If you’re looking for the ultimate in suburban relaxation then look no further than Terrell Hills.

Ideally located just minutes from downtown San Antonio, Terrell Hills offers upscale living and a premier proximity to the opportunities and excitement of downtown San Antonio. Although Terrell Hills boasts a number of great shopping and dining venues, this affluent community best known as a quiet, bedroom community in San Antonio’s Uptown Central area.

The Neighborhoods of Terrell Hills

There are three neighborhoods which make up the community of Terrell Hills: Terrell Hills, Alamo Heights and Olmos Park. These three neighborhoods are bordered by Fort Sam Houston and San Antonio, thereby making the location nothing short of ideal.

From charming, mid-twentieth century cottages to grandiose estates, Terrell Hills is a destination for luxury real estate for some of San Antonio’s most successful professionals and public figures. Beautiful architecture and equally beautifully manicured lawns can be found throughout the meandering streets of Terrell Hills.

The Homes of Terrell Hills

The homes of Terrell Hills are highly sought after, and the prices clearly reflect that. In fact, the homes of Terrell Hills are some of the most expensive in San Antonio.  It is not uncommon for some of the estate properties in Terrell Hills often exceed $1 million. There is also a nice variety of condominium homes throughout Terrell Hills; many of which are priced between $100,000 and $500,000.

Students in Terrell Hills are served by the highly acclaimed Alamo Heights Independent School District.

The real estate market in Terrell Hills remains very competitive, despite the national economy and housing market struggles. Homes in Terrell Hills rarely stay on the market for a long period of time, as there is no shortage of San Antonio residents who want life the luxurious Terrell Hills lifestyle.

A quick search of Terrell Hills’ real estate yields a number of estate homes that exceed $1 million. Homes in Terrell Hills are currently priced at about $200 per square foot, and many of the newer homes often exceed 6,000 square feet in size.

The median list price for a home in Terrell Hills currently stands at $429,000. There is currently an eight-month inventory of homes on the market.

Stone Oak has a timeless quality that is just simply unmatched by any other community in San Antonio.

Excellent Location, None of the Stress

Stone Oak is located just minutes from downtown San Antonio, but you’d never know if the moment you walk along the cobblestone walkways and around the lush landscaping of this beautifully designed master-planned community. One thing’s for sure: small-town living is alive and well in Stone Oak.

Although Stone Oak is just one of the master-planned communities north of downtown San Antonio, it certainly stands out as being one of the most highly desired communities. Other communities with the same flavor as Stone Oak include: the Vineyards, Sonterra, Canyon Springs, Champion’s Ridge and Roger’s Ranch.

Outdoor Recreational Amenities Abound

Stone Oak has many recreational amenities, such as tennis courts, parks, trails and golf courses, all of which surround the beautiful, rolling hills or the Texas Hill Country. The natural beauty of the surrounding parks and green spaces enable residents to feel as if they are in the middle of a suburban oasis, miles and miles from the pressures of the city.

A Healthy Business Climate in the Forefront

Stone Oak is also home to several businesses, including Washington Mutual Inc. The abundant office space and healthy business climate make Stone Oak a popular destination for many of San Antonio’s professionals.

Affluent, Multi-Cultural Lifestyle

The affluent, multi-cultural lifestyle of Stone Oak offers San Antonio residents a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city and an array of beautiful, often historic, homes that possess a timeless quality and equally lovely surroundings. Stone Oak, in addition to being home to a wide variety of San Antonio professionals, is also home to a number of Mexican-Americans, many of whom seek this small-town for a second home.

A short view of Stone Oak homes for sale reveals a nice variety of reasonably priced homes, ranging from $170,000 to $250,000. Most of the Stone Oak homes for sale feature three to four bedrooms, two to three bathrooms and large living spaces.

Hill Country living has never looked so fine. One of the newest communities of the super-exclusive Dominion community, The Reserve at the Dominion is a haven for some of the most beautiful, single-family homes in San Antonio.

Prime Location

An ideal location is perhaps one of the first things that draws San Antonio residents to consider The Reserve at the Dominion: this upscale community is located just minutes from Interstate 10 and Loop 1604, while downtown San Antonio and the San Antonio International Airport are both less than 30 minutes away.

From a variety of shopping and dining venues, to a myriad of corporate centers and cultural destinations, The Reserve at the Dominion is ideally located in the center of it all. Some of the best shopping in San Antonio can be found near the Dominion, including the upscale shopping center of the Shops at La Cantera, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Tiffany & Co., just to name a few!

