[wpcol_2third id=”” class=”” style=””]NOVEMBER NEWS YOU CAN USE
Housing Stats ∙ Flooded ∙ Houston Holiday Events
HOUSTON HOME SALES STEADY IN OCTOBER
Houston home sales are continuing to do better than 2016, but are slightly down on a month-to-month basis. This could be due to many Houstonians trying to figure out what to do after Hurricane Harvey. Many people are still waiting to hear from insurance companies, which has delayed decisions on how to move forward. Since Hurricane Harvey, displaced homeowners have ignited a surge in the rental market.
The average days on the market has increased to 61 days.
According to the latest monthly report prepared by the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR):
Month-to-Month Comparison:
| Category | Jan. 2017 | Feb. 2017 | Mar. 2017 | Apr. 2017 | May 2017 | June 2017 | July 2017 | Aug. 2017 | Sept. 2017 | Oct. 2017 | Nov. 2017 | Dec. 2017 |
| Total Property Sales | 4,997 | 6,111 | 8,495 | 8,014 | 9,744 | 9,993 | 8,821 | 7,077 | 8,150 | 7,614 | 7,270 | 8,125 |
| Total Active Listings | 34,958 | 35,685 | 37,926 | 39,567 | 41,257 | 43,326 | 44,299 | 42,822 | 40,848 | 39,692 | 37,914 | 33,432 |
| Single-Family Home Sales | 4,080 | 4,933 | 7,013 | 6,583 | 8,156 | 8,414 | 7,440 | 5,917 | 6,913 | 6,381 | 6,184 | 6,875 |
| Townhome/Condominium Sales | 379 | 495 | 652 | 594 | 715 | 665 | 572 | 399 | 470 | 536 | 481 | 535 |
| Single_Family Months of Inventory | 3.5 | 3.5 | 3.8 | 4.0 | 4.1 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.1 | 3.9 | 3.7 | 3.2 |
| Single-Family Pending Sales | 6,286 | 6,908 | 8,311 | 8,382 | 8,808 | 8,363 | 7,940 | 6,295 | 6,606 | 7,201 | 6,218 | 5,413 |
| Days on Market | 64 | 66 | 60 | 55 | 51 | 50 | 48 | 50 | 54 | 61 | 61 | 62 |
Single-Family Sales by Price Range (Harris, Fort Bend, Brazoria, Montgomery & Waller Counties):
| Price Range | Jan. 2017 | Feb. 2017 | Mar. 2017 | Apr. 2017 | May 2017 | June 2017 | July 2017 | Aug. 2017 | Sept. 2017 | Oct. 2017 | Nov. 2017 | Dec. 2017 |
| $1 - $99,999 | 167 | 203 | 217 | 193 | 227 | 206 | 202 | 160 | 192 | 212 | 242 | 247 |
| $100,000 - $149,999 | 575 | 565 | 732 | 657 | 776 | 720 | 666 | 550 | 587 | 595 | 595 | 647 |
| $150,000 - $249,999 | 1,362 | 1,684 | 2,386 | 2,253 | 2,705 | 2,761 | 2,549 | 2,166 | 2,526 | 2,390 | 2,269 | 2,298 |
| $250,000 - $499,999 | 1,108 | 1,539 | 2,173 | 2,055 | 2,569 | 2,652 | 2,210 | 1,869 | 2,150 | 1,902 | 1,849 | 2,134 |
| $500,000 - $749,999 | 210 | 225 | 368 | 309 | 439 | 521 | 396 | 304 | 358 | 293 | 306 | 369 |
| $750,000 and above | 132 | 162 | 226 | 253 | 273 | 335 | 301 | 222 | 204 | 206 | 188 | 216 |
LESLIE LERNER WAS FEATURED IN VOYAGE HOUSTON AS ONE OF HOUSTON’S MOST INSPRING STORIES
2017 HOUSTON AND SURROUNDING AREAS HOLIDAY EVENTS
PERFORMING ARTS
A Christmas Carol – November 24 – December 30, 2017 – Alley Theatre
A Ghost Story of Christmas returns this year with a re-telling of Charles Dickens’ classic story, which follows Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey with the three ghostly spirits that visit him on Christmas Eve. A Christmas Carol instills a powerful message about redemption and the spirit of the holiday season.
Houston Ballet’s The Nutcracker – December 10 – 23, 2017- Smart Financial Center– December 30 – January 6, 2018 – Hobby Center
The holiday season reignites with Stanton Welch’s spectacular new production of The Nutcracker. Enjoy all the splendor of this timeless classic, with opulence brighter than ever. Journey with Clara, Drosselmeyer, Sugar Plum Fairy, and the Nutcracker Prince as they embark on a magical adventure through a growing Christmas tree, interactive snow scene, and whimsical Kingdom of Sweets. The music, costumes, and hundreds of delightful characters will bring out the child in everyone!
A Scheherazade Thanksgiving – November 24, 2017 – November 26, 2017 – Jones Hall
This Thanksgiving, Andrés conducts Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade. Inspired by 1001 Nights, this sumptuously orchestrated tone poem takes listeners along on the voyages of Sinbad and ends with an electrifying festival at Baghdad. Grammy® Award-winning violinist James Ehnes presents his unforgettable interpretation of Shostakovich’s Violin Concerto No. 1.
