There are so many great places to live in Houston that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.
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Clocking in at just under 3,500 residents, Piney Point is part of a cluster of upscale, residential communities located just west of the Inner Loop and known as the Memorial Villages.

Tucked into the middle of the vibrant city, Piney Point is a tony cocoon where you can expect gracious homes on sprawling lots and meandering lanes, all under a canopy of towering pines and lazy oaks.

“It’s hard not to be transfixed by the ‘green’ here — the spectacular lawns, the hedges, and most of all, the trees,” say real estate agent Betsy Vanderbrouk, who herself lived in Piney Point for more than 25 years.

“I loved its close-knit community, peaceful charm, and country-village feel from the start,” she says. “The country lanes and tucked-away paths host families, children on bikes, runners, and more. On Saturdays, the neighbors find themselves walking to the area farmers market for the freshest items, some music, delightful visits, and even goat yoga.”

Vanderbrouk helped start successful, well-known events in the area, including the annual 4th of July parade and festival for all the Memorial Villages. The parade features everything from children on tricycles to fire engines and marching bands, culminating in a music and food-filled extravaganza.

The annual Memorial High School graduation parade, where the cars of graduating seniors are decorated with the colors and mascots of the colleges and universities they will be attending, is another neighborhood bonding experience.

When she’s not activating her 30 years of real estate experience to help clients with their housing needs, she may just be in her kitchen or entertaining, or dropping off homemade treats to her friends and clients.

Vanderbrouk offered up a few of her personal favorites about life in Piney Point. Here's her guide:

Where to eat & drink
While there is no commercial business allowed in Piney Point, the destinations are all close by — starting with Jonathan’s The Rub, says Vanderbrouk. “They have great food and wine, and it’s a terrific place to catch up with neighbors.”

“Another wonderful watering hole is bpd — get the blackened tuna bites; they are amazing!” she advises.

For the perfect smoked goodness, Vanderbrouk heads to Roegels Barbecue and, for the ultimate old-fashioned burger (or many other variations of the iconic sandwich), it’s Southwell’s Hamburger Grill.

And about Goode Co. Kitchen & Cantina, she just has one word: “yum!”

Vanderbrouk also points out that the original Carrabba's is on Voss, and it’s a must. “Is there anything more fun than watching the kids at the pizza bar? And don't miss chatting with Rosie! She has greeted us with her delightful smile since it opened so many, many years ago.”

Where to play
“In Piney Point, hop on your bike or put on your walking shoes and explore,” says Vanderbrouk. “The paths will take you through hidden gardens and into tucked-away ponds and fields. Although you’ll never be far from the main streets, you will feel as if you are worlds away.”

“The Saturday morning Farmers Market is in a nearby village, and it is definitely a gem for everyone in the Memorial Villages,” she adds.

The public library is a charming retreat for residents, as well.

What to see
Vanderbrouk suggests seeing the Piney Point farmhouse, which is now known as the Water Authority Home. “It once was located on the former Smithdale Farm (now the site of the Wexford Court and Smithdale Estates),” she says. “But when they decided to develop the land for residential use, they moved the farmhouse to the Water Authority land to preserve it."

Where to live
Piney Point properties may be original, one-story ranch homes of the 1950s; sprawling, newer one-story homes; or spacious two-story residences.

“Large, luscious lots are a wonderful requirement here,” says Vanderbrouk. “So we have the land for sweeping lawns, tennis courts, amazing pools, and spectacular entertaining areas."

Vanderbrouk has watched the village change from these single-family ranch homes to gracious estates, and has participated in all phases of those sales — often selling the same properties over and over as families move on to different stages in their lives.

An exemplary representation of a Piney Point property is 11505 Dunsinane, which Vanderbrouk sold for the original owner and sold again to a new buyer.

It’s a custom-built home with a magnificent imported Spanish tile and copper roof, 12- and 14-foot ceilings, Venetian plaster walls, and Champignon travertine floors. Outside, gardens are laid out with seasonal sight, fragrance, and sound in mind and surround a resort-quality loggia, terraces, and outdoor kitchen.

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Betsy Vanderbrouk works and plays in Piney Point. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email betsy.vanderbrouk@sothebyshomes.com, or call 832-236-9999.

Agent Betsy Vanderbrouk.

Photo courtesy of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

Agent Betsy Vanderbrouk.