Texas is second only to Alaska in square footage, and second to no one when it comes to fantastic places to visit.  While it could take a lifetime to experience all that Texas has to offer, here are a few suggestions for day trips you will love.

San Marcos outlets: Right off I-35 between San Antonio and Austin, the San Marcos Outlets are a wonderful place to spend a beautiful fall day in Texas.  Get a jump on your Christmas shopping at the variety of stores in one convenient location.

Gladewater Antiques District: If you consider “antique” to be a verb, take a leisurely drive to Gladewater and check out over 15 antique shops and nearly 100 crafters throughout the city.

East Texas Oil Museum in Kilgore: The museum features dioramas, films, sound effects, a life-size boomtown scene, and artifacts depicting the discovery of the East Texas oil field.  Guided tours are available with reservations.  The museum is open Tuesday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., and Sunday from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

President George Bush Presidential Library and Museum in College Station: A great educational opportunity for the kids, the museum features replicas of Bush’s Camp David and Oval Office.  Hours are Monday – Saturday, 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. – 5p.m.

Messina HOF Winery in Bryan: Come and take a stroll through the vineyard, sample some wine, learn about wine and food pairings, and relax by the waterfall.  There is no more relaxing way to spend a day.

Austin Hill Country Flyer: The Austin Steam Train’s Hill Country Flyer (temporarily pulled by a diesel locomotive) will take you on a two-hour, 35-mile journey from the Cedar Park station just north of Austin to Burnet through beautiful Texas Hill Country scenery.  After a stop in Burnet for lunch, sightseeing, and shopping, you get back to Austin about 4 or 4:30 p.m.

Whether it’s a day of golf, a visit to a vineyard, or a drive through the rolling hills, you can do it all in Texas.  Now is a great time to buy land in Texas and begin custom building a home.  Texas Homesites is your source for information on the Texas real estate market.  Ask us about Vintage Oaks at the Vineyard, a master planned community between Austin and San Antonio.  You can find us on Facebook and Twitter for more information.

Jobs

Renewable energy resulting in new job opportunities coupled with a booming tech industry is expected to spur continued growth in the Houston area over the next five years. The city's unemployment rate remains below the national average with growth expected as the city embraces new technology. Education and medical careers are expected to add to the city's growth. A strong job market encourages new land buyers to make the city their new home. Houston has embraced new and expanding career fields, and the city is expected to experience continued growth as a result.

Housing

The Houston housing market has remained strong in comparison to other similar markets in the country. Houston continues to offer some of the best land in Texas with desirable amenities attractive to new business owners and home owners alike. The Houston housing market did experience some dips, but has bounced back well ahead of other markets. This growth is expected to continue over the next five years and beyond. The Texas real estate market is expected to remain stable.

Development

Houston's Midtown area is a thriving, culturally diverse, pedestrian-friendly area expected to continue to attract businesses over the next five years. Downtown Houston remains a popular destination for shopping and dining. This trend is expected to continue. Almost $4 billion of parks, buildings, and other infrastructure improvements have been completed since the mid-1990s in the downtown area. Phase II development project will build on the existing new infrastructure to add an additional $3 billion for upcoming projects. Projects already approved include a 47-story, 1 million square-foot office tower.

Texas Homesites will help you find Texas real estate right for your needs in Houston or any other area of Texas. Owning land is an attainable goal thanks to affordable Texas living and a state with many cities like Houston showing a promising future in terms of development and growth. Look for us on Facebook and Twitter.

Back-to-school time means shopping. Affordable Texas living is part of the charm of the Lone Star State that is clearly evident in Houston. The city is an internationally acclaimed shopping destination with deluxe malls, hundreds of stores, eclectic boutiques, shopping districts, historic neighborhoods with bargain outlets and European-style shopping centers. You are bound to find what you need for back-to-school in Houston.

Malls/shopping centers

• The Galleria - With 2.4 million square feet of retail space, it is easy to see why this is the top retail destination in Houston and a perfect place to kick off your back-to-school shopping. Designer duds and stylish fashion abound.

• Historic Heights - This group of family-owned stores is perfect for those looking for affordable clothes and art supplies along with a selection of antiques for that popular vintage look.

