Archive for the ‘Houston's Inner Loop’ Category

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Energy Star Homes Abound throughout Houston

Friday, January 22nd, 2010

Houston has become one of the leaders in environmentally responsible building. As a result, it has met Energy Star efficiency standards set forth by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Houston boasts the most Energy Star homes in the country with 144,000 homes. The Dallas-Fort Worth area comes in second, with 103,000 homes.

Energy Star Program Features

The Energy Star program has efficiency standards that must be met using such things as: energy-efficient appliances; energy-efficient heating and cooling systems; and energy-efficient windows. In addition, Energy Star homes must meet a strict code of building standards that properly insulate and seal the home. All work in an Energy Star home must be verified by a third-party inspector.

Aside from the savings realized for an Energy Star homes, such as lower utility bills and better air quality, they may also qualify for a number of federal tax credits.

Healthier, More Comfortable Homes

The Energy Star homes in Houston create better performing homes that are generally more comfortable and healthier to live in. Lower utility bills help keep homeowners on budget, and the efficient construction eliminates heating and cooling waste.

Texas now leads the country in the number of Energy Star homes, as well as the percentage of homes in the market. The exceptional home starts throughout Houston, San Antonio and Dallas have helped Texas achieve this status.

What Buyers of Today Want

Energy Star homes attract many buyers who want excellent construction and the most energy efficiency. They understand the importance of environmentally sensitive building and they want to save money each month on their utilities.

In particular, homebuyers in Houston need homes that can withstand the heat of Texas. The energy efficiency of Energy Star homes help to reduce cooling costs, using such things as efficient insulation to Radiant barrier sheathing. Some of the technologically advanced materials used in Energy Star homes actually work by cooling the house.

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The Newest Addition to Houston’s Dynamic Inner Loop: Highland Tower

Friday, November 13th, 2009

Ideally situated in the upscale River Oaks neighborhood of Houston, along Bancroft Lane, Highland Tower is a new construction project that enjoys a close proximity to some of Houston’s most progressive neighborhoods, including the Galleria and Highland Village areas.

Houston Condos

Highland Tower Homes

Homes in the Highland Tower will boast one, two and three bedrooms and range in size from 825 to more than 2,134 square feet. There are also combination plans available that boast more than 4,000 square feet.

Along with its prime location within Houston, the Highland Tower is sure to receive accolades for its interior design and finishes, including floor-to-ceiling windows, Bosch stainless steel appliances, hardwood flooring, spa bathrooms with oversized tubs and natural stone flooring and countertops.

Highland Tower Amenities

The amenities of Highland Tower certainly are not too shabby, either, as they include: an infinity edge swimming pool, which overlooks the beautiful Galleria district; a state-of-the-art fitness center, loads of green spaces with fountains and shaded courtyards; a private party lounge, complete with a full catering kitchen; and controlled access entry.

Highland Tower, once completed, will feature 96 condominium units (including six penthouse units) over 17 floors.

The homes of Highland Tower will be priced from the mid $400,000s to over $1 million.

Other features of this new residence will include:

  • Fifth floor terrace with a covered pavilion and outdoor fireplaces
  • A private party lounge
  • Guest parking
  • 10-foot ceiling heights (11-foot for penthouse and summit levels)
  • All homes pre-wired for sound and cable
  • Residence alarm systems
  • Oak and cherry hardwood flooring
  • Three designer packages: classic, traditional and urban
  • Frameless shower enclosures
  • Kitchen islands
  • Private lounge room
  • Oversized entrance lobby
  • Heated hot tub

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Houston Condos: An Exceptional Lifestyle in the Inner Loop

Tuesday, October 6th, 2009

The neighborhoods inside Loop 610, as well as Bellaire and West University, are considered to be the Inner Loop of Houston. Life in the Inner Loop is cosmopolitan, fabulous and chic, by many standards. It is the place to go for culture, excitement, great dining and first-class shopping. It is also home to some of the best medical facilities in the state of Texas, if not the country.

The neighborhoods of the Inner Loop include:

  • Downtown
  • The Heights
  • Montrose
  • River Oaks
  • The Medical Center
  • West University
  • Bellaire

Because of its desirable location, the Inner Loop is home to many, outstanding condominium buildings, most of which are aimed at Houston’s professionals who demand convenience, luxury and outstanding service.

