A Seller’s Market vs A Buyer’s Market Explained

A seller’s market vs a buyer’s market impacts the homebuying process greatly. How soon to tour a home or the strategy to make an offer is dictated by the real estate market conditions. Below is a clear and simple chart explaining the difference and how it impacts the approach to home buying and home selling.

Buyer’s MarketSeller’s Market
There are more sellers wanting to sell their home than there are buyers wanting to purchase a home.There are more buyers wanting to purchase a home than there are sellers wanting to sell their home.
Buyers have an advantage in negotiations because there is fierce competition amongst sellers and little competition with other buyers.Sellers have an advantage in negotiations because there is fierce competition amongst buyers and little competition with other sellers.
Homes sell slowly and less likely to have multiple offers.Homes sell very fast and often get multiple offers.
Few homes are sold “as-is” because sellers need to make homes enticing to attract buyers.There is an increase in homes sold “as-is” because sellers know there are few options for buyers.
Sellers are more likely to be flexible with buyer contingencies. Contingencies may not necessarily weaken the offer.Sellers are less likely to be flexible with buyer contingencies. Removing contingencies strengthens an offer.
Homes tend to sell for list price or less than list price.Homes tend to sell for thousands above list price.
Lower likelihood that your first offer will be rejected.Higher likelihood that your first offer (or several set of offers) will be rejected.

Thinking about buying or selling a home in the Houston area and want a local to guide you through the process?

3 Best Neighborhoods for Golf Lovers in League City, Texas

The 3 best neighborhoods for golf lovers in League City, Texas were chosen for having properties located on the golf course and easy access to the golf club.

#3 Marina Bay Park

Marina Bay Park in League City, Texas is known for its tree-lined streets and picturesque homes. Most homes were built in the early 1990s with median square footage of 3,012 sqft. A select amount of homes are located on the course managed by the Sough Shore Harbour Golf Club.

#2 Magnolia Creek

Magnolia Creek in League City, Texas has the newest homes of the neighborhoods on the list. Homes were built in the early 2000s with new homes still being built. Magnolia Creek is located west of I-45 on West League City Parkway (also called Highway 96). Many of the Magnolia Creek homes are located on the golf course managed by the Magnolia Creek Golf Club.

#1 South Shore Harbour

When most people in the area think of luxury living on the golf course they think of the highly sought-after gated community South Shore Harbor in League City. There are many prestigious stately homes located on the golf course of South Share Harbour Country Club.

How to Protest Property Taxes in Texas

Homeowners can protest property taxes in Texas with their appraisal district each year to reduce property taxes. You should make it a yearly effort to protest your property value taxes. Protesting your taxes could save you several hundred to several thousand dollars over time.

Why Is Tax-assessed Value Different Than Market Value?
The tax-assessed value is what your county believes your property is worth. The county attempts to set its values at a market value. However, they do not evaluate comparables nor do they perform an individual market analysis on every home. The county simply values your home according to the area, not the house. Meaning, the value may be too high or too low, depending on the size, location, amenities, and condition of the specific home.

How Do you Determine your Market Value to Protest Property Taxes?
You can determine your home’s market by unlocking home sale prices by downloading the HAR app and assessing comparables in your neighborhood. You can also use our Property Valuation Tool to determine a rough estimate of your home’s market value. Contact Candice if you need help understanding market information, collecting information from neighbors who have recently purchased their homes, or contracting a company that specializes in assisting with tax assessor valuation protests.

Should you Appeal your Property Valuation?
If the market value on your home is lower than your tax assessed value, then you should appeal. If the market value is higher, then you should not appeal.

When Should you Receive your Property Valuation and How Long Do you Have to Appeal?
The County Appraisal Districts began mailing property valuations in early April. Homeowners have until May 15 (the date is extended if it falls on a holiday) or 30 days from the date they receive their valuation to appeal.

How to Protest Property Taxes
If you believe your property valuation is higher than the current market value, you should appeal your taxes. When people don’t appeal, the taxing authority accepts that their value is correct which affects all homeowners in a given area. By appealing the assessed value, we all help keep our real estate taxing authority valuations in line with market value.

