River Oaks sees rise in luxury home sales amid strong demand

Houston's luxury real estate market is experiencing significant growth, with a notable increase in million-dollar home sales. According to a recent report by Texas Realtors, Houston saw a 10% rise in sales of homes priced at $1 million or more compared to 2023. River Oaks, often referred to as "the Beverly Hills of Houston," is at the heart of this thriving market.

Walter Bering, a broker associate at Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty, described River Oaks as having an affluent lifestyle with friendly neighbors who socialize while walking their dogs. Brett Hartman from Corcoran Prestige Realty highlighted the neighborhood's privacy and grandeur, characterized by well-maintained streets and mature trees.

River Oaks is centrally located in Houston and bounded by Buffalo Bayou, South Shepherd Drive, Westheimer Road, and Willowick Road. The area features high-end shopping complexes like the River Oaks District and offers luxury amenities such as the exclusive River Oaks Country Club.

In 2024, the median sales price for luxury homes in Houston was approximately $3.2 million. Prices in River Oaks range from $2 million to over $20 million, with condos starting at around $500,000. Despite a 7% decrease in recorded sales last year, prices rose by 14.6%, reflecting strong demand.

The housing stock in River Oaks primarily consists of single-family homes on large lots with historic estates and contemporary custom-built houses. The community also offers townhomes and luxury condos with modern amenities.

Bering noted that some homes are designed by renowned architects like John Staub and Birdsall Briscoe. Hartman emphasized the area's unique blend of historic charm and architectural beauty.

Notable residents include U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and televangelist Joel Osteen among others. The neighborhood attracts diverse buyers including business executives and professionals.

Over the past five years, home prices have increased by about 35%. Bering pointed out that this reflects strong demand for properties in this prestigious area. Hartman added that River Oaks remains one of Houston’s most sought-after neighborhoods due to its stable property values and consistent demand.