Why People LOVE Moving To Kerrville Texas

      Community, pace, and value—what keeps folks here.

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
From the breathtaking views to the welcoming community, Kerrville has something for just about everyone. So if you're considering a move, or if you're just curious to know why this place is so special. In today's video, we are covering the reasons why people absolutely love to move here. Welcome back to the channel guys. Ryan Renton, Renton Realty Group, your favorite realtor right here in the Texas Hill Country. That's right. We're talking about Kerrville today, the reasons why so many people love to relocate to our area. But also why people just don't want to leave. If you haven't done so already, make sure you subscribe to the channel, but also hit that little bell so you can get notified anytime. I put out videos just like this one. Okay, so reason number one is the rich cultural heritage and the local festivals that celebrate Kerrville traditions. Okay, so here in Kerrville, Texas, we have a variety of popular bands throughout the year that attract both locals and also visitors. And some of the most popular local events are the Renaissance Festival. This annual event takes attendees back to time and experience the sights, sounds and festivities of the Renaissance era. And like most Renaissance festivals, this one features live entertainment, jousting tournaments, artisan vendors, delicious food and interactive activities for all ages. The second large event we have each and every year is the Kerrville Folk Festival, and this festival is actually known as the longest continuously running music festival in all of North America. The Kerrville Folk Festival draws music enthusiasts from all over. It spans over 18 days and showcases a diverse range of folk, Americana and singer songwriter performances. Attendees can enjoy concerts, workshops, songwriting competitions and camaraderie among fellow music lovers. And the third big event we have each and every year is the fourth on the River, the July 4th celebration right there on the Guadalupe River. So here in Kerrville, we celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireplace display and a range of family friendly activities. And typically that will include live music, parades, family friendly events, and of course, a lot of food vendors. And again, this is probably one of the biggest events all year, especially the music part of it. We have Robert O'Quinn that comes in and you should just see how packed it is down by the river. It is an absolute blast. We also had the Kerrville Fall Music Festival, which features a lineup of renowned artists and genres such as Americana, folk and country. And this festival is actually really similar to the folk festival because there are going to be multiple stages and performances throughout the weekend, but there's also workshops and songwriting competitions throughout the festival. And what's really cool about these two festivals is it gives a platform and an opportunity for emerging artists to perform and showcase what they can do, but also renowned artists who've been around for a long time. And we also have the Kerrville Chalk Festival, which takes place in October. At this festival, artists gather to transform the sidewalks to vibrant works of art. Participants create intricate chalk masterpieces showcasing their creativity and skill levels. And like most of these festivals, there are going to be food vendors. There's going to be activities for all ages. But and of course, live music. And this is one of my favorite ones. In December we have the Kerrville Lighted Parade. And I don't know about you, maybe this is just me, but this is probably one of my favorite parts about the Christmas time period here in Kerrville and Fredericksburg is the local parades that we have. And of course, it gives the opportunity for a small business owners to really showcase ourselves, decorate our our vehicles or our floats or whatever, and really kind of dive deep into that Christmas spirit. Okay, so number two on our list is Kerrville is a Paradise for all you outdoor enthusiasts. So our beautiful little town here in the Texas Hill Country provides a natural backdrop of various outdoor activities, such as parks and trails that are spread out throughout the county, such as Lewis Hayes Park, the Kerrville Shriner Park, and the Kerrville River trail. All offer opportunities for hiking, biking, jogging, and picnicking. And of course, we have the Guadalupe River, which goes right through the middle of town, which is fantastic for all you paddleboarders, kayakers, canoers. You know, if you like to fish, there's plenty of opportunities and spots for you to do that. But if you're also an avid jogger runner, whatever you have, the River trail, which runs along the Guadalupe River, which is six miles one way. So if you wanted to, you can actually get a 12 mile run in along the Guadalupe River. And then there's plenty of spots for you. Avid golfers to go golfing. We have several golf courses, which include the River Hill Country Club, the Scott Shriner Municipal Golf Course, and of course, the famous Comanche Trace Championship course. And then we also have beautiful