Q about commute and septic tanks in Apache Shores (Austin: sale, new home)

[audrey2]

We are considering Apache Shores. Mapquest says the commute from AS to where I work downtown would be 33 minutes. I work in Tarrytown near Exposition Blvd. and 35th. If I left the house at 6:45, is it possible that my commute would be less than 30 minutes? I don't know how backed up 2222 gets. Are there any secret back roads?

Also, what is the "lowdown" on Apache Shores? Everything has a lowdown. Does anyone know what it's like being on a septic tank out there? I heard all the homes there are septic. That kindof turns me off, but maybe only because I've never had to do that.

What is the projected appreciation of the area? My husband thinks the area will become very sought after as urban sprawl advances and because of the breathtaking views and decent proximity to the city.

Any other areas like this that maybe we haven't discovered yet?

Also, what's the deal with Lake Austin Estates? Such diversity out there! I have to admit the word "weird" came to mind, but we are in Austin. We were also strangely drawn to that area. We are not looking for cookie cutter McMansions, by the way. I'm sure that is quite obvious by now. BTW, our budget for a new home will be between 250,000-300,000. Any other recommendations for possible neighborhoods with great views and character would be appreciated, too.

[HappyTexan]

I don't know about the area, but I do know about living with a septic system.
You definitely learn to conserve water as there's a finite amount that can go into the tank on any given day. It takes some time to change your habits and you may flood your septic system the first year (that's ok..just get it pumped).

I just flush a packet of yeast once a month and get it pumped every 2nd year (I'm east of 35 and have heavy clay soil).

I have a gravity system (no electrical or moving parts..yay for me).

Do a google search on living with a septic and you'll find lots of helpful information.

[audrey2]

Maybe it wouldn't be so bad. I've got to get past the gross factor, and then I'll be OK. Thanks for the useful response!

Does anyone know the "lowdown" on Apache Shores or at least how backed up 2222 gets or doesn't get in the mornings around 6:45 or so? Or of any back roads leading to the Mopac and 35th area?

Thanks in advance.

[txhusker]

Apache Shores is a very eclectic neighborhood...there are a lot of artists and musicians that live out there for the tranquility, privacy, views and the lake, and there are some beautiful homes in there. However, until they get some additional restrictions in that area, I'm not sure what type of demand or appreciation they will see. Some of the arguments that I have heard is that buyers don't want to pay $300k to $400k for a home that they take care of and have looking nice, only to live next to someone that has the 24 hour garage sale going on in their front yard, and their rotweillers running free around the neighborhood. That's not a problem for everyone, but just make sure you go in with eyes wide open if you are seriously looking to buy in that area, or any area for that matter, and take a look at the restrictions and how they mesh with your lifestyle and wants.

Sorry, it's been years since I had to make the 2222 commute to downtown, and the traffic has gotten so much more congested. Hopefully someone can help you with some tips, because 620 and 2222 have both gotten alot worse.

As far as the septic, that is common for that area and much of Lakeway, so at least you aren't alone and there are many companies that can help you keep it in working order and a ton of information if you need it.

Good luck with your search