15 acres and features a guest house, a four car garage with the lift and floor to ceiling windows framing incredible views. Just eight minutes from Main Street and two minutes from top wineries. This home was built for hosting, complete with a massive back deck, fire pit and native landscaping that brings in tons of wildlife. We've taken a look at some of the most beautiful and unique subdivisions throughout Fredericksburg, and it is clear that each has their own charm and character. But here's the thing Fredericksburg isn't slowing down anytime soon, and that brings us to the next exciting part of our conversation. What is next for Hill Country Real estate? Remember earlier when I said that there are some new developments throughout the Texas Hill Country that could be absolutely game changers? Well, the fact of the matter is, there are absolutely new developments that are popping up. A lot of these subdivisions are offering bigger lots, flexible building options and even eco friendly designs. And you know what that means as our communities continue to grow throughout the Texas Hill Country, that means the prices are going to grow along with them. And here's a quick pro tip usually the first lots to sell within a new development are the absolute best parts. The ones with the best privacy, the best views, the best build site. So if you are interested in building in a newer development throughout the Texas Hill Country, make sure you jump on quickly because whatever's left over is typically the bottom of the market. The worst lots. And here's the thing a lot of these subdivisions and new developments aren't even on the market yet, so being connected with a local realtor is extremely important, as local realtors often know about upcoming developments in listings that haven't gone public yet, giving you a higher chance to either get a good deal, get the house of your dreams, or even the lot of your dreams getting you connected with the custom home builder to make your dreams come true. That's why working with a local realtor who knows the ins and outs of Fredericksburg can make all the difference. They can help you keep an eye on these opportunities and make sure you snag that perfect spot. So whether you're looking for vineyard views, luxury living, ranch land, or waterfront property, Fredericksburg has a rural subdivision that fits your lifestyle. And if you're thinking about buying, investing, or just exploring your options, don't wait. These properties move fast, and whether you're thinking about buying or selling in three days or three years, I would love to be your realtor of choice. I'm Ryan, rented with four from your properties. All my contact information is down below in the description. If you love this video and you like to hear more, make sure you hit the subscribe button. But also that little bell so you can get notified anytime I put out videos just like this. We'll see you in the next video.