Houston Real Estate FAQ
Straight answers to the questions Houston buyers and sellers ask us most, from Evan Compean and the Compean Group team. Tap a question to see the answer, or jump to a topic. For real examples, see our anonymized client results. Updated October 2026.
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Selling a Home
These 66 answers also have their own page: Selling FAQ.
Selling in Houston? Ask for a pricing and preparation conversation.
What's included when I list my home with Compean Group?
Every listing includes:
- A written pricing analysis and net sheet, so you know your likely proceeds before you list.
- Make-ready recommendations and preparation advice, including which repairs and updates are worth doing and which aren't, plus our on-staff handyman for small jobs and staging help, from a courtesy staging walk-through to a staging package through our partners.
- Professional HDR photos with dusk editing, a video walk-through, a 3D tour of the inside and outside, a floor plan, aerial photos where they help and virtual staging when it helps.
- Premium placement on Homes.com and Zillow, paid online and social advertising to reach buyers where they search, an email campaign to agents at Houston-area brokerages, a custom property website, flyers and Coming Soon pre-marketing within HAR's rules.
- Showing scheduling, proactive feedback follow-up and weekly curated updates on activity and the market.
- Negotiation and closing support, from offers and inspections through the appraisal, title work and closing day.
There's much more involved than we can list here, but we keep a few things private until we talk with you one on one, because they're part of our competitive advantage. In that conversation, we'll walk you through everything we do and how such a small team has earned 921 reviews and ratings across five sites.
How is your marketing different from other agents'?
Every agent can list a home on HAR.com, which then syndicates to the same websites, such as Zillow, Realtor.com and Homes.com. Our difference is what we add on top of that: paid partnerships for premium placement, an actual media plan rather than just photos, a 3D tour and a floor plan, expert pricing and preparation advice, and search, retargeting and pay-per-click ads that keep your home in front of buyers as they browse. Most agents don't pay for these extras, and as a boutique brokerage, we aren't held back by a corporate marketing budget. All of it comes with the five-star service behind our 921 reviews and ratings.
Who will I work with during the sale of my home?
Evan Compean, the founder, is your point person from pricing to closing day. Celena Compean helps with the preparation and readiness of your home and listing, Amanda Milligan, a licensed broker and our operations and compliance manager, keeps paperwork and deadlines on track, and the rest of our team handles scheduling, showings and marketing in the background.
How do you decide on my list price?
We study the homes buyers will compare yours to: active listings, recent price cuts and sales from the last 60 days, adjusted for size, updates and location. We also give you notes on the other comps and the things to consider about each of those sales. We provide you with 2 pricing recommendations, but ultimately YOU decide the direction, and we're here to give you guidance. We'll explain our reasoning on pricing strategy and give you a showing target for the first few so we can react quickly if buyers disagree with the price. We don't just list it and wait to see what happens.
How will I know how my listing is doing?
You'll get an email for every showing, along with the buyer agent's feedback. Every Monday we send a written activity update covering showings, online activity, buyer comments, and every Tuesday you'll get a second recap with different information, so you always know where your listing stands.
Do I need to make repairs or updates before listing?
Usually not everything. We'll point out which fixes pay for themselves, such as paint, lighting or an item an inspector would flag, and which to skip. Evan's investor and builder background helps here: we know what buyers pay more for and what they ignore. At the same time, if you'd rather sell as-is and quickly, we can help with that too, and if you want to see whether bigger upgrades are worth doing, we'll review that with you. Either way, we'll explain the what and the why.
How do you handle the buyer's inspection requests?
We wait for the buyer's written request instead of bidding against ourselves, and then negotiate from there, comparing repairs, a credit and a price change on your net sheet. First, we set the expectation with the buyer's agent that you won't be fixing everything on the inspection report; we focus on safety items and real concerns that could kill the deal. We commonly cut a buyer's requests in half or land much more favorable terms than they first asked for; on a recent as-is sale in Katy, we held the buyer to a single $1,000 credit with no repairs. We'll also be honest with you and tell you when it's in your best interest to work something out with this specific buyer.
How many inspections will a buyer do on my home?
The contract doesn't set a number, but inspections happen during the buyer's option period. Most buyers schedule a general home inspection and a termite inspection, and some add specialists such as a foundation evaluation, sewer scope, roof, pool or invasive stucco inspection when the home calls for it. A stucco inspection drills small holes in the walls, so it needs your written approval first. We coordinate the times with you so each visit is planned ahead.
Where does the contract cover a buyer's inspections?
Paragraph 7A, Access, Inspections and Utilities, of the TREC One to Four Family Residential Contract (Resale), form 20-19, lets the buyer use inspectors of their choosing who are licensed by TREC or otherwise permitted by law, and requires you to give reasonable access and keep the utilities on. A hydrostatic plumbing test needs your separate written authorization, usually on TREC's Addendum for Authorizing Hydrostatic Testing. An invasive stucco inspection, which drills small holes in the walls to check for moisture, also needs your written approval. The option period in paragraph 5 is the window the buyer uses for these inspections.
Do I have to allow the buyer's inspections?
Yes. Once you're under contract, the standard TREC resale contract requires you to give the buyer and their inspectors reasonable access and keep the utilities on. Invasive tests are different: a hydrostatic plumbing test requires your written authorization, and we only allow drilling into stucco with your written OK. If you have questions about your obligations under your contract, a real estate attorney can advise you.
What if the buyer's appraisal comes in low?
The best approach is a proactive one: we give the appraiser comparable sales and a list of the home's updates before the appraisal is done. If the value still comes in short, there are three main options. First, we can ask the buyer's lender for a reconsideration of value, sending the appraiser additional comparable sales and any corrections that support the price. Second, we can negotiate with the buyer to pay the difference in cash, or a portion of it. Third, you can decline their request to lower the price, keeping in mind that, depending on the contract, the buyer may be able to walk away. We'll review all of the options with you and recommend the one that fits your situation.
