Splurge vs. Steal: Lakeside Living Outside Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas continues to top the “Best Places to Live” charts as thousands of new residents (as well as a Tesla headquarters) relocate the Texas capitol. People are drawn to Austin for many reasons — more affordable living and a great music scene being a few — but not least of these reasons is the city’s access to the Great Outdoors.

Lake Travis is just 30 minutes from Austin and offers plenty of views and endless lake activities when one is in need of a city escape.

Lakefront Splurge for $7.979 Million:

Many multi-million dollar Lake Travis homes tend to be bulky, multi-level concoctions that look like they were transplanted directly from a Dallas suburb. There’s not necessarily anything wrong with that until you see something like 17705 Breakwater Dr., a home that is designed to welcome the surrounding natural beauty.

This five-bed, five-bath lake house includes natural materials (many of them local) throughout. The fir beams feature boldly, as well as the dedication to natural light by the banks of windows in every room. 

Of course, a highlight is the home’s direct access to Lake Travis. Another unexpected one is the wide range of entertainment beyond the water. The property includes a golf cart, UTV, a go-kart, and an outdoor playset for the kids.

From the listing:

“On 6.4 acres along the north shore of Lake Travis, architect Mell Lawrence has designed an award winning contemporary waterfront home from natural materials. Inviting the nature that surrounds it, this home displays locally quarried limestone, hardwood flooring, fir beam ceilings, clerestory & wall-to-wall windows that embed clean lines and natural light for an airy wooded ambiance.”

Hilltop Steal for $1.395 Million:

This Steal swaps lakefront access for hilltop living in a gated community at a $6.584 million discount. However, our Steal is comparable in its chic, nature-inspired style. 

As you enter the three-bed, three-bath home through the custom double iron doors, you’re greeted by an enclosed outdoor courtyard with a gas-burning fireplace. Stonework throughout the house, natural light, and copious outdoor living spaces connect the home with its beautiful surroundings. The property is situated on a greenbelt lot and enjoys spectacular panoramic hill country views and sunsets.  

From the listing:

“Built for luxury living, this home features stunning architecture, soaring ceilings, walls of windows, custom stone columns, and multiple outdoor living spaces to relax and enjoy the views. Conveniently located near Lake Travis, 620/2222, Lakeway, Four Points, restaurants, shopping, downtown Austin and acclaimed Leander ISD schools.”