rhino

Does anyone know if Galveston has ever seriously considered just bringing in sand to build up the beaches? I know other coastal communities do that. I'm sure it would be expensive, but I have no idea how expensive. However, all of the pricey construction should be raising the property tax revenue of Galveston - in theory. Perhaps they could use some of the windfall to invest in the beaches. That way they could plow up the seaweed to beautify the beaches since the beach would be replenished with imported sand.

Personally, I ended up going with Diamond Beach, the new Randall Davis development at 103rd and Seawall. My criteria were a new development (I don't want a really old condo) and something with some character (in my opinion, there are several new condos going up that all look the same). I also wanted a condo instead of a house to avoid dealing with landscaping and other chores. Diamond Beach is certainly not cheap, but I liked them the best. I was also intrigued by the fact it's partially protected by the seawall but with a small amount of beach since it's at the very Western end of the seawall. However, one drawback for you would be that they haven't started construction yet, if you are wanting something now. From what they've told me, I think it's two years until they are complete. Someone above mentioned a preference for being close to town. DB is pretty far away from town, which is fine with me. However, there are some really cool places closer to town though. There are some nice lofts from what I've seen. I also almost signed up for Emerald by the Sea two years ago but changed my mind. I've been kicking myself ever since since the market has appreciated so much since then. Good luck in your search!!

I'm not that familiar with The Galvestonian, but I've done a lot of research on new construction condos recently because I just signed up to buy one. The nicer ones are typically in the range of $350 to $450 per square foot, although more cookie cutter new developments are around $300/sqft. The two you mention are $488 and $390 per square foot. Assuming this is a really nice place, then it's probably a fair price (but not a steal). I've noticed that pricing also is higher if the condo actually has a gulf view and also more for higher floors.