Best places to buy a house in Las Vegas

Best places to buy a house in Las Vegas

The suburbs of Las Vegas in wintertime, with snow-covered Red Rock Canyon in the background
 
Las Vegas is a city of many nicknames : the Entertainment Capital of the World, the Marriage Capital of the World, the Neon Capital of the World, the Gambling Capital of the World. However, the city of glitz and glamour is also famed for its finest luxury communities that raise the bar of high-end living in Las Vegas. 
 
One of the most affluent communities in Vegas is The Ridges, located within the larger master-planned community of Summerlin. The Ridges itself, a gated enclave secured by guards, is made up of six distinct neighborhoods. All feature breathtaking luxury homes:
 
  • The centrally located neighborhood of Redhawk in The Ridges offers 80 luxury home sites surrounded by golf courses and canyon landscapes.
  • Nestled in the foothills of The Ridges is Rimrock, an intimate neighborhood of 21 luxury home sites and amazing desert vistas.
  • In Canyon Fairways, residents have adopted architectural guidelines to preserve the beauty of its natural scenery and conform to the gently undulating layout of the TPC Canyons golf course.
 
In nearby Henderson, NV, named one of the safest cities in the US, you’ll find the neighborhood of  Anthem with elegant residential homes, country clubs, parks, and superb amenities. 
 

The luxury communities of Las Vegas

Luxury communities are master-planned enclaves located in thriving districts such as the Las Vegas Strip, Downtown Las Vegas, Henderson, and Summerlin.
 

The Las Vegas Strip

 
You'll find most of Las Vegas’s top tourist attractions along the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. Iconic landmarks like the Bellagio Fountains, The Stratosphere, The Venetian’s Grand Canal,  Eiffel Tower of Paris, and the sign reading “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” dazzle visitors and residents alike. The Strip is also a popular choice among those who prefer living large in condos and apartments right in the heart of the action.
 
Living on The Strip is like being stuck in party central 24/7. For those who like thrills on demand, this place is for you. To be surrounded by restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs, nonstop gambling action, spectacular entertainment, and a myriad of delights is a privilege.
 
The Strip may have been the genesis of luxury living, with top entertainers, celebrities, and gambling big shots needing a place to call home befitting their stature. In recent years, luxury apartments and condos have given character to the housing market along The Strip. 
 
Luxury apartments typically come in 1 or 2-units with spacious floor plans and ultra modern appointments. All offer indulgent levels of comfort, quick access to major attractions, and stunning views of The Strip.
 
Luxury condos offer even more options to suit every type of buyer, from single, young professionals to those with a family setup, and busy executives to high-net-worth individuals wanting another home in another key capital of the world. 
 
The high-rise luxury residential communities of The Strip tick every box, including spectacular views of Las Vegas. The exceptional comforts and conveniences are wide ranging: concierge and valet service, lounge and social room, spa, pool and Jacuzzi, fitness center, and laundry and dry-cleaning services. Luxury condos provide a high level of security with state-of-the-art video monitoring and checks to ensure that only guests with permission to be in the property get to see and explore its amenities.
 

Downtown Las Vegas

 
For years, Downtown Las Vegas was the center of the gambling district and local tourism. Also referred to as DLV, the area is now  a mix of historic casinos and modern attractions. In recent decades, Downtown Las Vegas revitalized itself to encourage new businesses to set up shop in the historic area. Tech start-ups and a flourishing art scene, coupled with affordable housing, succeeded in attracting millennials to settle in the community. 
 
Thus, DLV has seen a rise in the mix of housing options, such as apartments, lofts, townhomes, and high rises. Nestled a few minutes away from Downtown’s famous Fremont Street Experienceis the Euro-inspired Fremont Street Lofts Townhomes. Made up of contemporary loft-style units with a floor space of nearly 2,000 square feet, the trendy 3-story development is packed with coveted features like breakfast bars, kitchen islands, stucco exterior, private backyards, high ceilings, and attached garages.
 
Similar high-rise residential developments promise chic urban lifestyles. Modern condos in the district feature penthouse suites, rooftop pools, state-of-the art fitness centers, private, glass-enclosed terraces, and panoramic views of the Las Vegas valley.
 

Henderson, NV

Lake Las Vegas in Henderson, NV
 
As Nevada’s second largest city, Henderson is the opposite of the action-packed side of Las Vegas. This area has a laid-back suburban vibe and nearby attractions like the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. Thus, Henderson is a draw for tourists looking for scenic spots and great outdoor adventures. Other family-friendly activities can be enjoyed at Lion Habitat Ranch and  Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve. 
 
