01 October 2019

Venetian Estates News October 2019


Real Estate and More
VE Market Update
There are currently six Venetian Estates homes/lots on the market with prices ranging from $529,000 to $1.8 M.

Our listing at 914 Piedmont is being shown by appointment only per the owners’ request as they complete the process of vacating the home. The property is over ½ acre in size with gorgeous trees. Although not waterfront, the long lake view from the backyard is amazing!  It is currently priced at $529,000, but watch for a price reduction soon! If you have friends considering a move to VE this is an excellent opportunity for them to become a part of our neighborhood at this price point!

We have had tremendous interest in the lot at 115 Capri. For months the owners have been working to clear a title issue. They are close--stay tuned! The list price on this great lot with a recent bulkhead is $575,000; however, based on recent sales, the sellers are considering a price increase once title is clear. For now, the sellers will agree to go to contract with a buyer who is willing and able to wait for title resolution—it’s a great time to put this one under contract!


Neighbors: New and Old
We are so happy to report that our longtime neighbors, Gigi and Russell Harbison (915 San Marino) have purchased our listing with the “million dollar view” on 115 Tuscany (previous home of longtime neighbor, Bobbie Davidson). Gigi and Russell have lived in VE since 1987, so their children grew up here.  Both children are now married, living in West Houston. Their son, Matt, and his wife, Jennifer, have two daughters, a 4-year old and an 11-month old. Matt works in sales at Encore Wellhead and Jen is a freelance designer. Russell and Gigi’s daughter, Kate, and her husband, Stephen Raffaele, have a 5- month old son, Jackson. Kate teaches 2nd grade at Grace School and Stephen works at Phillips.
The Harbisons intend to build in the near future but are still early in the planning process.

Another longtime neighbor and, really, VE icon, Aron (Doc) Seibel passed away in the latter part of June.  Our family has fond memories of Doc and his remote-controlled boats spraying our young girls (circa 1984) when they were standing on our dock on Lombardy (our first home in VE).  Prior to Doc’s health deteriorating it was a daily sight to see him riding around the neighborhood in that multi-passenger golf cart with flags flying! If you were lucky enough to get picked up while walking around the neighborhood you would have gotten to spend some quality time with a special, fascinating individual.  Doc Seibel will truly be missed by his Salerno neighbors and the entire neighborhood.

We sold Doc’s home in record-breaking time after being asked by the family to represent the estate in the marketing and sale of the property. While the estate prepared the property for market exposure and listing on the MLS, we made calls to prospects, who requested immediate showings. These showings of this stunning lot went very well!  We had multiple offers from our qualified prospects. The sale closed and our future new neighbors, Tiffanie & Chris Reina are beginning to design a home for their family and looking forward to becoming a part of this community.

Weekend Get-Away For Sale
Bud recently listed a 70-acre pleasure ranch in the sweet spot of Texas. The lovely property is just off US 77, minutes from Hallettsville, Victoria, Yoakum and Shiner—and only 1 ½ hours west of Houston. Approximately 60% of the land is heavily wooded (with lots of wildlife!) and 40% is open pasture. The land has been leased for cattle grazing for several years. The southwest property line is the centerline of Supplejack Creek. One exceptional feature of the ranch is that 50% of the mineral estate will be conveyed with the sale of the property. Call or email Bud for more details!(281-413-1788, bud@fbre.net )

District 1 News
You are invited! Council member Steve Porter will hold a town hall meeting Oct. 8th at the T.E.Harman Sr. Center on Matlage. The meet- and-greet starts at 6PM, with the program beginning at 6:30PM. A question and answer session will follow. Planned topics include crime stats, district construction projects, railroad issues, and our upcoming bond election in November. Hope to see you there!

17 September 2019

SOLD!

Gone in a Flash!

This one had it all... Location, view, 240 feet of water frontage on the center of Lake Venice.... not to mention the southernly breeze in the afternoons and evenings. 
Gorgeous Cul-de-Sac Location





714 Salerno

Surrounded by Long Lake Views

02 July 2019

Venetian Estates News June 2019

Real Estate and More
VE Market Update
There are currently seven Venetian Estates homes/lots on the market, (one pending) with prices ranging from $529,000 to $1.479 M.

