Teravista -- Is it worth the high taxes? (Austin: houses, buying)

[pbnj07]

We're looking at a home in Teravista. We really like it and the feedback on this development seems to be positive.

But is Teravista really worth the high taxes, which I believe are over 3%?

Any info on appreciation in this development?

[jwb123]

I have some friends who live in that subdivision, and they love it. My neighbors parents live there - and she really regrets that she didn't build a home there. She's there constantly and talks so positively about it. I haven't heard a single negative. They have great amenities - and that area is being very built up (more restaurants are coming in, as well as more of the outlets). With that of course, will eventually bring more traffic.

I guess the only negative I have heard is that you currently have to drive down into RR to go to the grocery store. That will change at some point I am sure.

I know that appreciation, even with the building on-going, has been strong. A lot and home she was looking at 2 yrs ago has already significantly gone up.

[austin_momma]

Property taxes in the north of Austin are generally higher. If you are buying re-sale, what are the current taxes on this home? Are you willing to pay $8,000 in taxes in a $238K home? Most people relocating to Austin are shocked when told what our property rates are. Add the cost of the toll roads to your property taxes. Bottom line is can you afford it?
Without the specifics, ie. the section in Teravista, size, age, etc., looking at the homes recently sold, the average sq. ft. price is $91-97.

[austin_or_sd]

We were seriously thinking to build a house in Teravesta with Highland Homes. They have some very good plans. But I eventually backed out and bought a Highland spec home in Hidden Glen. It is the same plan that I am interested but with more upgrade and much less money. The other main reasons:
1. High taxes, 3.12% to be exact while I pay only 2.49% in Hidden Glen
2. Traffic concern. ACC will build the largest campus there. Texas State will expand. I don't want to share road with too many teenagers.
3. If I build a house there, I will have to tolerate a few years of mud and construction noise.
4. House there is not in as uniform as in Hidden Glen. The houses there range from 100K to 500k.