Can you sell my Houston home if I live out of state or overseas?
Yes. We regularly sell for owners in other states and countries. We have the title company review any power of attorney before the first offer, handle access and vendors locally, and arrange remote or mail-away signing for closing. We can often also set up online notarization from almost anywhere in the world, as long as you have a webcam and an internet connection.
What does it cost to sell with Compean Group?
Our fee is set out in the listing agreement before you sign, and we walk through every line with you, along with an estimated net sheet showing title, tax proration and other closing costs. Photography, the 3D tour, listing advertising and the showing service are part of our service.
Does the brokerage I choose really change my sale price?
Yes. Pricing, preparation, marketing reach and negotiation each move your bottom line. On a recent Heights sale, every comparable sale was below our contract price, but the home still appraised at full price because we showed the appraiser the demand the home had, its upgrades and the advantages it had over the other comps. We've done the same for homes all over town.
What should I look for when choosing a listing agent in Houston?
Ask for a written pricing analysis with active and sold comparables, a marketing plan that says what's paid for, how often you'll get updates and who you'll actually talk to. Then read recent reviews on Google, Zillow and HAR, not only the testimonials an agent picks, and compare reviews per agent, not just the total. That's where we stand out: every listing gets a written pricing analysis with notes on each comp, a paid marketing plan with premium placement on Homes.com and Zillow and online ads, feedback updates plus written recaps every Monday and Tuesday, and Evan as your point person from pricing to closing day. As a small team with 921 reviews and ratings across five sites, we have far more reviews per agent than most large operations, with more than 1,000 homes sold behind our advice.
Why choose a small, owner-led team over a big brokerage?
You get the owner's experience on your sale. Evan Compean leads every listing and stays your point person, and as the brokerage owner he can spend what your listing needs on marketing without a corporate spending cap.
What happens if my home is priced wrong?
Homes priced too high sit, collect price cuts and lose leverage with buyers. We price from current competition and sales from the last 60 days, agree on a showing target for the first week or two, and adjust quickly if the market disagrees. We also review the market's trajectory and your listing's activity to make sure we're getting the results we need, and if we aren't, we'll discuss it with you and give you our suggestions and expectations.
Why do sellers choose Compean Group?
Results and experience: 1,000+ homes sold, 140+ transactions in the last 12 months, a 5.0 rating across 216 Google reviews and an investor's eye for what buyers will pay more for. You also get honest advice on every request, with your options and their net cost laid out side by side. All of this is done with a two-person production team, which is what sets us apart from large teams that can have dozens of agents or more.
Should I give the buyer a credit or make the repairs myself?
For bigger problems, we usually recommend a credit. A credit moves the risk of surprise costs to the buyer after closing, keeps your closing date on track and avoids disputes over workmanship. Small, clear-cut fixes can be cheaper to just repair. We'll review the options with you, because each negotiation is a little different and not every repair or credit approach applies the same way.
Is a price reduction better than a repair credit?
Usually not for repairs. On one recent sale, a price cut would have lowered the buyer's payment by only about $50 a month, while the repairs would have cost them several thousand dollars out of pocket right after closing, so a credit solved the real problem. We compare both on your net sheet before you decide.
Can I sell my Houston home as-is?
Yes, but "as-is" doesn't stop inspections. Texas buyers typically still inspect during the option period and can ask for credits or walk away. On our recent as-is sales, follow-up requests ranged from $1,000 to $5,000. What we do is set expectations up front: when you're selling as-is, we make sure buyers know it, because there's no use wasting time with a buyer who expects to negotiate repairs. We review the approaches with you before you list.
What is the option period?
It's a short window set in the contract, often 5 to 10 days, when the buyer can terminate for any reason after paying an option fee. Option fees usually range from about $100 to $1,000, depending on the sales price, the length of the option period, buyer demand and the neighborhood. Most inspection negotiations happen during this window, so quick answers matter.
Can I make the buyer skip the option period?
Yes, you can ask for an offer without an option period, but the buyer can decline. In today's market that's rare: buyers want inspections, and if we block them, they're likely to move on to a different home.
What is the option fee?
It's what the buyer pays for the right to terminate during the option period. If the sale closes, it's usually credited toward the price; if the buyer terminates, the seller keeps it.
Do I have to tell future buyers about a previous buyer's inspection?
Generally, yes. The Texas seller's disclosure asks about written inspection reports you've received in the past four years, and you must disclose defects you know about. That's why we walk through findings with you carefully before deciding how to respond. Disclosing reports also helps protect you, because you're not hiding anything, and a buyer can't easily claim you knowingly withheld information. If you have a specific concern, consult a real estate attorney for legal advice about your situation.
Can I challenge a low appraisal?
Yes. The buyer's lender can submit a reconsideration of value with better comparable sales, and the review usually takes a few business days. It works best when the appraiser missed closer, newer or more similar sales.
When should I cancel my utilities when selling?
Schedule shutoff for the day after closing and funding, not before. Inspectors, the appraiser and the buyer's final walkthrough need power, water and gas on, and gas appliances can't be inspected without gas service.
How do I sell a house I inherited?
First confirm who has legal authority to sell, which may mean probate or an heirship process, and talk with a probate attorney. Order the title commitment early, because estate title work often takes longer than a typical sale. Our guide to selling a probate or inherited home explains each path and shares five case studies.
How long does it take to sell a house in Houston right now?
It depends on price, condition and area. In HAR's September 2026 report the Houston area had about 5.5 months of inventory, and the average home that sold spent 58 days on the market. Those two figures measure different things: months of inventory is how long the homes for sale now would take to sell at the current pace (all active listings divided by a month's sales; about six months is the usual line between a balanced market and a buyer's market), while days on market counts only the homes that sold, from listing to sale, so a listing that sits unsold is in the inventory figure but not in the days figure. We work on a plan with you to get yours sold much sooner. Once you're under contract, a financed sale typically closes in about 25 to 40 days.
