10 Surprising REGRETS Of Moving To Texas Hill Country

      The top “wish I knew” moments—and how to avoid them.

Torn between a move-in-ready charmer and that just-built, energy-smart beauty? Here’s the side-by-side answer—so you can buy with confidence.

A practical guide comparing new construction and pre-existing homes—costs, timelines, warranties, neighborhoods, and how to choose for your family in the Texas Hill Country.

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

By · Updated · Category: Home Buying Guides

Side-by-side view of a newly built home and a mature neighborhood home in the Texas Hill Country
Key takeaways:
  • New construction shines for efficiency, low maintenance, and builder warranties—but usually costs more and takes longer.
  • Pre-existing homes offer faster closings, character, established neighborhoods, and more room to negotiate on price.
  • Decide by priorities: budget, timeline, neighborhood feel, energy costs, and how much customization you want.

Table of contents

  1. New Construction: Pros & Tradeoffs
  2. Pre-Existing Homes: Pros & Tradeoffs
  3. How to Choose for Your Family (Step-By-Step)
  4. FAQs

New Construction: Pros & Tradeoffs

Quick answer: New builds deliver modern efficiency, minimal upkeep, and warranty coverage—but they often carry a higher sticker price and a longer wait before move-in.

Energy efficiency. Today’s windows, roofs, HVACs, and insulation can lower utility bills and keep temps steady year-round. That’s money back in your pocket—especially during Hill Country summers.

Minimal maintenance. With everything brand-new, your punch list stays short. Instead of weekend repairs, you can enjoy your home or explore Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and nearby trails.

Builder warranties. Many builders back structural and mechanical systems for multiple years, giving you predictable costs and peace of mind if something goes wrong.

Customization. Buy early in the process and you can choose finishes, layouts, and design details to match how your family lives.

Tradeoffs. New construction typically requires a longer timeline (often months) and can come with lot premiums, upgrade costs, and limited room for price negotiation.

Subtopic A

Spec vs. to-be-built. Spec homes (already under construction) can shorten timelines. To-be-built homes maximize customization but take longer and may carry more change-order costs.

Pro tip: Ask the builder for utility cost estimates from similar completed homes and a written warranty booklet before you sign.

Pre-Existing Homes: Pros & Tradeoffs

Bottom line: Existing homes move faster, often cost less up-front, and come in established neighborhoods—though they may need more maintenance and energy upgrades.

  • Negotiating power: Individual sellers are usually more flexible on price and concessions than builders.
  • Established neighborhoods: Mature trees, defined streets, and a built-in community vibe are common in older subdivisions.
  • Faster move-in: You can close in weeks, not months—ideal if your timeline is tight.

Character & charm. Think hardwood floors, crown molding, built-ins, and architectural details that newer tract builds may not include.

Tradeoffs. Expect potential maintenance, higher utility bills until upgrades are made, and possible renovation costs to fit your style.

How to Choose for Your Family (Step-By-Step)

In practice: Rank your priorities, compare total cost of ownership, and match your timeline to the right path—then tour both options to confirm the fit.

1) List priorities. Energy efficiency, budget, neighborhood feel, timeline, or customization? Put them in order.

2) Compare total costs. Add up utilities, maintenance, likely renovations, warranties, and the higher up-front price typical with new construction. Note any HOA/STR rules that matter to your plans.

3) Consider timing. Need to move soon? Focus on existing homes. Able to wait? New builds can deliver exactly what you want.

4) Tour both. Walk model homes and established neighborhoods. Pay attention to street noise, commute times, and how the floor plan actually lives day-to-day.

5) Get local guidance. A Hill Country agent can flag hidden costs, builder reputations, and neighborhood nuances you won’t see online.

Sources

FAQs

Is new construction always more expensive?

Not always, but it often carries higher base prices, lot premiums, and upgrade costs. Compare total cost of ownership (including utilities and maintenance) to see the real difference.

How long does new construction usually take?

Build timelines vary by builder, weather, and materials. Many buyers see 6–12 months from contract to close; spec homes can shorten that.

Can I negotiate with a builder?

Yes—often on closing costs, upgrades, or rate buydowns—though base prices tend to be less flexible than resale homes.

What should I inspect on a pre-existing home?

Roof age, HVAC, foundation, plumbing, electrical, windows, and signs of moisture. Budget for near-term maintenance or upgrades if systems are older.

Which option fits Hill Country living best?

If you want mature trees and established streets, resale may win. If you want energy efficiency, warranties, and custom choices, new builds are strong—tour both to compare.

Have a Hill Country question?