Aside from its natural beauty and top-rated attractions, Henderson is also home to luxurious master-planned communities. The growth of the local economy and enjoying one of the highest per capita income, Henderson is a prime real estate market. The median list price of homes in Henderson is $439,000.
 
Top-end single-family homes are often found in exclusive, gated communities, providing utmost privacy, enormous open spaces, and spectacular views. Ranch, Pueblo, Spanish Revival, Mediterranean, and Ultra Modern are the prevalent architectural styles. Elegant interiors befit the luxurious lifestyles promised by the homes.
 
Expect a combination of top-notch amenities such as expansive floor plans, gourmet kitchens, wine cellars, infinity pools, spa-like bathrooms, game rooms, home theaters, home fitness centers, and walk-in closets.
 
Henderson also lavishes its residents with recreational opportunities, some of which include championship golf courses, private country club memberships, as well as trails and parks.
 

Summerlin

 
Situated on the western side of the Las Vegas Valley, Summerlin is one of the most exclusive affluent neighborhoods in Nevada. Founded by business magnate Howard Hughes, Summerlin has been developed as a kind of super master- planned community. At 22,500 acres, it lies just a few miles from majestic Red Rock Canyon, which serves as the incomparable backdrop of many of the neighborhoods in Summerlin.
 
The community has more than 150 parks and 2,000 miles of trails for hiking and biking. It has also been very mindful of the environment. As one of many firsts, the Summerlin neighborhood of Villa Trieste received the first LEED-certified recognition for best use of energy. 
 
The sprawling community offers a diverse selection of luxury homes in architectural styles ranging from ultra Contemporary to rustic. There are Spanish Mediterranean-inspired homes as well. View the wide range of Summerlin luxury homes for sale here.
 
Summerlin’s distinctive neighborhoods include expansive estate-style single-family homes, custom residences, and upscale apartments and townhomes. The median list price of homes is $425,000 with a  listing price per square foot of $258. 
 
Like the proper city it has evolved into, Summerlin has everything its residents could ask for. Schools, churches, country clubs, golf courses, casinos, parks, restaurants, spas, healthcare facilities, cultural venues, outdoor festivals, and more – name it and Summerlin is likely to have it. The Summerlin Library and Performing Arts Center is especially popular as it’s booked a year in advance.
 
Its schools hold a place that’s even more special. Since the inception of its first college preparatory school, The Meadows, the community has considered education a top priority. Today, Summerlin has 26 schools including charter schools and top-ranking public and private schools.
 
Explore the community of Summerlin for the finest living in Las Vegas and view Summerlin luxury homes for sale.
 

Why people are moving to Las Vegas

 
The largest city in the state of Nevada , Las Vegas has a population of 667,501 and ranks as 25th largest city in the United States. Historically, more than 80% of the county’s total population growth was the result of migration. California represented the majority of the residents who made the move to the Entertainment Capital. 
 
Las Vegas built its economy on the tourism industry, offering job opportunities in casinos, entertainment and recreation facilities, and other related businesses. But homegrown startups are advancing the promise of Las Vegas as an emerging and affordable tech hub. More than just the site of the massive trade show, CES, a tech event that attracts 180,000 attendees each year, Las Vegas has already welcomed Amazon’s 30,000-square-foot corporate office in 2019 and Google’s $1.2 billion data centers in 2019 and 2020. 
 
Overall, the cities of Las Vegas, Henderson, and Paradise enjoyed the 12th biggest economic growth of large US metros in 2021, according to a privately conducted report.
 
The outlook bodes well for families, retirees, and corporate executives who continue to look to Vegas for a place they can comfortably settle down in or conduct their business from. 
 
Here are more reasons why Las Vegas should be your next home.
 

No state income tax

Having no state income tax makes it easier for people who move here to save for their dream house. Revenues from gaming, tourism, and other enterprises are pumped back into the city’s economy to benefit locals.
 

The weather

Las Vegas has an average of 300 days of sunshine a year. Located in the Mojave Desert, Las Vegas has a generally hot desert subtropical climate. 
 

Impressive dining scene

Buffets in Las Vegas are legendary and so are restaurants run by celebrity chefs. Culinary rock stars Gordon Ramsay, Tom Collichio, Michael Mina, Joel Robuchon, Lorena Garcia, and Wolfgang Puck have lent their names to the city’s fine-dining restaurants.
 

