Sell Your Land Note in Bastrop County, Texas — Complete Guide

To sell a land note in Texas, you submit your note details to a direct buyer, receive a cash offer (typically within 24 hours), complete a due diligence process, and close in as little as two to four weeks with funds wired directly to your account. There are no broker fees when you sell directly, and the borrower's loan terms remain completely unchanged throughout the transaction. Longhorn Note Buyers, based in San Antonio, has purchased over $47 million in Texas real estate notes since 2007 and maintains a 100% close rate on accepted offers, offers free, no-obligation quotes within 24 hours — call (210) 828-3573 or visit longhornnotebuyers.com.

This guide walks you through the full process of selling a land note in Texas in 2026, from understanding what your note is worth to receiving your funds at closing.

Why Bastrop County Notes Are Increasingly Attractive to Buyers

Tech Industry Investment Is Reshaping the Landscape

The story that has fundamentally changed Bastrop County's trajectory is the arrival of Elon Musk's constellation of companies. SpaceX's Starlink division operates a manufacturing facility exceeding 500,000 square feet along FM 1209, producing satellite user terminals and accessories for the global Starlink internet network. The Boring Company, Musk's tunneling venture, has its research and development headquarters here as well. In 2024, social media platform X (formerly Twitter) relocated its permanent headquarters to the same corporate compound in rural Bastrop County, further cementing the area's status as a tech hub. These companies have become some of the largest employers in what was historically a commuter and agricultural county. The ripple effects of this corporate investment — rising home prices, new retail development, an influx of tech workers seeking housing — are creating sustained upward pressure on property values throughout the county. For note holders, this means the collateral backing your promissory note is appreciating in a market with genuine, diversified demand drivers.

Austin Spillover Creates Consistent Demand

Even before the tech companies arrived, Bastrop County was already benefiting from Austin's relentless expansion. As housing prices in Austin proper and Travis County climbed to levels that excluded many first-time buyers and young families, people began looking east. Bastrop County offered what Austin increasingly could not — affordable homes, larger lots, open spaces, and the charm of small-town Texas living. The median home price in Bastrop County reached approximately $365,000 in 2024, representing a 4.6 percent increase from the prior year, yet still significantly more affordable than Austin's median. State Highway 71 provides a direct corridor between Bastrop and Austin, making commutes manageable, and the proximity to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport adds convenience for business travelers. This Austin spillover dynamic creates a floor of demand for Bastrop County real estate that supports the value of notes secured by local property.

Natural Beauty and Tourism Amenities

Bastrop County is the heart of the Lost Pines region, home to a unique ecosystem of loblolly pine trees that represents the westernmost stand of such timber in Texas. Bastrop State Park and Buescher State Park draw visitors year-round for camping, hiking, and nature experiences. The Colorado River winds through the county, providing recreational opportunities and scenic appeal. The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, located between the city of Bastrop and Austin's airport, is a major destination property that brings tourism dollars and employment to the area. Lake Bastrop offers fishing and water recreation. These natural amenities are not just quality-of-life features for residents — they are economic drivers that support property values and make the county attractive to homebuyers, which in turn supports the collateral behind land notes.

Understanding Bastrop County's Sub-Markets

City of Bastrop: Historic Core and Rapid Growth

The city of Bastrop is the county seat and has experienced remarkable growth, with its population climbing from roughly 9,800 in 2020 to over 14,000 in 2026 — a growth rate of nearly 45 percent in just six years. The city's historic downtown is one of the most charming in Texas, with more than 130 culturally and historically significant buildings and 96 properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a town that was founded in 1832, served as a strategic point during the Texas Revolution, and has survived floods, fires, and military destruction to emerge as a thriving community that attracts both history enthusiasts and modern professionals. Notes secured by property within or near the city of Bastrop benefit from the strength of the local housing market, the depth of buyer demand, and the city's planned growth trajectory, which anticipates reaching 20,000 residents by 2029.