I’m based in Fredericksburg and work across Gillespie, Kerr, Blanco, Kimble, Mason, Llano & Bandera. Let’s talk strategy.

Talk with Ryan
Transcript
The Texas Hill country, a picturesque Paradise that many people would dream of calling home. But is it always sunshine and roses? Today we are talking about the ten reasons people regret moving here. Ryan Renton Renton Realty Group, your favorite realtor right here in the Texas Hill Country. That's right. In today's video, we are talking about the ten reasons people absolutely regret moving here to the Texas Hill Country. Haven't done so already. Make sure you subscribe to my channel. But also hit that little bell so you can get notified anytime I put out videos just like this one. Okay, so let's go ahead and dive right into it. Start off with number one and that is the Texas heat. The legendary heat of Texas is especially pronounced here in the Hill country, where clear skies and intense sunlight can push temperatures even into the triple digits. While newbies territories may be taken back by our Texas heat, as locals have really developed ways to cope with it. Some folks go the route of taking an afternoon siesta, while others take a dip in the local rivers or lakes. Really, there's always a method to beat the heat. The popular spots like the Pertinax River, the Guadalupe River, the Frio River really become a central little retreats. But even these spots can warm up too much during the peak summer. And of course, our local communities also lean into the warmth. We have all kinds of businesses here, specifically in Fredericksburg with ice cream, shaved ice, frozen drink options, nonalcoholic and alcoholic. And I would say, for those of you considering a move to the Texas Hill Country, it is essential to be prepared. Embrace our local cooling customs, stock up on sunscreen, and make sure your home is fit to handle the heat. I would even go as far as to say, is getting your Hvac system serviced at least twice a year is a must, but rest assured, the warmth of our Texas Hill Country communities outweighs or compensates for those hot summers. Okay, so for number two, we have wildlife encounters. So out here in the Texas Hill Country, we are blessed with a critter filled landscape that would make any nature lovers heart truly sing. But let me tell you, it ain't all pretty bird songs and butterfly flutters you might be sipping on your morning coffee when you notice a deer stroll into your yard, and all of a sudden they start snacking on those roses you just planted a couple weeks ago. Or maybe you're out hanging your laundry to dry. If people even do that anymore and you almost accidentally step on a rattlesnake trying to catch some rays. Yep, life out here can be a wild ride. And while it's great seeing all of God's creatures up close, you must be on your toes and maybe think twice about leaving your boots outside overnight. After all, you never know who might decide to mosey on up to the backyard for a little visit. Okay, so this brings us to number three, which is water worries. Now, when folks think of Texas, they might picture wide open spaces and big ol rivers phone free. But here in hill country, water is more precious than a blue ribbon in the county fair. So with the land getting parched from time to time and more folks settling down, we're often caught between a rock and a dry place. Really rare to see riverbeds looking thirstier than a cowboy after a long trail ride or signs popping up reminding us to save every drop. So if you're thinking about calling this place home, be ready to cherish that liquid gold or swap out your green lawn for some native plants. Maybe do a zero scape lawn, because down here every single drop counts and we have to do our part to keep the Lone Star State hydrated. Okay, so for the fourth reason people regret moving here is the seclusion and distance away from major cities. So obviously the Texas Hill Country offers a serene escape with its sprawling landscapes and distant horizons. Many folks are drawn to this tranquility, dreaming of a home nestled on the rolling hills and under a vast, starry sky. But with that peace comes a trade off. Those picturesque, winding roads can lead to a longer trek to the nearest grocery store or a night out at one of our local restaurants. And while this peace and quiet can be music to some people's ears, a lot of folks out there really start missing the hustle and bustle of the city. So if you're thinking about settling down in this area, just be prepared for a little bit slower paced life, but also maybe a little bit more time behind the wheel. And just to put into perspective and just to name a few towns, Fredericksburg is over an hour's drive from both Austin and San Antonio, sitting about 80 miles from Austin and 70 miles from San Antonio. Now Kerrville is closer to San Antonio and is about an hour away from there. In about a two hour drive from Austin and in Johnson City, lies about 50 miles from Austin and roughly 60 miles from San Antonio. And then Burney is the closest to San Antonio, just a 30 minute drive, and is about 90 miles from Austin. And then Bandera, known as the Cowboy Capital of the world, is about an hour from San Antonio and a little over two hours from Austin. Okay, so this brings us to number five, which is property prices and property taxes. So as more and more people have been drawn to our local Texas hill country, especially within the last 4 to 5 years, that has really driven up our real estate prices because the demand has been there. But the supply realistically has been pretty low over these years. And then while owning a piece of this Paradise might sound dreamy, there's another side to the coin those Texas property taxes. So here in our state, we have ourselves a bit higher property tax and a lot of other states have. But