Hays, TX April 2026

Investing in What Truly Matters

April is a season of growth, fresh starts, and possibility—making it the perfect time to reflect on what it truly means to invest. In this month’s Investment Issue, we’re exploring the many ways we plant seeds for the future, whether through time spent nurturing ourselves, strengthening family connections, building financial security, or supporting causes that matter most to us.

Investment isn’t always about numbers or markets. Sometimes it’s about choosing to learn something new, prioritizing well-being, or saying yes to opportunities that shape who we become. Other times, it’s about making thoughtful financial decisions that create stability and open doors for generations to come. Every investment—big or small—has the power to grow into something meaningful.

In these pages, you’ll discover inspiring insights and expert perspectives from local leaders who are passionate about helping others build their futures. We’re excited to feature Erica Bille from Nest Mortgaging, who shares her expertise on navigating the home financing journey with confidence and clarity. You’ll also meet Allison Pflaum from Hays Home Team, offering valuable guidance on real estate and the opportunities that come with smart, strategic investment.

We hope this issue encourages you to look at your own investments with fresh eyes and renewed purpose. After all, the choices we make today are the foundations of tomorrow.

Warmly,

IRIS CASTRO, EDITOR @HAYSCITYLIFESTYLE

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Jill King | Jill.King@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Iris Castro | iris.castro@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ashley Brown, Jill King

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Iris Castro

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Liz Nixon

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Proverbs 3:5-6

business monthly

Birdies for Business Golf Classic

Wimberley Valley Chamber of Commerce is proud to present the Annual Birdies for Business Golf Classic — where business meets the green! This exciting tournament brings together local leaders, entrepreneurs, and community partners for a day of connection, competition, and camaraderie. Set against the backdrop of the Kissing Tree golf course,  the Birdies for Business Golf Classic creates the perfect environment to strengthen relationships, spark new opportunities, and grow your network.

https://wimberley.org/

Racfit Open in Buda, Texas

RacFit is a new tennis, pickleball, fitness and social club serving the Buda, South Austin and Kyle communities. The club offers tennis and pickleball (indoor and out), fitness and bootcamps along with childcare.  Targeting March for a full opening.    RacFit will host Hays City Lifestyle’s “Green and White VIP Launch Party” on April 30th 6:30-8:30 with guests learning how to play pickleball, tours and with tasty drinks and bites.

https://www.goracfit.com/

Grand Opening - Perspire Sauna Studio in Kyle,TX

Perspire Sauna Studio is now open at 150 Heroes Memorial Drive, Unit C, across from the new Sprouts in Kyle.  A beautiful private studio dedicated to wellness and recovery through infrared sauna, red light therapy, contrast therapy, sno-showers and halotherapy which helps with healing and over all well-being.  https://www.perspiresaunastudio.com/locations/kyle

the CITY LIST

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Real Estate and Mortgage

Hays Home Team - Keller Williams https://hayshometeam.kw.com/ | 512.434.0630

Alice Lebkuecher/Wimberley Partners https://www.wimberleypartners.com/ | 512.842.1272

Hendricks on Homes Group https://www.hendricksonhomes.homes/ | 512.829.4438

Erica Billé - Nest Mortgaging https://www.nestmortgaging.com/ | 210.879.8579

UFCU

https://www.ufcu.org/locations/san-marcos?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=yext 512.467.8080

Finance and Insurance

The Simmons Group Insurance Services https://www.gosimmonsinsurance.com/index.html | 512.592.0322

Tovar Financial Group - Austin https://tovarfinancialgroup.com/ | 512.861.6523

Security Service Title Company https://www.ssfcu.org/home-loans/title | 737.378.1375

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Corridor Title San Marcos http://www.corridortitle.com/ | 512.392.8910

Capital Title

https://ctot.com/locations/austin/capital-title-offices-in-austin/san-marcos/ 512.216.6340

BUILDING YOUR NEST EGG:

Blending her educator’s heart with an investor’s mindset, Erica Billé—a former high school math teacher and volleyball coach at Hays High School— is enthusiastically working to instill in clients the notion that real estate isn’t just about buying a home: it’s a path to financial independence.