Kid-friendly attractions

While the city is a playground for adults, over the years it has become a popular place for kid-friendly attractions, too, like the AdventureDomeLast Vegas Mini Gran Prix , Vegas Indoor Skydiving, and  High Roller Vegas Strip Observation Wheel.
 

Quality of life


Las Vegas consistently ranks in the Top 100 lists of Best Place to Live.  Houses come in a range of price points, the outdoors is fantastic, the education top-notch, and opportunities to live, work, and play plentiful.
 
Whether you prefer single-family homes, ranch estates, high-rise condominiums, luxury apartment complexes, townhomes, or custom builds, Las Vegas has them all.
 
Looking for high-end homes? Browse properties in Las Vegas luxury communities.
 

The real estate market in Las Vegas

 
Las Vegas has been enticing businesses, remote workers, and start-ups to relocate for years. It is no surprise that this glitzy city remains a hot real estate market – pandemic or not.
 
Thus, the Las Vegas real estate market continues to grow as out-of-towners and new residents flock the city. The sales of single-family homes are up since 2020 with no signs of slowing down. In June 2021, the median price for a single-family home hit $395,000, which is $10,000 higher compared to the previous month. The median listing price of a home was $204 per square foot. 
 
According to Las Vegas Real Estate Agents, low inventory of homes and low mortgage rates are driving prices up. Instead of the industry norm of having six months’ worth of real estate inventory, the supply is now down to less than one month following the pace of sales in May 2021. 
 
For sellers, it’s a good time to sell. Buyers are looking for property to invest in and houses they can move into. The market is less competitive among sellers as some property owners have chosen to hold selling amid the lingering pandemic. With tight supply, you can expect more buyers to purchase at list price, exceed it, or go on a bidding war if the home is especially attractive. 
 
For buyers, lower mortgage rates are an opportunity to buy more house or go house hunting in better neighborhoods.
 

The luxury home market in Las Vegas

 
The luxury home market is one of the brightest spots of Las Vegas’s residential real estate. The city offers a variety of listings; choose from sprawling estates, lavish penthouses, gated golf estates, and multi-million dollar homes with every perk you can think of. 
 
You can opt for luxury homes located in prestigious communities offering a resort lifestyle, utter privacy, and first-rate security. Lavish amenities are par for the course – expect gourmet kitchens, wine cellars, infinity pools, walk-in closets, home gyms, spa bathrooms, theatre and game rooms, and so much more.
 
Renowned musicians, athletes, and industry leaders all own properties in Vegas. Affluent buyers are following suit.
 
Sales of existing homes priced at $1 million went up 38% in 2020. Custom lots  that had 44 closings of $1 million and above in 2019,  jumped to 62 in 2021. In general, the Vegas luxury market reflects similar trends elsewhere in the United States. A luxury home in an enviable location are valued investments. To uncover the best luxury homes in Las Vegas, it is vital that buyers work with an agent specializing in luxury home real estate.
 

The best places to buy a house in Las Vegas

Las Vegas has a wealth of family-friendly neighborhoods and master-planned communities. When moving to Vegas, it is essential to know the best places to buy a home. Here are some of them.
 

The Ridges

A recently sold home in The Ridges
 
Recognized by Forbes Magazine as one of the most exclusive in the US, the Ridges is the literal pinnacle of luxury living. The 800-acre community occupies the highest elevation within Summerlin, Las Vegas’s sprawling master-planned community, allowing spectacular vistas. 
 
The Ridges is manned by guards and boasts homes with some of the finest contemporary architecture, world-class amenities, and stunning views of the entire Las Vegas Valley. Divided into at least 10 home sites or neighborhoods, each with distinct flair, The Ridges has the best sights of Las Vegas. The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area lies just a few minutes away and serves as a scenic backdrop. 
 
The centerpiece of the ultra-exclusive village is Bear’s Best Golf designed by Jack Nicklaus, an 18-hole course hand-selected from his award-winning designs. The meticulously groomed fairways are visible from the backyard of homeowners. When it’s not tee time, you can socialize with neighbors in Club Ridges, a 9,000-square-foot fitness facility with resort-style pool, sauna, exercise equipment, and tennis courts.
 
The Ridges guarantees its residents luxe amenities within the village and around Summerlin. This includes resident-exclusive community centers, 250 parks, public libraries, the Summerlin Hospital, and proximity to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Families prefer The Ridges for the best private and charter schools in the area.
 

Browse luxury homes in The Ridges


Celebrated as the crown jewel of Summerlin, The Ridges is the site of custom- built luxury homes in Las Vegas. From sprawling mansions with the latest smart home technology to self-contained bespoke homes , The Ridges has the best of everything.
 
