Houston-based Pelican Builders is set to break ground this month on a multifamily development within the Pearland Town Center community in Pearland, Texas, in the greater Houston market.

This project, featuring approximately 380 residential units, represents one of the few multifamily communities to be built in Pearland in the last decade, offering a new housing opportunity in the growing suburban market.

Pelican Builders worked closely with the City of Pearland to secure the necessary zoning approvals for the project at 3200 Business Center Drive in Pearland. Unlike in Houston, where development is guided by ordinance codes rather than zoning regulations, Pearland requires developers to navigate a formal zoning and approval process, making this project a significant achievement.

Situated within Pearland Town Center, a thriving mixed-use destination featuring retailers such as Macy’s and Dillard’s along with an array of dining and entertainment options, the new multifamily community will provide residents with unparalleled walkability and convenience. The development will feature Class A amenities, including a resort-style pool, dog park, children’s play area, fitness center, business center, and direct access to a scenic walking trail.

Units will have one to two bedrooms each, ranging in size from 604 to 1,196 square feet and include upgraded appliances, finishes and fixtures.

“As a Houston-based firm, we take pride in building communities that reflect the character and needs of the neighborhoods we serve,” said Drake Dominy, senior vice president of multifamily at pelican builders. “We are thrilled to be part of Pearland’s future and look forward to delivering a project that enhances the lifestyle of the community and its residents.”

Strategically located approximately 20 minutes from the Houston Medical Center, the community is expected to attract a diverse range of residents, including medical professionals, first responders, educators, and other essential workers. The architectural design incorporates a subtle nod to coastal influences, paying homage to the region’s proximity to the Texas Gulf Coast. The light and fresh aesthetics create a welcoming atmosphere for future residents.

The site, purchased from CBL Properties, the master developer of Pearland Town Center, was presented to Pelican Builders by a multifamily broker approximately two years ago. Since then, Pelican Builders has worked diligently to bring the project to fruition, securing the necessary approvals and collaborating with top-tier partners to ensure a high-quality development.

Austin-based OHT Partners has been selected as the general contractor for the project. OHT Partners brings 15 years of multifamily construction experience to the table.

“Pelican worked long and hard to conceive a thoughtful project, and we look forward to our role in helping see this high-quality concept through to completion,” said Thomas Terwilliger, vice president of construction, with OHT Partners.

Construction for Pearland Multifamily is set to begin this month, with completion anticipated in the second quarter of 2026.

In addition to OHT, additional team members include:

• Architect: Meeks + Partners
• Civil engineer: Kimley-Horn
• Structural engineer: Integrity Structural Corp.
• Mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineer: CFI Companies
• Interior design: MP Studio
• Landscape architect: KW Landscape Architects

JLL Capital Markets closed the sale of Driftwood Self Storage, a 482-unit self-storage facility in southwest Austin, Texas.

JLL represented the seller, The Jenkins Organization, Inc. and procured the buyer, Platinum Storage Group.

Driftwood Self Storage is located on 13.46 acres at 9900 Darden Hill Rd., approximately 17 miles southwest of downtown Austin. The facility is surrounded by new housing developments near the rapidly growing Highpointe and Driftwood neighborhoods. Driftwood Self Storage is the only self-storage facility in the three-mile trade area and there are currently no planned self-storage developments.

Completed in 2021, Driftwood Self Storage totals 96,433 square feet and is currently 93.4% occupied. The Class A facility offers modern features, including climate controlled-units, drive-up units, covered parking and fully enclosed RV units. The property also has smart unit technology, security lighting, 24/7 cameras and electronic gate access.

The JLL Capital Markets Investment Sales and Advisory team representing the seller was led by Managing Directors Steve Mellon and Brian Somoza and Directors Adam Roossien and Matthew Wheeler.

StreetLights Residential announced that The Galatyn – its newest luxury high-rise development in Dallas – is now accepting inquiries.

Rising 20 stories and offering 56 stately crafted residences, including two penthouses, The Galatyn is located in the prestigious Upper McKinney District where Harvard Avenue meets Highland Park. Adjacent to its sister property, The McKenzie, The Galatyn provides a boutique residential experience with an emphasis on privacy, service, and timeless design. Ideally positioned just one block from the Katy Trail and within walking distance of premier dining, luxury retail, and the highly anticipated Tres Market specialty grocer, The Galatyn is slated to open in late 2025 and is poised to redefine high-rise living in Dallas.

Designed to evoke the grandeur of a private estate, The Galatyn offers two- and three-bedroom floorplans averaging 2,700 square feet, with penthouse residences spanning over 4,500 square feet. Each floor will house only three residences, ensuring privacy and exclusivity, while the penthouse level features just two expansive homes.

Thoughtful layouts include formal foyers, light-filled living areas, and custom-designed kitchens equipped with Monogram appliances, waterfall islands, wet bars with wine fridges, and dedicated private service kitchens for effortless entertaining. Expansive outdoor terraces, seamlessly integrated into the residences, extend the living space outdoors, offering a tranquil retreat above the city. Primary suites boast spa-inspired bathrooms and spacious custom closets, completing the sense of refined living.

Residents will experience an unparalleled suite of amenities, including a full-service concierge and white-glove valet, a coffee and cocktail bar, and a variety of intimate and communal workspaces. A conservatory-style courtyard with a greenhouse, complete with a fireplace and poolside views, offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. The state-of-the-art fitness center features a flex studio and an infrared sauna, while the private resident pool lounge with catering kitchen creates the perfect setting for entertaining. Thoughtfully integrated pet-friendly amenities include a dedicated dog wash and convenient pet relief stations on every residential floor.

