Archive for March, 2010

Sugar Land Remains a Highly Desirable Place to Call Home

Tuesday, March 30th, 2010

Just take a quick look at the Sugar Land market update and it’s easy to see that this area of Texas is still, by most people’ standards, to be one of the best places to live in Texas, if not America.

In fact, ever since a 2006 survey by CNN Money ranked Sugar Land the Third Best Place to Live in America, this area of Texas has been given the recognition it deserves. From a high quality of life to top-notch education standards and quality housing, Sugar Land is often found on the top of the list when it comes to Texas living.

Life in Sugar Land is affordable and comfortable and, by community standards, quite grand. There are loads of business opportunities in Sugar Land, as well as schools that have been ranked “exemplary” by the state. For many individuals, Sugar Land is simply the perfect place in Texas to raise a family.

This Houston city features some of he most upscale real estate, as well. In fact, the Sugar Land market update, at any time, features high-end home sales.

The Master-Planned Community of Riverstone

Within Sugar Land is the community of Riverstone, a highly sought after master-planned community where you can find some of Sugar Land’s most expensive homes.

Riverstone is a fine example of the communities found in Sugar Land, as it features nearly 250 acres of lakes, nearly 500 acres of land devoted to recreational space and parks, and miles upon miles of trails, all which connect each neighborhood within the community.

Residents of Riverstone enjoy many community amenities, as well, including: lush swimming complexes, accented with picturesque waterfalls and lake views; playgrounds; lighted tennis courts; and many walkways and trails.

Another unique feature of Riverstone is the three-and-a-half-acre dog park; the first of its kind in the Sugar Land area. From leash-free enclosed areas to canine obstacle courses and pet cleaning stations, it allows pet owners to provide their beloved dogs with the best amenities and services, as well.

Located in Fort Bend County, Sugar Land enjoys a secluded feeling, yet is quite accessible to Houston and its Central Business District. Fort Bend is now one of the fastest growing counties in the country thanks, in part, to the huge success of Sugar Land its communities.

The Fantastic inner Loop Condos: What to Expect

Wednesday, March 24th, 2010

There is a great array of Inner Loop condos for sale at any given time. From the Medical Center and Uptown to downtown and River Oaks, finding a fabulous condo may be just about the easiest thing you’ve done in a long time. Perhaps the only tricky part is narrowing down all of your choices regarding Inner Loop condos for sale!

houston condos

To give you an idea of where you can begin your search for Inner Loop condos, consider the fantastic neighborhoods that comprise Houston’s Inner Loop and some of the fabulous condos that can be found there:

Medical Center

The Medical Center gets its name from the Texas Medical Center, of course, and surely got its start because of the thousands of employees that work at the Medical Center and searched for a place to live. As a result of the growth of the Medical Center, the Medical Center community has become a highly sought after community in Houston in which to live.

Take, for example, the beautiful Serento condominiums, which feature everything from recessed lighting and crown molding to hardwood floors and ten-foot ceilings. This beautiful condo building enjoys the prime, Medical Center location, along with such building amenities as a common terrace and a fitness center.

Uptown

Uptown Houston is home to some of the finest shopping centers and trendiest restaurants, along with some of the best Inner Loop condos for sale.

One of the finest examples of Uptown condos is the Chateau on Briar Hollow, a small building consisting of just 24 residences. Tucked away in a secluded cul-de-sac setting, the Chateau on Briar Hollow features such fine amenities as: private balconies, 10-foot ceilings, controlled access entry and assigned garage parking.

River Oaks

The premier location in Houston, for many, is River Oaks. It is also one of the most affluent areas of the city. A great example of the upscale living found here is the Piedmont at River Oaks. This mid-rise condominium building features: expansive windows, granite countertops, hardwood floors, recessed lighting, and crown molding.

Memorial Park

Anyone in search of Inner Loop condos for sale will certainly include Memorial Park in their search. And within Memorial Park is the Monaco. With fabulous views and a fantastic location, the Monaco ensures that location is essential. The Monaco is also located near River Oaks and Memorial Park.

The Heights

Historic homes and meandering streets are the hallmarks of the Heights, as is its upscale condo living. One of the newest condominium developments in the Heights is the Viewpoint Condominium, which is currently in pre-development stages. The idea location will offer fabulous views of the downtown Houston skyline.

The Houston Real Estate Market: A Closer Look

Tuesday, March 23rd, 2010

The 2010 Houston real estate market may be a work in progress, of sorts. Just this year alone we have seen a more stabilized market, with plenty of room for growth and improvement.

Whether the worst is behind us or not, and whether 2010 will be a year of moderation or growth has yet to be determined but, in the end, Houston will continue to be one of the most aggressive markets in Texas, if no the United States. The bottom line is that the Houston real estate market will continue to outpace and outperform other similar-sized markets across the United States, for a number of reasons:

Superb Communities

Houston is well known for its master-planned communities; in fact, it sort of has a reputation for being a market laden with superb, master-planned communities. It is therefore not uncommon to see communities with plenty of demand from home buyers. From the amenities and features to the excellent school systems and close proximity to city life, Houston’s master-planned communities are the backbone of the real estate market here.

