Get to know us

NOVEL River Oaks FAQs

Curious about life at NOVEL River Oaks? Our FAQs cover everything from pet policies to parking, plus the details that make our community unique, like our walkable location, thoughtful sustainability features, and the local charm that defines River Oaks living.

What makes your community unique?

NOVEL River Oaks offers a unique blend of luxury, convenience, and location. Residents enjoy concrete construction for enhanced privacy, direct-access parking, and a highly desirable River Oaks location just steps from Central Market, dining, shopping, and entertainment. Our community combines modern design, convenient amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it feel like home.

 

What are your office hours?

Monday 9AM–6PM, Tuesday 10AM–6PM, Wednesday–Friday 9AM–6PM, Thursday 9AM–7PM, Saturday 10AM–5PM, Sunday 1PM–5PM

 

Is the community pet friendly?

Yes! NOVEL River Oaks is a pet-friendly community. Our pet amenities include a private pet park, a dog spa, and complimentary treats available at the concierge desk. We also love celebrating our furry residents with our monthly Pet of the Month feature on Instagram, @NovelRiverOaks.

 

What types of floor plans do you offer?

NOVEL River Oaks offers a variety of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes, as well as spacious townhomes. Every residence features a private balcony, modern kitchens, designer finishes, and open-concept layouts. Townhomes also include private yards, offering additional outdoor living space.

 

Where is NOVEL River Oaks located in Houston?

NOVEL River Oaks is located at the iconic intersection of Willowick and Westheimer in the heart of the prestigious River Oaks area.

 

Do you offer furnished units?

Our homes are unfurnished but we have furniture rental recommendations.

 

Do all homes have balconies?

Yes! Every residence at NOVEL River Oaks includes a private balcony, and our townhomes offer the added benefit of private yards for even more outdoor living space.

 

Is smoking permitted on the property?

NOVEL River Oaks is proud to be a smoke-free community, promoting a comfortable and enjoyable living experience for residents and their guests.

 

Who provides internet at NOVEL River Oaks?

NOVEL River Oaks is served by both Xfinity and AT&T, giving residents the flexibility to select the internet provider and service plan that best meets their needs.

 

Do the apartments come with a washer and dryer?

Yes! Every residence at NOVEL River Oaks includes a full-size GE washer and dryer.

 

How do I schedule a tour?

Scheduling a tour is easy! You can book a guided in-person tour or a live virtual tour through our website, call the leasing office, or stop by during office hours.

 

What documents are required to apply?

Applicants will need a valid government-issued photo ID and information to verify income and employment. Our leasing team will guide you through the application process and let you know if any additional documentation is needed.

 

What are the income or credit requirements?

To qualify, applicants should have a gross monthly income of at least three times the monthly base rent. We also review credit, rental, and background history as part of our standard application process.

 

How do I apply?

Applying is easy! You can submit an application directly through our website after selecting your preferred apartment home. If you'd like help comparing floor plans or pricing, our leasing team can also provide a personalized quote and application link to get you started.

 

Is renters insurance required?

Yes. Each leaseholder is required to maintain renters insurance with a minimum of $100,000 in personal liability coverage throughout their residency at NOVEL River Oaks.

 

How long does the approval process take?

The approval process is typically completed within 24–72 hours after all required application information and supporting documentation have been submitted. Processing times may vary depending on verification requirements.

 

Do you offer short-term leases?

Yes! NOVEL River Oaks offers flexible lease terms, including short-term leases as brief as three months, subject to availability and pricing.

 

What lease terms do you offer?

NOVEL River Oaks offers a variety of lease term options, including short-term leases starting at three months. Availability and pricing may vary based on the selected lease term and apartment home. Contact our leasing team for current options and rates.

 

Do you run background and credit checks?

Yes. As part of our application process, NOVEL River Oaks conducts credit, criminal background, and income verification screenings to help ensure a comfortable living environment for all residents.

 

Do you offer specials for preferred employers?

Yes! Employees of select preferred employers receive waived application and admin fees, a complimentary one-time amenity reservation (up to 3 hours), one complimentary guest suite reservation, and one complimentary housekeeping service. Contact our leasing team to learn more about current participating companies.

 

How much is the security deposit?

Security deposits start at $750 and may vary based on the results of the application screening process. Our leasing team can provide specific deposit information during the application process.

