Historic San Antonio Buildings Hit the Market After Renovation Plans

News Summary

Two historic buildings located at 114 Main Plaza in San Antonio are up for sale following ambitious renovation plans that faced delays. Local restaurateur Lisa Wong, who owned the buildings, decided to sell after a decade of effort. With a rich history dating back to the mid-1700s, these structures offer significant potential for new developments, including residential and retail spaces. Despite setbacks, the sale has attracted considerable interest from various parties eager to transform this piece of San Antonio history.

San Antonio’s Historic Buildings Listed for Sale After Ambitious Renovation Plans

In a fascinating turn of events, the pair of historic buildings at 114 Main Plaza in the heart of San Antonio have officially been put up for sale! The owner, local restaurateur Lisa Wong, had grand plans to breathe new life into these significant structures, but after a decade at the helm, she has decided it’s time to pass the baton. The sale comes hot on the heels of extensive renovation plans that have experienced their fair share of delays.

A Glimpse into History

Let’s take a step back in time. These buildings carry a rich historical background that dates all the way back to the mid-1700s. Did you know that this very site was once home to “Casas Reales,” the first courthouse in Bexar County, established in 1742? It even served as the municipal headquarters through various political regimes in its early years. Over the centuries, the buildings have seen their share of stories, from being a saddle shop to a cozy bookstore right up until 2007.

Location, Location, Location!

Situated in the shadow of the iconic San Fernando Cathedral, this property stands out as the only site on Main Plaza not owned by the city or the cathedral itself. Spanning a cozy 7,500 square feet, the buildings could become the perfect spot for someone looking to turn a piece of San Antonio history into something new and dynamic.

The Renovation Dream

Wong had envisioned a spectacular transformation for these buildings. The ambitious plans included creating residential apartments, a rooftop terrace for panoramic views, and retail spaces that could breathe new life into the bustling plaza. The estimated renovation costs were set to exceed a whopping $5 million, highlighting just how much potential these historic structures hold.

Back in February 2020, the San Antonio City Council was on board, granting $1.1 million in funding through the Houston Street Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone to kickstart the project. They also approved a license for outdoor patio space, enhancing the appeal of the location further. Originally, construction was slated to begin in July 2025, expecting to wrap up by December 2026. Unfortunately, like many projects, these plans faced multiple delays attributed to the pandemic, rising interest rates, and supply chain challenges.

On the Market

Just last week, the property was officially listed for sale on LoopNet, though specific pricing details remain under wraps. What makes this sale even more enticing for prospective buyers? They could take advantage of the existing reinvestment zone funds along with $1.5 million in historic tax credits specifically designated for renovations. Real estate agent Alan Valadez mentioned a buzz in the market, stating that over a dozen interested parties have already inquired about refurbishing these buildings for commercial use.

The Future of 114 Main Plaza

As this intriguing sale unfolds, many locals are watching closely. The historical significance of the site cannot be overstated, and it has a chance to grow even further with the right vision. The surrounding area is currently experiencing a flurry of development, with luxury apartment complexes and extended-stay hotels popping up nearby, promising an influx of foot traffic and interest in Main Plaza.

While the buildings may sit quiet for now, one thing is for sure: the rich history of 114 Main Plaza is just waiting for the right buyer to unlock its potential and give it a new lease on life!