River Crossing and The Colony in Bastrop county (Dallas, Austin: HOA, how much)

[pinda]

On my last visit, my Realtor took us to River Crossing and The Colony. I thought they are both very pretty and the location is close to the airport if my husband can get a transfers there.

On a different thread, someone said they had to water. Does anyone know how much it costs to water in either of these two subdivisions? MUDD or not. Is it safe to have a well with the drought conditions? I'm a bit unclear about the water situation in this county. Some water is brought in, some on wells and I think some on MUDD, (is that city water) with higher property tax.

Any other suggestions on nice neighborhoods within 30 minutes or less with larger lots, 1 + acre, would be appreciated.

Do you still think there is a stigma even in those areas because it is east of 35? Some say that is only Austin and others say Bastrop county.

[love roses]

For some really snobbish types it's all areas East of 35 no matter how far North or South, and for lots of others, historically and in true reality, It's only East of 35/downtown Austin. But, I made up my own mind and didn't allow any perceived stigma run my decision.

[pinda]

Thanks for your reply.

The only reason I that I am concerned is for Resale value and quickness to sell. It does seem the homes in River Crossing and The Colony take sometime to sell. I realize this is also market conditions, but one home that I liked in Texas Hills sold in a couple of days. If we move, we would like an easy commute for my husband. So many Realtors and forum opinions are big on the SW Austin, which I think is also beautiful but the traffic looks tougher.

[ATXIronHorse]

The Colony is very far from Austin. Personally the 45+ minute commute would get to me, but a commute to the airport may be ok.

Take a look at the HOA agreement for the colony. While the lots are big they are big-time manicured. You might find yourself spending every free moment maintaining a landscape to appease a nazi HOA.

River Crossing is beautiful but reselling anything in that area will require the patience of a saint. Properties in those areas, especially considering the current market, take at least 6+ months to sell. I know of a property in River Crossing that's been on the market for 3+ years. While you are a buyer always think about the resell.

Also make sure you get a great foundation inspection for anything east of 35. The clay soil wreaks havoc on foundations.

You can also look at areas of SW Austin, like West Oak Hill and south of ben white but west of 35. You'll find larger lots in those areas. Hotpads.com is a great resource.

Good luck! And DONT OVERPAY.

[love roses]

Don't freak out about the soil issue. If it wreaked havoc on every single foundation East of 35 there would be no human population from East of Austin to the Texas Coast and as far North and South East as North Texas/Dallas and Brownsville/Corpus Christi, etc...Care should be taken but a good homebuilder will build a stable foundation.

[pinda]

Thank you for the advice. River Crossing is so beautiful with the gently rolling hills and curved roads and what seems to be a good location close to the airport. That is surprising to see homes not selling there for such a long time. Due to checking out a large area, we didn't have time to look around each area too much. My goal was to quickly look at neighborhoods to get a feel for the areas.