The Woodlands Waterway Continuing to Grow

The Woodlands, Tx enthusiast, David Cordua, had never been so glad to have competition.

At The Woodlands Waterway, he had been hoping for more neighbors for his Americas restaurant, and according to the Woodlands Development Co., two new restaurants have been announced: Luca & Leonardo Ristorante and La Guadalupana Mexican Cuisine, with others in negotiations.

When Cordua opened Americas in 2008, it was among the few retail operations at Waterway, and his restaurant initially struggled.

As business at Americas has grown, other bars and restaurants have moved in, and "Waterway is becoming the go-to place for night life in north Houston," he added.

The Woodlands is a vibrant place for retail, by nearly all accounts.

99 percent of The Woodlands Mall is leased, and Market Street continues to grow, as do the smaller centers in the upscale community.

According to operators, The Waterway got off to a slow beginning for retail but is starting to take off.

Developers of the 8-year-old Waterway state that the ambitious mixed-use project is getting off the ground and is scheduled to be twice its current size in an estimated six years.

At The Waterway, retail has taken on an entertainment focus with mostly restaurants and bars.

According to Dan Leverett, vice president of commercial properties at Woodlands Development Co., more retail is scheduled to come when the development achieves more density.

Also, with landscaped sidewalks and a man-made river plied by water taxis, The Waterway district serves as a park.

According to Leverett, "We're not doing suburban retail. We're literally building a city."

He added, it is scheduled to be completed in 2016 or so.

According to Geoffrey Booth, a professor of land development in the College of Architecture at Texas A&M University, the developers had to be careful when bringing retail to The Waterway, because they have a successful regional mall and Market Street nearby.

The Woodlands Water is located in The Woodlands by gorgeous neighborhoods like Grogan's Mill and Harper's Landing.

Source: chron.com

How Energy-Efficient Upgrades Pay Off

You need not wait for Congress to pass the proposed "Homestar" program, if a tax rebate, break or other government incentive is the only way you'll be able to make energy-efficient upgrades to your home this year.

From federal tax credits to local programs, Amy Hoak with MarketWatch reminds us that there are several other incentives out there.

In order to qualify for up to $1,500 in federal tax credits worth 30% of the cost of qualifying energy-efficient upgrades to windows and doors; insulation; biomass stoves; heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems; metal and asphalt roofs; and nonsolar water heaters, you have until the end of the year.

For insulation, roofs and windows and doors, installation costs will not be reimbursed, and the tax credits can only go toward an existing home that must be the homeowner's principal residence as well.

That means no rental homes and no new homes for this credit.

Including geothermal heat pumps, small wind turbines and solar energy systems, another tax credit worth up to 30% of your costs that has no limit is for bigger upgrades.

Also, although this credit excludes second homes and rentals, both new homes and existing homes can qualify, and the deadline isn't until December 31, 2016.

Its emphasis on a home energy audit, which can result in a rebate of up to $3,000 if the audit results in a retrofit that provides you with at least a 20% energy savings is another benefit to the proposed Homestar program, otherwise known as "Cash for Caulkers."

Be sure to look for local incentives that sometimes are available through local agencies or even manufacturers, in addition to federal tax credits.

Also, most states are participating in the Energy Star Appliance Rebate Program, but states are distributing the money on their own terms, although the $300 million program comes from federal funding.

Source: msn.com

Featured Carlton Woods Homes in The Woodlands

At 15 Estancia Place in The Woodlands, Tx, there is a new home located in Carlton Woods with 5 bedrooms and 7 and 1/2 bathrooms.

Price: $3,500,000.00
Features: 5 Bedrooms, 7 Full Baths (1 Half), 10222 Sq Ft
Type: Single-Family
Subdivision: Carlton Woods
County: Harris
Area: Far Northwest
Location: The Woodlands
Style: Mediterranean
New Construction: Yes
Year Built: 2009
Builder: Americas Custom Home
Bedrooms: 5
Baths: 7 full 1 half
Sq Ft: 10222 Sq Ft
Lot Size: 72046 sq. ft.
Broker: RE/MAX Realty Center
MLS#: 79245754

At 11 Electra Cir. in The Woodlands, Tx, there is a beautiful Mediterranean home located in Carlton Woods with views of ponds in the front and rear from patios and balconies on the first & second floors. There is a large backyard with a wonderful outdoor kitchen, large pool, hot tub, fountains and fireplace. Inside, you will find a family oriented home including a theater, open living room/kitchen, climate controlled grotto, dining room and study.

