Here's What You Need to Know About Buying a Home in Sugar Land, Missouri City and Sienna...


Nestled in the vibrant suburbs of Houston, the Sugar Land, Missouri City and Sienna area offers an unparalleled blend of serene suburban living and the convenience of city life.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your living situation, our tailored market updates, captivating community videos, and comprehensive real estate insights make your home-buying journey seamless and enjoyable.

Start Watching – Your Free Course Modules

Buyer Course Intro

Module 1: You Need An Expert

Module 2: Buyer's Compensation

Module 3: Choosing the Right Lender

Module 4: Making an Offer and Negotiations

Module 5: Your Offer Is Accepted

Module 6: Inspections Are Complete

Module 7: The Final Steps

Module 8: Agents Compensation

Exclusive Market Updates


Stay ahead of the curve with our up-to-minute market updates. From the latest listings to price trends, we ensure you have all the information you need to make informed decisions. Sienna, Missouri City and Sugar Land's real estate landscape is dynamic, and with our expert analysis, you're always in the know.

Preparing for a possible move this summer? Click below to check out our moving checklist to get your whole house ready for the next home!


Want to know what is happening throughout Sienna, Missouri City and Sugar Land Now? Click below for a full live schedule of local events around town!


What Makes Us Different...

Shelley Stone | Realtor


WELCOME TO SIENNA, MISSOURI CITY AND SUGAR LAND HOMEBUYER'S COURSE

Experience the Difference


We know that buying a house is a big step. You might feel overwhelmed or burdened by everything involved in the home-buying process.

You might be wondering what is the first step. Can I qualify for a home loan? How long will the process take?

This is where we can help.

Now we're sharing exactly how so you can purchase your new home too. Inside of the home buyer seminar, you'll get step-by-step videos breaking down everything you need to know BEFORE purchasing your new home.

Watch Our Virtual Buyer Seminar Library

Enjoy the latest & most up-to-date marketing & sales tactics to help you purchase a NEW home.

Thinking About Buying?

Are you thinking about buying a home but you don't know where to start?.

  • Learn to take advantage of Tax Saving opportunities instead of throwing your money away

  • Walk through the important aspects of purchasing a home

What to Expect When Buying a Home

Purchasing a home is most likely going to be one of the largest investments you will make in your lifetime.

  • We have helped hundreds of clients in the past and we can help you too

  • My team and I are free! The seller pays for our fees and they have an agent who has their best interest at heart. We are here to have yours

Home Buying Process -

First Step

The first step when looking to buy a home is getting qualified for a loan.

  • ​Before doing anything else you need to know what you can afford by getting qualified for a loan

  • Don’t go house hunting before going mortgage shopping

Pre-Approval vs

Pre-Qualification

Why you need an approval rather than just a pre-qualification.

  • Pre-Qualification is not a true approval but the initial step in a home loan process where you discuss your financial situation with a loan officer - nothing is verified

  • Pre- Approval is where the buyer provides the lender with the necessary documents to tell them what they are approved for, which loan option is the best for them and what the interest rate will be

10 Must Not’s When Buying a Home

Once you find your dream home, we need to make sure you get to move into it.

  • ​Don’t change jobs; becoming self employed or quit current job

  • ​Don’t buy a vehicle

  • ​Don’t use any charged cards or let your accounts fall behind

  • ​Don’t spend money you saved for closing

  • ​Don’t omit any debt or liabilities from your loan application

What are the Pros and Cons of Purchasing a Home?

Whether you’ve never owned a home before or it’s been a while since you’ve purchased, let's talk about the pros and cons.

  • Pro: Your wealth can increase as you build equity in your home through 2023 averaging about 3%

  • Con: Maintenance costs; work and money to keep a home in good condition

How Much Money Do I Need To Purchase a New Home?

Most people are afraid that it will cost them thousands and thousands of dollars to purchase a home.

  • ​There are various loans and grants to qualify to purchase a home

3 Tips To Get Your Offer Accepted

Are you competing with other buyers on your dream home or do you want to make sure you’ve got the best chance of getting your offer accepted?

