Alamo Ranch homes became available only seven years ago. Today, over 23,000 families live in this desirable development. The homes are beautiful, with elegant styles from many builders, including M/I Homes. The community is tightly-knit and everyone enjoys meeting up at the community’s parks and common amenities. The area surrounding Alamo Ranch is full of great shopping and dining, as well as lots of fun places to visit. A local favorite for kids from Alamo Ranch homes is Owl Creek Farm.

Choose M/I Homes at Alamo Ranch for Great Local Fun

Open weekends, this local farm is a great way for kids to get an appreciation for farm animals. The gentle ponies give hand-lead rides to kids. Kids love getting to pet the goats. There are friendly nubian goats, cute pygmy goats, and even a boar cross goat. Visitors can also pat the dorper cross sheep. Bunnies hop around the property, while chickens strut around looking for something to eat. Finally, Owl Creek Farm visitors can meet the farm’s mother pig, Beefy the miniature hereford bull, and Jack and Penelope the donkeys.

Local schools are welcome to plan a field trip to the farm. These trips are a hit with kids, and they learn a lot at the same time. In the fall, pick out pumpkins at the farm and enjoy games and a corn maze.

Learn more at Owl Creek Farm. 

Helotes may be a smaller city, but it’s on the move. Over the past five years, the population has nearly doubled. It’s not hard to understand why. Helotes home owners get to live in a vibrant, active city. Helotes residents enjoy a full schedule of public events. Every third Saturday, Old Town Helotes real estate hosts the Wine to Coffee Art Walk. The events runs from 4 to 9 p.m. The next one will be held this coming Saturday, February 18th.

Come to Old Town Helotes Real Estate for Music, Art & Food

All the artists and craftspeople at the art walk are locals who call Helotes home. The organizers have carefully curated the artists so that visitors have the best experience possible. Many artists will be working at the event, so you get to watch them create. Live music fills the air, while art lovers stroll among the vendors. There’s also plenty of great food to choose from. Get a burst of energy with a cup of freshly-brewed coffee or relax over a glass of wine. Local artists, take note. For a limited time, vending booths are offered at no charge.

This Saturday, head to 14743 Old Bandera Road, between Wine 101 and The Cracked Mug Coffee House. Visit Wine to Coffee Art Walk to get more details. 

If you’re on the market for a new home, one of the first things to consider is whether to hire a buyer’s agent. There are many good reasons to get San Antonio buyer representation. Today’s real estate market can be a confusing place. Real estate websites can give you a general idea of what’s on offer. However, to get a true and in depth picture of the San Antonio real estate market, you want an agent who’s on your side. Keep in mind that the listing agent of a property will really be working for the seller. That agent’s focus will be on getting the best deal for the sellers, not you. A buyer’s agent, on the other hand, is working to get you the best deal possible.

Get Expert Help for Your San Antonio Real Estate Search

First time buyers should especially consider a buyer’s agent. It takes a lot of experience to know the right questions to ask about a property, to know how to shop around for a great mortgage, and to know the many neighborhoods in the city. This is especially true for people who are new to the area. Don’t reinvent the wheel--hire an agent.

Finally, you should know that you don’t pay for San Antonio buyer representation. The buyer’s agent and the seller’s agent will split the commission 50/50. As a buyer, you’ll get an expert advising you and negotiating on your behalf. And you don’t have to pay extra!

Please call the office 210-860-1775  so we can set up an appointment to discuss your real estate needs. I have been working in San Antonio for the last 30 years, and I’d be happy to help you find the right house.

Buying your first home is an important step in your financial life. While the process can be complex, there are many programs to help you understand the process. First time San Antonio home buyers can look into homebuyer education classes. These classes guide prospective buyers through every aspect of homebuying, discussing options for loans and different assistance programs. Speaking of assistance, there are downpayment assistance programs that offer grants and other help for qualified buyers. As you calculate whether it’s the right time to buy a San Antonio home, keep these programs in mind and remember that closing costs and mortgage interest are tax deductible.