Price: $3,200,000.00
Features: 6 Bedrooms, 6 Full Baths (2 Half), 7977 Sq Ft
Type: Single-Family
Subdivision: The Woodlands Carlton Woods
County: Montgomery
Area: Montgomery County SW
Location: The Woodlands
Style: Mediterranean
New Construction: No
Year Built: 2007
Builder: Lucia's Oaks, LP
Bedrooms: 6
Baths: 6 full 2 half
Sq Ft: 7977 Sq Ft
Lot Size: 49999 sq. ft.
Broker: Suzanne Anderson Properties
MLS#: 56948864

View more details of the gorgeous Carlton Woods subdivision in The Woodlands.

The Woodlands Forest Ridge Executive Office Condominiums Up for Purchase

Scheduled to be built inside The Woodlands, Tx, located at 8505 Technology Forest Blvd. near Research Forest and Gosling, Forest Ridge Executive Office Condominiums are available to buy at pre-construction pricing.

With each offering four individual office condominiums, Forest Ridge Executive Office Condominiums is comprised of 11, single-story buildings.

Nine office condominiums have already been reserved as of July 21, of the 44 office condominiums that are available for sale.

Along with private entrances, each condominium includes 1,225 square-feet.

With a reception area, kitchen, and restroom facilities, a typical set-up could be divided into four personal offices.

Perhaps occupying all the space of one of the 4,900-square-foot buildings, the individual office condominiums can be combined to accommodate larger space needs for greater flexibility.

With fine finishing appointments, the condominiums have fully-finished or build-to-suit flexibility and can accommodate the latest office technology.

The office center is scheduled to be fully landscaped and maintenance free.

According to Steve Hextell, Vice President of Sales & Development for SHB Devevelopment, LLC, the commercial division of Southern Home Builders, headquartered in the Shreveport Louisiana where other commercial office condominiums have been developed, pre-construction pricing currently ranges in the $250,000’s.

Hextell added, “We are impressed with the remarkable level of early interest that we have experienced. Many professional are seeking a strategic alternative to increasing lease prices and are therefore interested in the opportunity to build equity in their business through office ownership. Given the fact that we are the only office condominium project for sale inside The Woodlands, coupled with the quality construction and the surrounding natural beauty, we look forward to the continued success of this project as we further educate the community about Forest Ridge.”

The Forest Ridge Executive Office Condominiums is located in The Woodlands by beautiful neighborhoods like Carlton Woods and Carlton Woods Creekside.

Source: thewoodlands.net

The Woodlands Custom Homes Hosting Weekend Open House

This weekend on Saturday, July 24 and Sunday, July 25, The Woodlands Custom Homes in The Woodlands, Tx is scheduled to host an Open House.

The open house is set to take place in the neighborhoods of Player Crest, Kirkpatrick Glen and Silvermont in the Village of Sterling Ridge near the Gary Player Signature golf course.

Five custom homes are scheduled to be available for touring.

The details are the following:

Address: 43 Silvermont
Builder: Leigh Custom Homes
Price: $799,000
Open: Saturday, July 24 and Sunday, July 25, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Address: 23 Silvermont
Builder: Leigh Custom Homesv
Price: $789,000
Open: Saturday, July 24, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Address: 7 N. Player Crest
Builder: George Weaver, Inc.
Price: $1,150,000
Open: Sunday, July 25, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Address: 46 W. Double Green
Builder: Keith Morgan Custom Homes
Price: $1,178,00
Open: Saturday, July 24 and Sunday, July 25, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Address: 34 E. Loftwood
Builder: Jeff Paul Custom Homes
Price: $1,165,000
Open: Sunday, July 25, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Source: thewoodlands.net

Featured Alden Bridge Homes in The Woodlands

At 19 Moss Bluff Ct. in The Woodlands, Tx, there is a custom home located in Alden Bridge with 5 bedrooms and a three-car garage. There is custom paint with elegant faux finishes, granite in the kitchen, custom glazed cabinetry in the kitchen and a study. The home has extended hardwood flooring, frieze carpet, and updated fans and lights.You will fidn a covered rear patio, door from the master suite to the backyard. The 5th bedroom can be used as a media room.

Price: $459,900.00
Features: 5 Bedrooms, 3 Full Baths (1 Half), 3474 Sq Ft
Type: Single-Family
Subdivision: The Woodlands Alden Bridge 2
County: Montgomery
Area: Montgomery County SW
Location: The Woodlands
Style: Traditional
New Construction: No
Year Built: 1997
Builder: Meadowlark Custom Homes
Bedrooms: 5
Baths: 3 full 1 half
Sq Ft: 3474 Sq Ft
Lot Size: 9379 sq. ft.
Broker: Prudential Gary Greene
MLS#: 3773813

At 2 Keelrock in The Woodlands, Tx, there is a spacious home located in Alden Bridge with a plush study. There is a wired sound system, 3 1/2 bathrooms and 5 bedrooms. The home has a giant upstairs game room and 2-story entry that has a sweeping spiral staircase/gorgeous motorized chandelier hanging over an inlay design hardwood floors. You will find corian counters and tiled floors. There is also a covered back porch and extra large fenced in the yard that would allow you to add a pool.

