Historical Landmark in San Antonio Listed for Sale

News Summary

The only privately owned building in San Antonio’s Historic Main Plaza, known as Casa Reales, is now on the market. This 7,500 square-foot historical gem, built in 1742, has a rich past serving various civic roles. Local realtor Alan Valadez highlights its commercial potential and historic significance. Interested buyers can benefit from reinvestment zone funds and historic tax credits to rejuvenate this landmark, making it a unique opportunity to own and restore a piece of San Antonio’s history.

San Antonio’s Historical Treasure up for Grabs!

Exciting times are ahead for San Antonio as the only privately owned building in the Historic Main Plaza has officially been listed for sale! Known in the past as Casa Reales, this 7,500 square-foot gem is not just any property; it boasts a vibrant history, having been constructed way back in 1742. That’s right—this building is a significant historical landmark that has seen it all!

A Walk Through Time

Conveniently located at 114 East Main Plaza, it is surrounded by city-owned properties, enhancing its status in the heart of the city. This is not just any old building; it has played pivotal roles in San Antonio’s past. Can you imagine its walls witnessing all the hustle and bustle as it served as a courthouse, jail, and municipal house during the 1800s? The stories it could tell!

The structure is perfectly set up for commercial and retail use, making it an ideal spot for the next visionary who wants to bring life back into this historic venue. With three levels—a basement, a main floor, and a terrace—the possibilities are endless.

Opportunity Knocks

Local realtor Alan Valadez is putting this beauty on the market, highlighting its significance as a cornerstone of San Antonio’s heritage. This is a unique opportunity for anyone looking to own a piece of history right in the middle of where the action is happening. Imagine the foot traffic with its proximity to cultural and commercial hubs, including the infamous River Walk!

Lisa Wong, a local restaurateur, had big ideas for this property when she bought it back in 2013. She envisioned extensive renovations that included modern facades, new walls, windows, apartments, and retail space—all costing over $5 million. The city was on board too, approving a whopping $1.1 million in funding from the Houston Street Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone. However, due to various delays—including those pesky pandemic-related hiccups—the construction start has been pushed to July 2025, with an anticipated finish in December 2026.

What’s Next?

As if that weren’t enough, the property has recently appeared on LoopNet without a listed price. However, it’s appraised at $1.3 million by the Bexar Appraisal District. For a potential buyer, utilizing reinvestment zone funds and an additional $1.5 million in historic tax credits for renovations could make this a financially appealing project!

A Nod to Major Events

Let’s not forget the iconic history tied to this location. This property was originally known as “Casas Reales,” the first courthouse in Bexar County where some crucial historical events unfolded. Names like Moses Austin echo through its walls, and it hosted significant events including the Council House Fight involving Comanche chiefs. It transitioned into various roles over the years, even serving as a bookstore by the Daughters of St. Paul until its closure in 2007.

The Future is Bright

As San Antonio continues to grow with new housing and hotel projects on the horizon, investing in a piece of history seems like an exciting avenue. With its historic significance complemented by continuous developments in the area, this is more than just a building—it’s a chance to be part of San Antonio’s evolving story.

Who knows? The next owner could be the one to rejuvenate this landmark and further celebrate its historic importance in the face of modernity. Those interested in shaping the future of this amazing property better act fast!