Erica loved teaching, but she began to wonder how she could accrue wealth beyond her paycheck…and ultimately set herself up for early retirement. After attending a real estate conference, she funded her first investment property via a cash-out refinance on her house. Over time, she repeated the strategy and decided to pursue this new passion full-time. She carried her love of math and education into her role as a mortgage broker so she could empower others to find success and security in the world of real estate. She founded Nest Mortgaging in 2022.

According to Erica, one of the most powerful reasons to consider real estate investing is that you don’t just make money in one way—you can make it in five:

• Cash Flow – Monthly income. Unlike a retirement account, cash flow pays you now.

• Mortgage Pay-down – Your renters are paying down your loan balance over time. • Appreciation – Property values tend to increase long term. • Equity Capture – Buying below market value or adding improvements builds instant equity.

• Tax Advantages – Investment properties offer significant tax benefits in the form of write-offs (always consult a CPA).“When you invest in real estate, you make money in up markets and down markets,” Erica explains. “People always need a place to live.” CONTINUED >

For those of us who may be intrigued by the possibilities but too daunted to dive in, she emphasizes that you don’t have to go it alone—or be a financial genius—to get started. There are all sorts of groups (with memberships) and potential mentors out there, including people like Erica. “Educate yourself but don’t over-analyze,” she says. And when it comes to being a landlord, her best advice is to screen your tenants carefully to prevent any disasters.

As a mortgage broker, she runs detailed cash-flow analyses for clients, helping them to understand the mortgage, projected rent, taxes, insurance, vacancy risks, and repair costs before moving forward on any given deal. “If it makes sense, we do it. If it doesn’t, we don’t.”

property can become a long-term rental or be sold later. “That’s how you start investing early,” she says. “You’re not throwing rent money away— you’re building equity.”

“You’re not throwing rent money away— you’re building equity.”

In addition to the recent trend (given the market) of home buyers keeping their current home as a rental/investment, Erica encourages families to think creatively about real estate. For example: college housing. Instead of paying rent for four years, some parents cosign with their college student to purchase a home near campus. With roommates covering much of the mortgage, the

Erica believes nearly everyone should aspire to homeownership at some point—once fully informed about the process. Many buyers assume 20% down is a must and that mortgage insurance is a deal-breaker, but Erica encourages clients to actually run the numbers before ruling it out. “People get caught up in the interest rate or mortgage insurance,” she says. “What’s the interest rate on rent? One hundred percent. What really matters is: What monthly payment are you comfortable with? And does the investment make sense?”

At the core of

Erica’s work is her passion for financial literacy— something she wishes were taught in schools. She’s doing her best to teach it, both to her own children, and interested Hays County residents. “The beauty of real estate investing is that you can do it as a fulltime thing or on the side to get extra income, save on taxes, and grow your net worth,” says Erica. It’s about building your nest—one smart move at a time.

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

THE Hill Country RESET

A Season of Perspective in a Market That’s Evolving

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY BROWN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY IRIS CASTRO

If you’ve noticed “For Sale” signs sitting steady in properties around Hays County, you’re not imagining things. After a couple of years of skyrocketing home prices and bidding wars, the local market has shifted in favor of buyers. “Technically, we’re in a neutral market, but it feels like a buyer’s market because we were spoiled during COVID,” explains Allison Pflaum, a veteran realtor who’s been helping people buy and sell homes across the Texas Hill Country since 2013. “During the pandemic, the Austin metro housing market was up 45%. We’ve come down about 25% from that peak, so we’re at the bottom. We just don’t know how wide that bottom will be. I think it’ll be next spring before we see any real price increases.”

