real estate news

Houston nails No. 1 ranking for new construction homes sold in U.S.

Houston sold more than 1,700 new construction homes in March.

The Lone Star State is holding on to its reputation as one of the hottest moving destinations, and a new report shows four Texas metro areas have sold the most new construction homes in the country, with Houston outshining them all.

Houston sold the most new construction homes nationwide in March 2024, according to SmartAsset's recently published report, "Where the Most New Construction Homes Are Being Added – 2024 Study." The metro area claimed the No. 1 spot out of 153 U.S. cities ranked based on Zillow's real estate data from March and April.

A total of 1,751 new build homes were sold in the Houston area in March, for a median sale price of $347,990. The metro's median price point for newly constructed homes is about $30,000 more than the median price for all Houston homes sold in April, which came out to $318,104.

New construction home prices seem high for Houston, but things could be much worse. San Jose, California (which ranked No. 132) only sold 41 newly built homes in March, but they sold for a median sale price of $1.734 million.

While inflation jumped by nearly 23 percent from spring 2019 to spring 2024, SmartAsset says housing prices skyrocketed even more during the same time period to 49.4 percent on average. The report indicates these daunting figures aren't having an optimistic effect on potential buyers.

"Housing costs are often the largest budget item for Americans and this could make home ownership feel out of reach for many," the report's author wrote. "But adding new housing can help relieve price pressures in undersupplied metro areas."

Dallas was right behind Houston in the national standings with 1,574 new construction homes sold in March 2024. But the median sale price for these new homes in the North Texas metro was much higher than Houston's, at $414,950, which is nearly $36,000 higher than the median price for all homes sold during the following month.

Other Texas cities that helped secure the state's dominance in the top 10 include San Antonio (No. 5) and Austin (No. 7). Only 777 new construction homes were sold in the Alamo City in March, with a median sale price of $310,446, which is the most affordable price out of all Texas cities in the top 10. In Austin, 750 new build homes were sold in March, for a median price of $434,900.

The top 10 U.S. metros with the most new construction homes being sold are:

No. 1 – Houston, Texas
No. 2 – Dallas, Texas
No. 3 – Atlanta, Georgia
No. 4 – Phoenix, Arizona
No. 5 – San Antonio, Texas
No. 6 – Charlotte, North Carolina
No. 7 – Austin, Texas
No. 8 – Nashville, Tennessee
No. 9 – Tampa, Florida
No. 10 – Raleigh, North Carolina

Real estate data for all 153 U.S. cities mentioned in the report – including new construction sales count, median sales prices, median sale price per square foot, and median price for all homes (as of April 2024) — was sourced from Zillow based on all single-family homes and condos.

The full report can be found on smartasset.com.

houston dallas austin san antonio smartasset reports rankings real estate

spacious sandalwood retreat

England-inspired lakeside Houston mansion hits market for $7.75 million

Photo by Aria Media for Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

This secluded, wooded estate is for sale for $7.75 million.

On the shores of Sandalwood’s largest lake is a stunning wooded estate. 50 Patti Lynn Lane, tucked between Briar Forest Drive and Memorial Drive, offers luxury living in tranquil seclusion. It’s on the market for $7.75 million and listed by Inga Laughlin Smith with Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty.

A rare find, this 9,000-square-foot home offers five bedrooms, five full and four partial bathrooms, exquisite details, and striking craftsmanship. Designed by Rice Residential Design, with interiors by Scene One Interiors and built by Corbel Custom Homes, this home is a remarkable example of how modern living blends with the natural setting.

Echoing an English manor, this home unfolds in its wooded surroundings. Come through the French chateau front doors into a sweeping grand foyer with hardwood floors and a wrought-iron staircase. A study features custom millwork, soaring views, and a club-like feel. The bar’s detailing lends an air of sophistication to this easy gathering space. The climate-controlled wine room has storage for 1,500 bottles. A lovely grand gallery links the wine room and dining room.

The kitchen is at the crossroads of the home, anchored by an oversized island, perfect for casual conversation and quick meals. Professional-grade appliances make it a home cook’s dream, while custom cabinetry and elegant architectural details demonstrate its blend of form and function.

On the main level is the primary suite, with a spa bathroom and a dressing room that mirrors a luxury boutique. Upstairs, a secondary suite has a window seat, custom built-ins, and an en-suite bath. Additional bedrooms are spacious retreats, and the game room has plenty of space to relax and enjoy treetop views. Currently, a secondary bedroom serves as an in-home fitness studio.

The resort-style grounds feature an infinity pool and spa. The back patio has a stone fireplace, outdoor kitchen, dining area, and lounging spot, making it a retreat all of its own. Steps lead down to gorgeously manicured grounds with mature trees and meandering paths to the lake.

This home should prove irresistible to a wealthy family seeking an exceptional blend of modern living with the feel of a private oasis.

Photo by Aria Media for Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

This secluded, wooded estate is for sale for $7.75 million.

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