Galveston Homes for Sale
Don’t miss this update: BUYER AGREEMENTS BECOME MANDATORY
There is a lot of discussion about realtor commissions following the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement.
We all have questions and there will more more change on the horizon as realtors, the Department of Justice, Federal Trade Commission, and lenders all respond. I’ve written a message for my clients that encapsulates my thoughts to date. I believe in clear and open communication and will provide updates as I know more. You can read my thoughts here.
One thing I’m certain of, in this time of change it is more important than ever to work with a licensed professional who has your best interests at heart!
Your Galveston Real Estate Team
To buy, sell or lease Galveston talk to Tom Schwenk, owner and broker of Coldwell Banker TGRE. Tom is the number 1 agent for in-town sales and an award-winning realtor with more than 20 years’ experience. Now, a locally owned and operated Coldwell Banker ® affiliate, he has joined an international network with more than 115 years of real estate leadership. This means more experience, more knowledge, and more certainty of success while still offering the local expertise and five star service TGRE is known for. No local brokerage gives you more.
With Tom’s successful history in Galveston it is no wonder he decided to launch his own real estate firm in 2018 after working in the industry for more than 15 years. His vision for Tom’s Galveston Real Estate is a customer focused firm to help people buy, sell or lease Galveston.
The history, beautiful natural features are people who live here are just some of the things that make island life so special. When finding your own place in the sun you need to work with a company that has superior local knowledge about everything that makes Galveston what it is.
Tom has owned property in Galveston since 1987 and became a full time resident in 2001. He has leadership positions on many community and civic organizations and is recognized as an historic homes expert.
Brian Kuhn, Reid Nelson, Robert Zahn, Carole Bell, Brian Schwenk, Mickey Conrad-Matthews, as well as Team Hadley-Sims, Britt Lamb, Luis Santiago, and Corey Cole are our very professional agents who share Tom’s commitment to customer service and knowledge and expertise of the local market.
In addition to a talented group of real estate professionals, Tom’s Team also includes a full administrative staff on hand to care for every client’s needs.
To buy, sell or lease Galveston make sure you Talk to TGRE!
An award-winning Broker, Tom is Galveston’s #1 agent for in-town sales. Tom is well known for his passionate support of Galveston, his expertise in historic homes and his efforts to protect and develop what makes island life so special.
More about Tom
Brian Schwenk, REALTOR®, Director of Property / Project Management
While in college he interned one summer with Galveston Historical Foundation and his interest in historic homes became personal when he rehabilitated an 1886 raised cottage on Galveston’s 19th Street which was also his first foray into home ownership.
More about Brian
Brian loves living in Galveston and has been working with buyers and sellers in the area since 2011. While Brian enjoys sharing his enthusiasm for architectural detail and knowledge of market trends, his clients appreciate his responsiveness and knowledge of the transaction process.
More about Brian
Reid is a native Galvestonian who, after successful careers in law and insurance, returned to Galveston in 2017 to get back to his roots. His clients benefit from his legal and insurance expertise as well as his true love of this town.
More about Reid
Robert has over fifteen years of working in the Historical Homes market of Galveston. He has have been active in the restoration of his own Victorian era houses, and was actively involved in laying the groundwork for the formation of the San Jacinto Historical Conservation District.
More about Robert
After a fulfilling career in Finance, she retired but still wanted to do more. So began her second career in real estate - promoting all that Galveston and the areas have to offer. Carole strives to ensure that all parties are well-informed and have a clear understanding throughout all phases of the real estate process when buying or selling their home.
More about Carole
Mickey Matthews-Conrad, REALTOR®
Mickey Matthews-Conrad was born and raised in Texas and is proud to be a 5th generation Texan. A very experienced realtor, she has worked in the industry for more than 30 years helping people to realize their real estate dreams.
More about Mickey
Team Hadley-Sims
We are Team Hadley Sims serving Galveston, and the surrounding areas. We are committed to going above and beyond for our clients whether they are buying or selling. Tee Jay Hadley comes to the real estate side after an extensive career in property management where he most recently served as a Regional Director. Kyle Sims comes to the real estate side from mortgage, where he also serves as a Settlement Specialist.
More about Tee Jay
More about Kyle
Britt Lamb was born and raised on Galveston Island. After a successful career in hospital administration, she now looks forward to helping her clients find their perfect home or workspace.
