Happy New Year, friends! As we welcome 2026, I am excited to share the very first edition of my monthly Houston newsletter. Houston is endlessly eclectic and vibrant, and even after more than 30 years here, there are still places I have yet to explore. Confession, I’ve never been to NASA, but it is officially on my list for 2026! Each month, I will highlight some of the best happenings around town, from art exhibits and concerts to family-friendly events, along with a brief snapshot of what is happening in our local real estate market. My hope is that you will find this newsletter fun, useful, and worth sharing. As always, if you would ever like to talk about the Houston market or simply exchange recommendations for great spots around town, cool shops, and especially architecture and home decor, I am eager to connect with you!
Houston Real Estate Snapshot
The holiday season is traditionally a slower time for residential real estate, but activity starts to build quickly once the New Year begins. By around MLK Day, new listings typically begin to appear as sellers prepare for the busy spring market, especially in neighborhoods zoned to highly rated public schools. By Spring Break, the market is usually in full swing. If you're considering buying or selling in 2026, or would simply like a complimentary assessment of your home's current market value, please reach out anytime. A quick strategy conversation now can put you in a great position for the rest of the year!
Source: HAR.com - 2307 River Oaks Blvd. Sold by Dee Dee Howes and Laura Sweeney.
Local Real Estate News
The Houston suburbs continue to grow rapidly, driven by new commercial developments and master-planned communities. Cinco Ranch was recently rated the #1 Best Place to Live in Texas, and suburbs such as Fulshear, League City, and Pearland have seen major population growth over the past decade, with strong momentum heading into 2026. Closer in, luxury sales remain strong. In November, a notable River Oaks residence once owned by renowned developer Frank Sharp sold for approximately $14.2 million after being listed for $15.99 million. Within my brokerage New Leaf Real Estate, which is comprised of 15 active agents, we celebrated a fantastic 2025 with over 150 transactions, over $150 million in sales, including several significant private listings in River Oaks, West University, and Memorial. Personally, I was fortunate to be involved in nearly $44 million in sales and leases last year (YES! I handle leases too!) I'm feeling energized to help even more clients in 2026!
Featured Listing: Braes Heights
3735 Tartan Lane This recent construction features 5 bedrooms, 5 1/2 baths, and approximately 5,541 sq. ft. on a 9,946 sq. ft. lot. Highlights include elevator capability, a fantastic upstairs playroom, a downstairs bedroom with en suite bath, an oversized garage, and nearly 1,500 sq. ft. of outdoor living space. Listed at $2.289M. Co-listed with my friend and colleague, Anne McAllister.
View the full listings and photos
January 2026: Around Town
Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern Illuminated (through Jan 18) - Enjoy a magical family outing (it's only 30 minutes long!) or a fun date at this multi-sensory art experience where you will view a spectacle of color, echo and optical illusion. I saw this last week and it was pretty cool!
Chevron Houston Marathon (Jan 11) - The Annual Chevron Houston Marathon is this weekend! Whether you're running, cheering, or simply want to avoid road closures, view the official route map and street closures.
official route map and street closures
Star Wars in Concert (Jan 10) - Jones Hall will host a live orchestra performance of Return of the Jedi.
Fun fact: I've never seen Star Wars! Am I really missing out?!
Live at House of Blues - There are some cool shows going on this month at HOB! Don't miss the Prince Tribute on Jan 23 or for Texas country fans, Josh Abbott Band on Jan 24. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster.
MFAH: "Frida - The Making of an Icon" (Jan 18-May 17) - A major exhibition with more than 30 works by Frida Kahlo and 120 by artists she inspired.
Final Note
Thank you to my friends, family, and wonderful clients for an incredible 2025. I cannot wait to see what 2026 has in store! If you are curious what your home is worth, or you're thinking about buying, selling, or leasing this year, it's never too early to start the conversation. Please don't hesitate to call or email any time! Referrals are the highest form of flattery, so please share my information and this newsletter with your friends and family. Cheers to a joyful, prosperous, and adventure-filled 2026! See you next month!