Elgin: The Sausage Capital With Suburban Momentum

Elgin sits in the northern portion of Bastrop County, straddling the county line with Travis and Williamson Counties. Known nationally for its smoked sausage tradition, Elgin has evolved from a small agricultural town into a growing suburban community. Its position along U.S. Highway 290, which connects it to Austin, makes it particularly attractive to commuters. Elgin has its own distinct character — more working-class and agricultural than Bastrop proper, with a strong sense of community identity. Land in and around Elgin tends to be more affordable than in the Bastrop area, which means seller-financed transactions on Elgin properties may involve smaller note balances. These notes are absolutely sellable, and the area's growth trajectory — driven by both Austin spillover and the broader Bastrop County boom — supports their value.

Smithville and the Southern County

Smithville, located along Highway 71 in the southern portion of the county, retains a deeply rural, small-town character. With a population of around 4,500, it offers a quieter alternative to the growth happening in Bastrop and Elgin. The town has appeared in several films and maintains a strong arts and culture scene for its size. The southern portion of Bastrop County more broadly is characterized by agricultural land, ranches, and larger acreage tracts. Notes secured by property in this area will be evaluated differently than those in the northern growth corridors, with the valuation depending heavily on the specific property's characteristics — its road access, utilities, timber value, and proximity to development. An experienced note buyer who understands the full spectrum of Bastrop County real estate, like Longhorn Note Buyers, can evaluate these properties accurately and provide a fair offer.

The FM 969/FM 1209 Corridor: Ground Zero for Growth

The corridor along Farm-to-Market roads 969 and 1209, northwest of the city of Bastrop, has become the focal point of the county's transformation. This is where Musk's corporate compound is located, where SpaceX and The Boring Company have their facilities, and where new housing developments and commercial projects are springing up at a rapid pace. The area is largely unincorporated, which means it operates under county jurisdiction with fewer development restrictions than within city limits. Property values along this corridor have seen significant appreciation as the tech companies have expanded their presence. If your land note is secured by property in this area, you are holding collateral in one of the most dynamic growth zones in all of Central Texas.

How Bastrop County's Growth Affects Your Note's Value

Appreciating Collateral Improves Your Loan-to-Value Ratio

When a note buyer evaluates your promissory note, one of the most important metrics they consider is the loan-to-value ratio — the relationship between what the borrower still owes on the note and what the property is currently worth. In a rapidly appreciating market like Bastrop County, this ratio tends to improve over time, because the property value rises while the note balance decreases with each payment. A favorable loan-to-value ratio reduces the risk for the note buyer and typically results in a better offer for you as the seller. If you financed a land sale in Bastrop County even two or three years ago, there is a reasonable chance that the property has appreciated meaningfully since then, which puts you in a strong position when seeking a quote. Understanding what determines the value of a Texas land note helps you understand how this appreciation translates into a higher price for your note.

Population Growth Signals Low Default Risk

Bastrop County's population growth rate — the 13th fastest in Texas between 2020 and 2023 — is not just a statistic about demographic change. It is a powerful indicator of economic vitality. People move to areas where there are jobs, where housing is attainable, and where the quality of life is appealing. A growing population means a growing tax base, which supports local infrastructure and services. It means more buyers competing for property, which supports values. And it means a deeper employment market, which supports borrower incomes and reduces the risk of default. All of these factors work in your favor when a note buyer is pricing your Bastrop County land note. The county's growth is projected to continue, with the city of Bastrop alone expecting a 42 percent population increase over the next five years.

Diversifying Economy Reduces Concentration Risk

One concern that a sophisticated note buyer might have about a rapidly growing market is whether the growth is sustainable or whether it depends too heavily on a single employer or industry. Bastrop County benefits from the fact that its growth drivers are diversified. The tech sector (SpaceX, The Boring Company, X) represents a major new pillar, but the county also has traditional economic strengths in agriculture, tourism, retail, and government services. The proximity to Austin means that a large portion of county residents work in Austin's diversified economy rather than being solely dependent on local employers. This diversification reduces the concentration risk that a note buyer would otherwise need to account for in their pricing, which generally results in more favorable offers for note sellers.

