Wan Bridge, a Houston-based developer, has begun construction on its first built-to-rent community in the San Antonio area. The project, named West End Estates, is located at 901 Beebrush Lane in New Braunfels and will consist of over 200 units. The development is expected to cost around $60 million, or approximately $300,000 per unit.
CEO Ting Qiao described the company’s approach as an effort to “redefine what it means to rent in Texas,” highlighting a model that combines single-family home amenities with professional maintenance services. Wan Bridge provides landscaping, exterior upkeep, and routine repairs across its communities.
The new townhomes are part of a larger plan announced by Qiao five years ago to build 30,000 units in 50 Texas markets by 2026. This includes 1,000 units in Land Tejas/Starwood Land communities in Houston. However, the company has faced delays due to increased costs, supply shortages, and utility issues.
Earlier this year, Wan Bridge also announced plans for rental communities in North Texas through a partnership with Centurion American Development Group.
West End Estates will feature two-story townhomes ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 square feet. Floor plans include two-, three-, and four-bedroom options with attached two-car garages and private backyards. Rents are expected to range from $1,900 to $2,520 per month.
Amenities within the gated community will include a pool, sports courts, walking trail, and playground. The first homes are scheduled for completion early next year.
By expanding into New Braunfels—an area between Austin and San Antonio experiencing rapid growth—Wan Bridge aims to capitalize on demand driven by migration trends and high mortgage rates. Over the past five years, Texas has seen significant growth in rental communities as more people seek spacious living without buying homes.
Developers like Wan Bridge cite strong demographics and ongoing affordability challenges as reasons for continued investment in these projects. The San Antonio market is now attracting developers who have previously focused on cities like Houston and Dallas.
“Ting Qiao said the firm aims to ‘redefine what it means to rent in Texas,’ leaning on a model that blends single-family amenities with the convenience of professional maintenance.”
