Tommy Kanarellis, a real estate agent with experience in both Houston and Aspen, has returned to Houston to take on a new role as associate sales director for the Ritz-Carlton Residences of Houston. The appointment was announced by Redeavor Group, which manages sales for the luxury condo development.
Kanarellis previously held the distinction of being Houston’s top-ranked condo sales agent in 2021 while at Compass Real Estate. After leaving Compass in 2022 for a short period at Douglas Elliman, he returned to Compass in 2023 before focusing his efforts on Colorado. His background includes assisting Houstonians in finding second homes in Aspen.
The move comes as demand for luxury housing continues to rise in Houston. Local agents note that while there is ample general housing available, luxury homes remain scarce and tend to sell quickly compared to other Texas cities. Most high-end properties are concentrated within neighborhoods such as River Oaks and Memorial Villages.
The Ritz-Carlton Residences of Houston is one of several branded condominium projects underway in the city. Other developments include projects under the Auberge and St. Regis brands, as well as another Ritz-Carlton project being built in The Woodlands. These projects aim to cater to buyers from industries like aerospace, medicine, and energy who are seeking upscale living options.
In related real estate news, Ryan Fassett has joined Oxford Partners—a commercial real estate firm based in Houston—as senior vice president. Fassett brings 15 years of experience specializing in office and industrial tenant representation from firms including UGL Equis, Moody Rambin, and Lee & Associates.
Additionally, Premier—a Dallas-based architecture and engineering firm owned by Ashford—has promoted Johannes Michalsky to CEO effective January 1. Michalsky has been with Premier for 12 years and served as COO since 2024. While Ashford’s primary focus is hospitality, Premier also works within student housing and multifamily sectors.
