KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
February 21, 2025
By Natalie Cook Clark
The Katy community continues to grow, and developers work to keep up. From new master-planned communities and apartment complexes. Local realtors react to this record expansion and current market trends.
Katy continues to grow especially in the Northwest areas. Hot communities such as Cinco Ranch, Firethorne, Cane Island, Elyson and Sunterra continue to attract homeowners. Many communities in Katy offer options from starter homes to more luxurious homes plus upscale amenities. More apartment complexes are also going up in the area that provides a large range of housing options for Katy families.
“Katy ISD is a major reason there is flock to these communities,” says local realtor Mike Totten of Houston Real Estate with The Mike and Mike. “Also, Houston as a whole is seeing a huge uptake of people moving here because of new jobs. For example, Herman has been growing both in Katy and the Cypress area, which these neighborhoods are a twenty-minute commute.”
According to many local realtors, this year’s market is slightly more balanced than the previous years. While prices are still going up, it’s not as drastic in past years.
“We’ve got about 300+ new neighborhoods in various stages of development,” says realtor Kerri Schultz with Keller Williams Premier. “Communities like Sunterra and Elyson are adding tons of new homes with amazing amenities—think resort-style pools, parks, and walking trails. These master-planned communities are really shaping the future of Katy.”
Katy remains a mix of families of all stages and newcomers coming in from across the globe.
“Katy is attracting a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees. A lot of folks are coming from Houston, looking for better schools, a quieter suburban feel, and more home for their money,” says Schultz. “We’re also seeing a good number of out-of-state buyers relocating for work—Texas is still a top destination for people moving from California, New York, and even Tennessee.”
Katy realtor Rio Diaz with Nan and Company Properties says he’s seen clients from California, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Florida, and New York. “People come here for outdoor space, larger square footage, and a quieter environment,” says Diaz. “Many are also drawn to Texas because it is one of only 15 states without a real estate transfer tax—thanks to TREPAC (Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee.)”
While he has plenty of clients looking for pre-owned, Diaz says that new construction is very attractive right now with great incentives like rate buy downs.
Another community planned for major growth is the Grange located at Morton Road and FM 2855 in Waller County. The Grange, a 1,130-acre development by Johnson Development that launched home sales last year. The community's first phase includes 301 homesites, with plans for 2,400 homes at completion. Current home prices start in the low $400,000s.
This is where Katy ISD has bought land for an additional elementary school and junior high school.
Katy’s growth has many concerned about how it will impact the community we all love.
“Growth is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it means better schools, new businesses, and improved infrastructure. On the other, there are concerns about traffic, overcrowding, and keeping that “small-town feel” Katy is known for,” says Schultz. “If it’s managed well, though, this growth can be a huge positive for the community.”
Read Katy Magazine’s recent features on community/school growth and new restaurants coming to Katy.
So, what do residents do who want to put their homes on the market?
“If you’re thinking about selling, now is a great time,” says Schultz. “Homes are selling quickly, and buyers are still out there looking. But pricing your home correctly is key—buyers are becoming more selective, so an overpriced home will sit longer. Also, a little prep work goes a long way—staging, minor updates, and great listing photos make a huge difference.”
Now is the time to put homes on the market, as most families like to move after school gets out.
“Building a home is exciting, but patience is key! Timelines can vary depending on the builder, and with all the demand, some communities have waitlists,” says Schultz. “Make sure you understand the costs involved, including upgrades and HOA fees. And don’t skip a home inspection just because it’s new—mistakes happen in new builds, too.”
Katy has so much happening now and looking to the future. From new businesses, schools, community events and more.
“It’s a fantastic place to live with top-rated schools, great dining, and a true sense of community,” says Schultz. “Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly neighborhood, an active social scene, or peaceful suburban living, there’s a place for you here. And if you ever need recommendations—whether it’s for a school, a local restaurant, or a great home—just ask.”
#PrimroseSchools