Raybec Investment Company knows the real estate market of the Rio Grande Valley.

The Skokie, IL.-based developers have built apartment and retail projects throughout the Valley and Corpus Christi over the last 20 years. Raybec knew where it wanted to be when it came to developing its newest project in South Texas.

The Mercedes Place Apartments – a 128-unit project within walking distance of the Rio Grande Valley Premium Outlets – opened in February and gaining new residents as it capitalizes on its ideal location. The advantages of locating in Mercedes are many, said Marvin Feiger, a Raybec partner. Mercedes, he said, is located in the heart of one of the fastest-growing metro areas in Texas.

“We are centrally located between Harlingen and McAllen,’’ he said of the apartment complex. “It’s an easy drive to work while still living in a less congested city environment.’’

The Mercedes Place is a gated community with security cameras, a large clubhouse, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. There’s laundry facilities in every section of the complex, which also includes a beautiful pool to cool off from the summer heat. Inside the one-and-two bedroom apartments are granite countertops, wood cabinets, quality appliances – and Mercedes Place is pet friendly.

Monthly rents range from $675 to $820 a month. One bedroom apartments are 604 square feet with the two bedroom/two bath apartments at 864 square feet.

Feiger points to recent growth in Mercedes in the health care field and the opening of a new FedEx distribution center as further indications of the city’s growth. Raybec’s new project fits right in.

“Mercedes Place attracts residents from near and far,’’ he said. “We have been involved in a few projects in Mercedes, and we have been extremely happy to work with the city of Mercedes, and especially with the Economic Development Corporation and Melissa Ramirez.’’

A palm tree-lined entrance welcomes visitors and residents to Mercedes Place at 1202 N. Mile 1 E. The outlet mall is within a mile in distance and Expressway 77/83 is even closer for easy access to any part of the Valley from a central spot in the region.

The COVID-19 situation poses challenges, Feiger said, but Raybec remains confident in its new Mercedes project.

“We opened in a very difficult time during the beginning of the pandemic,’’ he said. “Despite the coronavirus, we are happy to say that we are making steady progress with new tenants.

“Our new tenants are very excited and happy to be part of our new community,’’ he said.

Ricardo D. Cavazos