Homes, Headlines & Houston
Hello, friends! Welcome to the August edition of The Houston Edit. I hope you’re soaking up the last few weeks of “summer” (let’s be real though, summer lasts until Halloween). This month I’m sharing an important update on homeowners insurance, highlighting two of my fabulous listings, and as always, rounding up a few exciting new local spots to check out! Let’s get to it…
Real Estate News: Insurance Rates Rising
Credit: Caroll Zahn
As many Texas homeowners have already experienced, insurance premiums continue to climb, and they're becoming an increasingly important part of the overall cost of homeownership.
According to a recent Homes.com report, several factors are driving these increases:
- Severe weather events have led to larger and more frequent insurance claims (from Harvey to Beryl and beyond, our homes have been taking a beating by Mother Nature... and it's costing us).
- Construction materials and labor costs have risen significantly, making homes more expensive to repair or rebuild. All of the tradesmen I use have noted increasing materials costs across the board.
- Higher home values mean insurers are covering more valuable properties.
- Because insurance premiums are reassessed regularly, unlike a fixed-rate mortgage, homeowners may see their monthly housing costs increase even after purchasing a home.
What this means for buyers and homeowners:
- Shop insurance quotes early, before you're under contract if possible.
- Review your coverage annually.
- Ask about discounts for newer roofs, updated electrical systems, monitored security systems, and bundled policies.
As always, if you're buying or selling this year, I'm happy to help you understand how insurance costs may impact your monthly payment and purchasing power. Always happy to chat!
Two Featured Listings in the Galleria Area
Although summer is typically considered a slower time of year in real estate, I have two great listings I want to share with you all. If you know anyone who may be interested, please forward these on to them. They are also linked below.
3014 Dolores Park Lane
Credit: TK Images
Beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath contemporary home in the heart of the Galleria inside a gated four-pack of single family homes. This home features abundant natural light, a screened in second floor patio/balcony, recent updates including a new roof, AC, refrigerator, and beverage fridge, plus a rare 2,350-square-foot fenced side yard perfect for pets, kids and entertaining, complete with a fire pit, patio and landscaping. Fourth floor rooftop deck adds to the outdoor living. Just minutes from Uptown Park, River Oaks District, Memorial Park, and fantastic dining and shopping. A very unique opportunity! Visit the full listing HERE.
1035 Fountain View Drive
Credit: TK Images
A lovely townhome in the desirable Tanglewood/Galleria area featuring two spacious bedrooms with en suite baths, an open-concept living and dining area, wood-burning fireplace, private patio, two-car garage, community pool, and incredibly low monthly HOA dues (in fact, they are practically unheard of!) for the neighborhood. Walk to restaurants, shopping, and everyday conveniences. This is a great chance for investors who are looking to buy a rental property, or someone who wants to settle down in a cozy, affordable space in a fantastic location! Visit the full listing HERE.
Family-friendly Food and Fun
Underground Softies is coming to Meyerland! One of Houston's favorite dessert collaborations is expanding to the Meyerland area! Underground Creamery and Pudgy's Fine Cookies are opening a new location at 4798 Beechnut Street this month. The shop will introduce Underground Softies, the Creamery's first-ever soft serve concept, alongside Pudgy's famous cookies, rotating ice cream flavors, and indoor seating. I cannot WAIT to try this and I think it's going to be a hit amongst my friends in the area. It's sure to become one of Houston's sweetest new neighborhood spots.
Credit: Instagram @undergroundcreamery
Families also have a brand-new destination to enjoy together! Recess, located at 1500 Waugh Drive on the border of River Oaks and Montrose, combining an elevated all-day restaurant with a massive supervised indoor playground. Parents can enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, or cocktails while kids explore an imaginative multi-level play space complete with climbing structures, slides, reading nooks, and age-specific areas. It's a unique concept that's perfect for weekend family outings and it is now open. I'm definitely interested in checking this out! Different access options are available as well as memberships! Visit RecessHTX.
Credit: recess-htx.com/play
Final Note:
Because August is the month school goes back into session (insert sigh of relief from all parents reading this email), I thought that I would highlight some organizations that help less privileged students with school supplies, school uniforms, etc. Below are some great causes in the Houston area. There are also some great teacher wishlists on Amazon that you can search for a purchase classroom supplies for teachers who often use their own money to fund their classrooms all year long.
Cheers to August, catch you next month!