• Rice Village - An eclectic mix of 300-plus stores mixes nationally known brands together with one-of-a-kind shops in a 16-block expanse. Express, Gap and Hemline are among popular shopping destinations.

• Uptown Park - This European-style shopping center is characterized by its beautiful setting. Boutiques, cafes and unique shops make this a popular back-to-school destination.

• Memorial City Mall - Big names like Target, Dillard’s and Macy's are anchor stores at this Houston mall. Live music and other surprises often delight shoppers.

Downtown Houston

Downtown Houston's thriving shopping district is anchored by Macy's with additional shopping choices available at the new Houston Pavilions directly across the street. Mix up your back-to-school shopping with a combination of dining selections, entertainment, unique boutiques and specialty clothing shops, shoe stores and more. Sears, Spec's Warehouse and a wide selection of urban retailers along Main Street are other downtown shopping highlights in Houston.

Retail/Specialty Shops

Standalone retail and specialty shops can be found throughout the city. Whether it is designer shoes, stylish jeans or matching accessories, you are likely to find it in Houston. Catch up on the latest music at Soundwaves or take care of your back-to-school electronics needs at Best Buy. Find top-quality shoe selections at Luke's Locker and affordable books at Half Price Books.

Texas Homesites is your trusted source for Texas real estate with land for sale throughout the state just waiting to be the location of your Texas dream home. Visit us online or see what your friends are saying about us on Facebook and Twitter.

Texas is the second-largest state in the nation and claims four of the best big cities to work in. We have mountains, beaches, rivers, lakes, and the Hill Country. Here are a couple reasons why we think you should move to Texas.

We take care of people: Many people move to Texas just to take advantage of the great medical centers. Houston is home to the world-famous Texas Medical Center and several leading cancer treatment facilities, while other cities in Texas boast prestigious research facilities.

We know how to eat:  No one can ever accuse Texans of not eating enough. With a variety of different foods offered throughout the state, you’ll find your favorite. From barbeque to the best Mexican food this side of Mexico, from the steak houses to fine dining restaurants, Texas offers something you’ll love.

We have something for everyone: Texas offers so many attractions, activities, and destinations; you won’t ever have to leave! You can go to the beach, float the river, walk trails through nature preserves, experience the incredible shopping, go to Six Flags, visit historical sites, and so much more without having to leave the state. Texas has so much entertainment to offer that you’ll never be bored.

We take pride in our state: As the only state that was previously its own republic, we love our great state. We are the only state allowed to fly our flag at the same level as the U.S. flag, and we have our own pledge of allegiance, which is pretty cool.

Population says it all: Texas is the second-largest state in the country. Texas is home to over 24 million people and three of the biggest cities in America. That’s a lot of people who have seen the benefits Texas has to offer and have chosen to call one of our great cities home.

For more information on the great benefits of living in Texas, contact Texas Homesites. We work to provide you with the best homesite for sale in Texas. Our master-planned communities are located in some of the most-desired locations in Texas. We hope you decide to experience all Texas has to offer and allow us to be part of your decision!

In our opinion, Texas is by far the best place to work and play. Texas is a fantastic place to live and offers many diverse places to call home. Texas has also recently been called “recession proof,” and offers leadership in the country because of our stable economy, our leading business and industrial industry, entertainment hot spots, and the lifestyle we lead.

Texas is the industry leader in fields such as petrochemicals, aerospace, agriculture, and computer manufacturing. The job market in Texas is one of the most stable in the country, as Texas has managed to avoid many of the repercussions that other states have had to deal with in this down economy. If you are an entrepreneur and considering starting your own business, there are many reasons to open shop in Texas. Texas does not require you to have a business license, and instead requires permits and licenses managed through agencies. Also, one of state’s biggest draws is that it has no personal income tax! Texas is a state that caters to businesses and offers several economy-friendly programs to encourage new businesses. Two of these programs are Texas Enterprise Fund and the Texas Emerging Technology Fund. Some of the businesses that call Texas home include NASA, Dell Computer, Texas Instruments, and Lockheed Martin.