  • Make sure you offered a competitive price on a home

  • Put down a larger earnest money deposit

  • ​Let the seller know that you have not written offers on any other properties

Buy or Beware

The real estate market is evolving with new rules changing how transactions work.

  • Work with a knowledgeable agent to protect your interests and achieve the best results.

At The Shelley Stone Group, we know that selling your house is a big step. You might feel overwhelmed or burdened by everything involved in selling your house.

You might be wondering what your house is worth or if it’s really the right time to sell. This is where we can help.

Now we're sharing exactly how so you can sell your home too. Inside of the seller seminar you'll get step-by-step videos breaking down everything you need to know BEFORE selling your home - to get the highest price possible, in the quickest time possible.

Community Videos

Home with luxury staging

The Top 5 Best Neighborhoods in Fort Bend County (2026 Ranked List)

January 04, 202611 min read
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What are the best neighborhoods in Fort Bend County?

The top 5 neighborhoods in Fort Bend County for 2026 are Sienna (master-planned living with 7 builders), Riverstone in Sugar Land (luxury lakefront lifestyle), Cross Creek Ranch in Fulshear (modern amenities with natural beauty), Aliana in Richmond (best value for luxury features), and Harvest Green (unique agri-hood with working farm). Each offers distinct advantages for different buyer priorities and budgets.

Are you wondering which are the best neighborhoods in Fort Bend County, Texas in 2026 for your next luxury home purchase? Whether you're upgrading from your current home or making a strategic investment, this guide will show you exactly where to focus your search for maximum value and lifestyle benefit.

As Shelley Stone with The Shelley Stone Group, I'm seeing firsthand how migration from high-tax states like California and Illinois is reshaping our real estate market. With Fort Bend County's median home price at $412,216 as of May 2025, we're in what I call a neutral market—perfect for savvy buyers who know where to look.

These aren't your average subdivisions. These are the communities that locals fight for and newcomers never regret. Let me walk you through my ranked list of the absolute best neighborhoods in Fort Bend County.

#1: Sienna - The Master-Planned Gold Standard

Let me start with Sienna (formerly known as Sienna Plantation) because this 20,000-resident master-planned community continues to be my top recommendation for buyers in 2026.

What makes Sienna special isn't just its size—it's how thoughtfully everything has been planned to create a true lifestyle destination. When you're living in Fort Bend County, you want a community that offers both luxury and convenience, and Sienna delivers on every front.

Ongoing Development and Builder Variety

The beauty of Sienna lies in its ongoing development and the fact that new construction options are still available throughout 2026. I'm regularly showing clients gorgeous new model homes in the Sawmill and Sienna Oaks sections where seven different builders are offering floor plans from the low $300,000s to over $1 million.

This price range makes it one of the most accessible luxury communities for move-up buyers, and the variety of builders means you can find exactly the style and features you want:

  • Chesmar Homes and Perry Homes: Designs for 45-foot lots starting in the $400,000s

  • Newmark Homes and Highland Homes: Larger homes on 60-foot sites in the $500,000-700,000 range

  • Toll Brothers, J. Patrick Homes, and Jamestown: Luxury custom homes on 100-foot lots starting at $850,000+

There's something here for every family size and budget.

Explore All Sienna Communities

Lifestyle Amenities

The community centers around the beautiful Sawmill Lake Club, and they've just added a new dog park alongside existing parks for families. The retail and dining options continue to expand, making it easy to handle daily errands without leaving the community.

I've had clients tell me they feel like they're living at a luxury resort year-round. This combination of convenience and tranquility is exactly what makes Sienna such a smart investment for 2026.

Quick Facts: Sienna

  • Price Range: $350,000 - $1,200,000+

  • Best For: Families, move-up buyers, luxury seekers with various budgets

  • Key Amenities: Multiple water parks, golf course, 50+ miles of trails, Sawmill Lake Club

  • Schools: Top-rated Fort Bend ISD

  • Builders: 7+ active builders offering variety

  • Community Feel: Resort-style master-planned living

#2: Riverstone (Sugar Land) - Lakefront Luxury Lifestyle

Now let's talk about Riverstone in Sugar Land, which consistently ranks as one of the best suburbs to live in Fort Bend County. This isn't just a neighborhood—it's a lifestyle choice that comes with some serious perks.

