Advice for someone wanted to start developing land in Texas

[Kusum Chanrai]

Hello. I'm looking to build a small multi-family in Texas - my preferred cities are Houston, Dallas or perhaps San Antonio. Has anyone done this, or known anyone who has done this - whom I could speak to, in order to guide me through the process? 

[John Umphress]

Unless you have some years of experience in land development, construction, etc and planned to relocate (at least temporarily) to that community, I would advise against it.  Too many moving parts and details to keep on top of.  I'm involved with developers and builders via my day job - even those who are good and experienced  run into  multiple challenges that have to be resolved quickly.  

Quick story.  Had my eye on a 60 acre tract last year just outside of San Marcos.  Only way it would have worked would have been to subdivide/develop 30 to 40 lots.  Would have meant providing access, a street, utilities, site work, etc.  I know plenty of lawyers, lenders, engineers, planners, contractors and other professionals that you need to pull it off.  And I am local.  Decided against it.  Why? It's not what I do.  I could have done it if I had quit my job, but it would have been easier and turned out better for a professional who does it on a regular basis and knows all the issues/pitfalls.