Commercial rezoning is often one of the most misunderstood parts of land development. For property owners, it can feel opaque, political, and unpredictable. For local governments, it is a structured process designed to balance growth, infrastructure, and community impact.
For land that doesn’t have an “Ag” valuation, Braun & Gresham has an interesting and effective alternative to qualify for an open space valuation. A property can qualify for “Ag” rates if the property is made available for ecological research.
Texas is once again at the forefront of major energy infrastructure development. AEP Texas and CPS Energy are preparing to construct the Howard-Solstice Transmission Line Project, one of the first 765-kilovolt (kV) transmission lines in the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) region. This massive project is a critical step toward meeting the growing electricity demands of the Permian Basin, driven by booming oil and gas operations and data center growth.
We have had clients come to Braun & Gresham for estate planning after they have handled the distribution of a parent’s estate. Those clients often tell us that the planning done by their parents, combined with their parents’ thoughtful communication of their wishes, was a priceless gift. It eased their minds, minimized sibling conflict, and helped expedite the distribution of the estate.
The historically destructive and deadly flooding that happened in Central Texas over the July 4, 2025, weekend hit Kerr County the hardest. But Travis County also suffered deeply, with ten lives lost, destroyed homes and damaged infrastructure, and widespread resident displacement. The area around Sandy Creek was particularly impacted.
For many Texas landowners, hearing that the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has plans to improve or expand a road near their property can bring mixed feelings. Understanding what Texas landowners should know about TxDOT can help you navigate the process and protect your interests.
If you are a Texas landowner and have received a letter from a utility company about a proposed power line project, it is easy to feel confused about what exactly is happening. You might see phrases like “transmission line routing,” “transmission line easement,” or “eminent domain,” and wonder what they all mean, and when you need to take action.
Monetizing your land begins with understanding its potential. Through feasibility analysis, site assessment, and legal planning, you can unlock opportunities that maximize your asset and build long-term value. Our team is here to help you make informed decisions about your land and its future.
The renewable energy boom that continues to sweep across Texas and the nation presents both exciting opportunities and significant challenges for landowners. As the demand for energy continues, wind, solar, and battery storage projects, and now data centers, are increasingly seeking vast tracts of land.
Real estate investing has long been one of the most reliable paths to building wealth. It offers opportunities for cash flow, long-term appreciation, and diversification in a way few other assets can match.
Eminent domain continues to have significant impact on Texas landowners in 2025 and will continue to do so into the coming years. As the state continues investing heavily in infrastructure, many large-scale projects require the acquisition of private property through condemnation. Staying informed about these projects is essential for landowners to understand potential impacts and steps they can take to protect their rights.
Commercial and land real estate transactions can be complex, but they do not have to be overwhelming. The right legal guidance can make all the difference in protecting your investment and ensuring the process is as smooth as possible.
Braun & Gresham, PLLC provides skilled legal counsel and practical advice for owners of rural property in Texas. We use traditional resources in innovative ways to help our clients protect and create new value in their land.