My home isn't selling. Should I lower the price?
First find out what buyers are reacting to: price, condition or presentation. We review showing feedback and online activity with you before recommending a price change, and sometimes fresh photos or a small fix does more than a cut. Other options can include relisting the home so it appears as a fresh listing, changing the marketing, or making certain fixes.
How do you handle multiple offers?
We compare net proceeds, financing strength, option period, closing date and any leaseback, and we may counter more than one buyer. On a recent Webster condo sale, we countered both offers before choosing.
Can I stay in my home after closing?
Yes, with a short-term leaseback agreement after closing. Some buyers even offer a free leaseback to win in multiple offers.
A cash investor made an offer on my house. Should I take it?
Compare it with what the open market would net after repairs and fees. Ask for proof of funds, the closing timeline and who pays closing costs. On homes needing work, we've seen investor offers vary widely for the same property.
What if the buyer's inspection finds foundation issues?
Get a foundation company's or engineer's opinion and pull your records. On an East End sale, the seller's 2020 foundation-leveling records helped answer a $13,000 repair request.
Should I get a stucco inspection before listing?
We discuss this with you depending on your home. An invasive stucco inspection usually costs $1,000 to $1,500. Once an inspection is done, its findings have to be disclosed to buyers, as does any defect you already know about, so if problems turn up, repairing them before listing is usually the better path.
Can listing photos and the 3D tour happen on the same day?
They can, but we usually schedule them separately so the home is ready and you aren't overwhelmed. Make sure the power is on for both.
How do the title examination and title commitment work when I sell?
Once you're under contract, the title company runs a title examination, searching the public records for your property's chain of ownership and any liens, judgments, easements and restrictions, and then issues the title commitment. Anything that has to be cleared before closing, such as your mortgage payoff, an old lien or a missing release, shows up as a requirement, so the sooner it surfaces the more time there is to resolve it. The title company also checks the commitment against the survey, and the buyer can object in writing to items in either by the contract's deadline.
What do the four schedules in a title commitment mean for a seller?
Each schedule tells you something different:
- Schedule A: names you as the current owner of record, along with the buyer and lender to be insured, the policy amounts and the legal description, so the names and description should match your deed.
- Schedule B: lists the exceptions the buyer's policy won't cover, such as recorded easements, deed restrictions and building lines.
- Schedule C: lists what must be done before closing, which for sellers usually means paying off the mortgage and any other liens, and signing or recording releases and other documents.
- Schedule D: discloses the title insurance company and title agent, who owns them and how the title premium is divided.
How long is the closing appointment for sellers?
Seller paperwork usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, much less than the hour most buyers spend. If you can't attend, the title company can arrange a mail-away or remote signing.
When do I get my money after closing?
Once the sale funds, the title company releases your proceeds, usually by wire the same day or the next business day. Funding happens after the buyer has signed and both the buyer's lender and the buyer have sent their funds to the title company. Wires only move during business hours, and most banks have cutoff times for sending them, so a late-afternoon closing can push your proceeds to the next business day.
Should I be concerned about signing before the buyer does?
Usually not. Title companies in Texas are licensed and regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance, and they can't disburse funds, issue the title policy or record the deed until all of the money has arrived and every required document has been signed. If you have a specific concern, ask the title company or a real estate attorney.
How does a stucco inspection work?
It's an invasive inspection, so we need the seller's authorization before it can be scheduled. The inspector drills small holes in the stucco, usually around windows, doors, rooflines and other spots where water tends to get in, takes moisture readings of the substrate behind it, and seals each hole with an appropriate sealant. The readings are assessed to determine whether moisture has gotten behind the stucco, and the inspector checks that the wood substrate is firm; soft wood points to moisture damage. It's common in Houston for owners to fall behind on stucco maintenance, so the test helps prevent surprises and gives us something concrete to negotiate repairs with the seller during your option period.
How many inspections can I do when buying a home in Texas?
As many as you need during your option period; the contract doesn't set a number. Most buyers get a general home inspection and a termite inspection, and add specialists such as a foundation evaluation, sewer scope, roof, pool, septic or invasive stucco inspection when the home calls for it. A stucco inspection drills small holes in the walls, so it needs the seller's written approval first. We help you decide which ones are worth it for the specific home.
Where does the Texas contract cover my inspections?
Paragraph 7A, Access, Inspections and Utilities, of the TREC One to Four Family Residential Contract (Resale), form 20-19, lets you choose your own inspectors who are licensed by TREC or otherwise permitted by law, and requires the seller to give reasonable access and keep the utilities on. The option period in paragraph 5 gives you time to inspect and the unrestricted right to terminate before it ends, and a hydrostatic plumbing test needs the seller's separate written authorization, as does an invasive stucco inspection, which drills small holes in the walls.
Does the seller have to let me do inspections?
Yes. Under the contract, the seller must give you and your inspectors reasonable access and keep the utilities on. Invasive tests are the exception: a hydrostatic plumbing test needs the seller's written authorization, and drilling into stucco needs the seller's written OK, so we request it early in your option period.
What should I gather before we meet to sell my home?
Your mortgage payoff estimate, HOA contact details and a list of the updates you've made to the home, such as a new roof, HVAC system, windows, flooring or remodeling, with approximate dates. That list helps us price the home and answer buyers' questions.
Why should I choose Compean Group when other companies have more reviews?
