Movin' on up

River Oaks 7th most expensive neighborhood in the nation

River Oaks Country Club
Joel Osteen River Oaks home
Photo by Clifford Pugh
Photo by Shelby Hodge

Oh, those high-flyin' folks in River Oaks.

Bloomberg Businessweek has named the area bounded by San Felipe and Buffalo Bayou between Kirby Drive and just west of Willowick Drive the seventh most expensive neighborhood in the nation.

In a survey of America's most expensive blocks, real estate website NeighborhoodScout.com identified the priciest neighborhood in each state based on third-quarter 2010 home values. The River Oaks neighborhood ranked as the most expensive in the state, with a median home value of $1,722,454.

The streets around River Oaks Country Club, such as Inwood Drive and Lazy Lane, are cited as "some of the most expensive estates in this section of Houston." The neighborhood, based on a census tract, also includes Lakewood pastor Joel Osteen's $10.5 million home.

But Bloomberg/Businessweek gets one thing wrong. It says, "River Oaks is also home to the Menil Collection, a museum of modern art created by Schlumberger oil-drilling heiress Dominique De Menil and her husband Jean." While the de Menil home is in River Oaks, the museum is in Montrose.

While River Oaks remains the priciest neighborhood in the state, Andrew Schiller, founder and chief executive of NeighborhoodScout.com, predicts that prices in Austin will rise as government activity, job growth, and the University of Texas attract more homebuyers to the area.

In the rankings, River Oaks is just behind an area of Honolulu near the Diamond Head State Monument. A tract in Beverly Hills leads the list, followed by New York's Upper East side along Central Park.

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spacious memorial mansion

Striking French-inspired Houston estate hits market for $12.5 million

TK Images for Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

412 Timberwilde Lane sits on more than two acres in Hunters Creek Village and is on the market for $12.5 million

A magnificent estate awaits in one of Houston’s most desirable neighborhoods. 412 Timberwilde Lane is a stunning brick and limestone home, inspired by French country manor houses. It’s on the market for $12.5 million and represented by Jay Monroe and Stephen Warrell ofMartha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Nestled on nearly 2.5 acres of meticulously manicured grounds in exclusive Hunters Creek Village, this home blends old world elegance with modern amenities, including 24/7 private security. The grand foyer’s soaring ceiling sets the tone upon entry, announcing that 412 Timberwilde Lane is something special.

Consider the formal library, with its rich, paneled walls and cross-beam ceiling, and the spacious dining room with its cozy fireplace. The living room offers breathtaking views of the rear gardens, pool, cabana, and tennis courts. Just off the kitchen, a light-filled breakfast room is a perfect place for morning coffee and admiring the grounds.

The primary suite is the embodiment of luxury, with dual bathrooms and ample closet space, ensuring comfort and convenience. This private oasis is a place to unwind and relax.

The home’s second floor offers a floor plan that can be tailored to suit any lifestyle. The bedrooms are generously sized with large closets and private baths. A playroom with a built-in playhouse castle makes for a perfect spot for kids’ imaginations to run wild. Other rooms could be utilized for a second home office, exercise room, yoga retreat, crafting space, or whatever else a family might need.

The third floor offers a game room featuring a wet bar, billiards area, and a big-screen TV, making it the ultimate place to relax and have fun with family and friends. The outdoor areas include an in-ground pool and summer kitchen, perfect places.

This one-of-a-kind estate offers an array of amenities for living and entertaining. Its location is both convenient to the city and a restful retreat.

Photo by TK Images for Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

412 Timberwilde Lane sits on more than two acres in Hunters Creek Village and is on the market for $12.5 million.

home-for-sale