Sarah Okonkwo
Sarah Okonkwo covers legal and consumer-finance topics for CityDesk. She aims for the middle ground most legal content misses: accurate and carefully qualified, but written for people, not lawyers. Her coverage explains the rule, the exceptions, and what it actually means for the reader — without giving legal advice.
CityDesk reporting is produced with AI assistance and reviewed by our editors.
What Houston's Short-Term Rental Rules Actually Require in 2025
No licensing regime, no dedicated STR ordinance. But deed restrictions, Hotel Occupancy Tax obligations on direct bookings, and the city's nuisance complaint system can still shut you down.
How to Start a Small Business in Houston in 2026 Without Getting Lost in the Paperwork
A step-by-step walkthrough of the actual requirements for sole proprietors, LLCs, food-service operators, and anyone signing a commercial lease in Harris County.
What Homestead and Other Property Tax Exemptions Houston Homeowners Often Miss
The $100,000 school district break, the senior tax freeze, full veterans' exemptions — what you qualify for, what it's worth, and how to file before April 30.
