YISD, EPISD have empty schools up for bid; What’s stopping the sales?

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA)-- YISD and EPISD both have a list of vacant schools and/or properties up for bid. Some have been on the market for years, yet some haven't sold.

The El Paso Independent School District currently has three schools, a custodial equipment and repair shop, and vacant land available for bid. Meanwhile, the Ysleta Independent School District has six former school campuses up for bid, most of which have been listed since 2023.

Real estate experts say several factors are making the properties difficult to sell.

“For that type of asset, there is a very specific buyer,” said Anibal Olague with Cap Rate Real Estate. “Someone who is just starting to invest in real estate is not going to buy a school.”

Olague, who specializes in commercial real estate, said former school properties often appeal to experienced developers with the resources to take on large redevelopment projects.

Sebastian Alcazar with Team Juan Uribe LLC, who has worked on school property sales in the past, said one of the biggest obstacles is envisioning how the sites can be used in the future.

“The main challenge is trying to figure out the new possibilities for a lot of these properties,” Alcazar said.

Both Alcazar and Olague said many buyers purchase former school sites with plans to demolish existing structures and redevelop the land.

“It’s easier to demolish them, partly because they’re often in good locations that are attractive for redevelopment,” Olague said.

However, Alcazar noted that redevelopment can be a lengthy and expensive process.

“Many of the buildings are 30 to 40 years old and may require asbestos abatement or other improvements before redevelopment can begin,” Alcazar said. “There are also zoning challenges, since most of these properties are located in residential areas.”

For newer school buildings, Alcazar said repurposing the structures for other uses may be possible.

Olague added that school districts often manage property sales internally, which can sometimes slow the sales process.

As districts continue seeking buyers, experts say redevelopment costs, zoning restrictions and the limited pool of interested investors remain key barriers to getting the properties sold.