Round Rock v/s Leander - Where to Buy?

Question

Hi All,

We are looking to buy our first home in Austin Metropolitan Area. We have 2 places in mind - Round Rock and Leander. Our budget is approx. $500k and can go as high as $600k with incentives. Our desire is 4-bed, 3-bath with a yard.

• Which area is better? From our current research, it seems Leander can offer huge newly built single family homes in that price but Roundrock West only offers old homes. Newly built homes in Roundrock west go over $650k for a 4 bed 3-bath. Is there a reason why Round Rock West is priced so high compared to Round Rock East and Leander?
• Roundrock west seems to have a great school district. Is it worth to compromise for big and fancy home to get in a better school district from an investment point of view or Leander might get better over years. Leander ISD seems to be highly rated but looking through Zillow, the schools in lot of areas don’t rate that well. Should another site be considered to check school ratings?
• Is Round rock East worth considering given the soil quality in that area?
• Which one is better from a long term perspective in terms of appreciation?
• Which area is better from an ease to rent standpoint if we decide to move out in a few years

Ryan Kelly · Answer

Round Rock west is highly desirable with good public schools. Neighborhoods like Avery Ranch, Brushy Creek, and Davis Springs are well sought after and are also favorites for some international communities. West Round Rock is also closest to Austin and the tech company corridor along 183 and Parmer Lane toward the Domain. There is nothing wrong with Leander or Round Rock East, they are just farther from the city centers and are more concentrated with new home builders because that's where the current land is.

Rishabh C. · Answer

@Ryan Kelly Thank you for your insight. I highly appreciate it.