In plain terms? Right now, there’s plenty of inventory, prices have softened, and buyers once again hold some bargaining power. “It’s a great time to buy,” Allison says. “You can get concessions, negotiate repairs, and actually find a home that checks more boxes on your wish list.” Basically, you can get more of what you want for less money.

We all know the Hill Country is an incredibly popular location, both for first-time buyers and those who are looking to dig their roots even deeper. Buda, Kyle, Wimberley, Driftwood, and Dripping Springs—each with their own personality—continue to expand, offering a mix of family-friendly communities, properties with acreage, and new-construction opportunities.

Buying one’s first home is usually a financial decision. “That’s your chance to stop renting and start building wealth,” says Allison. “You might have to compromise on location or size, but it can become a great future investment property.” However, your second or third home is a lifestyle choice. “That’s when you start thinking, Where do I feel most comfortable? What fits my rhythm

of life? I always tell clients to drive these towns and neighborhoods on different days and times. Make sure you like the vibe before you buy.”

Regardless of the current market, Allison warns, “Just because you qualify for a certain amount, you don’t need to spend the whole amount. You don’t want to get shiny-object syndrome. Focus on the bones of the property. There are a lot of things you can change about a property. You can’t change location.” She also suggests considering new construction, with interest rates currently around 4% and incentives from the builders.

If you’re on the other side of the table, patience might pay off. “Some clients are choosing to hold off selling for a year or two,” Allison says. She explains the biggest determining factor is if you’re going up or down in size. If you’re going up, you’re getting 25% off a more expensive home. Great! If you’re downsizing, it might be best to wait. A lot of people are renting out their current homes while waiting for market momentum to return.

When it is time to sell, in this market presentation matters. “Houses that sell quickly are the ones that are clean, updated, and move-in ready,” Allison says. “If your home is over a million dollars, the buyer expects it to look pristine—new paint, fresh carpet, updated cabinets. Buyers are pickier now. It’s a beauty pageant and the home has got to be priced right.”

Whether you’re looking to sell in the near or distant future, you might wonder what types of upgrades will actually pay off down the line. “Landscaping, kitchens, and bathrooms,” says Allison without hesitation. If your house has natural light, that’s a bonus. If not, try to create that feel.

Buying or selling, investing or up-sizing, when it comes to Hays County real estate, it pays to understand the market and all its ups and downs. On that note, when we asked Allison to project five years from now, her prediction: “You’re going to wish you’d bought more properties now.”

Buyer’s Market Playbook: Smart Moves in Hays County

With more inventory and softer prices, buyers have leverage again. Here’s how to use it wisely:

Don’t max out your budget. Just because you qualify for a certain amount doesn’t mean you should spend it. Leave room for flexibility.

Negotiate strategically. Ask for repairs, closing costs, or concessions—today’s sellers may be more open than you think.

Prioritize location. Updates can be made later, but you can’t change where a home sits.

Consider new construction. Builder incentives and competitive rates can make new builds attractive. If selling, presentation matters. Clean, updated, and properly priced homes stand out in a pickier market.

ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK

FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO INVEST IN YOUR MORNING AND START YOUR DAY OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT

habits morning for success

One of the best ways to invest in yourself is by creating a consistent and intentional morning routine. No matter how unpredictable or chaotic the rest of your day may become, starting your morning with self-care and purpose sets a positive tone that stays with you throughout the day.  Once you develop a morning routine that truly resonates with you, you’ll look forward to it every night, knowing it will set the foundation for a productive and fulfilling day.

If you’re ready to elevate your mornings, here are some meaningful ways to invest in your routine and start each day on the right foot.

Be Your Own Barista:

One of life’s simplest pleasures is savoring a homemade coffee each morning. While skipping the drivethru may be tough at first, brewing your own allows you to appreciate the process—and chances are, you’ll end up preferring your own perfect cup of joe.

Get Your Steps In:

An hour-long gym session before work may not be realistic, but a quick morning walk is. Use this time to clear your mind, enjoy nature, and listen to your favorite podcast or artist—an easy way to start your day feeling relaxed.

