Texas Coast Pros
Texas Coast Pros
  • Realtor Home
  • Search Homes
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Financing
  • More
    • Realtor Home
    • Search Homes
    • Blog
    • Contact
    • Financing
  • Realtor Home
  • Search Homes
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Financing

Welcome to Texas Coast Pros

View Neighborhoods

Galveston, Texas: Your Complete Guide to Coastal Living

Welcome to Galveston Island — Where History Meets the Sea!

  

Looking for waterfront property, beachfront homes, or a vacation beach house on the Texas Gulf Coast? Welcome to Galveston Island — Texas's premier coastal destination! 🌴

Stretching 32 miles long and just 2.5 miles wide at its widest point, Galveston Island offers an extraordinary blend of Victorian architecture, 32 miles of Gulf beaches, world-class attractions, and vibrant coastal living just 50 miles from Houston. As Texas's largest and most historically significant barrier island, Galveston delivers everything from charming historic neighborhoods to modern beachfront communities.

When it comes to finding your perfect coastal home or Gulf Coast property, you need a trusted, top-rated real estate agent who knows every wave, every neighborhood, and every historic street. That's where Patti Richardson from Texas Coast Pros comes in — your best choice for Galveston real estate! 🏡


📊 Galveston Real Estate Market Snapshot

The Galveston real estate market offers incredible diversity for Texas coastal property seekers:

  • Median Home Price: $394,000 - $435,000
  • Average Home Value: $359,317 - $406,390
  • Price Per Square Foot: $257 - $314
  • Active Listings: 1,345+ homes for sale
  • Days on Market: 78 - 153 days (buyer-friendly market!)
  • Annual Sales: 955+ homes sold in the last 12 months
  • Property Types: Victorian mansions, beachfront homes, condos, townhomes, canal-front properties, and vacant lots

🎯 Pro Tip from Patti Richardson: "Galveston offers one of the most diverse real estate markets on the Texas coast — from million-dollar Victorian estates in the East End to affordable beachfront condos on the Seawall. With longer days on market, buyers have negotiating power right now!" Call Patti at 936-240-0800 to explore your options.


🏘️ Top 5 Neighborhoods in Galveston


1. East End Historic District

Price Range: $250,000 - $1,000,000+

Step into Texas history! 🏛️ The East End Historic District is Galveston's crown jewel — a National Historic Landmark spanning 50+ city blocks of stunning Victorian, Greek Revival, and Queen Anne architecture dating to the 1850s. Home to iconic landmarks like Bishop's Palace, Moody Mansion, and Ashton Villa, this neighborhood offers tree-lined streets, meticulously restored homes, and walkability to downtown. Families love proximity to A-rated LA Morgan Elementary School and the cultural richness of living in a vibrant, diverse community. From elegant mansions to charming cottages, the East End delivers authentic Galveston living!

2. Pirates Beach & Pirates Beach West

Price Range: $200,000 - $2,000,000

West End paradise! 🏴‍☠️ Pirates Beach offers Gulf-front living with stunning ocean views and private beach access. Located near the prestigious Galveston Country Club (golf, tennis, swimming, dining), this community features homes ranging from modest 1,800 sq ft beach cottages to spectacular waterfront estates. With vacation rentals permitted and the Galveston Coastal Heritage Preserve nearby, Pirates Beach attracts families seeking that wake-up-to-waves lifestyle. The median sale price has jumped 23.7% year-over-year — a hot investment opportunity!

3. Sea Isle

Price Range: $150,000 - $1,000,000

Resort-style community living! 🚤 Established in 1950, Sea Isle spans 1,600 residential lots from Galveston Bay to the Gulf of Mexico with 1.6 miles of adjacent beach access. Residents enjoy private amenities including a fishing pier, park and picnic pavilion, swimming pool, tennis courts, a full-service marina with boat launch, and a popular bayfront restaurant. Located 17 miles west of 61st Street near wetlands and bird sanctuaries, Sea Isle offers that perfect blend of tranquility and convenience families love!

4. Evia

Price Range: $450,000 - $900,000

Master-planned coastal elegance! 🌿 Evia is Galveston's premier planned community featuring three freshwater lakes, a nature preserve, and a community coffee shop — all located across from the Moody Gardens Golf Course on 99th Street. With Mediterranean and coastal-inspired architecture, wraparound porches, and lush landscaping, Evia offers modern amenities while maintaining small-town charm. Perfect for families seeking a peaceful West End retreat with easy access to Moody Gardens, Schlitterbahn, and all of Galveston's attractions!