Because the total number of reviews isn't the whole story. Many of the companies with more reviews are large teams or brokerages with dozens or even hundreds of agents, so their reviews are spread across far more people, and the agent who would actually handle your sale or purchase often has only a handful of their own. Compean Group is a small team with 921 reviews and ratings across Google, Zillow, Yelp, RateMyAgent and HAR, which works out to far more reviews per agent than most large operations. When you compare, ask how many reviews the agent you'd actually work with has.
Selling it yourself? Read our For Sale By Owner guide: an honest comparison with listing, how buyers' agents work since 2024, and a checklist.
Can I try selling my house myself first and list it later?
Yes, and some owners do. Give it a set window, often three or four weeks, and keep track of showings, feedback and offers. Start at a realistic price, because buyers and their agents notice a home that sat or dropped its price, and that history can follow it when you list. If it doesn't work out, call us; we'll start from what you learned, with no pressure either way.
How should I price my home if I'm selling it myself?
From recent sales of homes like yours, not from an online estimate. Appraisers generally rely on sales from the last six months, so weight those most, and look back as far as 12 months so you don't miss a similar sale. Adjust for size, condition, updates and lot, then compare with the active listings buyers will see next to yours. For a second opinion, our home value page gives you an instant range, and we'll prepare a free written pricing analysis, a comparative market analysis rather than an appraisal, with no obligation, even if you sell it yourself or are weighing an instant cash offer.
Do I have to pay the buyer's agent if I sell by owner?
No law requires it. Since August 2024, offers to pay buyers' agents can't be advertised in the MLS, and each buyer's agent is paid under a written agreement with the buyer. You can offer a set amount toward the buyer's agent, offer the buyer a set credit toward their costs, decide offer by offer, or offer nothing. Many offers ask the seller to cover some of it, so weigh that request along with the price, financing and dates, and decide what you're comfortable with. Put whatever you agree to in writing, so the title company can pay it at closing.
If I sell by owner, does the buyer's agent represent me too?
No. The buyer's agent works only for the buyer. Expect TREC's Information About Brokerage Services notice from them, and their brokerage may ask you to sign a form confirming that the agent represents only the buyer; it's common in by-owner sales and keeps anyone from assuming the agent is helping you. They can share facts and handle their side's paperwork, but they can't advise you on price or negotiate for you. If you want someone on your side, that's a listing agent or a real estate attorney.
How can I tell a real buyer from a wholesaler?
Ask for a lender's pre-approval letter or proof of funds before you schedule a showing or negotiate, and call the lender. A wholesaler tries to put your home under contract at a lower price, then sells that contract to an investor for more, and may cancel at the last minute if no investor bites. Watch for "and/or assigns" after the buyer's name and an unusually long option period. Generic emails that say they're "from FSBO" or saw your listing, and push for a call without naming a buyer, usually aren't buyers, so keep personal and financial details to yourself until you know who you're dealing with.
What should I fix before selling my house myself?
Start with the small things buyers and inspectors notice first: fresh caulk around tubs, showers and toilets, paint touch-ups, burned-out bulbs, dripping faucets and any sign of a past leak. Then handle the items an inspector would flag, such as electrical, plumbing, roof or structural issues, or price them in. The actual advice for your home will vary on the condition, market, and pricing. Skip big remodels unless recent sales show buyers pay more for them.
What should I know about showing my home myself?
You'll set the times, open the home and follow up. Agents usually tour with their buyers, so answer calls quickly, offer times that work for buyers, and ask each agent for feedback afterward; a simple log of each showing helps. Keep the conversation on the home and its features, and keep your negotiating position to yourself: why you're moving, your deadline, your lowest price and the terms of other offers all help the buyer's side. Point buyers to your Seller's Disclosure Notice for the home's condition and history. Ask for questions in writing and avoid phone calls or conversations that might give away too much leverage.
Can I list my house on HAR or the MLS without an agent?
Not on your own. Only licensed real estate brokerages who subscribe to HAR's MLS can enter a listing there, and the MLS feeds HAR.com and the searches Houston-area agents run for their buyers. As a by-owner seller, you can advertise on websites that accept owner listings, on social media and with a yard sign. Most buyers shop with an agent, so many of them first see homes through the MLS.
Do I still need TREC forms and a Seller's Disclosure Notice if I sell by owner?
Yes, in most cases. Buyers' agents write offers on TREC's contracts, which are free on TREC's website: the One to Four Family Residential Contract (Resale), form 20-19, for houses, and the Residential Condominium Contract (Resale) for condos, plus addenda such as the Third Party Financing Addendum when the buyer gets a loan. TREC's forms are written for trained license holders, and TREC says anyone else who uses them assumes the risk, so have a real estate attorney review the contract if no agent is involved. Most sellers of a house, townhome or condo must give the buyer a Seller's Disclosure Notice (Texas Property Code §5.008; TREC form 55-1) on or before the day the contract is signed; if the buyer gets it later, the buyer can terminate within seven days. Homes built before 1978 need the federal lead-based paint disclosure, and homes in a MUD or other water district need the statutory district notice.
What closing costs will I pay as the seller?
Expect these to come out of your proceeds: your mortgage payoff, the owner's title policy (customarily the seller's cost in the Houston area), your share of the escrow or closing fee, property taxes prorated to the closing date, deed preparation and recording fees, any HOA transfer or resale certificate fees, and any repairs or credits you agree to. If you agree to pay anything toward the buyer's agent, that's paid at closing too. Ask the title company for an estimate of your net proceeds before you negotiate, so you compare offers on what you'll actually walk away with; our seller net proceeds calculator gives you a first estimate.
What does a Texas seller have to disclose?
Sellers of most single-family homes must give the buyer a written Seller's Disclosure Notice before the contract's effective date. TREC's form 55-1 replaced form OP-H on May 28, 2026. The form asks what you know about:
- the home's condition and systems;
- past repairs and insurance claims;
- floodplain status, flooding and flood claims;
- the HOA and any special district;
- lead-based paint;
- inspection reports you've received.
