There are so many great places to live in San Antonio that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Kuper Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.
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While Jill Christian spent the first 15 years of her career as a teacher and school counselor, she parlayed that skillset to the world of real estate in 2005 — and never looked back. Now, it has been more than 13 years that she has both worked and lived in New Braunfels.
Photo by Onward Group
Agent Jill Christian and her team.
Jill was originally drawn to the area for its neighborly, small-town feel and easy access to the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers.
She also loves the range of incredible festivals and events that continue to prosper in the area, especially the Gruene Historic District, where Gruene Market Days are held every third weekend. Gruene Hall, the oldest dancehall in Texas, is another star, as well as other venues where there’s live music nearly every night of the week.
Jill offered up some of her personal favorites about life in New Braunfels. Here's her guide to the area:
Where to eat & drink
Jill gravitates to locally owned restaurants like The Reel Seafood & Grill for the best seafood fondue and shrimp brochette around.
In New Braunfels' historic downtown, her pick is Huisache Grill and Wine Bar; it’s located in a charming, 1920s-era structure and features creative twists on Southern classics.
In the Gruene Historic District, she heads to Gruene River Grill for its riverside setting and scratch-made dishes, including the popular chicken-fried steak.
Where to play
The great outdoors is a sure bet here. From tubing or kayaking down the Guadalupe River or the Comal River to the beautiful, 51-acre Landa Park and Landa Park Golf Course, there is so much to explore in this area.
Another fun option for families is Schlitterbahn Waterpark, which has commonly become known as the world’s best. There’s a staggering variety of river rides, pools, waterslides, and adventures — from mild to wild! — and half of the park features water piped in from the river.
What to see
For a fascinating look at the German history and heritage of New Braunfels, Jill suggests the Sophienburg Museum & Archives. Established in 1933, the museum sits on the historic site claimed by the town’s founder Prince Carl of Braunfels, where he named a log fortress for his bride, Sophie.
Where to live
Downtown New Braunfels has lots of historic properties, some even built in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
"There are Craftman-style homes, properties with beautiful front porches, and some of the homes still have two front doors," says Jill, referencing a common build practice from the time.
But an excellent example of a newer piece of real estate in the area is unit 304 at 1228 Ervendberg Ave. The 1,900-square-foot penthouse is one of only two units left in the 15-unit condo development that’s located on the Guadalupe River and within walking distance to Gruene Hall. Such a prime location makes the condo an ideal short-term rental investment.
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Jill Christian works and plays in New Braunfels. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email jill.christian@kupersir.com, or call 210-393-4017.