With current home prices ranging from $435,000 to nearly $4 million and a median home price of $570,000, Riverstone attracts buyers who understand that luxury amenities are worth the investment.

What Makes Riverstone Special

Picture this:

  • Over 200 acres of lakes providing stunning water views

  • Extensive nature trails winding throughout the community

  • The Club at Riverstone with recreational spaces including swimming pools, fitness centers, and tennis courts

  • Gated sections providing extra security and exclusivity

  • Waterfront properties offering everything from fishing to beautiful views that boost property values

Discover Sugar Land Communities

Investment Value

Here's what I love about recommending Riverstone to my luxury clients: the resale values are consistently strong, and the community continues to evolve. The HOA fees are just under $2,000 annually, but when you see what you get for that investment—maintenance of all those amenities, professional landscaping, and year-round community events—most of my clients agree it's money well spent.

Riverstone has been ranked as one of the top-selling master-planned communities in the nation, and for good reason. The combination of location (prime Sugar Land address), amenities, and established reputation creates a community where property values remain resilient even during market fluctuations.

Quick Facts: Riverstone

  • Price Range: $435,000 - $4,000,000

  • Median Price: $570,000

  • Best For: Luxury buyers, professionals, families seeking prestige

  • Key Amenities: 200+ acres of lakes, Club at Riverstone, gated sections, nature trails

  • Schools: Exemplary-rated Fort Bend ISD schools

  • HOA: ~$2,000/year

  • Community Feel: Upscale lakefront resort living

#3: Cross Creek Ranch (Fulshear) - Modern Amenities Meets Natural Beauty

This 3,200-acre master-planned community in Fulshear perfectly balances modern amenities with natural beauty—exactly what today's move-up buyers are looking for when they want more space and a different pace of life.

Preserved Natural Beauty

Johnson Development has preserved over 400 acres of scenic waterways and native grasses. The stunning 50-acre polishing pond serves as a peaceful retreat with walking paths and breathtaking views that make you forget you're just minutes from the Houston Energy Corridor.

Homes typically start in the mid-$300,000s, making it accessible for first-time luxury buyers while still offering options for those seeking higher-end properties in the $600,000-800,000 range.

Strategic Location

The transportation access is phenomenal. You've got easy connections to Westpark Tollway, I-10, and the Grand Parkway, which has become more essential than ever with Houston's growing traffic patterns. For Energy Corridor employees, Cross Creek Ranch offers one of the shortest commutes in Fort Bend County—often just 15-20 minutes.

The community is still growing with new homes being built by some of the nation's top builders, which means you're buying into a community with momentum and long-term value potential.

As one recent client shared with me: "We wanted modern living with natural beauty, and Cross Creek Ranch gave us both without compromise."

Quick Facts: Cross Creek Ranch

  • Price Range: $350,000 - $800,000

  • Best For: Energy Corridor commuters, nature lovers, families seeking space

  • Key Amenities: 50-acre polishing pond, 400+ acres preserved land, resort-style pools, fitness centers

  • Schools: Katy ISD (highly rated)

  • Commute: 15-20 minutes to Energy Corridor

  • Community Feel: Natural beauty with modern master-planning

#4: Aliana (Richmond) - Best Value Luxury Investment

Aliana in Richmond has quietly become one of the smartest investments in Fort Bend County, with resale prices surging throughout 2025-2026.

This master-planned community offers that perfect sweet spot of luxury features, prime location, and value that move-up clients absolutely love.

Premium Features at Accessible Prices

What makes Aliana special is how it seamlessly blends modern living with natural beauty while maintaining a strong sense of community. The homes were built by top builders including Perry Homes, Highland Homes, and Coventry Homes, with prices ranging from $400,000 to over $1 million.

Every home comes with high-end features:

  • Open-concept floor plans

  • Gourmet kitchens with granite/quartz countertops

  • Spa-like master bathrooms

  • Energy-efficient technology

  • Modern finishes throughout

This is exactly what today's luxury buyers expect, but at a more accessible price point than Sugar Land alternatives.

