There are so many great places to live in Austin that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Kuper Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.

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If you're considering a move to Austin, real estate agent Carl Shurr says choosing downtown is a sure bet.

"The energy of living downtown is hard to beat," he says. "It is exciting to see the growth that has occurred since 2006, when I moved here from Chicago. I was told then that no one lives downtown — now it's the place to be if you want to be connected to what's happening in Austin."

Shurr himself — along with his two dogs, Dude and Rocky — has called both downtown and Travis Heights home since arriving in Austin. Currently, he's renovating his condo at The Austonian, a true skyline staple as the second-tallest building in Austin.

The renovation process is one he's enjoyed and loves to share his expertise on. He also loves showing condos, and lists the energy, convenience, and people as the main draws to the area, saying it's where the movers and shakers live.

Shurr offered up a few more of his personal favorites about life in downtown Austin. Here's his guide to the area:

Where to eat & drink
"While there are many new and exciting restaurants in downtown Austin, a couple of my classic, go-to favorites include Eddie V's and Truluck's," Shurr says. "They both consistently deliver excellent food and service."

"I'm a big fan of Royal Blue Grocery," he continues. "I was a regular customer when they opened their first store downtown at the 360 Condominiums in 2008 — now they're all over the downtown area."

For the best rooftop patio in town, he heads to Bob's Steak & Chop House, while Comedor is "arguably my favorite restaurant in all of Austin."

Where to play
"Lady Bird Lake and the hike and bike trail around it is my favorite place to be outside in downtown Austin," says Shurr. "It is truly the heartbeat of the city and a beautiful place to exercise."

Another must-see is the Texas Capitol, a massive, three-story granite structure that is the largest capitol building in the United States. As Shurr points out, it is over 100 years old and stands 14 feet higher than the United States Capitol.

Where to live
Homes in downtown Austin are mostly modern in their architecture, with the majority of the condominium developments in the area being less than 10 years old.

Shurr's favorite sale in downtown was at the iconic Austonian, at 200 Congress Ave. Another recent sale at Spring was exciting, he says, as it sold off-market with multiple offers well over the asking price: "We set a new price-per-square-foot record for the development."

A current, three-bedroom condo listing at 300 Bowie St. showcases floor-to-ceiling views and an enviable location that's only a short walk to Whole Foods, Lifetime Fitness, Seaholm Plaza, the lakefront, hike and bike trail, and many of the best restaurants in downtown Austin.

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Carl Shurr lives, works, and plays in downtown Austin. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email carl@carlshurr.com, or call 512-944-5977.

There are so many great places to live in Austin that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Kuper Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.

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Real estate agent Heidi Kadison has lived in the northwest Austin neighborhood of Avery Ranch for the past 12 years, raising here children there while forming close relationships with neighbors who almost feel like family.

"Avery Ranch is the perfect neighborhood for people wanting a community to join," she says. "You'll find parents enjoying adult beverages in the driveways while the kids ride bikes, or Redfish parents getting up at 6 am on Saturdays to cheer their kids to victory in the pool while enjoying breakfast tacos and doughnuts during breaks."

There's also a fireworks display on July 3 each year over the golf course, and neighborhood parties throughout the year.

What else is there to love? According the Kadison, who has been selling homes in the area since she moved here from California more than a decade ago, the schools are fabulous and the convenient location can't be beat.

"We are 15 minutes to The Domian, 10 minutes to Cedar Park shopping and restaurants, and 30 minutes to downtown," she says. "I'm close to everything I need to have a happy life."

Kadison offered up a few more of her personal favorites about life in Avery Ranch. Here's her guide to the area:

Where to eat & drink
There's no shortage of great restaurants here, from Moonshine, Sushi Fever, and Paul Martin's to Uchi, Eddie Vs, Blue Corn Harvest, Tomo, and Santa Caterina.

Get your caffeine fix at Cuppa Austin and Summer Moon, and keep an eye out for the food trucks that occasionally visit the neighborhood.

For happy hour with an elegant twist, check out Uchiko's social hour menu for innovative cocktails, safe, and nigiri sushi.

Where to play
Parks, pools, and trails abound in Avery Ranch, but if shopping is your cardio then The Domain is incredibly close by.

Where to live
Avery Ranch is full of mostly traditional architecture, Kadison says, with spacious lots and upscale finishes.

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Heidi Kadison lives, works, and plays in Avery Ranch. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email heidi.kadison@kupersir.com, or call 512-638-9847.