The most recent sale was the home/lot at 911 San Marino, which Kelly sold last month to Partners in Building. They will be building a spec home that is specifically designed to take in “all-the-way-down-the-lake” views! The builder sent Kelly preliminary plans, so call us for approximate pricing and details. There may be opportunity to significantly customize.

115 Tuscany, at its newly reduced price, still has a “million dollar view!” This gem could be a darling cottage remodel or a new build with one of the best back yards and views in the neighborhood! Call or email us for more information.

We have two special opportunities for buyers looking for a beautiful lot for a single-story home and large yard:

914 Piedmont, our newest listing, is a huge lot—over ½-acre in size—with the most gorgeous trees! Although it is not waterfront, the view from the backyard, all the way down Lake Venice is amazing! This is a special buy to either remodel (the current home is approximately 2750 SF) or build new.




311 Lombardy is a sprawling waterfront lot with a long view of picturesque Lake Alkire. It offers the perfect canvas to design a true single-story “estate” home—perfect for the ever-popular “casita” plan!—while still maintaining a large yard with a beautiful, serene water view!

Home Makeover

Coming Soon! HGTV would be proud! Just wait until you see the new version of 122 Saint Marks, previously on the market for $1.479M. The price will remain the same when this approximately 5400-SF recent construction home hits the market soon.  However, the floor plan has been altered to include a secondary bedroom downstairs with secluded access for guests. The gorgeous dining area, framed by an expansive window overlooking the lake, now accommodates a huge table and seating for 12 or more.  And there’s more…the exterior is in the process of having a completely new look!  Once finished (if we don’t sell it during the transformation), we will hold an open house for our neighbors. This home is a beautiful value in multiple senses!

Real Estate Trends
Have you been hearing the phrase “iBuyer” lately? According to Opendoor, an iBuyer is a company that uses technology to make an offer on your home instantly. Opendoor, Offerpad and others claim that they offer a simpler, more convenient alternative to a traditional home sale.  We are beginning to see more of the iBuyer-owned homes in the Houston and Fort Bend County area: homes that the iBuyer has purchased, remodeled to sell, and is marketing through the Houston area MLS.  The homes purchased by iBuyers are typically purchased below market values and their sales often include contract terms that vary from many Texas Association of Realtors forms. Many of the homes in the iBuyer market are in the sub-$300,000 price range.

We recently represented a client in the purchase of a home being sold by a technology-based brokerage firm. We faced many challenges to ensure that our client was treated fairly in the negotiation process. There are often extra precautions to take with transactions that involve technology-based brokerage platforms. While a buyer can often view homes without an agent, we strongly emphasize the importance of having Realtor representation during the purchase process. We at FBRE embrace new technology and prioritize incorporating advancements and trends into our platform, but our first priority is to represent and protect our clients. 

The Home of Tomorrow
Speaking of trends, are you aware of the laundry folding robot?!  Finally, we’ve caught up to the “Jetsons’ Rosie” via the Laundroid from Seven Dreamers. The device uses AI to sort and fold your clothes and can even separate wardrobes for each family member.  Look out, wine rooms, the next big buyer demand may be for a dedicated Laundroid space! But let’s not get ahead of ourselves; we should give the company a year or two to iron out the wrinkles . . .

17 April 2019

115 Tuscany




For Sale

Rocking Your Cares Away

Fishing on 44 Acre Lake Venice
Call FBRE for an appointment to simply sit in one of these rocking chairs during the late afternoon. It will then be difficult not to imagine living with this yard and this view! If you would like to see what we mean give us a call and we will meet you there on this 1/3 acre lot overlooking one of the best lake views in the neighborhood!

15 April 2019

Venetian Estates News April 2019



Real Estate and More


VE Market Update


There are currently seven Venetian Estates homes/lots on the market, with prices ranging from $549,000 to $1.479 million.

