Realty in Galveston - An Interview with Tom Schwenk

“Through decades of service, advocacy, and unwavering love for Galveston, Tom Schwenk has quietly shaped the island’s story—one home, one cause, and one community at a time.” ~ David Landriault

Tom Schwenk is a seasoned Galveston real estate broker and the owner of Coldwell Banker TGRE, an independently owned affiliate of Coldwell Banker and one of the most respected real estate firms on the island. With decades of experience and a tireless work ethic, Tom has not only shaped Galveston’s housing market—he’s helped shape the island’s future.

Ranked in the top 1% of Coldwell Banker agents worldwide and a recipient of the International Presidential Premier Award, Tom handles more than 100 transactions each year while managing a dynamic team of agents who reflect his same core values: integrity, local knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to community. But real estate is just one dimension of his impact.

Tom is known across the island not only for his results, but for his heart. A devoted civic leader and preservationist, he’s the only Galveston County Realtor to be inducted twice into the National Association of Realtors RPAC Hall of Fame. Tom has spent years lobbying in Austin and Washington, D.C., making sure Galveston’s voice is heard where decisions get made.

His advocacy doesn’t stop at policy. Tom supports more than 50 local charities every year and has earned some of the highest honors on the island—including the Galveston Chamber of Commerce’s Vic Pierson Award, a Service Award from the Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council, and the title of “Community Hero” for his contributions to civic life. He’s served as President of the Galveston Historical Foundation, Chair of the Galveston Landmarks Commission, Chair of the Galveston College Foundation and Vice Chair of the Women’s Resource Council.

His efforts reflect more than duty—they reflect love. Love for Galveston’s history. Love for its neighborhoods. Love for the people who live here, and the quality of life that makes island living so rare and worth protecting.

Tom brings the same sense of stewardship and optimism to media and storytelling that he brings to real estate. His voice isn’t just respected. It’s rooted. And in every corner of the island, from the Strand to the Seawall and beyond, you can see the legacy of his work: stronger neighborhoods, preserved landmarks, empowered residents, and a future that still feels like home.

A former corporate executive who left New Jersey for a slower, saltier rhythm of life, Tom likes to say: “Anyone lucky enough to live by the sea is lucky enough.” For Galveston, Tom Schwenk has made sure that luck comes with leadership. As a community, we are lucky to have him, and we are honored he chose to speak to us about his ongoing legacy and love for the community.