Strategic Location and Amenities

The community sits strategically near Grand Parkway and Westpark Tollway, giving residents easy access to Houston's business districts and shopping while maintaining that peaceful suburban feel.

The amenities are world-class:

  • The Club at Aliana with state-of-the-art fitness centers

  • Banquet halls for community events

  • Multiple swimming pools and splash pads

  • Scenic walking trails and lakes throughout

You're getting resort-style living at a fraction of the cost of comparable Sugar Land communities.

My clients consistently tell me that Aliana offers the best value proposition in Fort Bend County—luxury features without the luxury premium.

Quick Facts: Aliana

  • Price Range: $400,000 - $1,000,000+

  • Best For: Value-conscious luxury buyers, move-up families

  • Key Amenities: Club at Aliana, fitness centers, pools, lakes, trails

  • Schools: Fort Bend ISD and Lamar CISD options

  • Value Proposition: Luxury features at 15-20% less than Sugar Land

  • Community Feel: Upscale suburban with strong community engagement

#5: Harvest Green (Richmond) - The Unique Agri-Hood Experience

Finally, let me tell you about Harvest Green, which has become my secret weapon for younger, eco-conscious buyers who want something truly unique in Fort Bend County.

The Nation's Premier Agri-Hood

This 1,700-acre agri-hood in Richmond is the only community in the Houston area centered around a working farm, and it's consistently ranked as one of the top-selling communities nationwide.

The Village Farm is the heart of this community and includes:

  • Vineyard and orchard with fruit trees and grapevines

  • Greenhouses for year-round growing

  • Livestock area with chickens and other animals

  • Aquaponic garden demonstrating sustainable food production

  • Educational demonstrations and classes for residents

Farm-to-Table Living

Through their Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, residents can get fresh, seasonal produce delivered directly to their door. They even offer farmland plots that residents can lease to grow their own food.

This isn't just marketing—it's a genuine commitment to sustainable living that resonates with today's environmentally conscious buyers. Families love teaching their children where food comes from, and the farm creates a unique community gathering space.

Award-Winning Development

From an investment perspective, Harvest Green checks all the boxes for long-term value:

  • Master-Planned Community of the Year at the Greater Houston Builders Association Prism Awards (2018)

  • Best Community in Texas at the Texas Association of Builders Star Awards (2021)

  • Expanded from 1,700 to 2,330 acres due to tremendous demand

Home lots range from 40-foot to 90-foot widths, and the community offers all the resort-style amenities you'd expect from a Johnson Development property, plus the unique farm component.

Quick Facts: Harvest Green

  • Price Range: $350,000 - $700,000

  • Best For: Eco-conscious families, farm-to-table enthusiasts, millennials

  • Unique Feature: Working farm with CSA program, farm plots available

  • Key Amenities: Village Farm, pools, fitness centers, trails, farm classes

  • Schools: Lamar CISD

  • Awards: Multiple industry awards for innovation

  • Community Feel: Sustainable living with modern amenities

2026 Market Trends Affecting These Neighborhoods

Several crucial trends are affecting buyers in these top Fort Bend County neighborhoods:

1. Out-of-State Migration: The continued relocation from California, Illinois, and New York is driving up demand and prices, particularly in master-planned communities like the ones I've highlighted. These buyers often have significant equity from selling homes in expensive markets and can compete aggressively.

2. Remote Work Flexibility: Hybrid schedules mean buyers are willing to live farther from downtown Houston if they're only commuting 2-3 days per week, making Fulshear and Richmond communities more attractive.

3. Amenity Demand: Post-pandemic, buyers prioritize communities with extensive amenities—pools, trails, fitness centers—that were used heavily during lockdowns and remain valuable.

4. New Construction Premium: With limited resale inventory, new construction commands premiums, but builder incentives (rate buydowns, closing cost assistance) can offset higher prices.

5. School Quality: Fort Bend ISD and Katy ISD reputations continue attracting families willing to pay premiums for top-rated school zones.

Choosing Your Perfect Fort Bend County Neighborhood

Each of these five communities offers distinct advantages:

Choose Sienna if: You want master-planned living with maximum builder variety and amenity options at multiple price points.

Choose Riverstone if: You prioritize Sugar Land address, lakefront luxury, and established prestige with strong resale values.