Answer from what you actually know, mark "unknown" instead of guessing, and keep copies of any reports. Our rule of thumb: when in doubt, disclose. A known problem that's disclosed becomes part of the price conversation, while one that's hidden can turn into a claim after closing. See our guide to the Texas Seller's Disclosure Notice.
Which sellers don't have to give a Seller's Disclosure Notice?
Texas Property Code section 5.008 exempts several kinds of transfers:
- sales under a court order or after a foreclosure, and sales by a lender that took the home back;
- sales by a trustee in bankruptcy;
- sales by a fiduciary administering an estate, guardianship or trust, which includes most executors and administrators;
- transfers from one co-owner to another, to a spouse or to children or grandchildren, and between spouses in a divorce;
- transfers to or from a government entity;
- the first sale of a new home no one has lived in.
Exempt sellers of pre-1978 homes must still give the federal lead-paint disclosure. Many exempt sellers give a disclosure anyway, because buyers and their lenders expect one. See our probate and inherited homes guide.
How are property taxes split when I sell partway through the year?
Texas property tax bills go out in October and are due by January 31 for the year that's ending, so in most sales the current year's tax hasn't been paid yet. At closing, the title company charges you for January 1 through the closing date and credits that amount to the buyer, who pays the full bill later. The year's bill isn't known yet, so the split usually uses the latest available figures. The TREC contract has the parties adjust once the real bill comes out, unless they agree otherwise. MUD taxes and HOA dues are split the same way. If you close after bills are issued, the title company may pay the bill at closing instead.
Who pays for the owner's title policy in a Houston sale?
The contract decides. The TREC resale contract has a box for who pays for the owner's title policy, and it's negotiable. In the Houston area, the seller most often pays for the owner's policy, and the buyer pays for the lender's policy. It's one of the bigger seller expenses, but the premium is regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance, so it's the same at every title company for a given price. Escrow and other fees can differ, and the contract splits the escrow fee equally unless you agree otherwise. The owner's policy premium rises with the sale price, so it shows up as a line on your net sheet.
Do I owe tax on the profit when I sell my home?
Often not. Federal law lets you exclude up to $250,000 of gain, or $500,000 for most married couples filing jointly, when you sell your main home. To qualify, you must have owned it and lived in it for at least two of the five years before the sale, and not used the exclusion in the past two years. Gain above the limit, or on a home that doesn't qualify, may be taxable. Texas has no state income tax. If the home was ever used as an investment property, part of the gain may not qualify. Keep records of improvements, because they raise your cost basis. A CPA can run your own numbers.
What happens to my homestead exemption after I sell?
It stays on the home for the rest of that tax year, so the year's bill, and the tax split at closing, still reflect it. From January 1, the new owner applies for their own. You can file on your next home once you own it and live there. You can have only one homestead at a time, and buyers who close after January 1 can claim it for the rest of that year, prorated. If you keep the old home and move out, tell the appraisal district it no longer qualifies.
How does a 1031 exchange work when I sell an investment property?
A 1031 exchange lets you defer federal tax on the gain from selling investment or business real estate by buying other investment real estate. The rules are strict:
- A qualified intermediary must hold the sale proceeds. If the money reaches you, the exchange fails.
- You must name replacement property in writing within 45 days after closing and close on it within 180 days.
- To defer all the tax, the replacement generally has to cost at least as much, with all the net proceeds reinvested.
Your own home doesn't qualify. Plan the exchange before you list, because the intermediary has to be in place before closing. A CPA or tax attorney can tell you how the rules apply to you.
What happens to the tenants and deposits when I buy an occupied home?
The existing lease generally stays in place after the sale. You become the landlord on the same terms until it ends, so you can't move in early or change the rent mid-lease unless the lease allows it. In Texas, the new owner becomes responsible for returning the tenants' security deposits starting from the date the new owner takes title, whether or not the seller handed the deposits over. Before you close:
- add TREC's residential leases addendum to the contract;
- get copies of every lease, the rent roll and the deposit amounts;
- make sure the deposits and any prepaid rent are credited to you on the closing statement;
- give the tenants a signed statement that you've taken over the deposits, which releases the seller.
A real estate attorney can review a lease you're unsure about.
Do I need a permit to run a short-term rental in Houston?
Yes, inside Houston city limits. Since January 1, 2026, the City of Houston has required a certificate of registration for each unit rented for fewer than 30 consecutive nights. That includes a whole home or a single room. Registration renews every year, with a $275 fee per unit plus an administrative fee. You also need proof that you've registered for and pay hotel occupancy tax, and a local contact who answers complaints. The city can fine violations and revoke a registration. Suburban cities, counties and many HOAs and deed restrictions have their own rules, and some ban short-term rentals outright. Check them before you buy a home you plan to rent this way.
More on this topic: Sell My Home and For Sale By Owner.
Buying a Home
These 45 answers also have their own page: Buying FAQ.
Planning a purchase? Talk through your budget, timing and neighborhoods.
Do I really need my own agent to buy a home in Houston?
The listing agent works for the seller. Your own agent checks the price against sales, flags resale and inspection issues, shares tools and information for researching flood risk, writes and negotiates your offer and keeps the lender and title company on schedule. Texas law effective January 1, 2026 requires a written agreement before a license holder shows a prospective residential buyer a home, or presents an offer if no home is shown. See the agreement question below for representation and showing-only options.
How can the right agent save me money?
By negotiating with data and knowing what to ask for. Our buyers regularly use seller credits for closing costs or to buy down their rate; one Montrose buyer received $22,000 in seller credits and put part of it toward discount points.
What makes Compean Group different for buyers?
We point out the negatives, not just the positives: pricing problems, inspection findings and resale concerns. Our investor background means each home also gets a hard look as an investment, and a buyer specialist is assigned to you for showings and quick answers.