By the time you read this, 311 Lombardy may already be a huge, beautiful blank canvas with a long lake view! Drive by this awe-inspiring 26,000+-SF lot with views down Lake Eldridge to the picturesque estates in Lake Alkire. The rare features of this lot present an exceptional opportunity to build a one-story and/or estate home on a spacious, grand lot!

911 San Marino has recently had a price reduction. This large lot with gorgeous trees and a quiet setting is the perfect location for a new or remodeled home with one of those prized “all-the-way-down-the-lake” views! The price can’t be beat for someone wanting a new home or remodeled “cottage.”

We just listed 115 Tuscany Street. This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful lots on Lake Venice. The early evenings in this backyard are simply stunning!

Come say hello and see these properties for yourself this Friday!

New Neighbors and More

Betty and Larry Olsen purchased the home at 115 Saint Marks and are already an active part of our community. We have loved seeing them at neighborhood functions and seeing Betty walking their precious puppy dog! Betty and Larry have been married for 38 years and have two children and one grandchild. They are retired from the electronics industry and now enjoy their family, church and playing golf. Larry plays the trombone and enjoys playing in various local music groups…perhaps he will play very locally at one our upcoming VE events!

Janine and Jim Vonderhaar purchased 101 Savoy Street. They have lived in Sugar Land for 21 years and are moving from New Territory. Janine was born and raised in Biloxi, MS. Jim is an Air Force brat who has lived all over the world, but he considers Biloxi (where he met Janine) home. They have been married for 40 years and their son Jordan, daughter-in-law Natalie, and brand-new grandchild live in Austin. The Vonderhaars own Griswold Home Care, which provides care for those who wish to live at home, but require a bit of help being able to do so. Jim and Janine have several close friends in VE and are looking forward to becoming part of the community.

Spring has Sprung


Thank you to our fabulous social committee and Susan and Pat Uselton for hosting a joyful, lovely Spring Coffee on March 26. The weather was perfect and the Ulsetons’ home is beautiful. Being surrounded by friendly, warm faces and taking in the marvelous view of Lake Venice, I think we could have stayed all day!


Blendin Coffee Club: (French?) Press

There has been much media attention brewing around the grounds of our local coffee shop: Blendin was named Best Coffee in Houston by Houston Press!

Also, Houston Business Journal named the Blendin Coffee Club building, 8410 Highway 90A, Building B as Finalist for 2019 Landmark Awards. The HBJ Landmark Awards annually recognize select real estate projects that "make a significant impression on the Houston landscape and help sculpt the look, feel and image of the city." It is one of only five finalists in the "Restaurant" category in all of Houston and the only property in Sugar Land to make the list.

Kelly spent years designing and planning for the conversion of the old Frost Bank motor bank into something truly special. The beautiful interior and exterior, with unique character resulting from its origin, has won acclaim near and far. We are so happy to have exceptional coffee and a beautiful gathering place right here in our “backyard.” Blendin is leading the Houston market in taking people’s coffee "experience" to new levels. Take advantage of the tastings, education and variety and coffee will open your eyes more than ever!

Join us this Friday!

31 March 2019

OUR NEWEST LISTING


115 Tuscany Street

We are confident that the next owner of this awesome property will "fall in love" 💓simply by relaxing in the shady back yard in the early evening......Remodel as a lakeside cottage or build the home you have always wanted to design. Either way you will be overlooking one of the most spectacular views in Venetian Estates. Soon to hit HAR.com!

24 March 2019

PRICE CHANGE

Just in time for Spring - 911 San Marino has a new price. Now priced at $549,000 this large beautiful lot is the perfect place to build a new home. The current home has curb appeal and can be remodeled but a new home can be constructed on this lot to take full advantage of the long gorgeous view down Lake Venice! This price is considered an excellent one for a lot this size on Lake Venice.... the 44 acre recreational lake only 20 minutes from the Houston Galleria. Call Kelly to view the property and learn more!