There are so many great places to live in Austin that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Kuper Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.

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"My husband and I grew up in Westlake, and we love raising our two children here," says real estate agent Connelly Breeland. "I was vice president of the Hyline drill team and active in choir during my high school years. I realize how special and unique it is that our daughter and son get to grow up attending the same schools, parks, and even restaurants that we loved as kids."

These fond memories prompted Breeland to settle in her childhood neighborhood, and she now loves introducing people to its charming areas like Lost Creek.

"I love the family friendly atmosphere that is so apparent the moment you enter Lost Creek," she says. "Located in the award-winning Eanes School District and with direct access to numerous hiking trails and the Barton Creek Greenbelt, it's an idyllic place to raise a family and build a lifetime of memories."

Breeland remembers spending her elementary years walking to the creek with friends and spending time outside until the street lights came on, the universal signal for dinnertime.

Today, she enjoys finding even more hidden hiking trails with flowing water, picnic tables, and meandering paths throughout the neighborhood. Her favorite entrance point? Whitemarsh Valley Walk near the intersection with Lost Creek Boulevard.

Breeland offered up a few more of her personal favorites about life in Lost Creek. Here's her guide to the area:

Where to eat & drink
"For a quick treat on hot summer days, my family loves Woody's Shave Ice," she says. "The food truck park at the front of Lost Creek Boulevard is a fun and convenient amenity for the neighborhood."

Breeland also loves nearby Vaquero's for Tex-Mex and margaritas, noting that their new playscape is a great attraction for young families.

"On weekends, Taco Deli is our go-to for delicious tacos under the oaks," says Breeland. "I always get the Cowboy Taco and Chicken Frontero Fundido — they can't be beat!"

Where to play
The Lost Creek hiking trails and greenbelt are the ideal way to play and relax: "On a recent hike I enjoyed the naturally flowing springs and the wildflowers. My daughter loved the cardinals and hummingbirds,” she says.

Breeland and her family also enjoy being members of the Lost Creek Country Club, which she says is the perfect place to enjoy a meal, relax by the pool, or play a round of golf.

"On Friday nights in the fall, I can be found at a Westlake Football game," Breeland says. "Go Chaps!"

Lost Creek residents also love the neighborhood parks as a place for kids to play and parents to mingle. An insider tip from Breeland is that the playground park located on Lost Creek Boulevard and Quaker Ridge Road becomes a voting location during elections, making it a quick and easy place to vote and avoid crowds.

Where to live
From traditional to modern, the homes throughout Lost Creek are unique and embrace the outdoors. Think huge picture windows, wraparound balconies, and massive patios that encourage large gatherings while celebrating the native trees and wildlife.

Most homes offer a traditional style common to homes built in the 1970s and '80s, with lots of limestone and wood accents.

"It has been fascinating to watch full renovations and new construction in recent years, bringing a new, modern vibe to several neighborhood streets," Breeland says. "I've shown and sold homes that are complete fixer-uppers and others that are move-in ready, but all my clients love the stunning views they possess."

Her most recent sale in Lost Creek was 6305 Whitemarsh Valley Walk, where she represented the buyer.

"My buyers had been on the hunt for their forever home in Westlake for a long time, and despite multiple offers, they were thrilled to finally be able to call this Lost Creek home their own."

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Connelly Breeland lives, works, and plays in Westlake. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email connelly@kupersir.com, or call 512-633-3066.

Agent Connelly Breeland

Photo courtesy of Kuper Sotheby's International Realty

Agent Connelly Breeland.

There are so many great places to live in Austin that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Kuper Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.

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If the idea of a resort-style community on Lake Travis, where neighbors drive golf carts to each other's homes and to restaurants for nights out, appeals to you, then put Point Venture on your list.

"The entire neighborhood is a hidden gem," says Realtor Kristi Adamcik, with Kuper Sotheby's International Realty. "I jokingly call it a drinking community with a boating problem. When you live here, it's like being on vacation every day."

Adamcik, who has lived in Point Venture for the past seven years, lists off an impressive array of amenities: a private waterfront park with disc golf, a sandy beach, boat ramp, golf course, floating restaurant, sports bar, gym, pool, and multiple sports courts.

The tight-knit community is also a big draw, with various social gatherings and activities throughout the year.

