The allure of Texas real estate has long captivated the ambitious, the visionary, and the truly successful. In an era marked by a significant economic boom and an influx of new residents, particularly from the West Coast, the Lone Star State’s luxury property market is not merely thriving; it is setting new benchmarks for opulent living and aspirational investment. Across Dallas, Austin, and Fort Worth, estates boasting unparalleled amenities, vast acreages, and storied histories are changing hands, reflecting a vibrant ecosystem where wealth, entrepreneurship, and sophisticated taste converge.
Indeed, the phrase “everything is bigger in Texas” finds a profound resonance within its real estate sector, especially concerning properties once owned or developed by industry titans. These homes are not just structures of brick and mortar; they are monuments to achievement, meticulously crafted sanctuaries designed for those who command respect in the boardroom and seek unparalleled comfort in their private lives. From sprawling North Dallas compounds to lakefront Austin havens, these listings paint a vivid picture of a state at the pinnacle of luxury living.
Among the most remarkable offerings currently making headlines is “The Forty,” the magnificent North Dallas mansion that once served as the personal residence of David Weinreb, the co-founder and former CEO of Howard Hughes Holdings. Listed for a commanding nearly $25 million, this estate is more than just a home; it’s a sprawling testament to design and lifestyle. Sitting majestically on over six acres, the property at 5530 North 40 Place encompasses just over 20,000 square feet of refined living space, designed to cater to every conceivable desire for comfort and grandeur.
“The Forty” truly embodies the harmonious blend of natural splendor and modern sophistication. “Surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens and scenic walking trails, The Forty seamlessly merges natural beauty with modern luxury, creating an idyllic sanctuary in the heart of DFW,” as eloquently described in its property description on Realtor.com. This extensive land holding allows for a rare degree of privacy and tranquility, a verdant oasis amidst the bustling energy of one of America’s fastest-growing metropolitan areas.
Weinreb’s vision for this estate, dating back to the early 2000s when he first acquired the land, came to fruition with the completion of construction in 2009. His expertise in real estate development, honed during his tenure leading Howard Hughes Holdings—a Texas-based company that once called Dallas home before its 2019 relocation to The Woodlands—is evident in every detail of “The Forty.” The property’s strategic location further enhances its appeal, offering a coveted balance between serene seclusion and immediate access to the vibrant communities of Highland Park, Preston Hollow, Plano, and Frisco.
As the listing description aptly notes, it offers “the best of both North and South,” presenting residents with unparalleled convenience to premier dining, shopping, and entertainment venues, all while retaining a sense of exclusive retreat. This dual advantage is a significant draw for discerning buyers who seek both an escape and connectivity in their daily lives, underlining the property’s desirability in a competitive market.
Stepping inside “The Forty” reveals an interior meticulously designed for both grand entertaining and intimate living. A “grand reception hall” immediately welcomes guests, acting as a gateway to the home’s private wing, a clear demarcation between public and personal spaces. The mansion’s west wing, however, is exclusively dedicated to entertainment, offering a sophisticated array of amenities tailored for lavish gatherings and leisure.
Within this entertainment hub, one discovers a “stylish bar lounge,” an ideal setting for cocktail parties and relaxed evenings. Adjacent to it lies a modern chef’s kitchen, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and designed for culinary excellence, whether for a private chef or the homeowner with a passion for gastronomy. Ascending to the upper level of this wing, owners are afforded access to their own private library, a quiet sanctuary for reflection and intellectual pursuit, alongside a state-of-the-art home theater, perfect for cinematic experiences without ever leaving the comfort of home.
The ground level of the mansion continues this theme of luxury and convenience, featuring a thoughtfully curated wine cellar, a dedicated massage room complete with a steam shower—offering a spa-like experience at home—and a “stunning cabana-game room.” These amenities transform the residence into a personal resort, providing endless opportunities for relaxation and recreation, all within the confines of the estate. The integration of such high-end features speaks volumes about the level of luxury afforded to its occupants.
Beyond the main residence, the northern section of “The Forty” unfolds into an outdoor paradise. It boasts a resort-style pool that invites tranquil swims and vibrant pool parties alike. A grand garden pavilion, capable of accommodating up to 600 seated guests, stands ready for events ranging from lavish weddings to significant corporate gatherings, making it an extraordinary venue for any occasion. Further enhancing the estate’s recreational offerings are a private tennis court, a serene freshwater pond, and a meticulously maintained putting green, catering to a diverse range of leisure pursuits.
For the automobile enthusiast, the property’s garage with lifts offers an exceptional capacity, able to hold more than two dozen cars. This practical yet luxurious feature underscores the estate’s comprehensive approach to catering to the needs and passions of its affluent owners. The sheer scale and thoughtful integration of these amenities establish “The Forty” as a premier luxury property, a true jewel in the Dallas real estate landscape, emblematic of the robust market for ultra-high-net-worth individuals in Texas.
Shifting our focus south, the Austin real estate scene is equally vibrant, with another entrepreneurial titan making waves. Mike Rypka, the ingenious founder of the wildly popular Torchy’s Tacos, has listed his sprawling Austin compound, positioning it as the city’s most expensive piece of property. His journey from a food truck in 2006 to a sprawling empire of over 120 locations across sixteen states, predominantly in Texas, is a testament to his “Damn Good” business acumen. Rypka’s success with fried avocados, Mr. Orange, and Republican tacos has undoubtedly enabled him to acquire and cultivate this stunning lakefront home.
This compound, a perfect embodiment of Austin’s unique spirit, is designed for ultimate enjoyment and entertainment. It features three distinct structures, offering immense flexibility to a prospective buyer. Rypka is offering the entire three-lot compound for an astonishing $25 million, or the option to purchase two lots, including the main house, for $19 million. This tiered pricing strategy caters to varying needs while ensuring the centerpiece—the magnificent main house—remains part of the sale, regardless of the configuration.
The main house, originally built in 1999, underwent an extensive renovation under Rypka’s discerning eye. He collaborated with Britt Design Group to reimagine the interiors, crafting a space that is both luxurious and deeply personal. Spanning 10,227 square feet, the home features an impressive five bedrooms, three kitchens, and a remarkable eight common living spaces. These areas are complemented by both informal and formal dining rooms, a secure safe room, and a walk-in freezer, indicating a home designed for both grand-scale living and practical functionality.
Beyond these generous provisions, the compound thoughtfully includes additional guest accommodation. There are three supplementary guest rooms, each with an attached kitchenette, ensuring privacy and comfort for visitors. This attention to detail speaks to a lifestyle that embraces hospitality, providing ample space for friends, family, and associates to stay comfortably, reflecting Austin’s welcoming ethos.
Outside the main house, the property truly shines as an entertainer’s dream. Direct access to Lake Austin provides a gateway to aquatic adventures, while a resort-style pool and hot tub offer opportunities for relaxation and leisure. An outdoor kitchen simplifies al fresco dining, but perhaps the most vital component for hosting is the ingenious swim-up bar, a feature designed to elevate any gathering into an unforgettable experience, embodying a fun, laid-back luxury that aligns perfectly with Austin’s vibe.
Rypka’s personal touch is evident in the home’s interior design, which, despite the property’s grandeur, was conceived with a deliberate sense of levity and character. Having lived in Austin since the ’90s, he sought to infuse the interiors with the city’s funky and eclectic spirit, incorporating large art pieces and even graffiti, a nod to Austin’s vibrant street art scene. “It’s a big fancy house, and we didn’t want to take ourselves too seriously. Not everything has to be ornate,” Rypka told Austin Monthly in 2020, revealing his philosophy behind creating a “little slice of heaven” for himself and his son.
