It’s no secret that Austin has changed from a sleepy Texan college town into an international darling destination for the world’s elite. With this explosive evolution comes a housing market in which it’s increasingly common to see homes priced near $1 million. Still, even if what’s attainable for the average Austinite shrinks, it’s still worth chasing those caviar dreams and seeing what the top of the real estate list has to offer.

4904 Tortuga Place | $26,995,000

A stunning example of lake living by Shiflet Group Architects, 4904 Tortuga Place, is a prime example of how the rolling hills abutting the waters cement themselves as one of Austin’s dream home spots. The contemporary whites and picture frame windows do all they can to keep the focus on the natural splendor this lot has in spades. It could be mistaken for an impossible-to-book resort stay rather than somewhere you go home. Listed by Gary & Michelle Dolch / Austin Luxury Group

12842 Hughes Park Road | $19,500,000

There are lake houses, and there are lake palaces. 12842 Hughes Park Road is dubbed Villa Del Lago, and the Mediterranean fantasy comes alive when you cross over your cascading waterfall(?!). The stunning views are almost overshadowed by the detailed amenities that dot the hillside grounds, like the gargoyle-guarded grotto or the grand fireplace centering the personal pavilion. All that’s missing is a royal title. Listed by Gary & Michelle Dolch / Austin Luxury Group

805 Congress Ave. | $18,000,000

There’s living in Austin, and there is LIVING in Austin. 805 Congress Ave. is, beyond a doubt, as central as it can get. With a front door on one of the most famous streets in our city and surrounded by some of the best Austin has to offer, this tucked-away townhome is an oasis in the ever-growing concrete jungle that is downtown. Complete with your own garage spot, so worries over parking on Congress become a thing of the past. Listed by Christopher Watters.

200 Congress Ave. Unit 50T | $13,000,000

Live in a skyline landmark at the Austonian with the sprawling Unit 50T. While no longer the tallest tower, this unit still stands high above the city, with spectacular views overlooking all four directions of Austin. The floor-to-ceiling windows create a sense of living in the clouds. Relax and watch as the city continues its rapid transformation into a world-class destination above all. Listed by Dominique Leal.

1301 W 29th Street | $9,250,000

Designed in 1938 by Roy L. Thomas, The Bohn Home is a rare art deco gem in Austin’s real estate crown. Despite her age, there is a timeless beauty both inside and out of this masterpiece mansion in Pemberton Heights. There’s a refreshing sense of vibrant life once inside, and the renovation done by Dick Clark and Associates brings the property into the 21st century with a proper eye of respect for the home’s past. While the yard boasts views towards downtown, no one can blame you if you only ever look at the house itself. Listed by: Phyllis Patek

Original Aritcle by: DEVEN WILSON, Tribeza