The demand for Houston housing is growing.
According to a recent May 2015 release from the Houston Association of Realtors, housing inventory is at 2.9 months, compared with the national supply of 4.6 months.
Additionally, sales of single-family homes increased 1.9% from April 2014 to April 2015, and 122 more single-family homes sold this April than last.
Why do so many people want to access Houston's housing market?
First and foremost, Houston holds a strong economy. Despite what you may have read, Houston’s economy isn’t suffering due to the decrease in oil prices nearly as much as the media makes it out to be.
Houston Association of Realtors Chair Nancy Furst stated, “The Houston real estate market is doing quite well despite low inventory levels and concerns about the effects of declining oil prices.”
Secondly, the city infrastructure is improving. Houston is becoming increasingly pedestrian- and bike-friendly as city infrastructure rises to meet the needs of its residents. It’s a great city to move to if you’re looking for a more urban feel, and it's far more affordable than other major urban U.S. cities.
Finally, Houston offers several distinct neighborhoods, each with their own unique culture and feel. Residents can choose to move to whichever part of the city suits their personality and desires.
Ready to take a look at which neighborhoods are the hot in Houston’s housing market?
Midtown
The neighborhood of Midtown has been steadily growing since 2002, and it’s currently the most in-demand neighborhood in Houston. The combination of nightlife, trendy restaurants with terraces, and retail shopping make it attractive to people who love urban atmospheres. It’s a young and dynamic neighborhood that’s close to downtown.
Midtown is improving, with plans to open new shops and build new real estate. The neighborhood will soon be home to a new three-acre mixed-use urban green space, Midtown Park. Construction is currently underway for this hottly anticipated addition.
The METRORail Red Line also runs directly through Midtown, making it easy to get around.
The Museum District
The Museum District also has a lot to offer – with 19 museums, Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo, and tons of art on display, those that appreciate being surrounded by culture will enjoy living here. There are events being hosted by the museum district almost daily, and 11 of those 19 museums are free to access.
The Houston Zoo also makes for a great family outing over a weekend. It’s open 364 days of the year (everyday except Christmas), so you never have to worry about running out of entertainment options if you have kids or visitors. There are plenty of events going on at the zoo itself, too – from a water play park, to feeding giraffes, to educational exhibits.
The Museum District is centrally located, so those working downtown Houston or at the Texas Medical Center will have a simple commute.
Upper Kirby
If you love being minutes away from dining and shopping, Upper Kirby is the perfect neighborhood for you. City officials are recognizing that the amount of people wishing to live in this neighborhood is growing, and changes are being made to make the city more friendly and walkable for pedestrians.
If you want a handy directory of what living there will offer you, look no further than the official website, which lists all the shops nearby. It’s a great neighborhood located between a few of the most affluent towns in Houston, and it’s safe and well-maintained.
There are also three parks nearby if you need a place to walk your dog or play with your kids. It’s a hip and modern neighborhood with a vibrant shopping and dining scene.
Conclusion
Houston has a neighborhood for everyone to enjoy. Whether you want to be near the entertainment, visit historic sites, or attend an exhibit at a museum, you have your choice of beautiful, established neighborhoods. Midtown, Upper Kirby, and the Museum District all have unique flairs that make them much sought-after neighborhoods.
