National publications are often quick to remark on Houston's booming housing market and great square-foot-per-dollar value. In addition to reasonably priced homes, Houston's suburbs are enjoying a new construction boom.
Falling oil prices are spurring the construction of houses, and much of that growth is benefitting first-time homebuyers. Especially those with special requests.
Among the housing trends that residential developers are conscious of are tech-friendly structures, green construction practices and gated communities. They're aware of the appeal that fenced-in subdivisions present to homebuyers, and they're happy to acquiesce.
What makes gated communities so attractive? In part, it's due to the security and reduced traffic. But for many buyers, another perk is the prestige with which they are associated.
Gated communities often conjure images of mansions, and in many cases that is true. But for some Houston outskirts, gated neighborhoods are increasingly affordable, even when compared with central Houston's houses.
See the slideshow at link below for a look at some of the Houston area's best gated subdivisions