Luxury homes come at a minimum of 4,000 square feet up to 10,000 square feet. Each stands on enormous lots with awesome views and built to allow an abundance of natural light into the home. Spa bathrooms, walk-in closets, gourmet kitchens, wine cellars, and theater and game rooms are typical features. 
 
Browse The Ridges luxury real estate for sale
Explore The Ridges community
 

MacDonald Highlands

 
Located in the foothills of McCullough Mountains, MacDonald Highlands in Henderson, NV blends upscale living with serene nature views. It lies 2,700 feet above the desert floor of the Las Vegas Valley, giving the homes bonus views of the Las Vegas skyline.
 
Covering 1,200 acres, MacDonald Highlands features parks and miles of walking, jogging, and biking trails. The main attraction of this elite community is the 18-hole Dragon Ridge Golf Course, named the Best Private Golf Course by Las Vegas Review-Journal.
 
The Dragon Ridge Country Club allows residents to socialize, take classes, or go on a scheduled massage. The fitness center, tennis courts, swimming pool, lounges, and a pro shop offer more options. 
 
If  privacy and security are your top concerns, MacDonald Highlands is one of the finest guard-gated communities in Henderson. The perks are among the best:
 
top-rated schools as well as shopping, dining, fitness, and recreation centers.
 

Luxury homes in Macdonald Highlands

Renowned as Las Vegas’s most elite neighborhood, MacDonald Highlands will transform the way you live. You can buy a luxury custom home near the golf course or a large estate on the hillside.
 
Premium listings include luxurious single-family homes with 5- 7 bedrooms and 8-10 bathrooms. Experience resort-style living in a spectacular home equipped with a chef’s kitchen, spa bathroom, gym, movie theater, walk-in closet, wine cellar, wet bar, outdoor pool, porte cochere, and golf cart garages.
 
The custom homes in this neighborhood come in architectural styles such as Tuscan and Modern Desert. Multi-level luxury properties have sweeping views of the Las Vegas Valley.
 
Explore MacDonald Highlands
View luxury homes for sale in Macdonald Highlands
 

The Summit Club

 
Nestled between the natural wonder of Red Rock Canyon and the glittering Las Vegas Strip, The Summit Club is distinguished as the only private residential club community in Las Vegas.  Spanning 555 acres, the private gated community is a luxury escape.
 
Living in the most exclusive luxury community in Summerlin, you’ll indulge in five-star amenities, terrain-to-table cuisine, and a championship golf- course designed by world-renowned architect Tom Fazio. The dramatic course blends with the character and natural setting of the exclusive community.
 
If you want to learn how to play like a pro, get expert coaching from the Practice Facility. All members get exclusive access to sophisticated dining selections, recreation and adventure opportunities, and wellness programs. At the heart of The Summit is the luxurious Clubhouse and its superb concierge services.
 

Luxury homes in The Summit Club

The Club Village delivers the finest bespoke homes. You can choose from  a range of residential options. All homes have been built using natural materials, the surrounding terrain, and creative designs in the style of Desert Modernism. 
 
  • Clubhouse Suites are great for entertaining indoors and out. Residents enter a private lobby with a valet, get to throw barbecue parties on generous terraces, soak in an outdoor tub, gather round an outdoor fireplace, and take in serene mountain views.
  • Golf Cottages come in 3 and 4 bedrooms with extraordinary primary bedrooms, wraparound patios, and outdoor fireplaces.
  • Desert Bungalows are perfect for family gatherings. The single-story homes are available in 3 to 4 bedrooms, a wraparound pool, and a spa.
  • Club Villas are suited for multigenerational families or as a vacation retreat. Spacious homes feature 5 bedrooms, an expansive patio with dining and lounge areas, and a spa and pool.
  • Point Villas are designed for the ultimate in comfort and luxury.  The stylish 5-bedroom homes boast vaulted ceilings, upper and lower wrap-around patios, golf cart parking, and garage spaces.
 
 

Contact the Las Vegas Dream Home Specialist, Gavin Enstone

With a plethora of Las Vegas residential communities to choose from, Dream Homes Specialist, Gavin Enstone, will happily assist you in finding the top-notch residential community and dream home that answer your wants and needs. Gavin has had more than 25 years of experience as a luxury home agent. His extensive knowledge and expertise in the multi-million dollar housing market makes him your trusted agent for your finest home buying experience.

LET’S WORK TOGETHER

Gavin has been selling dream homes in the Las Vegas Valley for over 25 years and is widely respected as one of the top Las Vegas luxury real estate agents.

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