Are there any neighborhoods in the area that allow custom homes to be built? We want to hire an architect, buy a lot, and build a SMALL custom home. 

Are there any neighborhoods in the area that allow custom homes to be built? We want to hire an architect, buy a lot, and build a SMALL custom home.

It's going to be way more expensive than you expect, and there's a good chance that the appraisal (for banking purposes) will fall short of the loan value needed. Be warned. Be prepared. Good luck.

What size lot do you want? 

Try Oakhurst on the west side of 59. I believe they have lots available for custom building. 

Neighborhoods where custom building is allowed may also have minimum size standards for houses. So, small house may not be possible on certain lots. 

Commons of Lake Houston and Saddlebrook Farms both have lots available.

I saw a vacant lot for sale on HAR.com in Woodlands Hills (the house burned down)- I think it was like $40,000. . . 

We would like a small lot - just big enough for a small pool. 

Most neighborhoods will require you to meet their requirements for building a house. It can still be custom but will need to be to their specifications. Where we're building has a minimum size requirement, siding requirement and placement on the lot.