Texas is not all business. Texas has low taxes, a great climate, affordable housing, and friendly people. Size-wise, Texas is the second-largest state behind Alaska and is home to some of the leading metropolitan areas in the country.

Because of the all-around nice temperatures, outdoor activities are popular in Texas. There is always something to do, some recreational activity for you to participate in. Texas is also home to some of the biggest sports teams and arenas in the country. Our NFL teams include the Dallas Cowboys and the Houston Texans. Our NBA teams are the San Antonio Spurs and the Dallas Mavericks. For hockey, we have the Dallas Stars. And, of course, for baseball we have the Texas Rangers and Houston Astros.

Residents of Texas Homesites communities love being able to work and play in Texas, and Texas Homesites is thrilled to provide individuals with the best land that Texas has to offer. To learn more about building your Texas dream home, or to receive more information about any of our Texas master-planned communities, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d love to help you start planning your family’s future today! If you are interested in learning more, please contact Texas Homesites to learn how much land you can afford.

Due to the stable job market in Dallas, there is a lot of demand to relocate and live in Texas. However, one of the best things about living in Texas is the affordable housing market.

Texas has one of the most stable economies in the country.  According to the Texas Association of Realtors, nearly 203,000 homes sold last year and the median price was $147,600.  According to Dwight Hale, 2011 Chairman of the Texas Association of Realtors, “Despite the difficulties of 2010, census figures have confirmed Texas has emerged in a stronger position than almost everywhere else in the country.”

One of the best things about living in Texas is that there are so many options for you to choose from. Texas has so many different types of lifestyles to offer. Whether you are looking for rural living in North Texas or living in the heart of Texas Wine Country. Texas Homesites has something for you!

Texas Homesites is dedicated to providing the best land that Texas has to offer, and all of our master-planned communities have country-club style amenities. Texas Homesites is the place for you! As the premier master-planned community developer in Texas, Texas Homesites wants every family to have their ideal home on the best land that Texas has to offer. Contact us today if you are interested in learning more about finding your perfect homesite in Texas.

According to Fox News, when discussing the reasons for Texas’s job growth, “the reason is simple: employers move to the location that promises better after-tax returns. Texas constantly focuses on improving its economic competitiveness and the citizens of Texas are benefiting because of it…” Companies around the country are relocating to Texas because of the economic benefits, and the Texas residents are able to reap those benefits.

The Texas A&M University Real Estate Center reported “The Texas economy gained 231,700 jobs from December 2009 to December 2010, an annual growth rate of 2.3 percent.” The employment rate increased the most in mining, lodging, construction and professional and business services. There is no doubt if you are looking for a job, Texas is the place to be!

There are many benefits for people who work in Texas: more job seekers are looking to hire in Texas, there is no state income tax, and there are many options for affordable living in Texas. Houston, Dallas and Austin and surrounding areas are consistently being noted for their positive job growth year after year.

Texas Homesites residents love being able to work and play in Texas, and Texas Homesites is thrilled about providing individuals with the best land that Texas has to offer. If you’d like to learn more about building your Texas dream home, or if you’d like more information about any of our Texas master-planned communities, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d love to help you start planning your family’s future today!

• Austin and San Antonio. Located in central Texas, with a population of nearly 650,000, Austin is Texas’ state capital. Nearby San Antonio is the most “tourist-friendly” city in Texas, with a population of nearly a million people, most of whom look forward to welcoming their many visitors. Not only is San Antonio home to some of the most historic landmarks in Texas, but they also feature many luxury hotels and restaurants for your enjoyment. Texas Homesites has three communities located just outside the San Antonio-Austin metroplex: Vintage Oaks at the Vineyard, Havenwood at Hunters Crossing.

• Dallas. As the hub of Northeast Texas, Dallas has a population of nearly 1.2 million people. Dallas is a city that doesn’t sleep, with plenty going on all the time, including many tourist activities. Texas Homesites has four communities outside of Dallas: The Bridges at Preston Crossings, Lake Ridge at Joe Pool Lake, Quail Springs Ranch, and The Reserve at SugarTree.