What happens if I can't find a home I like?
We don't stop at what's for sale today. We watch HAR's Coming Soon listings, homes that are about to go on the market, so you hear about them early. We look off market for owners who may sell but haven't listed. And we send buyer-match letters: we pick about 25 homes that fit your price range, area and must-haves from county appraisal district records (HCAD in Harris County) and mail each owner a short printed letter saying we have a buyer for a home like theirs. We only send these letters for real, active buyers, and an owner who has been thinking about selling may call before ever listing. Tell us what you're looking for and we'll start with the homes that fit best.
Can you help me buy my next home before I sell my current one?
Yes. We plan both moves together, using options such as an offer contingent on your sale with a 60 to 75 day closing, a leaseback, gift funds or a bridge loan. It adds a few moving parts, but most of our move-up buyers are in exactly this position.
Do you represent buyers of new construction homes?
Yes. The builder's sales team works for the builder. We register you at your first visit, or if you tour a new construction community on your own, you can register us as your agent by naming Compean Group on the builder's registration card at that first visit. We compare builders and communities, walk you through the builder's contract terms and deadlines (a real estate attorney can answer legal questions about it) and negotiate incentives such as rate buydowns and upgrade credits. See our new construction buyer's guide.
How much cash do I need to buy a home in Houston?
Plan for the down payment (as little as 3 to 3.5% on many loans, and 0% with VA and USDA loans or with programs offered in certain areas or by certain lenders if you qualify), closing costs, the option fee, earnest money and inspections. Even with a 0% down loan, have at least a few thousand dollars ready up front for the earnest money, option fee and inspections, which are due within days of signing the contract, long before closing. Seller credits can cover part of your closing costs if you negotiate them in the offer.
How much do I need to earn to afford a $1 million home in Houston, and what is the monthly payment?
Here's an example at 7% on a 30-year loan with 20% down:
- Down payment: $200,000, leaving an $800,000 loan, which is under the 2026 conforming limit of $832,750, so it isn't a jumbo loan.
- Principal and interest: about $5,322 a month.
- Property taxes at Houston's typical combined rate of about 2.2%: about $1,833 a month.
- Homeowners insurance at about 0.5% of the price: about $417 a month.
- Total: about $7,572 a month, with no mortgage insurance at 20% down.
A household income of about $252,000 a year keeps that payment near 36 percent of gross income, and about $325,000 keeps it near 28 percent, the traditional comfort zone. With little other debt, many lenders approve total debt payments up to about 45 percent of income, or roughly $202,000 a year here. Lenders look at the minimum required payment on each debt, such as car loans, student loans and credit cards, not what you actually pay each month or the total you owe. Once your homestead exemption is in place, the tax portion drops to roughly $1,400 a month, and a lender's pre-approval gives you the exact numbers.
Can seller credits lower my interest rate?
Yes, if your lender allows it, seller credits can pay for discount points. One point costs 1% of the loan amount and often lowers the rate by about a quarter point, though the exact pricing varies by lender and by day.
Example on a $500,000 home with 10% down, a $450,000 loan, at an illustrative 7.25% rate:
- Negotiate: your offer asks the seller to pay $10,000 toward your closing costs and discount points (paragraph 12A(1)(b) of the Texas resale contract) instead of cutting the price by $10,000.
- Apply: your lender uses $9,000 of the credit to buy two points at $4,500 each, lowering the rate to about 6.75%, and the other $1,000 goes toward your other closing costs.
- Result: principal and interest drop from about $3,070 to about $2,919 a month, roughly $151 saved every month, compared with about $61 a month if the same $10,000 came off the price.
Seller credits must fit your loan's limit on seller contributions, which is 6% of the price ($30,000 here) on a conventional loan with 10% down, and your lender's Loan Estimate shows the exact cost of each point. One of our buyer clients put part of $22,000 in seller credits toward points to lower the rate.
What inspections should I get in Houston?
A general home inspection plus a termite inspection. Add an invasive stucco inspection for stucco homes, a foundation evaluation if you see sloping floors or sticking doors, a sewer scope on older homes and a septic inspection on rural lots. The stucco inspection drills small holes in the walls, so it needs the seller's written approval first. Air quality and mold testing are worth adding when needed, which is common for homes that flooded before, homes that had active leaks, or homes with a musty smell inside.
How does a stucco inspection work?
It's an invasive inspection, so we need the seller's authorization before it can be scheduled. The inspector drills small holes in the stucco, usually around windows, doors, rooflines and other spots where water tends to get in, takes moisture readings of the substrate behind it, and seals each hole with an appropriate sealant. The readings are assessed to determine whether moisture has gotten behind the stucco, and the inspector checks that the wood substrate is firm; soft wood points to moisture damage. It's common in Houston for owners to fall behind on stucco maintenance, so the test helps prevent surprises and gives us something concrete to negotiate repairs with the seller during your option period.
What can I ask for after the inspection?
Repairs, a credit at closing, a price reduction or nothing at all. It all happens during your option period: you complete your inspections, we send the seller an amendment asking for the items that matter most, and we negotiate from there. Focus on safety, water and structural items, since sellers rarely pay for cosmetic or age-related wear, and a credit is often simpler than repairs because you choose who does the work. If we can't reach an agreement you're comfortable with before the option period ends at 5 p.m. on its last day, you can terminate the contract and get your earnest money back; the option fee stays with the seller.
Can the seller make me skip the option period?
A seller can ask, but you don't have to agree. In today's market it's rare, and we generally advise keeping the option period, since it's your window to inspect and to walk away for any reason before it ends.
What if the appraisal requires repairs?
