Wan Bridge, a Houston-based developer, has begun construction on its first built-to-rent community in the San Antonio area. The project, called West End Estates, is located at 901 Beebrush Lane in New Braunfels and will include more than 200 units. The estimated cost for the development is about $60 million, or roughly $300,000 per unit.
The company described this move as part of its broader strategy to improve rental housing options across Texas. “We aim to redefine what it means to rent in Texas,” said CEO Ting Qiao. He explained that Wan Bridge’s model combines single-family home features with professional maintenance services such as landscaping, exterior upkeep, and routine repairs.
West End Estates will feature two-story townhomes ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 square feet. Floor plans will include two-, three-, and four-bedroom options. Each unit will have an attached two-car garage and a private backyard. Rents are expected to range from $1,900 to $2,520 per month. Community amenities will include a pool, sports courts, a walking trail, and a playground within the gated property. The first homes are scheduled for completion early next year.
This development is part of Wan Bridge’s previously announced plan to build 30,000 built-to-rent units in 50 Texas markets by 2026. The company has also targeted other regions such as Houston—where it aims for 1,000 units in Land Tejas/Starwood Land communities—and North Texas through partnerships with Centurion American Development Group. However, progress has been slowed by factors like rising costs and utility delays.
The expansion into New Braunfels gives Wan Bridge access to one of the fastest-growing areas between Austin and San Antonio. Over the past five years, demand for rental communities has increased across Texas due to population growth and high mortgage rates that have made homeownership less accessible for many residents.
Developers like Wan Bridge see ongoing demographic trends and affordability issues as supporting continued growth in the sector. The San Antonio market is now attracting attention from companies with experience in larger cities such as Houston and Dallas.
“We aim to redefine what it means to rent in Texas,” said CEO Ting Qiao.
The design of West End Estates follows Wan Bridge’s standard approach: suburban-scale homes intended for long-term renters with finishes meant to compete with entry-level ownership opportunities.
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