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Relocation · September 2026

Moving to Wimberley, Texas:
The Complete Relocation Checklist

Steve Giannone
Steve Giannone
Updated September 2026

After helping hundreds of people relocate to the Wimberley, Texas area over 40+ years, I've learned that the move goes smoother when you know what to expect. Whether you're coming from Austin, San Antonio, out of state, or just down the road in San Marcos, here's the practical checklist I share with every buyer who's new to the Hill Country. I've refreshed it for fall 2026, with the timelines, paperwork, and utility steps that matter most right now.

Research & Planning

Spend a weekend in Wimberley before committing — walk the Square, eat at local spots, visit Blue Hole and Jacob's Well

Decide whether you want to be in Hays County or Blanco County — property taxes and school districts differ

Determine your budget against today's market, not last year's headlines: Wimberley prices span entry-level homes to multimillion-dollar riverfront and large-acreage properties, and a local agent can put current numbers in front of you

Research whether you want well water/septic or community utilities — it significantly affects property maintenance

Consider the commute: if you'll work in Austin or San Marcos, drive the route during rush hour to see what it's really like

Housing & Utilities

Work with a local agent who knows Wimberley — many properties sell off-market or before they hit the MLS

Get a well water test before purchasing any property on well water

Understand septic system age, capacity, and maintenance requirements

Check internet availability at the exact address before you fall in love with a property: fiber is expanding but not universal, and some areas still rely on fixed wireless or satellite

Look into Wimberley Water Supply, Aqua Texas, or other community water providers as alternatives to private wells

Plan your electricity early: Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) serves most of the Wimberley area, so start accounts and arrange transfers well before move-in day

If the home runs on propane, as many rural Hill Country properties do where natural gas lines don't reach, ask about tank ownership, delivery schedules, and fill costs

Financial & Legal

Budget for Texas property taxes: typically 1.5% to 2.2% of assessed value in the Wimberley area

If you're 65+, research the homestead exemption and tax ceiling available in Hays and Blanco counties

Consider a wildlife management exemption if you're buying acreage — it can significantly reduce property taxes

Timeline it correctly: new Texas residents must register their vehicles within 30 days (county tax assessor-collector office, safety inspection, and proof of insurance required) and get a Texas driver's license within 90 days

Update your will and estate documents to reflect Texas law if moving from out of state

The Buying Process (Texas Basics)

Get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start touring: in a market where good properties move fast, sellers and their agents take pre-approved buyers seriously

Expect your agent to provide Texas' Information About Brokerage Services (IABS) form at your first substantive conversation; state law requires it

Understand the standard Texas contract: an accepted offer typically includes an earnest money deposit and an option period (commonly 7 to 10 days) during which you can back out for almost any reason while inspections are completed

Ask your lender and title company for a realistic closing timeline so you can line up movers, utility transfers, and a move-in date to match

Community & Lifestyle

Join the Wimberley Community Center — it's the hub for events, classes, and social connections

Attend Market Days (first Saturday of the month, March–December) — it's the best way to meet locals

Explore local organizations: Lions Club, Rotary, church groups, art collectives, and volunteer fire department

Sign up for the Wimberley View, the local weekly newspaper, and community newsletters to stay informed

Find your favorite coffee shop, restaurant, and swimming hole — you'll have them within a week

Steve's #1 Tip

"Don't rush the move. Come to Wimberley a few times first. Spend time at the Square, talk to locals, and get a feel for the different areas. Wimberley has a lot of variety — the right spot for you might not be the first one you find. Take your time, ask questions, and let the Hill Country reveal itself to you."

Ready to start exploring? Get in touch with Steve — he's happy to answer questions, share neighborhood insights, or help you navigate the Wimberley real estate market.


Steve Giannone
Steve Giannone
Realtor · 40+ years in Central Texas real estate

Steve has been living and working in the Wimberley area for 40+ years. Learn more about Steve →

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