There are several state and local parks located just minutes from The Reserve at the Dominion, including OP Schnabel and McAllister Parks. From hiking and biking to playing and picnicking, these parks provide a variety of wonderful, outdoor recreational activities.

Surrounding Luxury

Luxury homes are nothing new to the Dominion, and The Reserve at the Dominion is no exception. This gated community features some of the most prestigious homes in San Antonio. The residents of The Reserve at the Dominion have full privileges to the Dominion Country Club, a 260-acre, 18-hole, world-class championship golf course. There are also a number of other private and semi-private golf courses located nearby, including the Westin La Cantera Resort and the Palmer Course.

Home Features

Home package prices for The Reserve at the Dominion range from the $400,000s to the $700,000s. The homes of this community feature either four or five bedrooms and three to five bathrooms.

Some of the features of the homes of The Reserve at the Dominion include: two-story foyers, formal living and dining rooms, first-floor studies, gourmet kitchens with center islands, spacious pantries and breakfast areas, two-story family rooms, master bedrooms suites with cathedral ceilings, and master bathrooms with dual vanities and glass-enclosed showers.

The downtown San Antonio real estate market continues to be the shining star in San Antonio. In fact, it is now becoming a hot spot for second homes.

Many local real estate agents have discovered that there has been a great deal of activity in the downtown market for individuals searching for a second home. In particular, the reasonably priced condos found here – those priced around $200,000 – are becoming a hot commodity.

San Antonio is a popular destination for very wealthy Mexican nationals, many of whom seek second homes. Many of these Mexican buyers are searching for new condominium homes, gated communities and country club neighborhoods throughout San Antonio, but the downtown market seems to be particularly appealing to their needs.

A Break from the Cold Weather

Other individuals from colder parts of the United States have chosen San Antonio for their cold-weather getaway. With San Antonio’s mild, year-round temperatures, many homeowners flock here for a break from the winter weather.

Although there are a few neighborhoods that have experienced the surge in second home sales, such as the Dominion and San Antonio’s northern suburbs, the downtown area, without a doubt, is the place to be.

The Draw of Downtown San Antonio

The magnificent surroundings are perhaps the biggest draw to the downtown San Antonio real estate market. From the top-rated hotels and trendy restaurants to the exciting nightspots and the picturesque River Walk, the downtown area is filled with excitement, energy and even beauty.

San Antonio, as the nation’s seventh-largest city, offers plenty of perks, as well, including a small-town atmosphere, low real estate taxes and plenty of business opportunities.

The historic feel of San Antonio is also a big draw for many homeowners, as many of the newer condo buildings are in fact restored buildings with beautiful, historic facades.

An Excellent Variety of Real Estate

Although San Antonio in general has begun to see a steady increase in its home sales, the downtown area is particularly appealing because homes of nearly every price point are moving. From reasonably priced loft condos of $200,000 to spectacular, multi-million dollar penthouse condos with sweeping views and magnificent amenities, downtown San Antonio homes are being snatched up by buyers looking to experience the trendy downtown lifestyle.

There are a number of reasons to love Terrell Hills: it excellent location near San Antonio; its top-rated schools; and, of course, it’s beautiful homes.

Large lots are commonplace in Terrell Hills, thereby providing an added degree of privacy to the residents of this San Antonio suburb. Terrell Hills is served by both the Alamo Heights Independent School District and the North East Independent School District.

Must of the homes of Terrell Heights have either been extensively remodeled or torn down in place of more expansive homes. The homes in this area are rich in architectural detail and character, both of which are highly desired by home buyers in San Antonio.

The homes of Terrell Hills are generally a lovely mix of mid-twentieth century architecture, from ranches and mid-century modern to hill country and art modern. Most of the homes in Terrell Hills are surrounded by mature trees, and many homes vary greatly in both architectural style and price.

Ranch Homes

Ranch homes, for example, which are an iconic symbol of the 1950s, are found throughout Terrell Hills, as well as throughout San Antonio. Most of these ranch homes are built low to the ground, and feature horizontal bands of windows.

Midcentury Modern

Midcentury modern homes eventually overtook the ranch homes of the 1950s, and are a bit more stylized as a result. Architects of the time strove to “engage the surrounding landscape” when designing midcentury modern homes in Terrell Hills. It is therefore quite common to see walls of glass in these types of homes.

The midcentury modern homes of Terrell Hills generally feature the same design on both the front and back of the homes, yet a wide variety of materials were often used to create a home’s exterior. Most homes feature a linear composition with a long profile that’s low to the ground. Other features of midcentury modern homes include low-pitched roofs and large, steel-framed sliding doors.