01 March 2019

HBJ Names 8410 Highway 90A, Building B as Finalist for 2019 Landmark Awards


Venetian Estates can now boast even more about its famous coffee shop neighbor, Blendin Coffee Club, named by Houston Press as Best of Houston 2019: Best Coffee. Kelly Ferguson, CCIM, of Fort Bend Real Estate Corporation, served as landlord and project manager for Blendin's launch location at the entrance to VE. The building features a beautiful interior and exterior, with a unique character resulting from its conversion from its origin as a Frost Bank motor bank. Located at the corner of Highway 90A and Savoy Street, there couldn't be a more convenient place to stop for coffee during Saturday morning walks around the neighborhood! Kelly and FBRE are honored to have the Blendin Coffee Club building recognized by HBJ as a finalist for their prestigious Landmark Awards, which annually recognizes select real estate projects that "make a significant impression on the Houston landscape and help sculpt the look, feel and image of the city."

HBJ Names 8410 Highway 90A, Building B as Finalist for 2019 Landmark Awards
The Houston Business Journal's Landmark Awards annually recognizes select real estate projects that "make a significant impression on the Houston landscape and help sculpt the look, feel and image of the city."
8410 Highway 90A, home to Blendin Coffee Club, is one of only five finalists in the "Restaurant" category in all of Houston, and is the only property in Sugar Land to make the list.
FBRE worked for years to make possible the redevelopment of the former motor bank building at the BancorpSouth Building (also FBRE headquarters) at 8410 Highway 90A, now home to the renowned Blendin Coffee Club. Blendin's beautiful design has won acclaim near and far and it offers a coffee "experience" like no other shop in Houston.





25 February 2019

BIRTHDAYS AND BASEBALL

Kate Johnston of 303 Savoy celebrated her 12th Birthday on February 23rd. 
Originally planned as a fishing party, when the weather did not 
cooperate the celebration became a Bingo party instead!  
What a fun time was had by all!

These VE kids will still have their chance to compete 
Happy Birthday Kate
in the annual Venetian Estates Fishing Tournament in May.
VE Little League Kids
A friendly Venetian Estates neighbor stops by to purchase Chocolate Covered Almonds.
If you would like to purchase a box of these yummy candies in support of Sugar Land Little League Baseball contact Kenny Johnston on Savoy or Luke and Jamie Ferguson on Santa Maria Street The boxes sell for $2.00.



A

15 February 2019

13 February 2019

More Info on 122 St. Marks

Breakfast Room Open to Kitchen and Living Area Overlooks Private 44 Acre Lake Venice


122 Saint Marks has Four Bedrooms, a Media Room and a Study. It is listed at 1.479 Million and will be
Open Saturday, February 16 from 1 until 4 PM.
This beautiful home built in 2015 offers comfortable yet elegant lakefront living



Master Bath with Unbelievable Closet/Storage
Huge Master Suite

One of Three Large Secondary Bedrooms Upstairs

Large Waterfront Lot .345 Acres



12 February 2019

04 February 2019

More New Construction!

403 Savoy Street
 

Demolition began last week on the 4500 sf home located at 403 Savoy Street . This huge 1/2 acre plus lot will be the site for the gorgeous new home of Lori and Tom Shirley. The home will be built by Jason Pierce (Pierce Built Homes).
It was muddy today when the photos were taken so these pictures taken from the street don't show the incredible breathtaking view down Lake Venice.





The Shirleys won't be the first to move from one home in Venetian to another.
The neighborhood and lakes are so remarkable that once you live here it is hard to imagine living anywhere else!


28 January 2019

Venetian Estates News - January 2019

Real Estate and More
VE Market Update
Last year there were 12 MLS recorded sales in Venetian Estates.  There were also 4 unrecorded sales – homes and/or lots that sold prior to being advertised on the Houston area Multiple Listing Service. Sales prices ranged from $380,000 to $1.3 million.