  • Click here to begin a Brazoria County property tax protest application.
  • Click here to begin a Fort Bend County property tax protest application.
  • Click here to begin a Galveston County property tax protest application.
  • Click here to begin a Harris County property tax protest application.
  • Click here to begin a Montgomery County property tax protest application.

After you have filed, it can take weeks for the Appraisal District to schedule your informal hearing.


At the hearing: The purpose of the informal hearing is for you to present your evidence and facts to support your claim that they have over-valued your property.


Present Your Evidence
The following information can be helpful to present at the hearing:

  • Comparable Market Analysis: A comparable market analysis looks at Market Value and shows recent sales for homes that are similar to yours in size, age, location and type of construction. Use our website to unlock home sale prices and find comparables in your neighborhood.
  • Documentation Regarding Your Home’s Condition: Do you have foundation issues? Plumbing problems? Anything that would adversely affect the Market Value of your home should be documented. Take photographs and bring them with you to your hearing.
  • Documentation Regarding Your Home’s Location: Once again, anything that would adversely affect the Market Value of your home is evidence that you can use in your appeal. (ie: if home backs up to a busy street – consider printing off a Google map to document your location.)
  • Recently Purchased Homes: If you purchased your home in the last several months, and the purchase price was lower than your appraised value, bring a copy of your settlement statement.


Things to Keep in Mind for the Day of your Hearing

  • The Appraisal District is responsible for setting the appraised value, they have nothing to do with the tax rate.
  • You are not going to the hearing to protest your tax rate or how much you are paying in taxes, you are only appealing the county’s assessed value of your home.
  • Be polite and courteous.
  • Bring an extra copy of your supporting documentation to leave with the county.

10 Most Expensive Beach Homes Sold in 2021

The 10 most expensive beach homes sold in 2021 in the Houston area

#10 (Tie): $2,000,000 – 20630 E Sunset Bay Drive in Sunset Cove

5 bedrooms, 5 full bathrooms, 2 half bathrooms, 4,338 sqft, 16,489 sqft lot

Pristine bayfront home with sunrise and sunset views. This stunning 5 bedroom home comes turn-key and furnished. The open concept living/dining/kitchen are perfect for entertaining and has unobstructed panoramic views of the bay. The kitchen has a large quartzite island with under-counter seating. Stainless steel Thermador appliances include double convection ovens, built-in refrigerator/freezer, 6 burner gas cooktop, and dishwasher. Around the corner from the kitchen are the Foyer bar with an ice maker, built-in wine chiller, and glass front cabinetry and shelving. The Primary bedroom is also located on the main level overlooking the water. The primary suite has vaulted ceilings, a walk-in closet, a separate shower, and soaking tub, and double vanities. The top-level has 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Elevator to all 3 levels has been serviced bi-annually.

Source: HAR

#10 (Tie): $2,000,000 – 11815 Sunbather Lane in The Sands of Kahala Beach

4 bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms, 1 half bathroom, 3,725 sqft, 23,918 sqft lot

STUNNING 180-degree BEACHFRONT vistas from impressive custom-designed home in The Sands of Kahala. Completed in 2018 on over 1/2 acre. Escape to paradise & create memories of a lifetime. The abundance of outdoor/indoor entertaining spaces w/Gulf views! Wall of windows & sliding glass doors provides a breathtaking backdrop from open entertaining spaces. The open living area features modern gas FP with w/mood light & tray ceiling. Chef’s island kitchen w/top-of-the-line Jenn-Air app, marble counters, custom cabinets. Step out to expansive covered decks to witness incredible sunrises while overlooking the beach. Master en-suite w/deck access & luxurious bath. Bedrooms offer bath access & each showcases Gulf view. Living area on each flr. 2nd level bunk room. Elevator to each level. Solid core doors thru-out. Private beach walkover w/beach access. Backyard fenced for privacy. Conveys furnished. Incomparable Gulf views, thoughtful design, well-appointed
Source: HAR