 

Which utilities are included in rent?

Utilities are billed separately and are not included in the base rent. Our leasing team can provide a detailed breakdown of utility responsibilities and estimated monthly costs.

 

What utilities am I responsible for?

Residents are responsible for electricity, water, sewer, trash, pest control, boiler management, gas, and any other services such as internet, cable, community amenity fee, package service, and renters insurance. Our leasing team is happy to provide additional details regarding utility billing and setup.

 

When is rent due and what payment methods are accepted?

Rent is due on the first day of each month. Residents can conveniently make payments online through the resident portal using a bank account or credit card.

 

What is required on move-in day?

Move-in day requirements include proof of insurance, proof of electricity service, payment of the move-in prorated amount, and a signed lease agreement.

 

Do you allow subletting or lease transfers?

Subletting is not permitted. However, current residents may be eligible to transfer to another apartment home within the community, subject to availability and applicable requirements. Please contact our leasing team for details.

 

What is your move-out policy?

A 60-day written notice is required prior to move-out, and a final inspection may be conducted upon request.

 

What amenities do you offer?

Residents enjoy a variety of thoughtfully curated amenities, including a resort-style pool, fitness center, resident lounges, pet park, dog spa, concierge services, guest suite, and resident events throughout the year. Contact our leasing team or explore our Amenities page for a complete list of community features.

 

Are amenities open 24/7?

Amenity hours vary, but the fitness center is open 24/7 for resident use.

 

Can residents reserve amenity spaces for private events?

Yes! Residents may reserve select amenity spaces for private events, subject to availability and applicable reservation requirements.

 

Is Wi-Fi available in common areas?

Yes! Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout our common areas and amenity spaces for resident convenience.

 

Do you offer a guest suite for visitors, and what does it include?

Yes! We offer a fully furnished guest suite for residents' visitors, providing a comfortable and convenient place for friends and family to stay while visiting. Contact the leasing office for availability, rates, and reservation details.

 

How do residents reserve the guest suite, and what is the nightly rate?

Residents can reserve the guest suite through the resident app or by contacting the leasing office or concierge team. The nightly rate is $225, and reservations are subject to availability.

 

Is parking available onsite?

Yes! Residents enjoy access to our onsite parking garage, which offers convenient direct access to residential floors.

 

Is parking free?

Yes, parking is included. Reserved parking spaces are also available as an optional upgrade for $150 per space per month.

 

Do you offer EV charging stations?

Yes! EV charging stations are available onsite for residents.

 

Is bike storage available?

Yes! Bike storage is available onsite for residents.

 

How does package delivery work?

Package delivery is coordinated through a convenient package management service that allows residents to schedule deliveries directly to their door. Additional details and registration information are provided prior to move-in.

 

Are there resident events or community activities?

Yes! We host 1–2 resident events each month designed to help neighbors connect and build community. Residents also enjoy weekly live fitness classes, including Pilates and yoga.

 

What are the pool hours?

The pool is closed on Mondays for cleaning and open Tuesday–Sunday from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

 

Can guests use the amenities?

Yes, when accompanied by a resident.

 

Is guest parking available?

Yes! Residents are welcome to enjoy community amenities with their guests. For the comfort and security of all residents, guests must be accompanied by a resident while using amenity spaces.

 

How do guests access the building?

Guests can access the building through our ButterflyMX entry system, which allows residents to grant access directly from their smartphone. Guests may also check in with the concierge team upon arrival for assistance.

 

Is the building accessible for individuals with disabilities?

Yes. The community includes accessibility features designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities. Please contact our leasing team to discuss specific accessibility needs and available accommodations.

 

Are amenities and common areas accessible?

Yes. Our amenity spaces and common areas are designed with accessibility in mind to help ensure all residents and guests can comfortably enjoy the community.

 

Do you offer accessible parking spaces?

Yes. Accessible parking spaces are available throughout the parking garage for residents and guests in accordance with applicable accessibility requirements.

 

Do you allow pets?

Yes! NOVEL River Oaks is a pet-friendly community. Our pet amenities include a private pet park, a dog spa, and complimentary treats available at the concierge desk. We also love celebrating our furry residents with our monthly Pet of the Month feature on Instagram, @NovelRiverOaks.

 

Are there any breed restrictions?