5. Downtown & The Strand Historic District

Price Range: $175,000 - $800,000

Urban island living! 🎭 Downtown Galveston and The Strand offer walkable urban charm with Victorian-era buildings featuring ornate iron balconies and whimsical painted signs. Once known as the "Wall Street of the Southwest," The Strand now houses eclectic shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, and loft-style residences. From historic Victorian homes to modern condos and apartments, Downtown delivers vibrant nightlife, cultural events like Mardi Gras and Dickens on The Strand, and easy access to Kempner Park and Saengerfest Park. Perfect for those seeking an active, walkable lifestyle!


👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Why Families Love Galveston

Galveston has earned its reputation as a family-friendly destination — here's why:

  • 32 Miles of Beaches: From family-friendly Stewart Beach to party-friendly East Beach, there's a beach for everyone! 🏖️
  • World-Class Attractions: Moody Gardens (aquarium, rainforest, discovery pyramids), Schlitterbahn Waterpark, and Historic Pleasure Pier!
  • Rich History & Culture: Historic mansions, museums, and one of America's largest collections of Victorian architecture
  • 10+ Mile Seawall: The longest continuous sidewalk in the country — perfect for jogging, biking, and sunset strolls!
  • Year-Round Events: Mardi Gras (3rd largest in USA!), Dickens on The Strand, FeatherFest, and Holiday in the Gardens 🎉
  • Quality Education: Galveston ISD with A-rated schools, plus UTMB (University of Texas Medical Branch) medical programs
  • Healthcare Hub: UTMB Health is a major employer and provides world-class medical care
  • Easy Houston Access: Just 50 miles (about 50 minutes) to downtown Houston via I-45
  • No State Income Tax: Texas residents enjoy no state income tax! 💰

🎉 Local Attractions & Things To Do

  • Moody Gardens: Three iconic pyramids featuring an aquarium, rainforest, and discovery museum plus Palm Beach waterpark, zip lines, and golf course
  • Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier: Family amusement park with rides over the Gulf, including the Iron Shark roller coaster and 230-foot Texas Star Flyer! 🎢
  • Schlitterbahn Waterpark: 26-acre waterpark with 33+ rides including the 81-foot Cliffhanger speed slide — open year-round with indoor attractions!
  • The Strand Historic District: Victorian shopping and entertainment district with restaurants, shops, and nightlife
  • Bishop's Palace: One of America's 100 most important buildings — a stunning 1892 Victorian castle 🏰
  • Moody Mansion: Grand 1895 mansion showcasing Gilded Age luxury
  • Tall Ship ELISSA: Historic 1877 sailing ship at the Texas Seaport Museum
  • Bryan Museum: World's largest collection of Southwestern artifacts spanning 12,000 years
  • Galveston Railroad Museum: Home of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride during holidays!
  • Galveston Island State Park: 2,000+ acres of beaches, bayous, wetlands for hiking, fishing, and kayaking 🦅

📅 Annual Events & Festivals

  • Mardi Gras! Galveston (February): Texas's largest Mardi Gras — 3rd largest in the USA! Two weekends of parades, balcony parties, and live entertainment 🎭
  • FeatherFest (April): Largest birding festival on the Upper Texas Coast during spring migration
  • Galveston Historic Homes Tour (May): Tour stunning Victorian mansions and historic properties
  • ArtWalk (Monthly): Free gallery walk celebrating local artists
  • Dickens on The Strand (December): Victorian Christmas street festival celebrating Charles Dickens for almost 50 years! 🎄
  • Holiday in the Gardens (November-December): Moody Gardens' ICE LAND exhibit and Festival of Lights with millions of sparkling lights

 

TEXAS COAST PROS

Patti Richardson — Your Top Choice, Trusted, Best Galveston Realtor

📞 Phone: 936-240-0800

📧 Email: texascoastpros@gmail.com

🌐 Website: texascoastpros.com

🎖️ Military-Friendly • VA Loan Specialist • First-Time Buyer Expert 🏡

LEt's talk

Homebuying needs human interaction.
Schedule a CAll

Top 10 Beach Home Property Ownership Questions

As your trusted Galveston real estate guide, the most commonly searched questions:

 

1. Do I need flood insurance for a Galveston home?

Yes! With 97% of Galveston properties in flood zones, flood insurance is essential. If your home is in a FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Area and you have a federally-backed mortgage, flood insurance is required. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides coverage up to $250,000 for the structure. In Galveston County, NFIP flood insurance averages approximately $992 per year — higher than the state average due to coastal risk. Patti Richardson at Texas Coast Pros (936-240-0800) connects you with local insurance specialists who understand Galveston's unique needs. 💧

2. What is TWIA windstorm insurance, and do I need it?

The Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) provides wind and hail coverage for properties in 14 first-tier coastal counties, including Galveston County. Standard homeowner policies typically exclude wind damage in coastal Texas, making TWIA coverage essential. Properties must pass a windstorm inspection (WPI-8 certification) to qualify. The average TWIA residential premium is approximately $2,480 per year. Your best Galveston real estate agent, Patti Richardson, ensures all buyers understand insurance requirements before closing!