Hill Country

Hill Country homes were first introduced to the area in the mid 1940s. These homes were based on German ranches and farmhouses, and many feature the local limestone on the exterior. Many of the homes in the Hill Country design feature high ceilings and exposed beams.

Art Modern

Art modern style homes are not as prominent in Terrell Hills as are midcentury modern, but they can be easily identified with their rounded corners, casement windows and smooth plaster.

An entire corner of a home may be curved in an art modern home, for example. The art modern style was most popular in the area in the 1930s and 1940s.

The Texas Hill Country is home to one of the most successful, master-planned communities in Texas, if not the country. This exclusive, private community is home to several enclaves, all of which feature only the finest living and only the best services and amenities.

It only makes sense then that retirement living in the Dominion be just as superb. And, true to its name, the Dominion offers retirees upscale living in its retirement enclave, Independence Village.

This private retirement community reminds one of a quaint, Italian countryside, where fine, Mediterranean homes and outstanding architecture, highlighted by exquisite landscaping, can be found at every turn.

Excellent Quality of Life

Often referred to as a retreat from daily living, Independence Village affords residents the ability to enjoy an excellent quality of life without all of the rigors of home maintenance. Instead, play a round of golf, relax in the clubhouse or head to the state-of-the-art fitness center for an early-morning workout. Whatever your plans may be, they can be realized at Independence Village.

Prime Location

The location of Independence Village is also exceptional, as it is only minutes from a great array of shopping, dining and entertainment. However, once inside the gates, Independence Village feels like it’s worlds away from all of life’s hustle and bustle.

Superb Living

Independence Village consists of 69 acres of beautiful green space and spacious, single-family homes. Just 190 homes make up Independence Village, most of which range in size from 1,700 to 2,800 square feet. Sundial Development is the developer of Independence Village and the managing partner is Dominion Village Ltd. Dial Communities Inc. operates the community.

Independence Village, which caters only to adults age 55 and older, was developed as an upscale, lifestyle retirement community. Independence Village is a sister community of Independence Village at Stone Oak.

Independence Village is a membership community in which members pay an entrance fee for their homes, and then continue paying a monthly membership fee.

San Antonio is home to some of the largest military tenants, likely because of its sheer size and its unique location, which serves as the cultural gateway to the American Southwest.

The military installations of San Antonio include:

• Brooks City-Base – As the largest tenant in the United States Air Force, Books City Base also has a strong presence in aerospace medicine.  The two, major units of the Brooks City-Base are the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine and the 311^th Human Systems Wing.
• Fort Sam Houston – Fort Sam Houston is a support post and medical training facility. It is therefore commonly known as the “Home of the Combat Medic” and the “Home of Army Medicine.” Fort Sam Houston is home to the U.S. Army North, 5^th Army Recruiting Brigade, the U.S. Army South, and the 12^th ROTC Brigade.
• Kelly Air Field Annex – Once serving as the Kelly Air Force Base, the Kelly Air Field Annex is now the home case for the Texas Air National Guard 149^th Fighter Wing and the Air Force Reserve Command’s 433^rd Airlift Wing.
• Lackland Air Force Base – Serving the United States Air Force, Lackland Air Force Base is the largest training facility in the United States and is the location of all Basic Military Training for the United States Air Force, the Air Force Reserve and the Air National Guard.
• Randolph Air Force Base – Randolph Air Force Base is home to the Air Education and Technical Command and is where the Air Force conducts pilot training and combat systems officer training. It is also home to the 12^th Flying Training Wing, which supports many of the Department of Defense units.

Just four or five miles outside of Downtown San Antonio lie some of the prettiest, safest neighborhoods in the area. With an emphasis on open spaces, the preservation of natural light and tree populations, and the well-being of their citizens, these San Antonio Select Neighborhoods offer a quality of life that is unparalleled. Located to the north of the city, this is one of the fastest growing segments of San Antonio residential real estate.

Tempting Terrell Hills

Consistently among the pricier of the San Antonio select neighborhoods, Terrell Hills boasts mostly newer construction as older, smaller bungalows were removed and replaced with graceful, stately manors. Even for those who cannot afford to purchase one of these beautiful homes, Terrell Hills offers many upscale condos for sale or for rent.

The city is served by two outstanding and highly sought school districts – Alamo Heights ISD and North East ISD. The focus on family and on public safety makes Terrell Hills an ideal location for families.

Winsome Waterford Heights

For those looking for a truly distinctive and upscale neighborhood, Waterford Heights offers the finest in design and amenities. This San Antonio select neighborhood is a gated community within the gated community of The Heights at Stone Oak. Home sites range from one to one-and-one-half acres, and homes are a minimum of 4,500 square feet.