wineries and vineyards within our area. So Kerrville, Fredricksburg and also other areas within the Texas Hill Country are very well known right now for the thriving wine industry. So all of you wine lovers out there have the opportunity to have a glass of wine, or maybe even a bottle of wine at the numerous wineries within just a short driving distance. But then we also have great hunting and again, fishing opportunities throughout Kerrville as well. The whole country in general has great opportunities for both hunting and fishing throughout the region. But curveballs, proximity to hunting ranches and wildlife management areas allows outdoor enthusiasts to engage in activities such as deer hunting, fishing, and even birdwatching. And of course, we're also well known for the great camping and RV sports, such as the Kerrville Shriner Park and Buckhorn Lake Resort, and numerous others, which offer amenities for overnight stays and outdoor adventures. Okay, so number three on the list is Kerrville fantastic health care facilities that tailored to our locals but also the surrounding communities. So for my own personal experience, but also from several blogs I've read about this topic, there are several factors that contribute to the presence of health care here in Kerrville. So the town is home to well-established health care facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialty centers equipped with modern technology and resources. These institutions attract highly skilled and experienced health care professionals, ensuring quality care for residents. And one of the things I really like most about curveballs health care system is the urge for preventative care, disease management, but also health education. One of the articles I recently read stated kernel's regional importance in the Texas Hill Country ensures access to specialized medical services, fostering a comprehensive health care ecosystem. So overall, the combination between excellent health care facilities, skilled professionals, community focused initiatives and regional significance contributes to Cargill's reputation for great medical care. Okay, so the fourth reason is the proximity to major cities. So while Kerrville does provide a peaceful setting, it is a short drive from major cities such as San Antonio, which is only about an hour away. But then you also have Austin, which is about an hour and a half away. So if you need to get to an airport rather quickly to either go see family or maybe for a business trip, or maybe even do a little shopping, or literally only about an hour away from San Antonio, which is fantastic. But like I said, Austin is also fairly close. So if you're a diehard Longhorn fan or even alumni and you want to get to a Saturday afternoon game, you can get there in less than two hours. Okay, so this brings us to reason number five. And that is the people. So just about everyone I have health moved to Kerrville from out of state, has almost instantly recognized a genuine friendliness and southern hospitality from our locals. So having grown up here in the Texas Hill Country, this is something I've always recognized and felt throughout my life. However, when I spent six years out in California with the Air Force More station out there, I almost recognized the difference in the people's attitudes as soon as I got out there. I'm not saying everyone was kind of in a bad attitude or rude, but for the most part, you can definitely tell they don't really have that southern hospitality, at least where I was at. And my wife Andrea, has also lived in different parts of the United States, but also overseas, and this is probably one of her favorite parts about living here in the Hill country. Again, is that genuine friendliness and southern hospitality. You just don't see in other parts of the country. And of course, you're going to have those outliers, those people who are just aren't friendly. But for the most part, everyone here within our area are just wonderful people, and we've really seen people's true colors shine. And that genuine friendliness during these challenging times that we've experienced the last couple of years, we had that massive freeze just about two years ago that pretty much shut down everyone's powers. Pipes were freezing up, nobody had water, and we had people who literally risking their lives to get people firewood, get them water. I mean, it was an incredible sight to see the town and the community really come together and help each other out during a challenging time. And if you're living here local, watching this video, what has been some of your experiences with our local people in the southern hospitality? Let us all know down in the comments below. So what do you guys think? Can you see yourself living here in Kerrville, Texas? And I want to hear from you guys. If there's anything you would love to add to this list, let me know down in the comments below. And as always, if you're thinking about buying or selling anywhere around the Texas Hill Country, I would love to be your realtor of choice. All my contact information is above, but also down in the description. And also make sure you watch this next video. I think you're really going to like it. We'll see you next one.