#9: $2,095,000 – 4202 Swashbuckle in Pirates Beach

5 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, 1 half bathroom, 2,740 sqft, 19,035 sqft lot

Welcome to prestigious Pirates Beach West. Just past the huge live oak trees is this stunning 5/3.5 located on 2 lots-almost 1/2 ac just steps away from the Ocean! Boasting spacious & open plan, wood floors, coastal chic construction, upscale decor, and endless scenic beach views you will find your own piece of paradise! With recent interior & exterior paint, new Andersen exterior doors, and many upgrades this light and airy home features an expansive living room with built-ins, a central kitchen with concrete countertops, and walls of windows. Upon entry on ground level, you will find 357 sq. ft of heated/cooled flex space and an adjoining bunk room. The main floor features kitchen, dining, living room with a beautiful brick accented gas fireplace, full bath, and bedroom. The split level 3rd flr offers 2 additional bedrooms, full & half baths, and the Primary suite! Multiple large decks from every room, you will never tire of the beach view! Hot Tub on the main deck included!

Source: HAR

#8: $2,100,000 – 409 Jeanie Lynn Street in Tiki Yacht Club

4 bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms, 1 half bathroom, 3,585 sqft, 12,403 sqft lot

This 2016, 4/4.5, gorgeous, resort-style home in Tiki Island was built with elegance, relaxation, entertainment & windstorms in mind. The structural integrity of this home surpasses building codes. Has ATR hold-down system on all corners of the home & 45 concrete columns making the home unique for what is behind the walls. App-enabled Hurricane shutters & impact doors/windows give you peace of mind during hurricane season. Gated entry, oversize garage, 61ft screened-in patio, saltwater pool/spa w/chiller, fully equipped outdoor kitchen/fire pit, top-to-bottom elevator, are some of the fantastic features that can belong to you. Both master suites have their own ensuite & private balconies overlook the water. Travertine decking surrounding the pool & Aztec decking on all balconies are very low-maintenance. ADA compliant ramp to floating doc, turfgrass, Tesla station, boat/ski lifts, resurfaced pool & cabana adding up to over $250K to this house in 2 years owner has occupied.

Source: HAR

#7: $2,250,000 – 3509 Petite Circle in Pirates Cove

3 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, 2 half bathrooms, 4,148 sqft, 5,759 sqft lot

Bayfront with all the amenities you are looking for. This impeccable home offers 3 large bedrooms plus a multi-purpose room with fireplace that could be a 4th bedroom & 2nd living room with built-ins. The open main living area offers crown molding, walnut wood floors, a built-in entertainment center, surround sound, and a wall of windows and doors offering BAY views. Modern kitchen with walk-in pantry, under/upper cabinet lighting, suite of stainless appliances, and quartzite countertops. Primary en-suite with built-ins. Cupola with photocell lighting, Elevator to all levels & 2 laundry rooms. Exterior features include lush landscaping, pool, and hot tub, outdoor kitchen, boathouse with additional boat slips as well as several entertaining areas. Impact windows/doors, AZEK composite decking on stairs and docks, Pennsylvania Blue Stone driveways/patio areas, electric shades at the main deck, Hunter Douglas window treatments. Are you ready to enjoy a sunset over the water right from your own home?

Source: HAR

#6: 2,319,500 – 19507 Shores Drive in The Dunes of West Beach

5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 3,736 sqft, 17,601 sqft lot

Exquisite 5/4 Beachfront custom-built home located in the Prestigious Dunes Subdivision with PRIVATE walkway to the beach. The home was extensively renovated in 2020 w/ lush landscaping & high-end finishes. Pine flooring throughout home w/walls of windows, multiple oversized balconies & elevator to all floors. Living room w/ grasscloth wallcoverings & gas fireplace. Open kitchen w/ custom cabinets, quartz countertops, breakfast bar, True commercial quality fridge, built-in ice maker, Viking SS cooktop & French-door double ovens. The master suite is the entire 2nd level w/study, fireplace & large private balcony. Master bath filled w/ marble finishes, custom vanity, Rohl fixtures, jetted tub, oversized shower & 2 walk-in closets. Addtl 4 bedrooms w/adjoining custom marble baths on the main floor. Large utility room w/laundry shoot. Trex decks & electric shutters throughout w/new Wifi Motors.