More about Britt
Luis’ transition to real estate from home staging came naturally after years of preparing homes for sale. As a licensed real estate agent and listing specialist, he leverages his background to help clients present their homes in the best light, maximizing value and appeal. His experience in the oil and gas industry, paired with his extensive knowledge of what buyers want, gives him a unique edge in the competitive real estate market.
More about Luis
Corey C. Cole first became interested in real estate as a child watching his contractor father work on houses. A licensed realtor since 1997, he said real estate is more than a job, it is a passion. He loves to help everyone from first-time homebuyers to vacation home buyers and everyone in between.
More about Corey
Shannon Caldwell, Marketing Director
Originally from New Zealand, Shannon is an award-winning public relations and marketing expert. She first came to Galveston in 2011 where one of the first people she met was Tom Schwenk, who was the leasing agent on the historic home she rented with her family.
More about Shannon
Pride in Galveston Real Estate
Yippee Skippee!
Broker/Owner Tom Schwenk recently appeared on 950 AM KPRC Houston radio.
“I had a great time at KPRC radio last week talking about Galveston and local real estate.
The announcer said I should be the mayor of Galveston! I love promoting our Island and wonderful lifestyle.”
We proudly support our island community!
East End
- East End Historic District
- Beachtown
- East Beach
Central Island
- Kempner Park
- Lost Bayou Historic District
- San Jacinto
Downtown Galveston
- The Strand Historic District
- Postoffice Street
- Pier 21
West End
- Pirates Beach
- Jamaica Beach
- Terramar Beach
Seawall Neighborhoods
- Denver Court
- Fort Crockett
- Campeche Cove
West End
- Pirates Beach
- Jamaica Beach
- Terramar Beach
Something for everyone on Galveston Island. Talk to TGRE when you want to buy, sell or lease in Galveston!
Why should you chose a real estate professional in Galveston, versus someone in Houston that you’ve worked with before? Working with a local real estate professional in Galveston, TX, can provide significant advantages due to the city’s unique market conditions, regulations, and environmental factors. Here are some key reasons why a local expert is beneficial:
1. Understanding Flood Zones & Insurance Costs
- Galveston is prone to seasonals storms, making flood zones and insurance requirements a major concern.
- A local agent can help you navigate FEMA flood maps, elevation certificates, and flood insurance requirements, which can significantly impact affordability.
2. Short-Term Rental Regulations & Investment Strategies
- Galveston is a popular tourist destination, making short-term vacation rentals a lucrative investment.
- However, the city has specific regulations, permit requirements, and zoning laws that impact where and how properties can be rented on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.
- A local agent will know which neighborhoods are more rental-friendly and where short-term rentals are valued.
3. Historic Districts & Preservation Rules
- Many homes in Galveston are in historical districts, such as the East End Historic District and Silk Stocking District.
- Properties in these areas may be subject to restoration guidelines, permit approvals, and restrictions on renovations to maintain the area’s historic charm.
- A local agent can help you understand these requirements and connect you with the right contractors.
4. Market-Specific Trends & Pricing Expertise
- Galveston’s real estate market varies greatly by location, with waterfront properties, historic homes, and new developments all having different pricing trends.
- A local agent will have up-to-date insights on which areas are appreciating, seasonal market fluctuations, and negotiation strategies to help buyers and sellers get the best deals.
5. Coastal Home Maintenance & Inspections
- Salt air and humidity can cause accelerated wear and tear on homes, leading to issues with home construction and maintenance.
- A local agent will recommend specialized home inspectors who understand the unique challenges of coastal properties.
6. Navigating HOA Rules in Beachfront Communities
- Many beachfront and resort-style communities have homeowners’ associations (HOAs) with specific rules and fees related to exterior maintenance, rental restrictions, and amenities.
- A local agent can guide you through HOA costs, regulations, and financial health before you buy.
7. Financing Challenges for Waterfront & Historic Homes
- Some homes in Galveston, particularly historic properties and beachfront homes, may have financing challenges due to insurance costs, property conditions, and lender requirements.
- Local agents can connect you with lenders experienced in financing unique coastal properties to ensure a smooth closing process!
8. Builder & Contractor Connections
- If you’re looking to build or renovate, a local real estate professional can connect you with trusted builders, architects, and contractors familiar with Galveston’s coastal building codes and permitting process.
Bottom Line:
Working with a local Galveston real estate professional is essential for avoiding costly mistakes, ensuring a smooth transaction, and taking advantage of unique market opportunities—whether you’re buying, selling, or investing.