Some of the more recognizable (and highly sought after) master planned communities of Houston include: Kingwood, Katy, the Woodlands and Pearland.

Residential Meets City Life

An interesting feature of many Houston neighborhoods is the ability to combine residential and commercial areas. In fact, there are quite a few residential developments within the Inner Loop, thereby squashing the common thinking that urban areas are just that – urban. Some of the suburban-like communities within Loop 610 include: Houston Heights, South Main and Meyerland.

City Living at its Finest

Downtown Houston is a popular haven for many Houstonians, and it’s no wonder. There is a fantastic array of downtown Houston living to suit nearly every budget. And the exceptional entertainment venues, shopping districts and trendy restaurants attract countless people to downtown Houston throughout the week. The social scene in downtown Houston is hot, thereby attracting visitors and residents alike.

Not to be outdone by downtown Houston, Midtown offers a great variety of residential options, as well as plenty of cultural and entertainment options. From high-rise condos and apartments to loft homes and townhomes, Midtown is a popular place to call home for many Houstonians.

The up-and-coming Midtown neighborhood boasts plenty of historical buildings and high-end boutiques, and is quite unique in its character, as it is a pedestrian friendly community.

The Royalton: Where World-Class Style meets Pure Elegance

Thursday, March 18th, 2010

The community of River Oaks is, without a doubt, one of the most highly desired communities in Houston, if not Texas.  It is because of this that River Oaks new homes are also highly desired.

A great example of River Oaks new homes in the Royalton at River Oaks, a gleaming tower along the Houston skyline. Located less than three miles west of downtown Houston, The Royalton at River Oaks features 252 luxury condominiums; all of which boast upscale residences with only the finest amenities, services and features.

The condominium homes of the Royalton at River Oaks provide some of the finest River Oaks new homes. The residences feature one, two or three bedrooms, and range in size from 900 to 4,000 square feet. There are over 23 floor plans from which to choose, as well.

The Royalton at River Oaks features 33 stories and a five-level parking garage, There is also an underground tunnel to afford residents a quick and easy route in and out of the building.

The developers note that “the moment you step inside the Royalton at River Oaks, you will be embraced by its world-class style, elegance and architectural detail.” It is no wonder then that the Royalton at River oaks has been dubbed by many to be the crowning jewel of River Oaks and of the Houston skyline.

Some of the upscale amenities afforded to the residents of the Royalton at River Oaks include:

  • 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center
  • Hair salon
  • Cigar bar and private wine room
  • Conference and dining rooms
  • Banquet rooms with a service kitchen
  • Garden cocktail terrace
  • Expansive swimming pool with sundeck
  • Recreational game room with private theater and bar

The condominium homes of the Royalton at River Oaks feature beautiful interiors and upscale features, including:

  • Stainless steel appliances
  • Granite countertops
  • Garden tubs
  • Ceramic tile floors
  • Recessed lighting
  • Hardwood floors
  • 10-foot ceilings with triple crown molding
  • Large pantries
  • Full-size washers and dryers
  • Surround sound speakers

Midtown Houston: Houston’s Pedestrian Community

Tuesday, March 16th, 2010

The midtown Houston real estate market is as strong as ever, thereby providing many Houstonians with the ultimate in city living.

Strategically located near the heart of the city, midtown Houston enjoys many of the benefits that those homeowners in downtown Houston have. Midtown extends to just south of Interstate 45, just west of SH 288, just north of US Route 59 and east of Bagby Street.

The Ultimate Convenience

Because midtown Houston is surrounded by major freeways, the residents here enjoy the ultimate in convenience. In other words, midtown Houston clearly reflects the term “in the heart of everything.”

Other nearby locations of choice include: downtown Houston and the Medical Center, both of which draw many Houstonians to consider the midtown Houston real estate market. Both of these Houston locales contain the largest employment sectors in the areas, employing more than 200,000 people.

Pedestrians Welcome

However, what makes midtown Houston so different from other Inner Loop neighborhoods is that it has become a pedestrian friendly community.  Midtown is essentially an extension of downtown Houston, and consists of nearly 23 miles of streets.

Revitalization takes Center Stage

Constant revitalization and renovation projects in midtown Houston have buoyed the population growth, as well as the Midtown Houston real estate market. Many of the improvements and revitalization projects are overseen by the Midtown Redevelopment Authority and the Midtown Management District, both of which work alongside the city government to ensure that this section of the city continues to grow and flourish.

A Perfect Marriage of Residential and Commercial Areas

Midtown Houston is one of the city’s fastest growing communities, and is often said to be a near-perfect mixture of residential and commercial areas. From trendy restaurants and boutique shopping to high-end office spaces and plenty of upscale townhomes, condo and loft homes, midtown Houston has become a popular choice for Houstonians who are looking for city conveniences but a suburb feeling.

Many real estate developers, because they have seen the growth in this area, have undertaken many new condo, townhome and loft projects. As a result, midtown Houston has become a Mecca for the finest in condo living.