Presently there are eight available properties ranging in price from $575k to $1.5+ million. Three of these properties are not yet posted on the MLS; however, we are able to show them now! Contact us if you or a friend is interested in purchasing a recent-construction home, a great home to remodel or a gorgeous lot on which to build.

Venetian Estates Wins!
We are delighted that our neighbors on the ballot in the Mid-Term Elections were successful! Congressman Pete Olson was re-elected for another term and Robert (Bob) Rolnick was elected as the new Judge of the 458th District Court in FBC.  Congratulations to you both and thank you for serving!

Future New Neighbors
We mentioned in our last newsletter that Staci and Jason Pierce were leasing the Olsons’ home on Saint Marks while they build their personal home on the lot they purchased at 903 Gondola. Construction is underway!

Staci and Jason both grew up in Sugar Land and recently sold their beautiful home in “The Hill.” Staci and Jason have two boys: Ashton is 7 and Parker is 5. Both boys love to fish and play outside, making VE the perfect neighborhood for this family. Jason and Staci own Pierce Built Homes.  Originally Jason took a potential client to see 903 Gondola. While in the back yard, Jason fell in love with the gorgeous and serene view of Lake Eldridge.  The Pierces are delighted to be building their own home on this spectacular lot, where they say they will be making new memories. They are so happy to be near old friends in their previous neighborhood and are looking forward to making new friends in VE.

Samar Yusuf and Anum Siddiqui purchased Tanya and Jan Archer’s home at 815 Piedmont. (Tanya and Jan have moved to the Bryan-College Station area.) Samar and Anum are very excited to be a part of Venetian Estates. They will build a new home on the lot and are currently finalizing construction plans with their architect.

Samar is an Emergency Medicine Physician and primarily works at Signature Care Emergency Room (Highway 90-A and Murphy Rd). Anum is a CPA and works as an Internal Auditor at a Chemical company. Their dog, Bella, is excited to move out of a townhouse and have a backyard! Samar and Anum currently have no children but hope to start a family in Venetian Estates. They really wanted to live in a neighborhood with a sense of community, in which case VE can’t be beat! Samar told us at closing that they made the final decision to move to VE after reading FBRE’s Blog, VenetianEstatesNews.com. While we don’t always keep it current up-to-the-minute, it is an effective tool to keep abreast of neighborhood happenings and maximize exposure for FBRE clients.

More Future New Neighbors…Lee Ann and Jon Anderson purchased the previous home of Cheryl White at 607 Salerno. Cheryl and her husband, Craig, now live in Del Webb. Jon and Lee Ann are twenty-year residents of Sugar Land. They have one daughter, Jennifer (21 years old), who is attending Wharton Jr. College and working toward a nursing degree. They also have a 14-year-old Welsh Terrier named Molly. The Andersons plan to start construction of their new home in March and are hoping to be in by 2020. Jon and Lee Ann presently live in Riverston­e but are looking forward to living in our neighborhood!

Office in the Neighborhood!
Our office building at 8410 Highway 90A is home to Congressman Pete Olson’s and Sugar Land Republicans’ campaign offices and thriving businesses including BancorpSouth, Blendin Coffee Club and beyond. We may soon have a rare availability of approx. 3000 SF for lease. The property boasts incredible access and demographics combined with a quiet setting. Exterior updates with landscaping are being designed now and will bring a fresh, pretty pop. Call us if you may be interested in this classic, boutique, Sugar Land office. It’s tough to beat both living and working in Venetian Estates!

Spectacular Way to Start the Week!




Kelly snapped this picture from her living room this morning. A  Monday morning welcome on Lake Venice!



24 January 2019

SAVOR THE VIEW!

Sunset View from the Backyard Dock

911 San Marino offers a captivating view down a long canal on Lake Venice in Venetian Estates. The possibilities are endless. Remodel the home adding an upscale outdoor area showcasing the sensational view OR start over and build a brand new home on this marvelous lot! Either way experience the Venetian Estates lifestyle in this incredible community! Call or email Kelly Ferguson to view this property. 281-242-2200 or Kelly@fbre.net.


See Property on HAR.com