• Houston. The largest city in Texas, Houston has nearly four million people living in this metropolitan area. Houston is home to some of the finest restaurants and hotels in Texas. Texas Homesites offers just one exclusive community located outside Houston, the equestrian community of Saddle Creek Forest.

Texas Homesites offers some of the best family-friendly communities in Texas. We’re dedicated to providing you with the best land that Texas has to offer, and at the most affordable prices. Each of our communities is truly unique, bringing you quiet, picturesque living with convenient urban access!

There are so many great reasons for you to live in Texas. Nearly 25 million people have already discovered the beauty and magic of the Lone Star State. So what are you waiting for?

• Weather. Texas’ climate offers a little of everything, most of it good. While the summers can get hot, the tradeoff is that it makes the winters really pleasant. In fact, we’re rarely burdened by snow or ice, and we get to enjoy the sun and outdoor activities during nearly seven of the twelve months.

• Sports. Texas is home to some of the best in professional, college and high school sports. Texas is the land of sports lovers. We have the Texas Rangers and Houston Astros professional baseball teams and the San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks professional basketball teams. And for professional football, we have the Houston Texans—and of course, the world-famous Dallas Cowboys!

• Hospitals. Texas features some of the best universities and hospital systems in the country. No matter which end of the spectrum you’re on, whether you’re considering retirement or just starting a family, it’s a good idea to become familiar with your local hospitals. And Texas hospitals are among some of the finest in the nation.

• Education. Texas’ educational system has a stellar reputation nationwide. Whether we’re talking at the elementary or at the collegiate level, Texas has plenty to offer you! In fact, Texas’ many colleges and universities keep a steady stream of educated, qualified workers pouring into the job market, which leads us to…

• Business. Texas is one of the few states not severely damaged by the recent recession. Texas’ stable job market is bolstered by the variety of industries based here. Some businesses that call Texas home are NASA, Dell, Texas Instruments, and Lockheed Martin—to name just a few.

• People. One of the greatest selling points of any place is its people. Texans carry an easy Southern charm and warm hospitality. And you’d be hard pressed to find a people more proud of their state. We believe in Texas, both now and for the future.

Texas is a great place to work and play. You can find plenty of great Texas locations where you can build your own custom dream home. Even with all of the lifestyle options you’ll find in this great state, Texas Homesites prides itself on providing the best land that Texas has to offer!

In our previous post, we discussed San Antonio (ranked #2 on the list) and Austin (ranked #3 on the list), and what has helped these rapidly growing cities survive and even flourish during the economic crunc that has had such a crippling effect on so many other cities. Today, we’ll discuss the other two cities on the Forbes.com list, and look at some of the factors that have kept them on the rise.

Dallas – Ranked #6

One of the best attributes Dallas has going for it in the current economy is a bustling sector of diversified tech companies that are all continuing to grow as we enter the new decade. The thriving tech industry has provided new jobs in the Dallas area through the recession, and is showing no signs of slowing down.

Along with tech, Dallas is also driven by banking, commerce, telecom, energy and transportation. Only New York and Houston are home to more Fortune 500 companies, and D/FW airport has transformed the Dallas-Ft. Worth area into one of the busiest inland ports in the country.

Houston – Ranked #8

Known as one of, if not the most prolific oil cities in the U.S., you may be surprised to see Houston on this list, considering the instability in the oil and gas industry as of late. Well, despite the stereotype, Houston is far more diversified in the energy industry than just abandoned oil wells and chemical factories.

As the fourth largest U.S. city, Houston also excels as a port, and as a leading medical city. The research segment is only elevated further by the presence of NASA and the Johnson Space Center – the location of Mission Control Center. With the second most Fortune 500 companies making Houston home, the growth in the Houston area continues to impress, and shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.

A Great Place to Call Home

One thing all the Texas cities on our list – and the cities around Texas for that matter – have in common, is that before the recession, home prices were stable. Texas never fell under the weight of the “boom” that many cities fell victim to, and as a result, never suffered from the resulting crash. As quoted in the Forbes.com article, research economist at the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University James P. Gaines said, “Texas didn’t have as big of a boom, so we’re not having anywhere near the kind of bust.”

It’s easy to see why so many people are happy in this state – and why so many people can’t wait to move here.