the reason for that is because we also don't have state income tax. So really those property taxes help keep our roads and schools in tip top shape. With more folks moving to our great state in our land values, shoot up local governments lean a bit more on those taxes. But remember, while we might grumble about those property taxes, we're saving a pretty penny without the state income tax to worry about. So if you are thinking about staking a claim here in the Hill Country, it's very important to factor in the price of real estate here, but also that annual tax tab that you'll have. Okay, so for number six we have allergies galore. Now as we venture further into the quirks of the Texas Hill Country, let's chat about those sprawling meadows and vibrant wildflowers. They're easy on the eyes come springtime, but they sure can stir up the sneezes, not just the flowers. Oh no, we've got the notorious cedar trees as well. When those dirty little trees release their pollen, folks around here often find themselves in the throes of the dreaded cedar fever. You know, it's like it's Mother Nature's own spicy seasoning for the air. So whether you're admiring the flower fields or just taking a stroll amongst the cedars, it's a really good idea to take some tissue with you. Or if you're like me, just take allergy medicine every day. But I'm also not a doctor, so consult with your doctor first. But that's something a lot of us have to do around here. Okay, so let's go ahead and slide into number seven, which is the limited public transportation. So shifting gears a little bit, let's talk about getting around the Hill Country. So if you're the kind of person who's used to catching a bus or jumping on a train in the big city, well, things are a tad different. Out here are wide open spaces, and winding roads are more about personal rides and less about public transit. Busses and trains are few and far between, and that really kind of adds to the peace and quiet out here. But that doesn't mean that you are relying more on your own set of wheels. So if you're thinking about settling down in these parts, it's good to remember the hill country's got plenty of open roads, but you might be doing most of the driving yourself. Now, as we mosey on through our eighth point, let's talk about the ever changing face of the Hill Country. So with more folks discovering the beauty of this place, that means that there's a lot more hammering and construction going on. New developments are popping up everywhere, and while progress has its perks, some of our beloved rustic corners are getting a more modern makeover. It's a double edged sword, really. In one hand, we're seeing the growth and prosperity, which is great again, but on the other hand, we're seeing some of our old rustic traditions and heritage fade out a little. Now, talking about Fredericksburg, we're actually graduated high school and I've hung my hat for many years now. Many of us locals have really seen the changes over the years. So our town, once a quiet gem here in the heart of the hill country, is now buzzing with folks from all over, drawn to our newfound reputation of the Texas wine country. I swear, everywhere you look there's a new winery or tasting room sprouting up. And while it is heartwarming to see our little town flourish and get its moment in the sun, part of me really does miss the old Fredericksburg and the old traditional German roots. You know the days when Main Street was just local faces and the pace around here was much slower? Don't get me wrong, I really appreciate and I'm excited about the economic boom that this industry has brought to our area. But again, there's definitely days where I miss those slower paced days in this little small town Fredericksburg, that that used to be before all the wineries popped up. Now, as we round the bend for our ninth topic was chat about the topic that every local Hill Country resident knows far too well and that is the flash floods. This land, as beautiful as it is, can sometimes show its wild side when the heavens open up. Many of us remember back in 98 when the Guadalupe River near Kerrville swelled up so fierce it literally reshaped the landscape. And then who could forget the surprised downpour here in Fredericksburg a few years back, that turn these quiet creeks into raging torrents in the blink of an eye? It is a reminder that we are, of course, blessed with scenic beauty here in the hill country. Mother nature sure does know how to keep us on our toes. So whether you're a long time resident or somebody new to our parts is always wise to respect the power of water and also keep an ear out for those flash flood warnings. Now, last but certainly not least, let's talk about something as big as Texas itself. And that is the Texas pride and attitude. You know, I believe that we are truly bred a part down here with our warm smiles, passion for barbecue and love for a good old rodeo. There's a certain swagger and pride that comes with calling this great state home. We wear our hearts on our sleeves and our Lonestar Pride runs deep. But as much as we do cherish our Texas spirit, it's worth noting its got its own flavor, and it might not suit everyone's palate. You know, some folks may find our ways just a little too bold in our traditions might be different, but for those who've come to love the Texas way of life, there's no place quite like under this big blue sky. There you have it, folks. The Texas Hill Country is an absolute beautiful place. But it's very important that you know what you're getting yourself into, and you're thinking about buying or selling anywhere around the Texas Hill Country. All my contact information is above, but also down in the description. And make sure you watch this next video. I think you're really going to like it. We'll see you in the next video.