Source: HAR

#5: $2,499,000 – 1737 Seaside Drive in Beachtown Galveston

5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 3,068 sqft, 3,800 sqft lot

Spectacular recent construction 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom beachfront home in Beachtown Galveston, along Galveston’s only growing and non-driving beach. Home is built to 150mph Fortified construction standards with concrete pilings. Home offers a heated swimming pool, elevator, wide-plank walnut flooring, tall ceilings (12ft. and 10ft.), Sub-Zero/Wolf appliances, central vacuum system, fireplace, and many more features. The main level features a great room, kitchen, sitting area, two covered porches, and a bedroom suite. Upstairs features a large master suite in addition to a porch and three bedrooms. The home is being offered fully furnished including outdoor furniture and electronics.

Source: HAR

#4: $2,500,000 – 2509 E. Seaside Drive in Beachtown Galveston

4 bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms, 1 half bathroom, 6,192 sqft, 12,046 sqft lot

Beachfront living at its best in the Beach town subdivision of Galveston. Home has three levels and a rooftop terrace; four bedrooms, four and a half baths, level one has ample storage and space for several vehicles; shower and access to the elevator; level two has formal living, study/office, dining, island kitchen, powder room, guest suite; level three consists of a primary suite with ample space for a sitting area, large walk-in closet, bathroom with dual vanity, walk-in shower and tub; and three guest bedrooms with ensuite baths. The home has four spacious covered porches and two enclosed ones, a fully fenced front and back yard, a rooftop terrace that has panoramic views of the beach and bay. Elevator to all levels

Source: HAR

#3: $2,560,000 – 4223 Swashbuckle in Pirates Beach

4 bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms, 1 half bathroom, 4,402 sqft, 20,872 sqft lot

Stunning, unequaled Gulf views in sought-after Pirates Beach West near Galveston Country Club. Point of View features over 4,400 sf of indoor entertaining spaces & expansive decks that offer incredible sunrise & sunset views. Walls of windows/doors w/ soaring 12′ ceilings feature water views all around. Completed in 2014 as a “forever home”, Point of View features walnut hardwoods, 6” crown moldings, chef’s kitchen w/ Wolf 48” gas range, double ovens, 36” Sub-Zero fridge & freezer, Starmark inset cabinetry. The beverage bar has a new Hoshizaki icemaker, Marvel wine cellar w/ refrigerator drawers, Asko DW & filtered water. Master ensuite w/ deck access & spa bath w/ steam shower. Bedrooms offer bath access & gulf views. Guest ensuite w/ sweeping view. 2nd master on the main level. No detail spared: TREX decks & railings, wired for hot tub & generator, workshop, leak detection system, mosquito system, smart irrigation system, water filters, dehumidifier & UV light system.

Source: HAR

#2: $2,750,000 – 3505 Christmas Tree Point Road in Pirates Cover

7 bedrooms, 5 full bathrooms, 1 half bathroom, 5,186 sqft, 6,607 sqft lot

Magazine ready, this one-of-a-kind Coastal Gem with a chic flair offers space galore on a wide canal. Bay views are enjoyed to the north while canal views and southerly breezes from the waterside. The home features ship-lap walls, wood floors in the common areas, designer wallpaper in the bedrooms and bathrooms, custom window treatments, designer light fixtures, a large sparkling pool, and an outdoor bar area. The Chef’s kitchen boasts 2 dishwashers, 2 refrigerator-freezers, a gas range with 2 ovens, an ice maker, and floor-to-ceiling cabinetry. The large island is perfect for large gatherings and is conveniently adjacent to the living area. This home’s unique feature is the turret which offers additional sleeping space, a bathroom, and outdoor covered living space. The decks of the home are lined in a composite material. The boathouse area also includes a floating dock. The home conveys turn-key to include all of the designer furnishings and water toys. The boats are negotiable.

