Where to Buy

Houston named one of the best real estate markets for first-time homebuyers — again

1 On the Market 5226 Mulford St. March 2015

This is the time to buy in Houston.

Photo courtesy of © TK Images

Looks like Houstonians in the market for their first home have chosen the right time to buy. Not only are home values rising (while list prices remain relatively flat), but the city has again been named one of the best for first-timers.

A new report from SmartAsset ranks Houston fourth among the 10 best cities for first-time homebuyers in 2018. The finance company looked at seven factors to determine where first-time homebuyers should put down roots: number of HUD-approved lenders, loan funding ratio, average price per square foot, affordability ratio, stability score, price variance, and number of negative quarters from 2012-2017.

Perhaps the biggest distinction for the Houston market is that "first-time homebuyers have no shortage of options when it comes to banks," says SmartAsset. "According to our data, there are 227 HUD-approved mortgage lenders in the city. For that metric, Houston ranks first."

Houston also boasts a price per square foot of only $87.50 and a loan approval rate of 71 percent. Plus, Houston has seen zero year-over-year quarters of negative growth in home prices. (Earlier this year, Zillow named Houston the No. 3 market for first-timers using a different set of metrics, including price cuts and inventory.)

Texas is home to three of SmartAsset's 10 best markets for first-time buyers, with San Antonio at No. 7 and Dallas at No. 10. The Alamo City is celebrated for its affordability, while Big D is deemed a safe housing market in which to invest.

Five other Texas cities appear on the finance site's full list of 25: Fort Worth (11), Arlington (14), Corpus Christi (16), El Paso (20), and Austin (24).

bests reports

3-acre Tomball estate with amenities galore to be listed for $5.3 million

Aria Media for Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

23227 Brownwood Lane is set on three wooded acres on Tomball is will soon be on the market for $5.3 million

Set behind a private, tree-lined approach lies 23227 Brownwood Lane in Tomball. This English Tudor estate sits on three acres, a secluded escape for the home’s 8,000 square feet of living space. Coming soon to the market for $5.3 million and represented by Rachel Solar of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty, it offers unmatched privacy and serenity.

Originally built in 1988, the home seamlessly blends classic Tudor charm with updated finishes and design. Consider the home’s centerpiece, the light-filled kitchen, with high-end appliances, an abundance of cabinetry, and a sizable butlers pantry. An island anchors the space, creating a relaxed gathering spot, and the room gives way to a gorgeous dining room with a dramatic stone fireplace, soaring ceilings, and expansive windows. The elegant living room has its own fireplace, as well as custom millwork, a coffered ceiling, and built-in shelves.

The first-floor primary suite boasts hardwood floors and French doors opening to a patio. The spa-like bath offers custom tilework, an oversized soaking tub, and walk-in shower. Dual walk-in closets have custom cabinets and shelving.

The home has a sunken movie room tucked behind a hidden door, a wood-paneled study, and a second floor game room with built-in bunk beds, study nooks, and an abundance of shelves. The home is designed for entertaining, even as it’s a perfect retreat, set amid beautiful trees and lush grounds, which include a pool and spa.

A garage apartment offers space for guests, or can serve as an in-law residence.

Those who come through the stone-and-iron gate of 23227 Brownwood Lane will be impressed with the home’s rich wood craftsmanship and exquisite details. This forest retreat will certainly be an attractive property for those seeking a home that is welcoming, beautiful, and perfect for living and entertaining.

Aria Media for Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

23227 Brownwood Lane is set on three wooded acres on Tomball is will soon be on the market for $5.3 million