Price: $459,900.00
Features: 5 Bedrooms, 3 Full Baths (1 Half), 4346 Sq Ft
Type: Single-Family
Subdivision: Alden Bridge
County: Montgomery
Area: Montgomery County SW
Location: The Woodlands
Style: Traditional
New Construction: No
Year Built: 1998
Bedrooms: 5
Baths: 3 full 1 half
Sq Ft: 4346 Sq Ft
Lot Size: 13936 sq. ft.
MLS#: 40525484

View more details of the beautiful Alden Bridge neighborhood in The Woodlands.

Peanut Butter & Jamm Returns to The Woodlands Market Street

Market Street in The Woodlands, Tx presents the return of Peanut Butter & Jamm, its popular children’s series.

Market Street’s Peanut Butter & Jamm Series is designed to influence children ages 3-10 to become active through activities, music and games.

The event series is set to take place in Market Street’s Central Park.

It is scheduled for every Saturday, from Saturday, July 10 - Saturday, August 14 from 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Each Saturday children is set to enjoy children's interactive activities such as crafts, arts, games, and an opportunity to meet a character or two.

If you may think that your children may enjoy a day of fun, feel free to participate in the 3rd Annual Peanut Butter & Jamm series.

Parents are required to register their children at the Market Street Concierge Desk.

Though supplies are limited, early registration is recommended so parents can register the day of the event.

Also, children are welcome to come for one Saturday event or all five Saturday events.

The Peanut Butter & Jamm event series is free and open to the public.

During the activities, children are required to be accompanied by an adult (parent or guardian) at all times.

Market Street is located in The Woodlands near luxurious communities such as Carlton Woods and Carlton Woods Creekside.

Source: thewoodlands.net

The Woodlands Custom Homes to Host Sterling Ridge Open House

The Woodlands Custom Homes in The Woodlands, Tx is scheduled to host an Open House on Saturday, July 17 and Sunday, July 18 in the community of Kirkpatrick Glen in The Woodlands’ Village of Sterling Ridge.

Kirkpatrick Glen is located near the Gary Player Signature golf course.

The following two houses are scheduled to be available for touring:

Address: 34 E. Loftwood
Builder: Jeff Paul Custom Homes
Price: $1,165,000
Open: Sunday, July 18, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Address: 19 E Loftwood
Builder: T.D. Cox Homes, L.L.C.
Price:$1,048,900
Open: Saturday, July 17 and Sunday, Juy 18, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Source: thewoodlands.net

Featured Sterling Ridge Homes in The Woodlands

At 7 Sterling Dale Place in The Woodlands, Tx, there is a Mediterranean home located in Sterling Ridge with stucco/stone exterior and a tile roof. There is a paved driveway, custom window treatments, faux painted ceilings, stone columns, wood and travertine flooring, wine grotto and designer chandelier. The kitchen comes with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. The glorious master suite is 25x15. The huge master bathroom comes with a giant closet and beautiful stone appointments. There is a 2nd suite downstairs. The theatre comes with seating for 6. All bedrooms exit to the patio/balcony. You will find a gorgeous lagoon pool/spa.

Price: $1,595,000.00
Features: 4 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths (2 Half), 6100 Sq Ft
Type: Single-Family
Subdivision: The Woodlands Sterling
County: Montgomery
Area: Montgomery County SW
Location: The Woodlands
Style: Mediterranean
New Construction: Yes
Year Built: 2008
Builder: Charles R. Martin
Bedrooms: 4
Baths: 4 full 2 half
Sq Ft: 6100 Sq Ft
Lot Size: 31568 sq. ft.
Broker: Prudential Gary Greene
MLS#: 71119040

At 10 Ambassador Bend in The Woodlands, Tx, there is a custom home located in Sterling Ridge with a summer kitchen. It comes with a fireplace, warming drawer and ice machine. There are gorgeous wood ceilings and multiple conversaton/dining areas. The home has 4+ car epoxy floored garage with a workshop/cabinets/sink. Upstairs, there is a hobby center plumbed for a 2nd laundry room. The home has a huge theater and upstairs deck. Commercial appliances.