Enjoy Some Breakfast:

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, yet often the most overlooked. Setting your alarm just minutes earlier to prepare a fresh, nutritious meal can transform your morning, fueling your body and mind for a more energized and productive day.

Read A Book:

Starting your day with a book is far more calming than scrolling through social media. Reading in the morning helps ease you into the day, providing a peaceful and mindful escape that sets a positive, focused tone for what’s ahead.

FIVE THINGS EVERY PARENT SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A DANCE STUDIO

The Right First Step

ARTICLE BY JILL KING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY IRIS CASTRO

01/ Culture Shapes Confidence: Your child’s self-image is influenced by the rooms they grow in. Choose a studio that intentionally builds leadership, resilience, and confidence alongside strong performance ability.

02/ Training Should Be Progressive and Purposeful: Strong technique requires thoughtful structure and long-term vision. Ask how classes build from year to year and how instructors ensure safe, consistent development.

03/ Competition Should Develop Character: If a studio participates in competitions, understand their mindset. Healthy programs use competition to teach work ethic, teamwork, and grace under pressure rather than comparison.

04/ Professionalism Matters: From communication to scheduling to staff conduct, the way a studio operates reflects its standards. Organized systems and respectful leadership create a calm, elevated experience for families.

05/ You Are Investing in More Than Dance: Dance is an art form, and it is also leadership training in disguise. The right studio prepares students not only for the stage, but for school, leadership, and life opportunities beyond the studio walls.

“At Pivotal Academy of Dance our instructors are devoted not only to teaching the art of dance, but are here to inspire and motivate our students through movement. Our mission is to provide our dancers with professional dance instruction and instill an appreciation of the arts in a safe, high-quality studio environment. We pride ourselves on age appropriate music and costuming while focusing on the true meaning of dance. We strive for accomplished, well-rounded dancers.”

FAMILY TIME is the Best Investment

These simple, yet intentional ideas can make the best memories.

EAT DINNER TOGETHER AS A FAMILY.

This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious.

CREATE SURPRISES

Everyone likes to feel special – and surprised. The littlest things make the biggest impact: A backyard picnic; a sleepover in an indoor fort; an after-school ice cream treat; a bathroom spa day.

CREATE FAMILY TRADITIONS

Build weekly or monthly traditions –movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening bike rides, living room dance parties, even a family book club to discover old favorites and new reads.

EXPRESS LOVE AND GRATITUDE

In busy seasons, it’s easy to forget to let a loved one feel appreciated and thought of. Tuck a hand-written note in a lunch box or give an unexpected hug; spend time sharing what you’re thankful for about them.

KEEP GENERATIONS LINKED

Consider Sunday meals with grandparents or weekly phone calls if distance separates. Invite them to share their childhood stories and treasured memories. Start a yearly family scrapbook filled with favorite photographs and vacation souvenirs.

Nest. Invest. Build Your Legacy.

Your

eat kind

EMBRACING A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR BODY

Wellness isn’t about restricting — it’s really about giving. Giving to yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive. The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s all beautifully interconnected in that way.

Work in partnership with your body. Listen to it, support it, give to it, forgive it — and I promise it’ll give back. Repeat after me: I love myself as the most important and committed partner I will ever have

Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness, fuel your body in a way that is sustainable for both you and the planet, practice gratitude and empathy, give yourself grace when you lose routine, don’t try to make changes overnight, ditch the guilt, and always always be kind to yourself.

simple roasted salmon with dill coconut

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 6 oz. filets of wild caught salmon

• 1 Tbsp. avocado oil

• 1 Tbsp. coconut aminos

• Zest and juice from one lemon

• 1 Tbsp. stone ground mustard

• 1 4 oz. container coconut yogurt, unsweetened

• 2 Tbsp. fresh dill, minced

• 2 Tbsp. capers, drained and minced

• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and stone ground mustard for up to two hours.

