While Corpus Christi works to secure its water supply, some real estate experts say the issue is starting to come up in conversations with prospective homebuyers.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — As leaders work to address the region’s growing water concerns, some real estate professionals say the issue is beginning to surface in conversations with prospective homebuyers.
Local experts say there is currently no data showing a direct connection between the region’s water challenges and the housing market, but they say the topic is increasingly coming up as families consider relocating to the Coastal Bend.
Justin Colmenero, a real estate broker with Prime Real Estate, said potential buyers have started asking questions about the city’s water supply.
“Questions that we’ve gotten is how the city is trying to overcome this obstacle. Also, one of the concerns is how am I going to water my yard? How am I going to maintain my pool?” Colmenero said.
Colmenero said concerns about water availability could eventually play a role in whether buyers decide to move to the area.
“Being in a coastal community, you know, that is something that a lot of buyers come down here to utilize is our water, and we’re running out,” Colmenero said. “It’s very much a strong concern that is determining whether or not they’re going to call the Coastal Bend their home.”
Realtors may also soon have to take an additional step when working with buyers by formally disclosing drought conditions and water restrictions.
“A standardized form that lets us educate buyers coming into our area that we’re in a drought and that there are certain water restrictions that we have in place,” Colmenero said.
Coral Carey, President of the Coastal Bend Association of Realtors, said the issue is something the industry is watching closely.
“I think there’s a lot of concern, a lot of people are still watching very carefully what our state and local leaders are doing, but I don’t think that’s really motivating people, you know, to move out of our area at this time,” Carey said.
Still, she said water remains a critical factor when it comes to long-term stability for homeowners.
“Homes are worthless if we do not have a reliable water source,” Carey said.
Carey added that the association’s advocacy efforts focus on ensuring local leaders continue working toward reliable water solutions.
“Our advocacy here with our association is really rooted in protecting homeowners’ rights. And that includes being focused on our leaders being able to provide that reliable and responsible source of water,” Carey said.
Corpus Christi City Council member Mark Scott said the issue has also been raised by investors considering projects in the area.
“People want to know, ‘if I’m going to make a big investment in Corpus, do I have water?’” Scott said.
Scott pointed to potential water projects that could push the city’s curtailment date.
“Curtailment in November. But if we bring on the Western well field, it moves into May of next year. And if we bring on the Ed Rachal Foundation property, it moves it out to the future,” Scott said.
While discussions about a potential disclosure form are still ongoing, local realtors say their goal is to provide transparency to buyers rather than discourage them from moving to the area.