FHA and VA appraisers can require repairs before the loan closes, which makes this another area of potential negotiation. If the seller declined certain repairs earlier and the buyer agreed, but the appraiser then calls out those items, we would need to reopen the conversation with the seller. Under the Texas resale contract, neither party has to pay for lender-required repairs unless they agree in writing, and if no one agrees to cover them, the contract terminates and the buyer's earnest money is refunded. Once the parties agree on who handles the work, the appraiser re-inspects and the lender clears the loan, which is how a recent Cypress purchase of ours closed.
What is a VA notice of value?
It's the VA's appraisal result for your loan, abbreviated as NOV. After the VA fee appraiser's report is reviewed by the lender's staff appraisal reviewer or by VA staff, the NOV is issued with the home's value and any conditions, and once it's issued the lender can finalize the loan and set a closing date. If the appraiser sees that the value may come in below the sales price, they start what's called the Tidewater process before finishing the report: the parties get 2 business days to submit comparable sales that support the value, and the appraiser considers them before finalizing it. The VA Lender's Handbook covers both: Chapter 13, Notices of Value and Chapter 10, Topic 8, the Tidewater procedure.
Can I take over the seller's low-rate mortgage?
Only some loans, mainly FHA and VA, can be assumed, and the lender must approve you. "Subject-to" deals carry real risk because most mortgages let the lender call the loan when the home sells, so talk to a real estate attorney first.
Do I need a new survey when buying in Texas?
Not always. You can often use the seller's existing survey with a T-47 affidavit confirming nothing has changed, if the title company and lender accept it.
How do the title examination and title commitment work?
After the contract is signed, the title company runs a title examination, searching the public records for the property's chain of ownership and any liens, judgments, easements and restrictions. The results come back as the title commitment, the title company's promise to issue a title insurance policy once the requirements in it are met. The title company also checks the commitment against the survey, and on larger lots that can reveal pipelines or easements that affect how you use the land. Under the Texas resale contract, you then have a set number of days to object in writing to items in the commitment or survey, and the seller can try to cure them before closing.
What are the four schedules in a title commitment?
A Texas title commitment has four schedules:
- Schedule A: the basics, including the effective date, the policy amounts and who will be insured (you and your lender), the current owner of record and the property's legal description.
- Schedule B: the exceptions, meaning items the title policy will not cover, such as recorded easements, deed restrictions, building lines and mineral reservations.
- Schedule C: the requirements that must be met before closing, such as paying off the seller's mortgage and any other liens, and signing or recording releases and other documents.
- Schedule D: disclosures about the title insurance company and title agent, including who owns them and how the title premium is divided.
Can I move in before closing?
Sometimes, under a short-term agreement signed before closing. On one recent sale, the buyers moved in early for the Easter holiday this way.
What should I check at the final walkthrough?
Confirm agreed repairs were done, appliances work, and you have every key, garage remote and mailbox key. Missing remotes and mailbox keys are among the most common calls we get after closing.
Is the price negotiable, and are appliances included?
Usually both are open to negotiation. A refrigerator, washer or dryer is included only if the contract says so, so we spell them out in your offer.
Do I need to sign a buyer's agent agreement?
Texas law effective January 1, 2026 requires a written agreement before a license holder shows you a residential property, or presents an offer if no property is shown. A representation agreement describes services, duration and negotiable compensation. There is no set length: it runs for whatever term you and the agent agree on, from a single day to a year or more, and ends on the date written in it. A qualifying non-representation agreement is showing-only, non-exclusive and limited to 14 days; it does not provide advice or negotiation. An open house hosted by the listing brokerage is an exception: the host must disclose that they represent the seller. Other hosts may require an agreement. We explain the applicable agreement before you sign.
How do I compete when a seller has other offers?
We ask the listing agent about timing and what matters to the seller, then shape your offer on price, option period, closing date and flexibility. Full price with a free leaseback can be more attractive to a seller than a higher offer with tougher terms.
More on this topic: Why Choose Compean Group.
Do I need flood insurance in Houston if I'm not in a flood zone?
Lenders don't require it outside high-risk zones, but I recommend at least pricing it. About 68 percent of the structural damage reported after Harvey was outside the mapped 100-year floodplain, according to the Harris County Flood Control District.
From our guide: Houston flood zones and flood insurance
How can I tell if a Houston home flooded during Harvey?
Start with the seller's disclosure, which asks about past flooding, flood claims and FEMA assistance. Then ask for any elevation certificate and repair records, check the Flood Warning System's historical inundation maps and have your inspector look for signs of past water damage. For the big picture, see the Harris County Flood Control District's Harvey estimated maximum inundation map and NASA's before-and-during satellite comparison.
From our guide: Houston flood zones and flood insurance
How much does flood insurance cost in Houston?
It depends on the home's elevation, location and rebuilding cost. Many homes outside high-risk zones pay a few hundred dollars a year, while homes inside them can pay several thousand, so get a quote for the specific address.
From our guide: Houston flood zones and flood insurance
Can I take over the seller's flood insurance policy?
Often, yes. An NFIP policy can be assigned to the buyer at closing, which may keep the seller's current premium and rate protections.
From our guide: Houston flood zones and flood insurance
What are mortgage rates in Houston right now?
The national average 30-year fixed rate was 7.40% on October 15, 2026, according to Freddie Mac. Houston quotes are similar but vary with credit score, down payment, loan type and points.
From our guide: Mortgage rates, seller credits and buydowns
What is a 2-1 buydown?
A 2-1 buydown temporarily subsidizes your mortgage payments. Your initial payments are calculated as if the rate were 2 percentage points lower in year one and 1 point lower in year two; the note rate does not change. Full scheduled payments begin in year three. The subsidy is funded upfront, often by a seller or builder. Fannie Mae requires qualification at the full note rate. Ask your lender for eligibility, total cost and payment details.
Source: Fannie Mae temporary buydown guidelines.
From our guide: Mortgage rates, seller credits and buydowns
Is buying a discount point worth it?