2. Drizzle salmon with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and ground pepper, and broil on high for five to seven minutes, until cooked to desired temperature.

3. Mix coconut cream, lemon zest, dill, capers, and ground pepper together.

4. Top salmon with coconut cream, serve with roasted or sautéed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!

FLAMING HEARTS

The Melrose River Club recently set the stage for romance with an intimate Valentine’s Supper Club featuring Chef Kelyn Egbuka. Each thoughtfully crafted course was paired with a distinct Champagne selection from Perrier-Jouët, creating a sensory experience that unfolded beautifully throughout the evening.

Guests dined beneath the Hill Country sky before strolling the scenic grounds and making their way down to the spring-fed San Marcos River — a setting that felt both secluded and celebratory. It was an evening designed for lovers, friends, and anyone who appreciates exceptional food in an unforgettable atmosphere.

Set on 12 acres overlooking the river, The Melrose River Club is a luxe country camp and boutique hotel that balances relaxed elegance with understated sophistication. Just 30 minutes from Austin, it offers an unpretentious escape with just the right amount of swank — where refined hospitality meets laid-back Hill Country charm.

https://www.melroseriverclub.com/

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 4TH

Easter Egg-Stravaganza

Gregg-Clarke Park | 10:00 AM

Join us Saturday, April 4, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Gregg-Clarke Park for the Easter Egg-Stravaganza! Enjoy egg hunts for various ages and abilities, vendors, crafts, music, games, face painting, and photos with the Easter Bunny. Admission is free, no registration required. Event is weather-dependent.

APRIL 10TH

Buda's Birthday Music Festival

Buda City Park, 204 San Antonio Street Buda, TX 78610 | 10:00 AM

Buda is turning 145, and we’re celebrating in a big way! Join us downtown for three days of music and festivities honoring our city’s rich history and vibrant community. From Friday night kickoff parties to Saturday’s main festival and Sunday Blues Brunch, don’t miss this unforgettable birthday bash. Let’s make Buda’s 145th one to remember!

APRIL 16TH

Saint Montogren's Florist Succulent Garden Class

306 S Main St #106, Buda, TX 78610 | 6:00 PM

Join Saint Montogren’s Florist Succulent Garden Class and create your own mini desert oasis! Learn expert tips for planting, arranging, and caring for succulents in a fun, hands-on workshop. Perfect for beginners and plant lovers, you’ll leave with a custom arrangement. Register at www.saintmontogren.com to reserve your spot.

APRIL 18TH

2026 Butterfly Festival

Emily Ann Theatre & Gardens 1101 FM 2325 Wimberley, Texas 78676 | 9:00 AM

Admission and parking are free, though donations are appreciated—this is one of EmilyAnn’s largest fundraisers. Parking is available at Wimberley High School with a paved walkway to the grounds. The festival happens rain or shine and features butterfly releases, a flight house, animal meet-and-greets, live entertainment, crafts, games, concessions, merchandise, and more.

APRIL 18TH

8th Annual Gumbofest

Cypress Falls Swimming Hole 50 Marina Circle Wimberley, Tx 78676 | 12:00 PM

Get ready for the 8th Annual Wimberley GumboFest at Cypress Falls Swimming Hole on April 18, 2026! Enjoy live Zydeco music, a silent auction, raffles, food trucks, cold drinks, and the best gumbo around. Proceeds benefit My Neighbor’s Keeper. Tickets start at $15. Learn more, compete, or sponsor at www.WimberleyGumboFest.com

APRIL 18TH

Earth Day San Marcos Festival

The Meadows Center Glass Bottom Boat Tours 201 San Marcos Springs Drive San Marcos, TX 78666 | 10:00 AM

Celebrate the 13th Annual Earth Day San Marcos Festival on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Spring Lake! This free, family-friendly event features hands-on activities, live performances, and eco-friendly exhibitors. Join us at the headwaters of the San Marcos River for a fun, educational day honoring our local natural resources.