Luxury homes

Location key for luxury properties, single-family homes, high-rises

When it comes to Houston’s luxury properties, singlefamily homes and high-rises, the one thing they have in common is “location matters.” “Location ... is what often makes the difference in price. Yet, there are many other things that also contribute to a property being considered luxurious,” said Donna Kidwell, a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan. One of those things is being close to downtown or the central part of the city, where there are more green spaces/parks, highly rated schools, churches, the arts, museums, diverse cultures, restaurants, ongoing activities and more. Moreover, there are some homes in River Oaks that have not been updated since they were built in the 1930s, but are well maintained. They are still considered luxury properties, as well as other properties in the area due to:

Larger yards — often acreage; Higher land value; Architectural and custom designs; Sunrooms and private sitting areas; Built-ins, such as china cabinets; Details such as hand-carved stairwells, bookcases, etc.; Quarters; Extra rooms such as basements, which are rare for Houston; and Private social opportunities like River Oaks Country Club, The Houstonian, etc. “Families often opt for a luxury home in one of Houston’s elite neighborhoods so their children will have more opportunities, such as being closer to some of the top private schools, and a social life where they are able to build friendships with those of like backgrounds, education and future career goals,” Kidwell said. Kidwell’s list of popular luxury home neighborhoods includes those near downtown/inside the Loop 610 and includes River Oaks, close-in Memorial, Avalon Place, Tanglewood, Sunset Terrace, Crestwood, Rice Court, Southampton Place, Southside Place, West University, Afton Oaks, Glen Cove and Boulevard Oaks. Other luxury neighborhoods can be found near the Energy Corridor and include Piney Point, Hunters Creek, Crestwood, Spring Valley, Memorial Forest, Frostwood and Hedwig Village. When it comes to high-rises, it is not just about location, it is often about the amenities these buildings offer on site, that help build gratifying lifestyles, and one of convenience, such as: Lock-and-leave, low-maintenance living; Concierge and maintenance; Valet parking; Gyms/fitnessCar wash; centers/pools; Dog wash and walking services/dog park; Playground; Convenience store and retail shops; Cafe, lounge, bar and theater. “I am familiar with many high-rises in and around Houston, both for lease and purchase and I do have a few favorites,” said Vicky Cedillo, a Realtor with Cross Capital Realty. Those favorites include four established high-rises close-in, Astoria, 2727 Kirby, The Huntingdon and Belfiore. There are a number under construction or pre-sale condominiums, all in proximity to downtown: Arabella, The Wilshire, The River Oaks, Marlowe and the Ivy Lofts. “I am also partial to five of the highrise rental properties inside or near the Loop 610: One Park Place, Market Square Tower, The Carter, 7 Riverway and The Southmore,” she said.

When it comes to high-rises, it is not just about location, it is often about the amenities...