The Serento

The Serento Condos are located in the community of Braeswood in the Medical Center. In fact, the Medical Center is just steps away, thereby making the Serento a popular choice for many urban Houstonians.

The Serento includes one and two-bedroom condominium residences, which boast nine and ten-foot ceilings, expansive windows, fine architectural detailing, hardwood floors, granite countertops and a fabulous fitness center.

The Royalton at River Oaks

Located just beyond the Galleria district, the Royalton at River Oaks is just steps from many of the area’s top restaurants, shops and entertainment destinations. The Royalton at River Oaks offers its residents superb surroundings and equally impressive views from all sides of the building.

The Royalton at River Oaks includes 253 condominium residences with either one, two or three bedroom floor plans.  Outstanding architectural details, luxurious amenities and fantastic building services make the Royalton at River Oaks a gem in the Inner Loop.

Chateau Briar Hollow

One of the newest luxury condominium buildings of the Inner Loop is Chateau Briar Hollow, which is situated just off Post Oak Boulevard, between Uptown Park and River Oaks.

The 24 residences of the Chateau Briar Hollow boast ten-foot ceilings, assigned parking and controlled gate access entry.

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Luxury Living in River Oaks

Wednesday, July 22nd, 2009

Most Houstonians know that River Oaks is the premier destination for luxury home. The median home in River Oaks has over 3,600 square feet of living space and has an appraised value of over $1 million. In fact, it is not uncommon for house values to exceed $20 million in this exceptional, Houston neighborhood.

Excellent Location

River Oaks enjoys a convenient, central location near many of Houston’s best neighborhoods, including Upper Kirby, Memorial Park and downtown Houston. It is bordered by Buffalo Bayou, Shepherd Drive and East Briar Hollow Lane, and is just a few miles from Houston’s Central Business District.

River Oaks also enjoys a close proximity to the Medical Center, the Galleria district and it many upscale shops and fine restaurants, and Greenway Plaza.

There are many subdivisions within River Oaks, including Avalon Place, Royden Oaks, Lynn Park, Oak Estates, Highland Village and Afton Oaks. Most of these communities have strict deed restrictions and gated access, and many enjoy lovely, community services and amenities that are reflective of the superb surroundings.

River Oaks Real Estate

River Oaks is home to many Houston professionals, and many of Houston’s elite also call this upscale community home. From its sprawling estates to its mansions with perfectly manicured gardens, River Oaks is surely the destination for some of the finest real estate in Houston, if not Texas.

River Oaks is a fine mix of older homes and new construction. It is not uncommon to see huge mansions on several acres, as well as newer homes with impressive architectural detailing and impressive plots of land.

River Oaks had 1,288 single-family properties in 2007. Of these properties, the average home had four bedrooms, 3.6 bathrooms, a square footage of 4,173, a median price per square foot of $344.94 and an appraised value of $1,199,976.

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The Perks of Living in the Medical Center

Friday, June 19th, 2009

The Medical Center area is home to the Texas Medical Center, one of the most highly acclaimed research and medical centers in the country. In fact, the Houston Medical Center has earned numerous, national accolades in just the past, few years.

Many of the residents of the Medical Center work at the Texas Medical Center, which includes Ben Taub Hospital, the Baylor School of Medicine and the Texas Children’s Hospital, but many also live in this dynamic area of Houston because of its excellent, central location and its many community amenities and services.

Medical Center Facilities and Services

The light rail system, which winds throughout the Medical Center, provides its residents with a truly convenient form of transportation in and around the community. The Medical Center is also known as a walking community, as it is common to see pedestrians lining the sidewalks during the day.

The Medical Center and its surrounding communities are some of the fastest growing neighborhoods in Houston, mainly because of their close proximity to downtown Houston and Rice University.

The popular neighborhoods within the Medical Center vicinity include Braeswood, Southgate, West University, Southampton, Collegeview, Southside Place and Fairhaven.

Medical Center Real Estate

Most real estate within the neighborhoods of the Medical Center includes condominiums, townhomes, apartment homes and small, quaint neighborhoods of single-family, detached homes.