Price: $1,475,000.00
Features: 5 Bedrooms, 5 Full Baths (1 Half), 5545 Sq Ft
Type: Single-Family
Subdivision: Wdlnds Vil Sterling Ridge 33
County: Montgomery
Area: Montgomery County SW
Location: The Woodlands
Style: Traditional
New Construction: No
Year Built: 2007
Builder: Custom
Bedrooms: 5
Baths: 5 full 1 half
Sq Ft: 5545 Sq Ft
Lot Size: 16500 sq. ft.
Broker: Realty Associates
MLS#: 94444037

View more details of the wonderful Sterling Ridge subdivision in The Woodlands.

The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center Receives Award

The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center in The Woodlands, Tx has received Corporate & Incentive Travel magazine’s 2010 Award of Excellence for the sixth straight year.

Readers of Corporate & Incentive Travel magazine, who plan meetings for big corporations as well as incentive travel, selected winners based on extensive criteria such as quality of meeting space, guest services and amenities, guestrooms, food and beverage service, recreational facilities and activities, high-tech services and equipment, helpfulness of staff and overall value.

Kent Johnson, general manager for the 440-room property, stated “Awards such as these are especially meaningful because they come straight from meeting planners who have held events here."

The International Association of Conference Centers, where natural beauty meets high-tech convenience, approved The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center which combines the highest quality conference facilities with resort amenities.

With a three-hour flight from either coast, and 18 miles from Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport, the property is centrally located.

A founding member of The International Association of Conference Centers, the 440-room property includes 60,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, featuring 32 dedicated meeting rooms and a 13,500-square-foot Grand Ballroom.

Almost all meeting space offers natural light and views of the forest and lake.

Other meeting highlights include a concierge floor with private boardroom, two full-service business centers, beverage presentations and a team of experienced meeting professionals and an extensive menu of themed food.

Meeting attendees enjoy activities ranging from on-property resort amenities such as spa and fitness facilities, golf, 180 miles of nature and bike trails, five pools and indoor and outdoor tennis courts to team building events.

The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center is located in The Woodlands by gorgeous neighborhoods like Sterling Ridge and Town Center.

Source: thewoodlands.net

The Woodlands Golf Course Homes Featured This Weekend in Open House

This Saturday, July 10 and Sunday, July 11, four wonderful custom home designs in The Woodlands, Tx are scheduled to be open for touring in subdivisions surrounding the Gary Player Signature golf course in the Village of Sterling Ridge.

Here are the details:

Address: 43 Silvermont
Builder: Bill Leigh Custom Homes
Price: $799,000
Open: Saturday and Sunday, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Address: 38 W. Loftwood
Builder: Keith Morgan Custom Homes
Price: $1,066,000
Open: Saturday, 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Address: 19 E. Loftwood
Builder: Tom Cox Custom Homes
Price: $1,048,900
Open: Saturday and Sunday, 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Address: 46 Player Point
Builder: George Weaver, Inc.
Price: $1,365,700
Open: Saturday and Sunday, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Source: thewoodlands.net

Featured Indian Springs Homes in The Woodlands

At 103 Trinity Oaks Cir. in The Woodlands, Tx, there is an exceptional home located in Indian Springs with amazing attention to detail. There are custom finishes, Travertine, wood flooring, granite counters, butted glass, 5 built-in complete sound systems, Lutron Radio RA whole house remote control lighting and a home phone system in each room. The backyard features an award winning pool with an island spa, bridge, waterfall and casita.

Price: $1,375,000.00
Features: 4 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths (1 Half), 6397 Sq Ft
Type: Single-Family
Subdivision: The Woodlands Indian Spg
County: Montgomery
Area: Montgomery County SW
Location: The Woodlands
Style: Mediterranean, Traditional
New Construction: No
Year Built: 2000
Builder: John Post
Bedrooms: 4
Baths: 4 full 1 half
Sq Ft: 6397 Sq Ft
Lot Size: 42158 sq. ft.
Broker: RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring
MLS#: 21284966

At 23 Tealbriar in The Woodlands, Tx, there is a beautiful home located in Indian Springs with huge front and back porches. There is a 3-car oversized garage with a workshop. The home is on a traditional pier and there is a beam-room for unlimited storage. Imagine a game room off a pool deck or the wine cellar possibilities. Don't miss your chance to be in this highly sought after neighborhood.

Price: $1,190,000.00
Features: 4 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths (2 Half), 6430 Sq Ft
Type: Single-Family
Subdivision: The Woodlands Indian Springs
County: Montgomery
Area: Montgomery County SW
Location: The Woodlands
Style: Traditional
New Construction: No
Year Built: 2001
Builder: Insignia Homes
Bedrooms: 4
Baths: 4 full 2 half
Sq Ft: 6430 Sq Ft
Lot Size: 37820 sq. ft.
MLS#: 40348966

View more details of the wonderful Indian Springs community in The Woodlands.