The Process of Selling Your Bastrop County Land Note

Documentation You Will Need

The foundation of any note sale is the documentation. Before a buyer can provide a firm offer, they need to review the promissory note itself, the deed of trust or contract for deed that secures it, a current payment history showing the borrower's track record, and any title insurance policy associated with the property. A survey and the original closing statement are helpful but not always essential. If you have been collecting payments yourself without a loan servicer, make sure you have a clear record of every payment including dates, amounts, and any late payments or missed payments. The more organized your documentation, the faster the process moves and the more confidence the buyer has in the note. For a detailed checklist of what you will need, see this guide on the documents needed to sell a land note in Texas.

Getting Your Quote and Evaluating the Offer

Once you submit your documentation to a note buyer, the evaluation process begins. The buyer will review the note terms, verify the payment history, assess the borrower's creditworthiness to the extent possible, and evaluate the collateral. For Bastrop County properties, the collateral evaluation will include a review of comparable sales, the property's location within the county, its access to roads and utilities, and any factors that might affect its marketability. An experienced Texas note buyer will provide a written offer — typically within 24 hours for firms like Longhorn Note Buyers. It is important to evaluate the offer in context. A discount from face value is standard in the secondary note market; the question is whether the discount is reasonable given the risk profile of your specific note. Comparing offers from multiple buyers can be helpful, but working with a direct buyer rather than a broker eliminates the middleman markup that can eat into your proceeds. To understand the difference, review this comparison of working with a direct buyer versus a broker.

Closing the Transaction

After you accept an offer, the closing process involves a title search, preparation of assignment documents, and the transfer of funds. The title search verifies that the property has clear title and identifies any liens or encumbrances. Assignment documents formally transfer your rights under the note and deed of trust to the buyer. A title company or closing attorney handles the mechanics. The entire process typically takes two to four weeks from acceptance to funding, depending on the complexity of the title work and the responsiveness of all parties. Once closed, the buyer wires the purchase price directly to your bank account, and the borrower is notified to begin sending payments to the new note holder.

Special Considerations for Bastrop County Note Sellers

Fire Risk and Insurance Requirements

Bastrop County experienced devastating wildfires in 2011 that burned over 34,000 acres and destroyed more than 1,600 homes, primarily in areas near Bastrop State Park and the Lost Pines Forest. The memory of those fires remains vivid in the community, and wildfire risk is a factor that note buyers will consider when evaluating collateral in certain parts of the county. If your property is in a fire-prone area, the buyer will want to verify that the borrower maintains adequate hazard insurance. Properties in the Lost Pines area that were rebuilt after the 2011 fires may actually benefit from updated construction and improved defensible space, which can be viewed positively by buyers. The key is transparency — disclosing any known fire risk factors and demonstrating that appropriate insurance is in place.

Unincorporated Areas and Development Flexibility

A significant portion of Bastrop County — including the FM 969/FM 1209 corridor where much of the tech investment is concentrated — is unincorporated, meaning it falls under county jurisdiction rather than city governance. Texas counties have limited regulatory authority compared to cities, which means development in unincorporated areas faces fewer restrictions. This can be a positive factor for property values in growth corridors, as it allows for faster and more flexible development. However, it also means that properties in unincorporated areas may lack some of the municipal services and infrastructure that urban buyers expect. A note buyer will evaluate these factors on a property-by-property basis.

Notes on Properties With Agricultural Exemptions

Many properties in Bastrop County carry agricultural tax exemptions, which significantly reduce the property tax burden for the owner. If the property securing your note has an ag exemption, this is generally a positive factor because it reduces the borrower's annual carrying costs and makes the property more affordable to own, which supports continued payment performance. However, if the property's use changes and the ag exemption is lost — for example, if a subsequent buyer converts agricultural land to residential use — the resulting tax increase could affect affordability. A note buyer will consider these dynamics but will not typically view an agricultural exemption as a negative factor.