StreetLights Creative Studio is the architect and interior designer of record for the project. SLR Construction, LLC, is the general contractor.

The NRP Group opened a 324-unit, mixed-income housing community in Dallas, Texas.

Ascent at Mountain Creek is just 15 minutes outside of downtown Dallas, with 50% of the units reserved for individuals and families earning 80% or less than the Area Median Income (AMI).

Located at the intersection of Highway 408 and I-20, Ascent at Mountain Creek offers scenic views of rolling hills and considerable green space and is less than 10 miles from Mountain Creek Lake. The community is also in close proximity to the 450-acre Mountain Creek Business Park, home to companies such as Nestlé, Ulta Beauty and Chewy. Everyday conveniences such as Target, Home Depot and the Methodist Charlton Medical Center are just a 10-minute drive away, along with recreational venues such as Epic Waters Waterpark and Grand Oaks Golf Club. Residents will also have access to ample retail and dining options, as well as major employment hubs in downtown Dallas.

The newly delivered community at 4868 S. Merrifield Road comprises 14 three-story, wood-frame buildings offering a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. To meet resident demand for larger units that accommodate work-from-home preferences, den floor plans for one- and two-bedroom units are also available. In-unit features include quartz countertops, backlit mirrors, stainless steel appliances and walk-in closets. Residents can enjoy a variety of community amenities, including a resort-style pool, dog park, state-of-the-art fitness center with a spin room and clubhouse lounge.

BY HUNTER LANE, VICE PRESIDENT, LANE PROPERTY TAX ADVOCATES

Natural disasters make headlines increasingly often these days — everything from hurricane-force winds dealing widespread power outages to wildfires that decimate all in their path. Effects aren’t limited to those directly impacted by wild weather. Long after communities resume business as usual, commercial property owners grapple with higher costs related to property assessments, insurance and taxes.
Understanding how disasters impact property values — and how to fight back — can play a crucial role in keeping a business viable. Let’s explore what today’s commercial property owners should know to safeguard their investments. The Link Between Natural Disasters and Property Assessments The financial toll of extreme weather extends beyond physical damage. Natural disasters can have significant impacts on commercial property market values across a region. For properties in a storm’s path, resulting damage often renders a building temporarily unusable while necessitating costly repairs. Although this can decrease a property’s market value, it takes time before a tax assessment catches up to a property’s true condition — if it ever does catch up. The mass appraisal systems used by most county appraisal districts (CADs) often result in inaccurate valuations, leaving owners of damaged properties paying more than what is rightfully owed.
Undamaged properties can also experience seismic shifts due to economic and real estate trends. Businesses that close or relocate following a disaster reduce commercial occupancy rates, for instance, lower tenant demand and can drive rental income and market values down. Conversely, undamaged areas may attract businesses and residents, driving demand and property values up. In both instances, storm-related impacts result in assessments out of line with a property’s actual condition, performance and value. Additionally, insurance costs often rise in disaster-prone regions. Higher premiums add financial strain, and if taxing entities don’t account for them in assessments, property owners may overpay.

Protecting Affordability in a Changing Climate
With scientists’ expectation that the uptick in extreme weather events will continue, it’s crucial for commercial property owners to protect their financial health. Protesting inaccurate commercial property assessments annually is the best way to keep valuations in check. Here’s how it works.
• Filing: Alert your local CAD of your intent to protest your commercial property taxes. Texas’ filing deadline is May 15.
• Informal Hearing: You or the firm representing you meet with a CAD appraiser to negotiate a lower assessed value. You may reach an agreement then and there.
• Formal Hearing: If the informal hearing fails to yield an agreement, your protest moves on to a formal hearing before an appraisal review board (ARB). You or your firm and the CAD’s appraiser will present arguments, and the ARB will render a decision.
• Arbitration or Litigation: If the ARB’s decision fails to yield the desired result, you have 60 days to begin arbitration or litigation. Your exact path will depend on factors such as your property’s assessed value. Arbitration is a more informal approach akin to mediation, while litigation efforts have the potential to move on to trial.

Why Partner with a Property Tax Firm?
Commercial property tax protests are complex, deadline-driven processes, and success hinges on having a comprehensive argument backed by data. Working with an experienced firm can improve your chances of success. Consider these factors when choosing a property tax firm:
• Local Knowledge: A firm with deep knowledge of your region’s tax laws, market conditions and economic trends is better positioned to advocate for a fair assessment. In addition, established relationships with taxing authorities provide a local firm with insights they can use to position your case for success.
• Transparent Fee Structures: Work with a firm that’s open about when and how you’ll be charged. Although many companies work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they lower your assessed value, filing fees and similar charges can result in costly surprises.
• Diverse Experience: Seek out a firm whose prior work spans a wide range of property types, sizes and scenarios. They can address it all because they’ve seen it all.

Even with a professional firm handling your protest, you play a key role in the process. Engage your team early, so they have plenty of time to build your case, and be prompt when providing data, documentation or proof of damage. Respond quickly to calls, emails or requests to ensure you’re on the same page and working toward a common goal.
As extreme weather events become increasingly common, commercial property owners must be proactive in safeguarding their financial health. Understanding disaster-related tax challenges and contesting unfair assessments ensures you pay only what’s fair — helping you weather any financial storm.