T
exas's warm weather and tax benefits have long been a magnet for retirees, but beneath the surface lies a more complex reality. Behind the scenes, institutional buyers are artificially inflating property values in certain towns, making them unaffordable for many seniors. Experts point to five Texas communities where this phenomenon is particularly pronounced.

    In Fredericksburg, the charm of its German heritage and wineries has become a double-edged sword. As retirees flock to this picturesque town, large investment groups are swooping in, driving up prices beyond what local economics can justify. "It's not just about the charm," says Wesley Kang of Realtor1099Cafe. "Boomers are consistent buyers, and that artificial competition is pushing prices up." Fredericksburg's aging infrastructure and capacity restrictions due to subdivision regulations only exacerbate the problem.

    Georgetown, with its historic downtown and adult neighborhoods, has become a hotbed of development activity. While this growth brings new amenities and updates to infrastructure, it also creates pressure on community services and drives up costs. "It's not just about supply and demand," notes Matt Vukovich at Matt Buys Indiana Houses. "The competition between builders and developers is increasing, and that's affecting prices." As a result, Georgetown has become one of the most expensive destinations in Texas for assisted senior facilities.

    Boerne, near San Antonio, offers a small-town atmosphere with access to urban amenities, but its home values have skyrocketed to $550,180 on average. While there was a slight decrease last year, new homes in Corley Farms start at $300,000 and go up to $400,000, making it difficult for retirees to afford. The underlying issue is not just about prices; it's about the fundamental services that support community living. As Texas towns continue to grow, their ability to provide these services will be put to the test.