"This small lakeside oasis is unlike any other neighborhood I have ever been fortunate to live in," she says. "It’s not just the fabulous amenities, beautiful custom homes, and sparkling Lake Travis views, but the neighbors who are so quick to lend a helping hand, throw a fun party, and enjoy life on the lake. Everyone here agrees that we are all too blessed to be stressed in our little slice of paradise."

Adamcik offered up a few more of her personal favorites about life in Point Venture. Here's her guide to the area:

Where to eat & drink
"The newest addition to Point Venture is the floating restaurant on Lake Travis called Captain Pete’s Boathouse. You can come by car, boat, or golf cart," she says. "Grab a drink at the Caddie Shack, which has cornhole tournaments, live music, and trivia nights."

You'll have "the best fajitas of your life at Casa Mexico," Adamcik also says, or can spend a day wine-tasting at Flat Creek Winery.

Where to play
In addition to Point Venture’s private, 50-acre park, make sure to take in the magnificent views on a hike at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge.

Venture into Lago Vista to buy some new clothes from The Wild Navy or indulge in a spa day at Addicted to Glamour with nails by Sarah and a massage by Tanya.

Where to live
"Every home in Point Venture is unique among itself," Adamcik says. "Homes here are so different from one to the next — cookie-cutter they are not!"

Some homes have reverse floorplans, where the living, kitchen, and owners suite is upstairs to take advantage of the gorgeous lake views. Balconies are common to enjoy the sunsets.

Some homes back to the golf course, and at 7 pm the entire greens can become your playground and backyard, Adamcik says.

Homes are custom-designed by excellent builders, and due to the small and limited size of this waterfront village, it is a sought-after place to raise a family or retire.

One of Adamcik's favorite recent listings is 18500 Lakehead Cir., a custom-built, one-owner, Texas-style ranch home designed by the award-winning architect Rick O’Donnell. It features meticulous detail and was thoughtfully planned to preserve the mature oak trees on the large .4 acre property situated at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac.

Another is 205 Lakefront Dr. for its phenomenal Lake Travis views and detailed features inside, including the Brazilian hardwood cherry floors, top-of-the-line Sub-Zero appliances, modern Grohe fixtures, and dual decks to entertain on sunny lake days.

One home that Adamcik had the pleasure to sell twice is 19015 Venture Dr.

"It was my first home where I personally lived in Point Venture," she says. "We are now on home No. 3 in this lovely community. Not only did it back to the golf course, it has incredible Lake Travis views from the front. I sold the home to its second owner, then again represented that seller when he decided to move on. The current third owners are friends with whom I had the pleasure of selling their home in Round Rock so they could come and enjoy lake life here."

Nan Howell, the current owner, says “Kristi will always be our Realtor! She took excellent care of us and was always there for a quick and very professional answer, no matter what time of the day. She looked out for our interest every step of the way. I will always recommend Kristi to friends and family."

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Kristi Adamcik lives, works, and plays in Point Venture. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email kristi.adamcik@kupersir.com, or call 512-400-9214.

Agent Kristi Adamcik

Photo courtesy of Kuper Sotheby's International Realty

Agent Kristi Adamcik.

There are so many great places to live in Austin that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Kuper Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.

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It's no wonder that Austin's Zilker neighborhood is so popular — it has vintage appeal, big yards, towering live oak trees, and is a mere mile and a half from downtown, with walking distance to the popular Barton Springs Pool.

Kuper Sotheby's International Realty agent Kay Keesee has been a resident of Zilker for the past four decades. Thirty of those years have been devoted to helping folks purchase their own Zilker homes and settle into the neighborhood.

"We've managed to retain the 'Old Austin' vibe while welcoming new neighbors at a record pace," Keesee says. "Can you believe that at one time Zilker — and the whole of South Austin — weren't anywhere near the top of the 'most popular neighborhoods' list? Not so now!"

But despite its rapid rise in popularity, Zilker still holds onto its small-town feel. Keesee says an evening walk can easily stretch three miles without ever encountering a traffic light or four-lane street. The Zilker Neighborhood Association is active and inclusive, and Zilker Elementary School is beloved for its excellent standards, diversity, and community involvement.

Compared to everywhere else, Keesee says, Zilker just seems a little slower, sweeter, and much more convenient.

Block parties occur regularly, but larger events such as Austin City Limits at Zilker Park, the July 4th celebration at Auditorium Shores, and the Trail of Lights at holiday time are also a draw.