There are also several, high-end condominium buildings throughout the Medical Center that boast superb residences and excellent amenities and services.

For example, 7575 Kirby boasts 176 homes that are surrounded by landscaped pathways, lush courtyards and a community swimming pool and sun deck.

The Mosaic on Hermann Park is another fine example of outstanding condominium living in the Medical Center, as this high-end condominium building features such resident amenities as covered parking, concierge and valet services and a resort-style swimming pool.

The Il Palazzo Lofts offer excellent, loft-style living in the Medical Center. From its lush, landscaped gardens to its excellent resident amenities, the Il Palazzo Lofts are the epitome of luxury living in the Medical Center.

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A Closer Look at Houston’s Inner Loop Neighborhoods

Wednesday, June 10th, 2009

Houston’s Inner Loop is a blend of excitement, history, culture and fun. The neighborhoods of Houston’s Inner Loop, defined by their location inside Loop 610, feature a nice blend of old and new. From 20th century bungalows to high-rise luxury condominium towers, the homes of Houston’s Inner Loop are highly desired and sought after, due, in part, to their excellent location to the excitement and opportunities of Houston.

The Inner Loop of Houston includes downtown Houston, as well as the neighborhoods of The Heights, Montrose, River Oaks, the Medical Center, West University and Bellaire.

Downtown

The residences of downtown Houston are fabulous, luxurious and exclusive. As residential development continues to drive this area of Houston, high-end residences such as the Hermann Lofts, Four Seasons Place and Houston House are setting the standard of excellent, downtown living. It is therefore not uncommon to see residences in the downtown area exceed $750,000.

The Heights

Outstanding architecture reigns supreme in the Heights, thanks to its amazing, turn-of-the-century Victorian homes. Most of these homes have been lovingly restored, making this area a highly sought-after community for Houston professionals. Single-family homes in this area of Houston often exceed $300,000.

Montrose

Comfortably situated next to downtown Houston and the Museum District, Montrose is valued for its close proximity and 20th century bungalows. From its quaint shops and boutiques to its great array of galleries and restaurants, Montrose is a popular area for both residents and visitors of Houston. Homes in Montrose are reasonably priced, as they generally range from $125,000 to $350,000.

River Oaks

River Oaks is Houston’s premier, Inner Loop neighborhood, as homes in this area are priced between $400,000 to several million dollars. A close proximity to the Galleria, the Museum District and the Compaq Center enables residents of River Oaks to enjoy all that Houston has to offer.

The Medical Center

Residents of the Medical Center are often associated with the Texas Medical Center, which employs over 51,000 Houston residents. The Medical Center is located close to the Museum District, the Astrodome, downtown and the Galleria.

West University

West University is in high demand, both for residential properties and commercial properties. It is not uncommon to see older homes being torn down and replaced with new, larger homes, as vacant lots are hard to come by in this popular area of Houston.

Bellaire

Although Bellaire is an inner-city neighborhood, you would never know it as you pass through the quiet, tree-lined streets. It is because of this that Bellaire remains a rather exclusive Inner Loop neighborhood. Many of the older homes have been torn down and replaced with more upscale residences. Properties in Bellaire can therefore often reach $1 million.

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The Staggering Real Estate Market of River Oaks

Tuesday, April 21st, 2009

River Oaks, which is located midway between downtown and uptown, is perhaps Houston’s most affluent community. Bound by Buffalo Bayou to the north, to the east by South Shepherd Drive and to the west by Willock Road, River Oaks consists of 1,100 acres of pure splendor.This community is situated along the southern edge of Memorial Park, within the 610 Loop.

This wealthy community, which is home to many of Houston’s business leaders, consists of approximately 7,000 residents who enjoy easy access to the Southwest Freeway for a quick, ten-minute commute to downtown Houston.

River Oaks is conveniently located just a few miles from the River Oaks Shopping Center and the Highland Village Shopping Center. And of course downtown Houston’s endless array of shopping, fine dining, entertainment and nightlife is just a short drive away.

River Oaks is home to the super-exclusive River Oaks Country Club, which has hosted the River Oaks International Tennis Tournament since 1931. This prestigious country club boasts a rich history and equally rich surroundings.