Source: HAR

#1: $3,862,000 – 633 Quintana Roo Place in Brummerhop

5 bedrooms, 6 full bathrooms, 1 half bathroom, 7,645 sqft, 82,764 sqft lot

Gorgeous waterfront family compound retreat in Seabrook. This magnificent home raises the bar in style, design, and function. This home is a private getaway complete with 5 bedrooms including a Primary Suite all to itself. A large open concept Kitchen/Living/Entertaining space is as inviting as it is peaceful and stuns with spectacular views of the bay. Elegant finishes throughout and no detail is overlooked from the lighting to the custom flooring. A temperature-controlled wine room and full-size bar ensure you will always be stocked for entertaining. A large Study/Library, Formal Dining Room, Game Room/Gym, Den, and Catering Kitchen in the main house and a full, separate carriage house apartment round out the interior rooms, while the outdoors are just as impressive. Multiple covered patios, all with views of the bay, a pool/spa with timeless design, large backyard, and boardwalk that leads to your own private beach begging you to soak up the sun in the great outdoors.
Source: HAR

Interested in buying a beach house in the Houston area as a primary residence, vacation home, or investment property?

10 Most Expensive Homes Sold in Houston in 2021

The 10 most expensive homes sold in Houston in 2021 unsurprisingly come from the most affluent neighborhoods in the area with River Oaks dominating the list. The combined sales price for the top 10 homes equals a whopping $80,408,000.

#10: $6,800,000 3723 Knowllwood Street in River Oaks

5 bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms, 3 half bathrooms, 7,167 sqft, 37,400 sqft lot

Located on one of the most coveted streets in River Oaks, 3723 Knollwood is a low-slung brick home perfectly sited on more than three-quarters of a wooded acre. Prompting descriptions like “striking” and “art collector’s fantasy,” this 1950 contemporary masterpiece by architect Wylie Vale is notable for its polished white limestone floors, luxurious finishes and fittings, and expanses of glossy white walls. The main house offers more than 7,000 square ft (per appraisal) of living space, including 5 bedrooms, 4 full baths, and 3 half-baths. Art lovers will appreciate the floor-to-ceiling windows that allow in natural light as well as unbroken walls that offer space for large art installations. From the street, the home’s modern silhouette features a massive chimney, as well as several rectangular masses that overlap or intersect horizontal roof slabs. Need a visual? Imagine Palm Springs circa the Rat Pack era.
Source: HAR

#9: $7,150,000 – 701 Saddlewood Lane in Hunters Creek Forest
7 bedrooms, 7 full bathrooms, 3 half bathrooms, 10,252 sqft, 24,681 sqft lot

A modern take on a French classical design. A heavily wooded corner lot with legacy trees and ideal dimensions. Over 3/4 of village acre including the Right of Way on both sides: 24,681+6,848 SF of fully landscaped ROW=31,529 SF (per survey). The house includes an abundance of natural light, clean lines, and sophisticated space for effortless entertaining. Elevator to 1st, 2nd, and the 3rd. floor mechanical room, full house generator, 5/6 parking spaces.
Source: HAR

#8: $7,178,000 – 3812 Willowick Road in Tall Timbers/River Oaks

6 bedrooms, 9 full bathrooms, 2 half bathrooms, 13,788 sqft, 1.01 acre (43,907 sqft lot)

Regal River Oaks residence situated on over an acre of enchanting grounds in prestigious Tall Timbers offering palatial proportions enhanced by distinctive architectural elements courtesy of Robert Dame Designs. Banquet-size reception spaces are well-suited for luxurious living and grand-scale entertaining. Dramatic Reception Hall opens to the grand Gallery. Paneled Library. Fabulous Formals. Butler’s Bar. Wine Vault. Gourmet Island Kitchen opens to informal living areas with an additional ground-level recreation room. Baronial Primary Suite up with private parlor, separate baths with oversized dressing rooms, and adjoining Fitness Center. 4 Guest Suites. Home Theatre. Third Floor Flex Space with kitchenette and private bath (optional 6th Bedroom). Home Generator. The spectacular setting features multiple terraces surrounded by manicured gardens and Loggia with an outdoor fireplace that overlooks a saltwater swimming pool/spa with a nearby summer kitchen. Gated Motor Court leads to 4-car attached Garage.
Source: HAR

