JUNE 2026

Welcome to the first edition of my New Leaf monthly newsletter, where I’ll share neighborhood happenings, real estate trends, and stories that make our communities feel even more like home

As a client or friend of mine, you know that I grew up here, and am now raising my family here. Even as the city continues to grow and evolve, I still find myself driving through neighborhoods remembering the houses I grew up in, the friends made, and the pools we practically lived in during the summers. That’s part of what makes Houston special – every neighborhood has its own personality, rhythm and sense of community.

My hope is that this newsletter becomes more than just a real estate update. I want it to be useful, local, and reflective of what’s really happening across the neighborhoods we all care about. I’m also looking forward to introducing more of the New Leaf team along the way. We’ve built a group of talented agents, most of them born and raised in Houston, so they know this city just as well as I do.

Regards,

HERE’S WHAT I’M TELLING MY CLIENTS

• Inventory continues to rise across many neighborhoods.
• Well-priced homes remain in demand.
• Buyers have more leverage and negotiating power than a year ago.

The latest neighborhood data reflects a selective yet resilient residential market. While transaction volume has softened across several areas, home values remain strong in many of Houston’s premier neighborhoods. One factor continues to be homeowners holding onto historically low mortgage rates, making them less inclined to sell and move.

River Oaks, Boulevard Oaks, West University, Braes Heights/Ayrshire, and the Memorial Villages reported higher average sales prices than in 2025. Most tracked neighborhoods also saw price per square foot increase.

Sellers are still seeing premium prices for quality homes, but buyers are more discerning about condition and pricing. Homes priced in line with recent sales and presented well sell best. Turn-key homes remain in high demand and attract the strongest offers.

For buyers, lower transaction volume can create opportunities to be more thoughtful and strategic, particularly when evaluating homes that have been on the market for an extended period or require updates. As always, the right opportunity depends on the neighborhood, property condition, and timing. When the right home appears, be ready. Have financing or proof of funds prepared, as good properties sell fast. Some buyers waive option periods to strengthen offers, but this carries risks and should be considered carefully.

Most importantly, remember that the highest offer does not always win. Strong terms, flexibility, certainty of closing, and overall buyer credibility often play a significant role in a seller’s decision.

Neighborhood Performance Snapshot: 2026 year-to-date (compared to 2025)

*New Leaf Real Estate neighborhood stats workbook.
Figures compare the 2026 period in the workbook with the comparable 2025 period.

NEW LEAF IN THE COMMUNITY

At New Leaf, we’re proud to support the young athletes and schools that help build strong communities across Houston. We were honored to sponsor the U10-11 River Dogs, this year’s Post Oak Little League champions. Congratulations to the entire team, coaching staff, and families on an outstanding season. Way to go, River Dogs!

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR:

YVONNE COSGROVE

Yvonne and I grew up in the same neighborhood. We both attended Poe Elementary, played in all the same homes in Southampton and Boulevard Oaks and had the same teachers. Yvonne knows this city like the back of her hand and I’m honored to have her as part of the New Leaf Team. Here is a Q & A so you too can get to know Yvonne:

Where did you grow up and go to school?
I grew up in West University on Pittsburgh Street and attended Poe Elementary before moving to Roberts Elementary and later St. John’s School, where I graduated. Houston has always been home to me, and some of my favorite memories started right there at Poe — including meeting my husband, John. I later attended The University of Texas at Austin.

What is your favorite thing about growing up in Houston?
Houston always had a small-town feel to me. Even now, I can go almost anywhere and know someone. I have wonderful memories of riding bikes through the neighborhood, summers at the Shamrock, and growing up with such a strong sense of community. It’s a big city with so much heart.

What is your favorite way to spend a day in Houston now?
I love spending time outdoors enjoying Houston’s parks and green spaces — whether it’s Hermann Park, Memorial Park, or walking the Heights hike-and-bike trail with friends and my dog. I also love leisurely coffee mornings, gardening, cooking, and hosting dinner parties at home.

Where do you mainly sell homes?
Wherever my clients need me. Being a native Houstonian has allowed me to feel comfortable in many different neighborhoods throughout the city. I’ve had the privilege of selling homes in the Heights, West University, Bellaire, Memorial, Southgate, Montrose, Camp Logan, and Westbury, among others.

Where do you live now?
My family and I have called the Heights home for the past 25 years. I love the walkability, neighborhood feel, and strong sense of community. It truly feels like a small town within Houston.

What inspired your transition into real estate?
Working alongside my husband, John, owner of HTX Appraisal, gave me invaluable insight into Houston real estate and ultimately inspired my transition from event planning and fundraising into the industry. Renovating our own Heights home in 1998 really sparked my passion for homes, design, and helping clients find spaces they truly love.

Why do you love working at New Leaf?
The supportive culture at New Leaf was incredibly important to me. I wanted to be part of a group that genuinely cares about each other, their clients, and the community. From the beginning, I felt welcomed, respected, and supported. There’s a true sense of collaboration here, and everyone wants to see each other succeed.

LATEST MOVES

716 E 18TH STREET
The Heights
Sold
Listing Agent: Caroline Harrison

3784 INGOLD STREET
Southside Place
Pending
Listing Agent: Caroline Harrison