Hidden Home Gems

By: Jay Heinrich


Hidden gems are spectacular to find. For instance, someone takes a chance on a burger joint and it turns out to have the best hamburgers they have ever eaten, or if someone walks into a hole in the wall bar one night and it turns out to be their favorite watering hole. For those involved in real estate or just looking to buy a home, Lockhart is the home of a few of these so called hidden gems, and they are at a fraction of the cost of what these homes would cost in the Austin area.

In a recent article by Austin-American Statesman writer Charles Ealy, the author describes two homes that would make even the most unexciteable man sit on the edge of his seat. They are both on the market for $325,000 and $379,000, respectively. It is thought that these houses, given their hardwood floors, high ceilings and historical backgrounds, would more than likely list for over $1 million in Central Austin.

Some are worried about the recent trend in the Caldwell County of rising home costs. According to the article, the median home price in the county jumped 9.7 percent in September of the current year. However, despite a proposed part of Texas highway 130 to be constructed a few miles west of Lockhart, very few are predicting skyrocketing home prices in the near future.

The famous Cardwell House in Lockhart is another good example. Over 3,500 square feet, three bathrooms, a huge backyard with a guest house, several huge oak trees, and there is a historical marker in the front yard. There is another large estate on Bois D'Arc St. listed for $219,500. The costs shine in comparison to the million dollar prices that the homes would bring in the Central Austin area.


When looking for a house, don't be intimidated by realtors that pressure you to make a quick decision. Look around. Dig deep. Who knows.... you might stumble upon a gem.



Ealy Article: http://www.statesman.com/business/content/business/stories/statesmanhomes/10/28/1028lockhart.html