Balcara at Meridiana held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 20 to commemorate the opening of its new build-to-rent community south of Pearland.

The background

The 114-unit single family community, part of the Meridiana master-planned community located in Iowa Colony off Hwy. 288, was developed by luxury rental developer Balcara.

The community was intended to be an apartment community, Balcara Group CEO Paul Davey said at the event.

“I think we can provide something a lot nicer than apartments for the community,” he said.


The details

Instead of apartments, the community offers two-story homes with three floor plans to choose from that were built by Lennar Homes:
  • 3 bedrooms at 1,700 square feet
  • 3 bedrooms at 1,770 square feet
  • 4 bedrooms at 1,770 square feet


“The community is designed for individuals or families looking for a rental lifestyle with the comforts of owning a home,” said Monica Ferreira, community manager at Balcara at Meridiana.

The aim is to appeal to those who may not be ready to commit to homeownership or who are seeking a temporary residence due to job changes, Ferreira said.


The community amenities include:
  • a private lodge which is a central community hub providing various services and facilities
  • a fitness center with a room for a children's play area
  • a community pool
  • a playground
  • a dog park


The community is zoned to Alvin ISD with students set to attend Meridiana Elementary School, Jackie Doucet Caffey Junior High School and Iowa Colony High School, according to the community’s website.

What’s next?

The entire community is expected to be fully built out by May 1, Ferreira said, but 60 homes are available to rent as of now.


As the community continues to develop, Ferreira said officials expect to increase amenities and services tailored to cater to residents' needs and preferences.