3. Can I use a Galveston property as a vacation rental?

Absolutely! Galveston allows short-term vacation rentals in most areas, making it an excellent investment opportunity. With world-class attractions like Moody Gardens, Schlitterbahn, and Mardi Gras drawing millions of visitors annually, vacation rental demand remains strong. Many homeowners offset their mortgage costs through rental income during peak season. Contact Patti Richardson at texascoastpros@gmail.com to learn about properties with strong rental potential! 🏖️

4. How much does insurance cost for a Galveston home?

Coastal insurance typically includes three separate policies: homeowners (excluding wind), flood (NFIP), and windstorm (TWIA). Combined costs range from $5,000 to $15,000+ annually depending on property value, elevation, construction type, and flood zone. Elevated homes meeting current building codes generally qualify for significantly lower premiums. As your top choice real estate expert, Patti Richardson helps you understand the true cost of ownership!

5. What are property taxes in Galveston?

Galveston's effective property tax rate is approximately 1.71%, higher than the national median of 1.02% but comparable to the Texas state median of 1.67%. The median annual tax bill is approximately $5,038. However, Texas has no state income tax, making property ownership attractive overall. Homestead exemptions can significantly reduce your tax burden if Galveston is your primary residence. Your trusted realtor Patti Richardson provides detailed tax estimates for any property. Call 936-240-0800 for personalized information!

6. Why are some Galveston homes built on stilts?

Elevated construction serves multiple purposes: protection from storm surge and flooding, compliance with FEMA building codes, lower flood insurance rates, and maximizing Gulf views! Homes elevated above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) qualify for significantly reduced insurance premiums. After the devastating 1900 Hurricane, Galveston pioneered elevated construction techniques that have protected the island for over a century. 🏗️

7. Is Galveston in a hurricane zone?

Yes, all Texas Gulf Coast communities face hurricane risk. However, Galveston's historic 10-mile Seawall (built after the 1900 Hurricane) and modern building codes require wind-resistant construction. The city actively manages emergency preparedness with established evacuation routes. Modern elevated homes are designed to withstand coastal storms. Patti Richardson, your best Galveston real estate agent, ensures all buyers understand hurricane preparedness and insurance requirements!

8. What schools serve Galveston families?

Galveston is served by Galveston Independent School District (GISD), featuring several notable schools: LA Morgan Elementary (A-minus rated, health/medical/engineering magnet), Austin Middle School (A-rated), Oppe Elementary Magnet Campus of Coastal Studies (A-rated), and Ball High School (founded 1884, Texas's first public high school). O'Connell College Preparatory School leads private education with an A-plus rating. The district partners with Galveston College and UTMB for dual-credit opportunities. Your top-rated real estate agent Patti Richardson provides detailed school information for any property! 📚

9. Is Galveston a good real estate investment?

Galveston offers strong investment potential: (1) Current buyer-friendly market with negotiating power, (2) Strong vacation rental demand from millions of annual tourists, (3) Diverse property types from affordable condos to luxury estates, (4) Limited barrier island real estate appreciating over time, and (5) Steady migration from Houston and other metros. With longer days on market, savvy buyers can find value right now. Contact Patti Richardson at 936-240-0800 to discuss investment opportunities! 📈

10. What makes the East End Historic District special?

The East End is Galveston's first residential neighborhood and a designated National Historic Landmark. After the Great Fire of 1885, famous architects Nicholas Clayton, Alfred Muller, and George Stowe redesigned the district, creating Texas's finest collection of Victorian architecture. Today, 460+ historic buildings showcase Greek Revival, Queen Anne, and Craftsman styles. The active East End Historical District Association hosts Victorian Christmas Home Tours, Casino Night, and neighborhood events. Email texascoastpros@gmail.com to explore East End properties! 🏛️


 

TEXAS COAST PROS

Patti Richardson — Your Top Choice, Trusted, Best Galveston Realtor

📞 Phone: 936-240-0800

📧 Email: texascoastpros@gmail.com

🌐 Website: texascoastpros.com

🎖️ Military-Friendly • VA Loan Specialist • First-Time Buyer Expert 🏡

  • Financing
  • Surfside Homes
  • Freeport Homes
  • Palacios Homes
  • Jamaica Beach Homes
  • Hitchock Homes
  • Crystal Beach Homes
  • Galveston Homes
  • Boliver Homes

Texas Coast Pros Real Estate

Freeport, Texas

936-240-0800

Copyright © 2025 Texas Coast Pros - All Rights Reserved.

Powered by

This website uses cookies.

We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.

Accept