Make a Budget and Shop Around for the Best San Antonio Home Loan

First time San Antonio home buyers should keep a few other important factors in mind. Make a budget to help you decide how much house you can afford. Remember to account for homeowners insurance and saving for home maintenance and repairs. A homebuyers class can help you with your budget.

Be sure to shop around at different lenders to get the best deal. Lenders set rates based on their lending standards and the type of loan. Research your options to get a loan that will work well for you.

An experienced real estate agent can be invaluable in guiding you through the process. Interview several agents to find one who has expertise in the neighborhoods you like, the type of loan you’re considering, and who meshes well with your personally.

Feel free to contact our office to get more information and help buying your first home!

San Antonio is one of the fastest-growing city in Texas. Once you’ve visited, it’s easy to see why so many people are relocating to San Antonio. For one thing, jobs are plentiful. San Antonio has been ranked on Forbes’ list of of best cities for business and careers. Unemployment is around 3%, much less compared to the national unemployment rate of about 5%. San Antonio is considered one of the best cities for tech workers.

In terms of livability, San Antonio is a great place. First time home buyers who move to San Antonio will find an affordable housing market. There is no state or city income tax in Texas. Sales tax is a little over 8%. Property taxes are comparatively high, with most homeowners paying around 2%. Be sure to budget for property tax when you decide how much you can spend on a house payment.

Move to San Antonio to Enjoy History and Fun Places to Visit

San Antonio is a great place for families. The public schools in the city are excellent. There are also lots of parks and public pools, where kids and adults can enjoy fresh air, exercise, and make friends. Nature lovers will enjoy the Nature Bridge Caverns and Texas Hill Country, with its lovely wildflowers and hills. Those relocating to San Antonio will also enjoy the city’s history, with the Alamo being the most famous site. There are also Spanish missions to visit and Fort Sam Houston. Riverwalk, a pedestrians-only road lined with shops and cafes, is a fantastic place to hang out.

It’s no mystery why San Antonio is such a popular place. Visit the city’s website to learn more about it. Then call our office to start house hunting! 

Spend some time outdoors in nature near to your Alamo Ranch home at O.P. Schnabel Park. This beautiful 202 acre park is most known for its extensive trail system and pavilions that can be rented. Come on out with friends or family members for a walk, run, or a bike ride on one of the well maintained paths. Choose just one trail or combine several to get many miles in while appreciating the beauty of the oak trees, mountain laurels, and other lovely native vegetation. Bring the kids to get out some energy on the playground. Many families also frequent the park for games on the baseball or soccer fields.

If You Live in Mirage Homes at Alamo Ranch, Rent a Pavilion for Your Next Event

This park is a great option to host a party away from your Alamo Ranch home. There are two pavilions that can be rented and range in price between $25 an hour and $35 an hour depending on which pavilion and which day of the week. Graff Pavilion, the larger of the two, even offers a kitchen space with sinks and countertops for an additional fee. The YMCA is located in the park as well and is a great asset for those who own Mirage Homes at Alamo Ranch. Take advantage of the pool and other programs offered there in addition to enjoying the park. Get driving directions and more information about all of the amenities available at O.P. Schnabel Park. 

Residents from Wortham Oaks homes feel their tension melt away with a trip to Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa. A variety of massage treatments are designed to meet each individual’s needs. Expert massage therapists have soothing hands. Swedish massage eases one into a state of relaxation. Deep tissue is great to get beneath the surface to work out tight areas of tension. Having a hot stone massage is also a calming procedure. Using hot stones in combination with massage techniques helps to relieve pain for those suffering from arthritis and other chronic conditions. Couples, prenatal, and sports massage round out the massage menu. First time customers are made to feel welcome with introductory offers. A short question and answer session encourages communication and peace of mind. Facials are fabulous here too. Focusing on specific skin types and conditions, there is something perfect for everyone.

Hand & Stone Offers Treatments for Everyone Living in KB Homes at Wortham Oaks

Frequent massage treatments have been proven to be beneficial to one’s health. Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa make it easy with exclusive membership packages. Members living in Wortham Oaks homes can take advantage of the Hand & Stone Rewards program. Points are earned per visit which and when accumulated transform into treatments, gift cards, and other goodies.