Very Merry Pops – December 1 – 3, 2017 – Jones Hall
Join Megan Hilty, Steven, the orchestra and chorus for a weekend packed with holiday classics, including special arrangements of songs from Megan’s new holiday album, A Merry Little Christmas. Enjoy favorites such as “Jingle Bells,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Santa Baby” and “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” We’re also highlighting some of Steven’s fantastic arrangements like “Jingle Bell Rock.”
A Grinch Christmas – December 2, 2017 – Jones Hall
It’s the holiday season in Dr. Seuss’ zany world of Whoville. Although the Grinch is in town, this Christmas will surely not be stolen! Join the Houston Symphony and local high school singers as we present the classic story of the grouchy, green creature. The festive fun also includes a holiday sing-along and the hit “Believe” from the movie Polar Express.
Handel’s Messiah – December 14 – 17, 2017- Jones Hall
Celebrate Christmas with Houston’s premier performances of Handel’s Messiah. This timeless classic is brought to life through brilliant Baroque arias and rousing choruses.
Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets™ In Concert – December 29 – 30, 2017 – Jones Hall
Rediscover the magic of Harry Potter™ in the latest installment of the Harry Potter™ Film Concert Series. Projected in high-definition, your favorite moments from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ are accompanied by the Houston Symphony performing John Williams’ poignant scores. Join Harry, Ron and Hermione as they encounter harrowing pixies, giant snakes and Polyjuice Potions in this concert event.
Disney Fantasia-Film with Live Orchestra – January 5 – 7, 2018
The Houston Symphony proudly presents selections from Disney Fantasia and Fantasia 2000, shown on the big screen, with live score. A crowning achievement in the history of animation, the film is an imaginative celebration of great orchestral music, with Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, Stravinsky’s The Firebird and The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.
RUN / WALKS
2017 TXU Energy BakerRipley Turkey Trot – November 23, 2017 – Galleria Area
Celebrate the 25th Annual TXU Energy BakerRipley Turkey Trot and give back to Houston. The TXU Energy BakerRipley Turkey Trot benefits BakerRipley, formerly Neighborhood Centers, a community development organization that has served this region for 110 years. There will be a 10K, 5K and a Kids Run.
2017 Jingle Bell Run – December 9, 2017 – The Woodlands
The Arthritis Foundation’s original Jingle Bell Run is a fun way to get decked out and be festive, while racing to raise funds and awareness to cure America’s #1 cause of disability. Put on your favorite holiday costume. Tie jingle bells to your shoelaces. ‘Tis the season to live it up and be jolly for a reason!
Santa Hustle – December 17, 2017 – Moody Gardens
If you are a Christmas lover, enjoy overplayed holiday music, devouring candy and cookies, and joining in on an epic after party then grab your favorite friends and family and register for the 2017 Santa Hustle® Galveston 5k & Half Marathon! Proceeds benefit the Galveston County Food Bank.
HOLIDAY FESTIVALS, EXHIBITIONS, EVENTS & FAMILIY ACTIVITIES
Nutcracker Market – November 9 – 12, 2017 – NRG Center
Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market has become the signature holiday fundraising shopping event in Texas that kicks off all the holiday shopping frenzy! It is a one-stop giant pop-up shop featuring over 280 merchants, offering unique items for everyone, including home décor, food, clothing, toys, toiletries, novelties, ornaments, pottery, pewter, accessories and more…just in time for your holiday shopping!
Galleria Ice Spectacular and Tree Lighting – November 11, 2017 – The Galleria
The 29th Annual Ice Spectacular at The Galleria will kick off the holiday season with the lighting of its 55-foot Christmas tree. A special performance by T-Soul, finalist from Season 10 of The Voice, will be highlighted by dynamic ice routines by five popular professional skaters. The evening will culminate with the lighting of the tree by Skating Santa and a magical fireworks display.
Festival of Lights – November 11, 2017 – January 7, 2018 – Moody Gardens
As one of the largest holiday celebrations in the region, Festival of Lights has become a holiday tradition for families and groups alike. Enjoy more than 1 million lights within 100 sound-enhanced animated light displays and nightly live entertainment.
Ice Land: Rainforest Holiday – November 11, 2017 – January 7, 2018 – Moody Gardens
Moody Gardens takes the holidays to a whole new level of cool! A skilled team of master ice carvers has charted your course for your journey through the rainforests of the world to see monkeys, beautiful birds, incredible butterflies, colorful orchids and so many wonderful creatures. Your hosts on this journey are the spectacular leaf cutter ants carrying Christmas lights and other decorations to a magical place. A giant ice slide takes you from the tree tops through to the forest floor, ancient ruins and rivers edge to prepare for the most joyous time of the year.
Zoo Lights – November 18, 2017 – January 14, 2018 – Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland, filled with brilliant displays of colorful lights and festive holiday music.