#7: $7,500,000 – 99 W Grand Regency Circle in Woodlands Village of Carlton Woods
7 bedrooms, 7 full bathrooms, 3 half bathrooms, 14,299 sqft, 2.53 acres (110,118 sqft lot)

Customizable Creston & Whole Property Intercom Systems create a very livable environment. Auto dog doors allow dogs to enter & exit by reading RFD tags on collars while keeping intruders & wildlife out. 3 coded-lock fence gates allow access to the golf course. Package closet outside main driveway gate protecting packages from sight & weather. Advanced whole house filtration in the main house to control allergens. Oversized 140kw commercial generator provides power for all 3 structures. Buyer to verify all dwelling dimensions.
Source: HAR

#6: $7,600,00 – 30 Willowend Drive in Willowick
5 bedrooms, 5 full bathrooms, 2 half bathrooms, 9,000 sqft, 25,935 lot

Stunning home designed by Robert Dame, built by Thompson Custom Homes, and interiors done by Benjamin Johnston Design in the safest city in Texas with MVPD and VFD. This home is filled with all of the details you expect in a custom home, open floor plan, chef’s kitchen with Lacanche range and commercial walk-in refrigerator, game room with a walk-in wine room, two large master closets, exercise room with custom flooring, dramatic beamed ceilings and French oak floors. Steel windows and doors line the breakfast room, family room, and game room, giving you a full view of the beautifully landscaped backyard and spa. Intricate home automation system and window treatments complete the home. All furnishings are available for purchase with the home.
Source: HAR

#5: $8,210,000 – 1721 River Oaks Boulevard in River Oaks

6-9 bedrooms, 10 full bathrooms, 5 half bathrooms, 15,900 sqft, 1.02 acres (44,565 sqft lot)

Extraordinary River Oaks Country Club Estate positioned on over an acre of fully-gated grounds combining timeless architecture with a celebrated history of social significance and a prominent placement along the Boulevard. A circular brick-paved motor court framed by majestic oaks leads to the stately facade and regal reception spaces tailored for grand-scale entertaining and gracious living. Fabulous Formals. Paneled Library. Gourmet Kitchen with well-equipped Butler’s Pantry. Ground-level Game Room + Home Theater. Wine Cellar. Owner’s Retreat up with fireplace, marble-clad bath, fitness center with sauna, and sprawling boutique-inspired dressing rooms. 4 Guest Suites. Third Floor Flex Space + Bedroom #6. 3-car attached Garage with 2-Bedroom Guest Apartment above (1,501 sq. ft. per HCAD) + an additional 1-Bedroom Quarters. Enchanting setting with park-like grounds surrounding a spectacular swimming pool terrace with manicured gardens and majestic oaks.
Source: HAR

#4: $8,350,000 – 721 Ourlane Circle in Manior D’Ourlane
8 bedrooms, 8 full bathrooms, 3 half bathrooms, 12,028 sqft, 1.02 acres (44,267 sqft lot)

An enchanting fusion of French elegance and chic, contemporary vision. From the moment of arrival, a masterful balance between grandiose architectural elements & understated details set the tone for this estate. The Great Room’s collapsing window walls open to the Loggia, redefining the essence of indoor/outdoor living. Antique doors and Murano fixtures embellish the Dining Room, paired with a distinctive bar & 1,000+ bottle showcase cellar. Main Kitchen & Keeping Room flanked by adjoining Catering Kitchen and Summer Kitchen. 12-car garage, generous closets & glass ceiling on F2 landing provides ample room to display fine collections. Expansive Owner’s Suite offers the ultimate in relaxation & seclusion w/lounge, wet bar & a dual-shower, glass-paneled wet room with soaking tub overlooking a private courtyard. F2 w/6 ensuite BRs, game room, gym & multiple storage areas. Over 12,000 SF—7 BRs, 8 full/4 half baths, gym, game room, 2 utility, 5 fireplaces.
Source: HAR

