Toll Brothers’ Mayfair Master Plan: A Strategic Play in New Braunfels’ Growing Housing Market

The Mayfair Master Plan in New Braunfels, Texas, is emerging as a prime destination for homebuyers and investors alike. Toll Brothers’ recent launch of move-in ready homes in this 2,400-acre development offers a compelling entry point into a market fueled by population growth, infrastructure expansion, and strategic location. With pricing starting in the mid-$400,000s and a blend of luxury amenities and affordability, this project could be a linchpin for real estate returns in Central Texas.

The Mayfair Master Plan: A Blueprint for Growth

Developed by Southstar Communities, the Mayfair Master Plan aims to deliver 6,000 residential units by full completion, including single-family homes, townhomes, and multifamily dwellings. Toll Brothers’ current offering focuses on two collections:
- Comal Collection: 1,900–3,100+ sq. ft., 3–5 bedrooms, 2-car garages on 50-ft lots.
- Guadalupe Collection: 2,400–3,900+ sq. ft., 3–5 bedrooms, 3-car garages on 60-ft lots.

These homes are designed to cater to families and professionals, with “quick move-in” options and customizable design features. The development also boasts 300 acres of parks, 35 miles of interconnected trails, and a signature lake, enhancing its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. A new Comal ISD middle school (groundbreaking in Feb 2025) and proximity to schools like Freiheit Elementary further solidify its family-friendly reputation.

A Buyer’s Market with Long-Term Upside

The New Braunfels real estate market in 2025 presents both challenges and opportunities. Median home prices dipped slightly to $329,990 in January 2025 (a 2.9% YoY decline), while inventory surged to over 150,000 active listings statewide, creating a buyer’s market. However, this environment masks underlying demand driven by:
1. Population Boom: New Braunfels’ population has nearly doubled since 2010, reaching 117,000 in 2024, fueled by migration from high-cost cities like Austin and Dallas.
2. Strategic Location: Situated between Austin (1–2 hours away) and San Antonio (33 miles), Mayfair benefits from both cities’ economic ecosystems.
3. Infrastructure Investment: The San Antonio-to-Austin Trail (35 miles) and Midtown Mayfair retail/office hub enhance connectivity and job opportunities.

Why Toll Brothers’ Mayfair Play Makes Sense

Toll Brothers’ entry into Mayfair aligns with broader trends favoring master-planned communities. Key advantages include:
- Affordability Amid Growth: While median prices have dipped, homes here remain cheaper than Austin (median $750K+) or San Antonio (median $280K+). The mid-$400K entry point balances luxury and accessibility.
- Demographic Diversity: The mix of single-family homes, rental units (e.g., the 217-unit Village at Mayfair), and middle-income housing caters to first-time buyers, families, and retirees.
- Amenity-Driven Demand: The Mayfair Master Plan’s parks, trails, and the 2nd Annual Mayfest (held May 10, 2025) signal a vibrant community culture that attracts both residents and investors.

Risks and Considerations

• Inventory Oversupply: Texas’ 6-month inventory supply (as of 2025) could pressure prices further if demand slows.
• Interest Rate Volatility: While mortgage rates are stable at 6–7%, any sudden hikes could deter buyers.
• Development Timeline: The 6,000-unit goal is a 15+ year project; delays could impact phased returns.

Conclusion: A Solid Bet on Texas’ Growth Engine

The Mayfair Master Plan represents a rare convergence of affordability, amenities, and strategic location in one of Texas’ fastest-growing regions. With New Braunfels’ population set to keep rising and infrastructure investments like the Veramendi master plan (2,500 acres with a $10M park) expanding supply, the area is primed for sustained appreciation.

Investors should note that Toll Brothers’ move-in ready homes offer immediate occupancy and design flexibility, while the broader master plan’s scale (330 acres of parks, 35 miles of trails) ensures long-term community value. Even with current price softness, the 30% population growth since 2010 and the San Antonio-New Braunfels MSA’s status as a “top 2025 housing hot spot” suggest this is a market poised for stabilization and eventual upward momentum.

For buyers and investors, Mayfair’s blend of affordability, infrastructure, and proximity to major job centers makes it a standout opportunity in a state where real estate continues to outperform national averages. The question isn’t whether New Braunfels will grow—it’s how soon the market will catch up to its potential.