Why it Pays to Purchase a Downtown Houston Condo

Friday, March 12th, 2010

houston condosJust a few decades ago an interesting trend took place; families began moving from the city to the suburbs. They began searching for quiet streets and small neighborhoods and, more importantly, affordable housing.

However, jump to 2010 and the movement appears to be shifting once again. Now it seems that many Houstonians now prefer the ultimate convenience of living in the city. And what better way to live in the city than in one of downtown Houston’s condos?

There are many reasons why so many Houstonians are flocking back to the city; here are just a few of them:

  • Rebirth and Revitalization – The city of Houston has never looked so good, and that certainly goes for downtown Houston. The many neighborhoods which comprise the downtown Houston area have seen great improvements over the last, few years, from neglected properties to some of the best real estate in Houston. Take a look at downtown Houston condos and you will quickly see that living in downtown Houston is reserved for only those homebuyers with the most discriminating of tastes.
  • High Property Values – Let’s face it: it’s simply more expensive to live in downtown Houston. However, as many condos owners can attest, the property values are only increasing, thereby setting you up for a nice return on your investment if your purchase downtown Houston condos.
  • Great Real Estate Options – The many different living options in downtown Houston provide buyers with many choices. From lofts and apartments to townhomes and superb high-rise condominium living, there is certainly no shortage of real estate in downtown Houston.
  • Practicality – For business professionals, there is simply no better location than downtown Houston. Many of the downtown Houston condos cater to busy professionals, and therefore offer a plethora of outstanding amenities and services. Plus, reaching your office in a matter of minutes simply can’t be beat.
  • Entertainment Choices – From trendy restaurants to high-end boutiques, there is something for everyone of downtown Houston. The entertainment choices are varied and exciting, and cultural activities and nightlife are unsurpassed.

Relocating to Houston: What to Expect

Wednesday, March 10th, 2010

Houston living is exceptional by many people’s standards, which is why Houston is often thought of as a Mecca for professional relocation. The strong job industry, qualified workforce and the low cost of living make Houston an obvious choice for relocating.

Low Cost of Living

It pays to live in Houston, both literally and figuratively. Consider first that the cost of living in Houston falls nearly 11 percent below the national average. In fact, housing is nearly 27 percent less than the national average. This, of course, essentially means that you can expect to get much more for your real estate dollar in Houston than in other parts of the country.

Houston is also home to some of the finest neighborhoods in Texas. From historic homes to sprawling estates, Houston real estate is superb. Some of Houston’s most well known neighborhoods in terms of exceptional real estate include: the Woodlands, Medical Center, Museum District, Galleria, River Oaks, Katy, Sugar Land, the Heights, Montrose and Midtown and, of course, downtown Houston.

Downtown and Midtown Houston boast some of the best high rise condos in the city, and the Woodlands and River Oaks boast some of the best estates in the city.

Excellent Cultural and Entertainment Destinations

Houston is known for its great array of fun things to do. From downtown Houston to the Theater District, there is never a lack of things to do in Houston. In fact, the Theater District of Houston is home to nine, major performing arts centers and six performance halls, as well as the NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center.

Houston Jobs

In addition to being a hub for technology, oil and engineering jobs, Houston is also home to the Texas Medical Center, the largest of its kind in the world. In fact, it employs over 52,000 Houston residents, and is therefore considered the backbone of the Houston economy. In addition, Houston is also home to 18 Fortune 500 companies and over 5,000 energy firms.

Weather

One of the most attractive parts of relocating to Houston may be, in fact, the weather. Houstonians enjoy year-round temperate weather, and is often a choice for retirees and empty nesters.

A Promising Year Ahead for Houston Commercial Real Estate

Monday, March 1st, 2010

If you are one of the many investors sitting on the sidelines waiting for the perfect opportunity to snag in-demand commercial real estate, now may be your chance.

Last year was one of change for the commercial real estate market in Houston, as things came to a grinding halt due, in part, to lower oil prices and the poor national economy. As a result, commercial vacancies were way up in Houston, and rental prices began to free fall.

A Different Picture in 2010

Jump ahead to 2010, however, and many analysts are painting quite a different picture. With lenders now willing to once again begin lending, and with interest rates still near historic lows, many individuals have given much thought to the advantages of purchasing commercial real estate in Houston.

The next few months in Houston will be an interesting time for commercial real estate, as many investors are expected to jump into the ring and take advantage of low prices.

Houston is also expected to experience more job gains in 2010, thereby spurring a need for commercial space.  As more job gains materialize, a population growth will also likely ensue, thereby lifting the Houston economy, as well as the real estate market in whole.

As Houston continues to offer more jobs, it will continue to weather the national economic storm – and come out ahead.

Because of overbuilding last year, many building owners and developers are now anxious to sell or lease, thereby providing great opportunities for both renters and real estate investors. In other words, everyone seems to be coming out ahead in 2010.

What we can expect in 2010:

  • A stronger demand for housing, due to an increase in population
  • An increase in demand for commercial real estate, due to an increase in job opportunities
  • A growing economy and a steady real estate market, buoyed along by a strong energy and healthcare sector