#3: $8,400,000 – 25 West Lane in Tall Timbers/River Oaks

6 bedrooms, 6 full bathrooms, 1 half bathroom, 7,298 sqft, 1.34 acres (58,468 sqft lot)

At the end of a private drive lies a sprawling River Oaks mansion, complete with a myriad of amenities. The front elevation features Georgian architectural touches, such as symmetrical chimneys and ornate crown molding on the interior. The 6 bed, 6.5 bath home includes a four-car garage, resort-sized pool and spa, pool house, and a covered balcony. The kitchen is blanketed in honed marble, complete with Wolf and Sub Zero appliances. The two-level primary suite includes a completely marble bathroom and a staircase leading to the fashion palace overhead. High ceilings and hardwoods abound throughout the interior. Outside you will find freshly-manicured grounds, including a lush, sunken garden right off the dining room. This home is the quintessence of modern tradition.
Source: HAR

#2: $9,500,000 – 3024 Del Monte Drive in River Oaks

5-6 bedrooms, 6 full bathrooms, 4 half bathrooms, 10,340 sqft, 21,240 lot

With formal proportions & classic-meets-modern design, 3024 Del Monte Dr is a stately new construction by Fifty Seventh + 7th, the Signature Division of Carnegie Homes. This 6BR Robert Dame-designed estate is a new icon in River Oaks. Inspired by classic Parisian dwellings, interiors by Contour Design are rich with timeless details including wall molding, stunning parquetry hardwoods, & high ceilings. Modern details include floor-to-ceiling iron window systems, extensive marble, & full automation. The floor plan includes a formal entry flanked by exquisite dining&library, both w/fireplaces. Open to the window-lined family rm, the kitchen features top-of-the-line upgrades including a La Canche range. Separate catering kitchen, wine rm, & bar are designed for large-scale entertaining. Bedrooms up, including the luxurious Primary w/plaster, pitched ceiling, fireplace, private patio, & Calacatta spa retreat. Exterior features incl. a loggia w/kitchen+fireplace, & pool+spa w/covered terrace.
Source: HAR

#1: $9,720,000 – 832 Kuhlman Road in Memorial Oaks
6 bedrooms, 7 full bathrooms, 3 half baths, 12,691 sqft, 2-acre lot (87,120 sqft)

An enchanting estate encompassing nearly two acres in scale comprised of three separate structures consisting of a magnificent Manor House (*11,874 sq. ft.), a 2-Bedroom Guest Cottage (*817 sq. ft.), and a palatial Entertainment Pavilion (*4,597 sq. ft.) with Conservatory and grand Ballroom which alternatively serves as an Automotive Showroom. The original residence recently underwent a total renovation, reconfiguration, and expansion with a gated entry garden leading to refined living spaces further enhanced by the grand-scale entertainment capabilities afforded by the auxiliary dwellings. Extensive parking with circular driveway, multiple gated motor courts, and 5-car main house garage in addition to the pavilion’s potential for 6-car capacity. A rare and regal retreat privately located near the end of a coveted cul-de-sac in prestigious Hunters Creek Village.
Source: HAR

Are you interested in purchasing a luxury home in the Houston area?

Cheat Sheet for Fort Bend County Property Tax Dates & Deadlines

Here’s the cheat sheet for Fort Bend County property tax dates and deadlines for homeowners.

IMPORTANT: Don’t get scammed! Learn how homeowners are getting defrauded with fake property tax debts or fees for services.

January 31: Last day to pay previous years’ property taxes without penalty and interest. If you have a mortgage most lenders collect the property taxes each month, hold it in escrow, then pay the tax bill on your behalf each year. If you are unsure contact your mortgage lender.

May 16: Last day to file a protest for property taxes with the Appraisal Review Board (ARB).