Zilker has been a desirable neighborhood for hundreds of years, with traces of the Tonkawa and other native tribes having been discovered in the area. Mary Crownover Rabb and her husband John built a log cabin and settled on Barton Creek in 1860. Today Rabb Road, Zilker's western boundary, commemorates the Rabb family and their 95 years in the Zilker area.

"Some say the spirits, ancient and more recent, still dwell here in peace," Keesee says.

A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Keesee has obviously poured her time and energy into Austin over the years. She's also an alumna of Leadership Austin and Leadership Texas, a former chair of the Austin Commission for Women, and is an active supporter and volunteer for over 30 years of the Settlement Home for Children.

Keesee offered up a few more of her personal favorites about life in Zilker. Here's her guide to the area:

Where to eat & drink
El Rancho is Tex-Mex at its finest, Keesee says, while Juliet is her favorite for great cocktails.

And when it's time for fast food, Austin institution P. Terry's is the place to go.

Where to play
The famous Zilker Park and Barton Springs Pool are here (look for the Philosopher's Rock bronze sculpture at the north entrance), but don't overlook Little Zilker Park, which adjoins Zilker Elementary School.

Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge is popular during good weather, and a wonderful way to see Lady Bird Lake. Look east, and you can spot colorful graffiti art on the railroad trestle.

What to see
The Zach Theatre is the oldest continually operating theater company in Texas, and when you go to the main entrance on the west side Keesee advises not to miss the evocative bronze sculpture Lady Hare with Dog by Sophie Ryder, which was installed in 1998.

Zilker Hillside Theater also encourages the arts with summer programs, or you can explore the Austin Nature and Science Center and Taniguchi Japanese Garden in Zilker Park.

Where to live
While some homes were built in the 1920s, Zilker development in earnest began in the 1930s. Many of these homes remain, primarily north of Kerr Street, Keesee points out.

Commonly called bungalows, the more accurate style designation for most vintage homes in Zilker is "minimal traditional." Emerging in mid-20th century America, this style incorporated influences from such earlier styles as American Colonial, Colonial Revival, Spanish Revival, Tudor Revival, and Craftsman. Typical features include hipped or gabled roofs, minimal eaves, wood siding, small porches, and loads of charm.

In the early 1950s, the style was superseded by the one-level ranch style that's prevalent in Zilker south of Dexter, where Nash Philips Copus and others pioneered modern subdivision planning in Austin. Further south, streets were developed less uniformly, with a mix of styles from the late 1940s to the the mid-1960s. Notable among these are the coveted midcentury residences designed and built with strong Frank Lloyd Wright influences by local architect A. D. Stenger.

In the 1980s, major home remodeling and redevelopment of lots began to appear. Still a haven of affordability compared to neighborhoods north of the "river" (aka Lady Bird Lake), Zilker rose in popularity — though not much in price. By 1995, the local prejudice against living "south of the river" began to crumble as prices rose in the north.

Commercial and multi-family developers recognized the potential and seized the opportunity. South Lamar, part of the Zilker neighborhood, was redeveloped piece by piece. Restaurants, gyms, shops, and apartment buildings replaced older commercial buildings. Lamar Plaza, the only shopping center that ever existed in Zilker, was replaced by Lamar Union, a multi-family residential and commercial center.

After 2000, redevelopment of residential lots increased dramatically. The new residences are much larger, mostly two stories, and varied in style. Minimalist modern is the most popular, though modern farmhouse, new traditional, midcentury modern, and "statement sculptural" are also represented.

Condominium development accelerated after 2000, offering an attractive alternative to the few older communities, some of which were remodeled in response to the competition. Luxury units such as those at The Loren, Bartonplace, Villas of Lost Canyon, Bridges on the Park, and Kinney Lofts meet the demand for upscale condos.

Current single-family home prices range from the high $800s to just under $7 million. From 2019 to 2022, Keesee says, the average price for a single family home in Zilker rose 52 percent.

One of Keesee's landmark sales anchors the north end of Kinney Avenue. A striking minimalist design, the home was built to the highest construction standards utilizing commercial grade materials and finishes. The 586-square-foot roof terrace affords a commanding view of the downtown Austin skyline only a mile away.

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Kay Keesee lives, works, and plays in Zilker. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email kay.keesee@sothebysrealty.com, or call 737-308-9512.

Agent Kay Keesee

Photo courtesy of Kuper Sotheby's International Realty

Agent Kay Keesee.