The recreation center within The Heights includes a 25-meter pool, a wading pool, lighted tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, a ball field, and a children’s play area. Just outside the gates lies The Town Center. The master plan envisions a coffee shop, convenience store, and other useful services located within easy reach of these custom estate homes without requiring a trip to the city for basic needs.

Homes in this San Antonio select neighborhood are varied in architecture, but would rival the manors and estates of such neighborhoods as Bel Air and Beverly Hills. Stone is used extensively on the facades, and covered entries, long sweeping driveways, and spacious manicured yards are seen throughout. Lots are still available for purchase for those who wish to build their own dream from the ground up.

While you may feel like you are a world away from the city in these beautiful, wooded communities, downtown San Antonio is merely a 20 minute drive. Residents have the best of both worlds – quiet, country living within easy reach of the class and culture of the city.

Anyone seeking a carefree lifestyle with an urban edge need look no further than downtown San Antonio. Home to some of the best shopping and eateries in Texas, San Antonio life holds great appeal to people of all ages.

Dubbed the most visited city in Texas, downtown San Antonio puts its finest attractions in easy reach of urbanites. From historic monuments to the city’s famed River Walk, there is always something to see and do.

Stroll Along the River Walk

Also known as Paseo del Rio, River Walk is comprised of over 17,000 feet of paved walkways and 20 bridges winding in and out along the San Antonio River. Situated one story beneath street level, River Walk is lined with unique stores and restaurants. Thick trees rising as tall as ten stories nestle among the buildings and along the river, rising up to be seen from the hustle and bustle of downtown San Antonio.

Casa Rio, the first restaurant on River Walk, has been serving tourists and residents since 1946.

Not far away, the Central Business District is home to the former Joske’s. In 1887, Joske’s opened a massive 551,000 square foot retail store. A century later, the structure was purchased by Dillard’s.

Enjoy Distinctive Downtown Living

Many of the residences found in downtown San Antonio offer amenities as breathtaking and spectacular as the surrounding scenery. Vidorra, luxury high-rise condos, offers a rooftop garden patio, 24-hour concierge service, a coffee bar, fitness center, and a business center.

Camp Street is located within easy walking distance of River Walk and the King William Historic District. Master baths include oval soaking tubs and rain showers, and kitchens are state-of-the-art. Eleven foot ceilings offer a sense of openness.

Apartment seekers may enjoy their own personal refuge at Refugio Place. Take in views of downtown, or of the private courtyard. Underground parking and large, oval tubs are just a few of the amenities offered.

Residents of downtown San Antonio enjoy an incredibly pedestrian friendly urban area with a strong sense of community. From young families to single adults to retirees, downtown San Antonio offers a laid back lifestyle with sleek city flair.

Historian T.R. Fehrenback once said the following to describe Alamo Heights, “Alamo Heights, whatever else it is, reflects three qualities: good government, stable neighborhoods, and a feeling of intimacy.”

As one of the most popular and sought after neighborhoods in the greater San Antonio area, Alamo Heights continues to live up to this historians lofty words. Serving as home to families and professionals alike, the Alamo Heights luxury market experiences a high demand for its homes.

Early Government Protected the City’s Natural Beauty

The original founders of Alamo Heights had one stipulation for those who came after them…that they not cut down the many trees in the area. Early settlers recognized the natural beauty of the area and sought to preserve it from the beginning. In fact, they would return to the area often to ensure that their wishes were being followed and that the trees they so dearly loved remained on their original homesteads. Many of those same trees still stand today.

Ensuing city officials were as enthralled with the area’s natural beauty as its founders. As the young community of Alamo Heights grew, members of the local government sought to preserve its natural splendor. Early building codes required new buildings to be no more than two stories tall in an effort to preserve natural light. Streets were built to follow the curves of rivers and stands of trees, maintaining the lush greenery that is a trademark of Alamo Heights.

To this day, the city’s government strives to preserve the natural beauty of the area and focuses on maintaining a scenic town where abundant trees and a soothing environment help its citizens thrive.

The Alamo Heights luxury market reflects these desires. Homes are nestled among age-old trees that seem to stretch to the sky. A stroll through downtown Alamo Heights is serene and peaceful beneath the sprawling branches.

Easily Accessible Elegance

The geographic center of Alamo Heights is conveniently located merely 4.5 miles outside of downtown San Antonio, to the north of the city. The Alamo Heights luxury market offers upscale condos and elegant estate homes, serving a mid- to upper-middle class demographic. Ease of access into downtown and to the airport makes this a perfect community for business people who wish to maintain an excellent quality of life for themselves and their families.