  • Click here to begin a Fort Bend County property tax protest application.

October 1: Tax assessor mails tax bills for the current year. Payment is due by January 31 of the following year. Note: Failure to receive a property tax statement does not waive penalty and interest. You can view the statement online at the Fort Bend County Tax Payments page.

You deserve to know how your property taxes are set

Cheat Sheet for Brazoria County Property Tax Dates & Deadlines

Here’s the cheat sheet for Brazoria County property tax dates and deadlines for homeowners.

IMPORTANT: Don’t get scammed! Learn how homeowners are getting defrauded with fake property tax debts or fees for services.

January 31: Last day to pay previous years’ property taxes without penalty and interest. If you have a mortgage most lenders collect the property taxes each month, hold it in escrow, then pay the tax bill on your behalf each year. If you are unsure contact your mortgage lender. You can view the property tax statement online at the Brazoria County Tax Balance page

May 16: Last day to file a protest for property taxes with the Appraisal Review Board (ARB).

  • Click here to begin a Brazoria County property tax protest application.

October 1: Tax assessor mails tax bills for the current year. Payment is due by January 31 of the following year. Note: Failure to receive a property tax statement does not waive penalty and interest. You can view the statement online at the Brazoria County Tax Balance page.

You deserve to know how your property taxes are set

When you find a home you want, it is important to pick your battles when it comes to repairs requested from a home inspection. While it would certainly be nice for the seller to fix every little home inspection issue, there are only so many repairs most sellers are willing to commit to – especially in a seller’s market.

The purpose of a home inspection is to find out if there are severe structural or mechanical defects. The issues should be large enough that they could have a significant impact on the use and enjoyment of the home now and in the future. A home inspection should not be to create a punch list that itemizes every minor defect with the home you expect the seller to fix.

One of the questions I often get from my clients is what reasonable requests from the home inspection are? Though there is no standard for what is reasonable and what isn’t, here’s some guidance.

Home Inspection Repair Requests to Avoid:

  • Cosmetic Issues
  • Anything under $100
  • Loose fixtures, doorknobs, railings, and similar issues
  • External buildings such as a shed
  • Cosmetic landscaping or minor problems


What Inspection Items Should Be Fixed:

  • Termites or other wood destroying insects
  • Wildlife infestation like bats or squirrels in the attic
  • Major drainage or ongoing water problems
  • Mold problems
  • Elevated Radon levels above EPA suggested levels
  • Major electrical defects that cause safety issues
  • Significant plumbing problems that interfere with the use of the home
  • Lead paint. It should be noted that it is a federal requirement for sellers to disclose the known presence of lead paint in a property
  • Well water problems, such as a lack of pressure or volume of water
  • Major structural issues such as a leaking roof or substandard building violations


If you are in the midst of negotiating a home inspection above all else be reasonable, especially if you want the home.

2 U.S. Cities on the List for World’s Most Expensive Cities in 2021

Two U.S. Cities, New York (Ranked #6) and Los Angeles (Ranked #9), are on the list for the world’s most expensive cities in 2021 for the Worldwide Cost of Living Index. How do those two cities compare to Houston, Texas?

Overview

 Houston, TXNew York, NYLos Angeles, CA
 Population2,316,1208,253,2133,970,219
 Median Income$45,728$52,737$49,682
 Median Age32.635.734.6
 Avg. Home Price$220,000$654,300$883,400
 Unemployment Rate8.0%11.2%10.6%
 Avg. Commute Time2740.7830.93
Source: bestplaces.net as of 12/2/2021

Cost of Living

 Houston, TXNew York, NYLos Angeles, CA
 Overall96.5187.2173.3
 Food & Groceries98.1116.6104.1
 Health92.4112.689.4
 Housing80.2294.3298.2
 Utilities96.5150.593.7
  Transportation119.0181.1165.3
 Miscellaneous100.4121.2104.5
Source: bestplaces.net as of 12/2/2021
100 = National Average (Below 100 means cheaper than the US average. Above 100 means more expensive.)