Ready to Sell Your Note?

Bastrop County is in the midst of a historic transformation, and your land note is backed by collateral in one of the most dynamic markets in Texas. If you are ready to convert your payment stream into cash, Longhorn Note Buyers can provide a no-obligation offer within 24 hours. With over $46 million in Texas notes purchased since 2007 and a 100% close rate on quoted offers, Longhorn Note Buyers brings the experience and reliability you need. Founder Nick McFadin has been buying notes since 1983 — more than four decades of Texas note expertise. Whether your note is secured by a lot in historic Bastrop, land near the SpaceX campus, acreage outside Elgin, or a rural tract in Smithville, the team at Longhorn Note Buyers understands the Bastrop County market and can provide you with a fair, fast offer. Call (210) 828-3573 or visit longhornnotebuyers.com today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Land Notes in Bastrop County

How does the tech investment in Bastrop County affect my note's value?

The arrival of SpaceX, The Boring Company, and X has been a significant positive catalyst for Bastrop County property values. These companies have brought high-paying jobs, increased demand for housing, and attracted ancillary businesses and services to the area. The resulting growth in property values improves the loan-to-value ratio on existing notes, which reduces risk for note buyers and typically results in better offers for sellers. Beyond the direct economic impact, the presence of these companies signals long-term institutional confidence in the area, which is a factor that experienced note buyers weigh positively. Note buyers are paying close attention to Bastrop County right now precisely because of this investment activity.

Can I sell a land note on property in the Lost Pines area given the wildfire history?

Absolutely. While the 2011 wildfires were devastating, the Lost Pines area has seen significant rebuilding and recovery. Properties that have been rebuilt typically feature modern construction standards and improved fire-resistance measures. The key factor for a note buyer is whether the borrower maintains adequate hazard insurance that covers wildfire risk. If the property is properly insured and the borrower's payment history is solid, a note secured by Lost Pines area property is sellable. The natural beauty and recreational amenities of the area continue to attract buyers, which supports property values and the collateral position of your note.

What types of property in Bastrop County make the best collateral for a sellable note?

Notes secured by improved residential property in the growth corridors — particularly in and around the cities of Bastrop and Elgin and along the FM 969/1209 corridor — tend to command the best pricing because of the depth of the resale market and the strength of demand. However, virtually any type of Bastrop County property can serve as viable collateral, including rural acreage, agricultural land, recreational tracts, and commercial parcels. The key factors are clear title, accurate legal descriptions, verifiable market value, and a borrower with a reasonable payment history. Even "non-traditional" properties are sellable when you work with a buyer who has deep experience in Texas land transactions.

How long will it take to sell my Bastrop County land note?

The typical timeline from initial contact to receiving your cash is two to four weeks. Most experienced note buyers can provide an initial quote within 24 hours of reviewing your documentation. The closing process itself — which includes a title search, document preparation, and fund transfer — generally takes 10 to 20 business days. The biggest variable is the completeness of your documentation and the complexity of the title. If you have all your paperwork organized and the title is clean, the process can move quickly. Bastrop County's growing infrastructure of title companies and legal professionals familiar with note transactions helps facilitate efficient closings.

Should I sell my Bastrop County note now or wait for more appreciation?

This is a personal financial decision that depends on your specific circumstances and goals. The current market conditions in Bastrop County are objectively favorable for note sellers — property values are rising, the economy is diversifying, and population growth is strong. However, the same growth trajectory that makes today's market attractive could continue, potentially making your note worth even more in the future. The counterargument is that holding a note carries ongoing risks, including borrower default, natural disaster, and market correction. If you have a productive use for the cash proceeds today — paying off debt, funding an investment, covering a major expense — then selling now locks in the current favorable conditions. If your primary goal is maximizing total lifetime income from the note, a careful analysis of the tradeoffs between a lump sum today and continued payments over time is worthwhile.