The spa is located in the Village at Stone Oak conveniently near KB Homes at Wortham Oaks. Open seven days a week it’s easy to fit in some time for pampering. Reservations are suggested, but walk ins will be invited to stay whenever possible. Visit Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa or call 210.951.1944 to schedule an appointment today. 

Residents living in Valley Ranch homes splash around at the Heritage Aquatic Center. Located at 200 S. Jefferson Street, this year round facility provides open times for public swim and offers aquatic classes.

The pool is open for recreational swim at various times seven days a week. All ages are welcome with children under the age of seven requiring adult supervision in the water. Adult lap swimming is scheduled on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 5 to 6:30 p.m. On these same weeknights the Night Steppers aquatic workout class takes place at 5:30 with a $2 drop in fee.

Express Homes in Valley Ranch Are a Short Drive from a Refreshing Swim

Dedicated instructors are ready to teach youngsters from Express Homes. Watch how easily they learn to swim and react to safety awareness in the water. Beginner classes are held twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays for kids older than three.

Special times are reserved for Seniors from Valley Ranch homes. Senior aquatic classes are on the calendar each Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Daily lap swim is available for those in their golden years from 8 to 11:30 a.m., and on Monday evenings from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Swimming is great all around exercise for individuals of all athletic and health levels. As an indoor venue, the Heritage Aquatic Center beckons when the weather disallows for outside play. Annual passes make entrance a breeze, and are offered for adults, youth, and families. Come dip your toe in and try it out. 

Many people choose an Alamo Ranch home to enjoy the sophistication of Scott Felder Homes. The community is so beautiful and well-kept. What not as many people realize is that there is a thriving local food scene and easy drive from any Alamo Ranch home. One of the up and coming places is Super Taco Wey. A new take on the food truck, Super Taco Wey serves up delicious tacos, burritos, and tortas all made to order.

Scott Felder Homes in Alamo Ranch Are Close to Amazing Food

Diners rave about the juicy meat, quick service, and incredible flavor of the food. The al pastor tacos are a huge favorite. Tacos are served “straight up”, with onions, cilantro, and salsa. Choose from asada, which is seasoned beef, cabeza--cheek meat, or al pastor--marinated pork. There’s no way to go wrong with the freshly made, flavorful offerings. Tacos are only $1 each. For a more filling meal, choose a burrito for $4.50 or one of the enormous quesadilla for $5. Tortas are $5.50. Cheese can be added to any item for an extra 50 cents. Round out the meal with a can of soda, Mexican coke, or a bottle of Jarritos.

Super Taco Wey is located at 11784 Culebra Road, in the O’Reilly’s parking lot. They are open most days from 5 to 10 p.m. Follow them on Facebook to keep up with the latest news and see the menu. 

Whether you’re shopping Wortham Oaks homes or you’re already settled on one of Lennar Homes lovely models, take time to relax at Pompeii Grill. Recently voted one of the best Italian restaurants in San Antonio, it’s the place to go for lunch, date night, or happy hour. Happy Hour goes from 3 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Get drinks at special discounts and one appetizer per person for half off. That ought to take away the workday stresses!

Residents of Wortham Oaks by Lennar Homes Enjoy a Meal Out at the Pompeii Grill

The menu has all your favorites, as well as some house specialties well worth trying. Start with egglant parmigiana or go for the Pompeii Special, sauteed artichokes and mushrooms served with tomato sauce and mozzarella. Eat a little more lightly with a soup or salad. Lunch and dinner both have hearty pasta dishes, like spaghetti or ziti. At dinner, try one of the individual pizzas. The Napoleon is a great choice, with mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Or go a little crazy with the grilled chicken pizza. There is a also a great list of entrees with chicken, seafood, veal, steak and sausage.

Pompeii Grill is a lovely place to throw a party near Wortham Oaks homes. There are three different menus to suit any budget. Let the kitchen at Pompeii do the cooking while you enjoy your guests.

Visit Pompeii Grill to see the full menu and find an electronic contact form for party inquiries.