Real Estate in Houston’s Most Exclusive Zip Code

River Oaks currently has about 1,400 properties which consist mainly of sprawling mansions with manicured lawns and landscaped gardens. Property values, therefore, typically range anywhere from $1 million to $20 million. In fact, finding a single family home under $1 million in this highly coveted area is highly unlikely.

River Oaks and its Ever-Appreciating Market Values

As one of the Southwest’s most desirable, residential communities, River Oaks commands top dollar for real estate. And even as the country makes its way out of a real estate slump, River Oaks seems to walk away, unscathed.

In fact, this affluent community has seen single family homes appreciate at a rate of 31 percent between 2004 and 2007, and 8 percent from 2006 to 2007 alone. River Oaks, during this time, experienced some of the highest home appreciation in the region.

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High-Rise Condo Living in Houston’s Most Affluent Zip Code (Part I)

Thursday, April 16th, 2009

Condo living in River Oaks is ideal for busy professionals who desire a short commute to downtown, yet enjoy the luxurious, suburban setting that River Oaks has to offer.

Just a short, ten-minute drive to downtown Houston and all of its business opportunities, as well as its abundant shopping, dining and nightlife destinations, River Oaks has a lot to offer its residents – and then some.

If single-family living in River Oaks is not your style, or in your budget (single family homes in this exclusive area range between $1 million and $20 million), then set your sights on one of River Oak’s luxurious, high-rise condominiums and enjoy condo living at its finest.

Piedmont at River Oaks

Located at 1010 Rosine Street, Piedmont at River Oaks enjoys a prime, central location, as it is just minutes from the River Oaks Shopping Center. Priced from the $200s, this condominium community is within financial reach to many, yet offers many exciting amenities and features.

One, two and three bedroom units are available at Piedmont at River Oaks. This condo community consists of two building with 40 units in each building. Some of the features of Piedmont at River Oaks include 10 foot ceilings, large windows, a controlled-access gate and entry, a community swimming pool, secured, covered parking and a dramatic, downtown view.

The Renaissance at River Oaks

This outstanding property, located at 2111 Welch Street, was purchased in 1993 as apartments and converted into condominiums in 2001. And the result was nothing short of spectacular. This gated community of 228 units is reminiscent of the grand mansions of long ago, and is set among beautifully landscaped grounds.

Some of the premium amenities found at The Renaissance at River Oaks include a 24-hour fitness room, a spa and a swimming pool. Prices range from $200,000 to $367,000.

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Luxurious Condo Living in The Medical Center

Thursday, April 16th, 2009

Houston’s thriving, Inner Loop community, which is built around Texas Medical Center, the largest concentration of world-class, clinical and medical facilities and research and healthcare institutions, continues to provide its residents with world-class accommodations.

The condominium communities that surround The Medical Center are a force to be reckoned with. These luxurious condos boast high-end upgrades and top-notch amenities to satisfy even the most particular tastes.

7575 Kirby

7575 Kirby offers resort-style living in a classic, Mediterranean setting.

This community consists of 176 exclusive homes which are surrounded by landscaped pathways, private courtyards and a community swimming pool and sun deck.

Some of the condo features include spacious floor plans, high-end interior finishes, such as stainless steel, marble and granite, and access to the health club and spa.

7575 Kirby is located just two blocks from the METRORail and is just minutes from downtown and The Medical Center.

Mosaic on Hermann Park

The Texas Medical Center is conveniently located less than a mile from this condo community. Some of the features of Mosaic on Hermann Park include valet service, dedicated, covered parking, concierge service, a resort-style swimming pool and private cabanas.

The condo units feature 10-foot ceilings with exposed concrete finishes, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling windows with striking views of Hermann Park, The Texas Medical Center and the downtown Houston skyline.

IL Palazzo Lofts

These loft-style condos feature a touch of Italian, old-world charm in their design. This six-floor high-rise, which was built in 2000, overlooks The Medical Center, as well as The Museum District and Hermann Park.

Some of the condo features include 24-hour security, concierge service, covered, secure parking and beautiful, landscaped gardens.

The Spires

The Spires is a 40-story, high-rise condominium building which is located adjacent to The Texas Medical Center.

This residence consists of 230 units with assigned, covered parking, a fitness center, a swimming pool and loads of recreational activities.

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