AUSTIN, TX, September 27, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Real estate professional and community advocate Anthony Siela is bringing renewed attention to the opportunities in the Sunbelt Smile Markets, the high-growth arc of states stretching across the southern United States. With nearly two decades of experience in Central Texas, Siela is building GMWS Consulting as a platform to advise investors, businesses, and families on maximizing opportunities in Austin, the Texaplex, and beyond, while maintaining a vision rooted in sustainability, inclusion, and long-term growth.
The Sunbelt Smile Opportunity
The phrase "Sunbelt Smile Markets" refers to the unique arc of states extending from California through Texas, Florida, and the Carolinas that resemble a "smile" across the southern U.S. These states have consistently outpaced national averages in population growth, job creation, housing demand, and commercial development.
From 2010 to 2019, Texas, Florida, and Arizona alone grew by over 10%, capturing more than 60% of total U.S. population gains. As of 2025, despite challenges like high interest rates and increased apartment supply, the Sunbelt remains a magnet for families, businesses, and investors.
"Texas and the Sunbelt are still where opportunity is being created at scale," said Anthony Siela, Founder of GMWS Consulting. "But what excites me most is that all markets, even those outside the traditional hotspots, have opportunities if you know how to identify value and think long-term."
Why the Sunbelt Smile Matters
The "Smile States" earn their nickname not only from geography but also from their economic fundamentals. These regions combine affordability, strong job markets, and favorable business climates.
Highlights of today's Sunbelt Smile Markets include:
Affordability – Median home prices remain below coastal averages (Charlotte at ~$324,000 vs. New York at ~$635,000).
Job Creation – Office-using jobs projected to grow at 2.3% annually through 2025, more than double the rate of gateway cities.
Business Migration – Companies are relocating headquarters and operations to states like Texas and Florida for tax and regulatory advantages.
Population Growth – Remote work trends and lifestyle shifts have driven migration to the Sunbelt, with Austin, Nashville, and Dallas leading in growth.
Markets like Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, Nashville, Atlanta, Phoenix, Miami, and Charlotte continue to offer investors a mix of stability and upside.
"Even in a high-rate environment, Sunbelt cities hold long-term promise," Siela explained. "What we're seeing is not just a trend but it's a demographic shift that will shape housing, retail, and office demand for decades."
GMWS Consulting: A Bridge to Growth
Through GMWS Consulting, Anthony Siela is working with investors, developers, and families to navigate this evolving landscape. With a focus on Central Texas and the broader Texaplex region, his approach emphasizes disciplined analysis and practical strategy while keeping an eye on national Sunbelt dynamics.
Although currently operating under GMWS Consulting, Siela is considering a rebrand as he scales into 2026, exploring opportunities to expand services or evolve into new leadership roles. In the meantime, the firm's work is already making an impact, helping clients balance short-term decisions with long-term potential.
More Than Markets: A Commitment to Inclusion
While real estate drives Siela's professional work, his personal mission is equally compelling. Since moving to Austin in 2009, Siela has been a dedicated advocate for the Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas, inspired by his son, who was born with Down syndrome.
His son has defied expectations and today proudly plays on the Westlake High School football team. Its a milestone that reflects perseverance, teamwork, and the power of inclusion.
"Seeing my son run onto the field, helmet on and heart full, is a reminder that inclusion is not just a principle, it's a lived experience," Siela said. "That's the same energy I want to bring to my work: creating spaces where everyone can thrive."
Siela's advocacy also extends into specialized camps like Camp Mystic and Camp CAMP, which provide transformative experiences for children of all abilities and their families. These moments of connection and joy continue to shape his outlook on leadership and community.
A Family Grounded in Performance and Perseverance
Beyond his son's achievements, Siela's life is enriched by the passions of his two daughters, both dedicated ballerinas. His oldest daughter is now dancing as a freshman at the University of Oklahoma, while his younger daughter continues to pursue ballet at an advanced level.
Supporting his daughters through years of training, auditions, and performances has given Siela a unique appreciation for the balance between artistry and discipline.
"Ballet has taught my daughters resilience, and football has taught my son teamwork," Siela reflected. "For me, being their father has taught me that the real measure of success whether in markets or in life is how much perseverance and purpose you bring to the table."
The Future of Sunbelt Investment
Looking ahead, Siela sees promise and caution in the Sunbelt Smile. High construction pipelines in cities like Dallas and Phoenix could create temporary imbalances, but the underlying fundamentals of migration, affordability, and economic growth remain intact.
For investors, he advises focusing on secondary and tertiary Sunbelt markets, where undervalued assets and higher cap rates can deliver compelling returns. He also stresses that "all markets have opportunities", a reminder not to overlook non-Sunbelt regions where thoughtful strategies can uncover hidden value.
"Real estate is about patience and perspective," Siela said. "The Sunbelt is still one of the strongest stories in American growth, but we have to approach it with discipline, not hype."
About Anthony Siela
Anthony Siela is a real estate professional, father, and community advocate based in Austin, Texas. Since 2009, he has been an active supporter of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas, inspired by his son's journey of perseverance and inclusion. He is also the proud father of two daughters, accomplished ballerinas, whose discipline and artistry have shaped his outlook on parenting and leadership.
Through GMWS Consulting, Siela advises investors and clients on opportunities in Central Texas, the Texaplex, and the broader Sunbelt Smile Markets, balancing long-term fundamentals with short-term dynamics. He is passionate about combining professional excellence with personal impact, helping to create spaces where businesses and families can thrive.
About GMWS Consulting
GMWS Consulting is a Texas-based advisory firm founded by Anthony Siela to help investors and clients navigate real estate opportunities across Central Texas and the Sunbelt Smile Markets.
The firm provides insight into emerging trends, market dynamics, and long-term strategies designed to maximize value and minimize risk. GMWS Consulting is committed to balancing professional guidance with community values, offering clients a trusted partner in today's fast-changing market.
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