Yes. Certain breeds identified in our community pet policy are restricted. Service animals are not subject to breed restrictions. Please contact our leasing team for current pet policy details and eligibility requirements.

 

How many pets are allowed per apartment?

A maximum of two pets are permitted per apartment home. Please contact our leasing team for information regarding pet fees, breed restrictions, and community pet policies.

 

Are service animals permitted?

Yes. Service animals are welcome and are not subject to breed restrictions. Please contact our leasing team for details.

 

Do you have pet amenities?

Our pet amenities include a private pet park, a dog spa, and complimentary treats available at the concierge desk. We also love celebrating our furry residents with our monthly Pet of the Month feature on Instagram, @NovelRiverOaks.

 

Is there a pet deposit or pet rent?

Yes. Pet fees and monthly pet rent apply. Please contact our leasing team for current rates and additional details regarding our pet policy.

 

What neighborhood is the property located in?

NOVEL River Oaks is located at the iconic intersection of Willowick and Westheimer in the heart of the prestigious River Oaks area.

 

Is the River Oaks neighborhood a good place to live?

Yes, River Oaks is one of Houston's most desirable neighborhoods with central access to major areas like Uptown, Downtown, and the Museum District.

 

What is the River Oaks neighborhood known for?

The River Oaks neighborhood is known for its luxury real estate, historic estates, high-end boutiques, and upscale dining.

 

What shops, restaurants, and grocery stores are nearby?

Residents enjoy an exceptional dining scene right outside their door. Fielding's Steak and Anthony's Italian are located onsite, while popular nearby restaurants include Steak 48, State of Grace, Little Hen, Loch Bar, Bari Ristorante, and many other acclaimed River Oaks dining destinations.

 

What schools is the property zoned to?

The community is currently zoned to River Oaks Elementary School, Lanier Middle School, and Lamar High School. School assignments are subject to change, so we recommend verifying enrollment eligibility and zoning directly with the school district.

 

What universities are close by?

NOVEL River Oaks is conveniently located near several major universities, including Rice University, University of Houston, Texas Southern University, and University of St. Thomas.

 

How close is the nearest public transit stop?

Public transit stops are conveniently located near the community, providing easy access to Downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, and other major destinations throughout the city.

 

Are there parks near NOVEL River Oaks?

Levy Park, Memorial Park, and River Oaks Park are all located nearby, giving residents easy access to scenic trails, outdoor recreation, community events, and green space in the heart of Houston.

 

How far are you from the airport?

Both of Houston's major airports are easily accessible from the community. William P. Hobby Airport is approximately 12 miles away (roughly 16–20 minutes by car), and George Bush Intercontinental Airport is approximately 21–26 miles away (roughly 30–45 minutes by car).

 

How far are you from Downtown Houston?

Downtown Houston is approximately 5 miles from the community and can typically be reached in 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

 

How far are you from the Texas Medical Center?

The Texas Medical Center is approximately 5 miles from the community and is easily accessible by car or public transit.

 

How do I pay my rent?

Rent can be paid conveniently through the resident portal using a bank account or credit card. Residents may also contact the leasing office with any questions regarding payment options.

 

How do I renew my lease?

Lease renewal offers are sent prior to your lease expiration date and can be completed through the resident portal. If you have questions about your renewal options, our leasing team is happy to assist.

 

How do I submit a maintenance request?

Maintenance requests can be submitted easily through the resident portal. Residents may also contact the leasing office or concierge team if they need assistance submitting a request.

 

Is maintenance available 24/7?

Emergency maintenance services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Non-emergency service requests are completed during regular business hours, Monday through Friday.

 

Is there an online portal for residents?

Yes! Residents have access to an online portal where they can pay rent, submit maintenance requests, review lease information, and manage their account conveniently from anywhere.

 

Do residents get partner perks or discounts?

Yes! Residents may have access to exclusive perks and special offers from select local businesses and partners. Contact the leasing office for current offerings and details.

 

How do I access my home and the amenities?

Residents enjoy controlled-access entry throughout the community using key fobs, providing convenient access to their home, amenities, and other authorized areas of the property.

 

Is NOVEL River Oaks good for remote workers?

Yes! NOVEL River Oaks is well-suited for remote work, offering spacious apartment homes, complimentary Wi-Fi in common areas, and convenient access to dining, coffee shops, and everyday essentials.