Choose Cross Creek Ranch if: You work in the Energy Corridor and want natural beauty with modern amenities at great value.

Choose Aliana if: You want luxury features and prime location without paying Sugar Land premium prices.

Choose Harvest Green if: You value sustainability, farm-to-table living, and a unique community unlike anything else in Houston.

Making Your Investment Decision

These communities represent the best of what Fort Bend County offers in 2026. Each has proven track records for property appreciation, strong builder reputations, and amenities that enhance daily life and resale value.

The key is matching your priorities—commute, schools, lifestyle, budget—with the right community. That's where working with a local expert makes all the difference.

Can't decide between the natural beauty of Cross Creek Ranch or the lakefront luxury of Riverstone? Or wondering if Sienna's master-planning is worth the premium over Aliana's value? Schedule a tour with Shelley Stone and The Shelley Stone Group to see multiple communities in one day. We'll walk you through each neighborhood, compare builder options, discuss school zones, and help you experience the lifestyle differences firsthand.

If you're considering moving to Fort Bend County and want to explore any of these incredible neighborhoods, I'd love to help you navigate this market and find your perfect home. These communities represent smart choices for families looking to invest in Fort Bend County's continued growth and exceptional quality of life.

Ready to find your dream home in Fort Bend County's best neighborhoods? Contact The Shelley Stone Group today for your free consultation. We'll create a customized tour of communities that match your priorities, budget, and lifestyle—giving you the insider perspective that makes all the difference in your decision.


Important Note: Home prices, builder availability, and community amenities change frequently. All information reflects conditions as of publication and should be independently verified. This guide is educational only and not intended as specific investment or purchasing advice. Contact The Shelley Stone Group for current inventory and pricing in these communities.


To learn more about Shelley and The Shelley Stone Group:

https://theshelleystonegroup.com/

To read more about what Shelley Stone shares with her clients:

https://theshelleystonegroup.com/blog

Best neighborhoods in Fort Bend CountyTop Fort Bend County communitiesSienna Texas homesRiverstone Sugar LandWhere to live Fort Bend CountyWhat are the best neighborhoods in Fort Bend County TXBest master-planned communities near HoustonSienna vs Riverstone Fort Bend County
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Shelley Stone: Sugar Land & Sienna Real Estate Insights

The Shelley Stone Group is an independent luxury real estate team led by Shelley Stone and operating under eXp Realty, specializing in listings, relocation, and move-up buyers in Sugar Land and Sienna, Texas. Contact: 713-252-2100 | [email protected]

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Real Buyers. Real Results.

"We thoroughly enjoyed working with Shelley and she made the selling process as easy as it could be."

"She was always available for us and usually a few steps ahead with following-up with potential clients and proactively communicating with us. We would highly recommend Shelley to anyone looking for a high-qualified and professional realtor."

- Jose B.

"Shelley was a second to none realtor and a great person to work with."

"Our sale was a difficult situation for a number of factors and Shelley made the process as painless as possible. After a number of more difficult realtor situations, we finally found the right fit and are very satisfied with our experience."

- Chris G.

"This group was outstanding."

"The entire process went very smoothly. We worked directly with Shelley Stone who is just excellent – a great listener, smart, does her homework, is creative, very good communicator and timely in her contacts with us every step of the way. She was so enjoyable to work with. In summary we would recommend the group and Shelley to anyone selling their home. Within 72 hours of the listing, we had 3 offers on our home."

- George C.

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Copyright © 2026. All rights reserved. The Shelley Stone Group

Phone: 713.252.2100

Email: [email protected]

Location: One Riverway, STE 1700, Houston, TX 77056

All information is provided by the licensed REALTOR®/Broker/Agent. This information is not verified for authenticity or accuracy and is not guaranteed. This website is not responsible or liable in any manner for any content posted herein or in connection with our services. Information is not guaranteed and must be confirmed by the end user. All information is provided by the licensed REALTOR®/Broker/Agent. This information is not verified for authenticity or accuracy and is not guaranteed. This website is not responsible or liable in any manner for any content posted herein or in connection with our services. Information is not guaranteed and must be confirmed by the end user.