The ICE at Discovery Green – November 18, 2017 – Early February
The ICE at Discovery Green® powered by Green Mountain Energy uses recycled water from Kinder Lake to create a 7,716 square-foot ice skating surface, making it the largest outdoor skating rink in the Southwest.
Frostival – November 18, 2017 – The ICE at Discovery Green
Frostival is a one-night extravaganza that marks the opening of the ICE, our 7,716 sq. ft. skating rink, all our wonderful winter programs and events, and the debut of new public art installation that help make the season in Houston so special.
68th Annual HEB Thanksgiving Day Parade – November 23, 2017 – Downtown Houston
The Houston Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1949, when Santa arrived at Union Station and rode his sleigh to the downtown Foley’s. Since then, the Thanksgiving Day parade has gone through a few changes but today, it remains a 68-year-old holiday tradition showcasing the Houston community and entertaining parade-goers lining the streets on Thanksgiving morning.
Uptown Holiday Lighting – Cancelled
Due to the construction of Post Oak Boulevard, the Uptown Houston Holiday Lighting event, annually held on Thanksgiving evening, is being postponed until 2019.
Galveston Holiday Lighting Celebration – November 24, 2017 – Hotel Galvez
Hotel Galvez invites guests and the community to celebrate the start of the holidays with the Official City of Galveston Holiday Lighting Celebration. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. and include a special appearance by Santa Claus, live holiday entertainment by local entertainment including the Galveston Ballet and the lighting of the hotel’s 35-foot Christmas Tree on the front lawn. During the event, the hotel collects donations for the Salvation Army of Galveston County.
Holly Jolly Jingle – November 30, 2017 – Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Guests can visit with Santa, Frosty and other holiday characters, make arts and crafts, play in the snow, listen to carolers sing and much more.
Mayor’s Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting – December 1, 2017 – Hermann Square at City Hall
Ring in the season with the 98th Annual Mayor’s Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting Presented by Reliant, an NRG Company on Friday, December 1, 2017 in the heart of downtown Houston. The spectacular event is a holiday tradition of music, Santa, fireworks and family fun. A towering Holiday Tree, glowing with energy efficient LED lights, shimmering ornaments and a stunning star topper will light up the streets of downtown Houston this holiday season. The event takes place in Hermann Square at City Hall from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public..
Dickens On the Strand – December 1, 2017 – December 3, 2017 – Galveston
The annual holiday street festival, based on 19th-century Victorian London, features parades, non-stop entertainment on six stages, strolling carolers, roving musicians, bagpipers, jugglers and a host of other entertainers. Costumed vendors peddle their wares from street stalls and rolling carts laden with holiday food and drink, Victorian-inspired crafts, clothing, jewelry, holiday decorations and gift items.
Christmas in the Park – December 2, 9, 16, 19 – 23, 2017 – George Ranch
Christmas is coming to the Park this year in all of its historical glory. Travel through Christmas pasts on a festive hayride (weather-permitting) as we explore the customs and decorations from 1830s to the 1930s.
Campfire Christmas – December 9 & 16, 2017 – George Ranch
Enjoy a progressive Christmas dinner, music, hay ride, exclusive evening tours of the 1890s Davis Victorian Mansion and 1930s George Ranch Home and finish up with dessert around the campfire with the George Ranch cowboys.
Christmas Village at Bayou Bend – December 15, 2017–January 6, 2018 – Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens
Get in the holiday spirit with carolers, a faux-snowball play area, a handcrafted model train, thousands of lights, and more—all on 14 acres of gardens and art nestled in River Oaks.
Lights in the Heights – December 9, 2017 – Woodland Heights
Stroll down select streets of the Woodland Heights neighborhood, admiring the elaborately decorated homes while musicians perform in front of select homes.
Heritage Society 53rd Annual Candlelight Tour – Cancelled
Due to the effects of Hurricane Harvey, the Board of Directors and Staff have determined that The Heritage Society will not be able to produce this year’s Candlelight Tour. We wish you all a happy holiday season as the city recovers and rebuilds for a stronger 2018.
Cirque Joyeux Noel – December 15 – 20, 2017 – Moody Gardens
This original one-hour Christmas spectacular is fun for the entire family and features a stellar cast of international circus and variety performers from all corners of the world. You’ll be astounded by the grace and dexterity of contortionists, the inconceivable feats of acrobats, and the amazing artistry of aerialists. Witness mesmerizing and electrifying jugglers, endearing antics of four-legged performers, and much more. Be up-close and personal with circus stars! All of this coupled with a sumptuous Holiday Buffet Dinner prepared by renowned Moody Gardens Executive Chef Felipe Gonzalez.
[/wpcol_2third][wpcol_1third_end id=”” class=”” style=””]All the service, for less money!
LESLIE LERNER PROPERTIES WILL:
If you think it is time to buy or sell a home, remember to call Leslie Lerner Properties at 713.489.9900. Leslie Lerner Properties is the Home of Flat Fee Listings and Rebated Commissions. A great amount of information can be found at LeslieLernerProperties.com.
Leslie Lerner Properties offers all of the service for less money, when buying or selling a home.
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