40 La Jolla Cir.
AS THE NUMBER of listings continues to increase, marking a return to a more balanced market, sellers still seemed to have the advantage in July, as a number of homes — even the most expensive ones! — flew off the market in a matter of days and for well above asking. Check out the 10 priciest homes that sold in July.
3781 Willowick Rd.
With a list price of $15 million and generous acreage in the heart of River Oaks, this 1950 estate boasts a formal black-and-white foyer, wood-wrapped library and den, intricately detailed molding, four fireplaces with antique mantles, and other traditional elements. The lush, 1.6-acre grounds — sans the typical resort-style pool, notably — are across Willowick from Buffalo Bayou. This one sold after 241 days.
6335 Belmont St.
The opposite of the preceding home might be a new-build on Belmont in West U; this one sold the same day it hit the market. The chic and contemporary six-bed, six-bath home was designed and built by Wimmel Design & Construction. Custom arched windows, gas lanterns and gated driveway offer nice curb appeal, while a cozy veranda in the back makes the most of a minimal yard. Listed for $4.5 million, this home sold for at least 10 percent over asking.
40 La Jolla Cir.
Two-and-a-half waterfront acres on Lake Conroe — complete with two boat houses with full kitchens and four boat lifts — beckoned boat-loving buyers for nine months before eventually selling. With a list price of $4.9 mil, the 17,393-square-foot home consists of a gym, spa, wine room, craft room and more — plus a beautifully landscaped yard, raised garden, and a giant playground.
8914 Memorial Dr.
This monthly list would be incomplete without at least one Mediterranean-tinged Memorial manse, such as this one with a lagoon-style swimming pool, multi-island kitchen, elevator and driveway with a “parking pad” that can hold 20-plus cars. The 10,000-square-foot home sold after 42 days; the asking price was $4.7 mil.
11315 Coloma Ln.
Nearby, a new-construction Piney Point estate, also listed for $4.7 million, sold before completion. Renderings depict the five-bed, five-bath brick house as having contemporary yet classic lines and finishes. A family room touts a wet bar, wine fridge and wood-burning fireplace — the makings of a great night in.
240 Piney Point Rd.
And down the block in Piney Point is a $4.2 mil modern marvel that sold in less than a week. Perhaps the quick sale could be credited to the home theater and adjacent game room, or to the sprawling backyard with a firepit and poolside casita. The 1.4-acre property is just two blocks off Memorial.
5327 Doliver Dr.
In Tanglewood, a Robert Dame-designed, 9,700-square-foot home has a backyard that feels plucked from a Hill Country resort. Listed for $4.3 million and sold after less than three months on the market, the three-story house has an elevator, reception hall, gated motor court and handsome wood details throughout.
11918 Heritage Ln.
An idyllic porch overlooks a very private front yard in Bunker Hill, while the back yard boasts a charming pool and garden beds. Through the Cypress wood doors is a beautiful southern-style home with antique light fixtures, top-of-the-line appliances, and custom millwork. It took just seven days to sell this one for well over its asking price of $3.45 million.
3459 Ella Lee Ln.
A home originally built in 1938 features tasteful yet grand renovations and expansions — and interior updates galore courtesy of Ginger Barber and Chateau Domingue. The neo-Regency-style home is filled with antiques (mantles, pedestal sinks) and contemporary finishes alike; the kitchen is a masterful blend of different aesthetics. Listed for $4.2 mil, this beauty was on the market for 11 days before selling.
9301 Sandringham Dr.
Located near The Houstonian, this 6,500-square-foot Georgian home was listed for $4.4 million and sold in just one month. The red-brick exterior boasts porches and balconies overlooking the oak-shaded lot, while inside, massive built-ins and other architectural details lend a unique and cozy feel.
Fady Armanious, Brigitte Kalai AND Alicia Smit (photo by Priscilla Dickson) 