It depends on how long you keep the loan. One point costs 1% of the loan and often lowers the rate about a quarter point, which can take around five years to break even. It's a better deal when the seller pays for it.
From our guide: Mortgage rates, seller credits and buydowns
Why should I know where I'll work before buying a home in Houston?
The metro area is spread out, and jobs are spread across several centers, including Downtown, the Texas Medical Center, the Galleria and Uptown, the Energy Corridor, Greenspoint, The Woodlands, Westchase and the Clear Lake and NASA area. The same price range can mean a 15-minute commute or an hour-plus drive depending on where you work, and toll roads, freeway access and school-day traffic all play a part. Knowing your workplace, and your partner's if you have one, lets us focus on the areas that fit your drive.
What is the average commute time in Houston?
About 28 minutes one way for workers who live in the City of Houston, and about 31 minutes across the metro area, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2024 American Community Survey. The metro area covers about 10,000 square miles counting its bays and lakes, roughly the size of Massachusetts and close to the size of Belgium, so your own commute depends on where you live relative to work, friends and family, which freeway you drive and the time of day. Map those places before you pick an area, and try the drive at rush hour before you commit to a home.
Does Houston have zoning?
No. Houston is the largest U.S. city without zoning, and voters rejected it in 1948, 1962 and 1993. Land use is shaped instead by deed restrictions that neighborhood associations enforce, the city's development rules on lot size, setbacks and parking, historic district rules, and minimum lot size or building line areas that some neighborhoods adopt. Where no restrictions apply, a townhome project or a business can go up next to single-family homes, so check the deed restrictions and what's around a property before you buy.
What should I gather before we meet to buy a home?
Your pre-approval or lender's contact information if you have one, your budget and timing, and a list of needs and wants, such as bedrooms, commute, schools, yard size and must-have features. That list helps us focus the search and spot the right homes quickly.
Why should I choose Compean Group when other companies have more reviews?
Because the total number of reviews isn't the whole story. Many of the companies with more reviews are large teams or brokerages with dozens or even hundreds of agents, so their reviews are spread across far more people, and the agent who would actually handle your sale or purchase often has only a handful of their own. Compean Group is a small team with 921 reviews and ratings across Google, Zillow, Yelp, RateMyAgent and HAR, which works out to far more reviews per agent than most large operations. When you compare, ask how many reviews the agent you'd actually work with has.
What is the IABS form, and why does every agent give me one?
It's a one-page notice from the Texas Real Estate Commission that explains who works for whom. A brokerage can represent the seller, represent the buyer, or act as an intermediary between both, and the form lists the minimum duties owed in each role. Every Texas license holder has to give it to you at the first real conversation about a property or your plans. It isn't a contract, and signing to show you received it doesn't commit you to anything. You'll find ours at the bottom of every page on this site and in every email we send.
When do I get my earnest money back, and when can I lose it?
Earnest money is your good-faith deposit. About 1% of the price is normal in our market. Under the TREC resale contract, it's paid to the title company named in the contract within 3 days after the effective date, and at closing it's credited toward your down payment and closing costs.
You get it back when you end the contract under one of its rights, for example:
- during the option period;
- under the financing addendum, when the loan or the appraisal falls through within its deadlines;
- when the seller's disclosure arrives late.
You can lose it if you walk away without a contract right, such as after the option period ends. The title company releases it only when both sides sign a release, so always send your termination in writing and on time.
Do I get my option fee back if I terminate?
Usually not. The option fee is what you pay the seller for your inspection period, the unrestricted right to end the contract for any reason before the deadline. The seller keeps it whether or not you use that right. If you close, it's credited toward your purchase. Under the TREC resale contract, you deliver it to the title company within 3 days after the effective date. Your termination notice must arrive before 5:00 p.m. local time on the last day of the option period. After that, the unrestricted right is gone, and the fee is still spent. See What is the option period?
How does the Third Party Financing Addendum protect me?
TREC's financing addendum gives you two separate protections, each with its own deadline.
- Buyer Approval. If you can't get loan approval based on your income, credit and assets, you can end the contract with written notice before the Buyer Approval deadline written in the addendum, and get your earnest money back. If that deadline passes without a notice, the contract is no longer subject to buyer approval. Losing the loan after that can put your earnest money at risk.
- Property Approval. If the home itself doesn't meet the lender's requirements, for example because of a low appraisal, insurability or a lender-required repair, you can end the contract before closing and keep your earnest money.
Some buyers shorten or waive these rights to strengthen an offer. Before you sign, have your lender confirm that the deadlines match their real timeline.
How do I find out if a home is in a MUD or other special district?
Check three places:
- The seller's notice. Texas requires the seller to give you a written notice about a MUD or similar district before you sign the contract. It shows the district's tax rate and bonds.
- The appraisal district. Look up the property on HCAD (Harris County), FBCAD (Fort Bend) or MCAD (Montgomery). The account lists every taxing unit, and a MUD, PID, water control or levee district will be named there.
- The county tax office's rate list. Look up the district's current rate.
Add that rate to the city, county, school and other rates to get your total. See What is a MUD tax and how much does it add?
What is an HOA resale certificate, who pays for it, and what if the HOA is slow?
A resale certificate is the HOA's statement for that specific lot. It covers dues and special assessments, any amount owed, known violations, lawsuits, insurance, transfer fees, the budget and the rules. In a TREC contract, the HOA addendum says who orders it, who pays for it and how long the buyer has to review it. If it isn't delivered in time, or the buyer isn't satisfied during the review period, the buyer can end the contract as the addendum allows and get the earnest money back. Texas law gives the association 10 business days after a written request to deliver it, caps the fee at $375 ($75 for an update), and doesn't let it charge the fee at all if it's late. If the HOA is slow, the title company or agent should follow up in writing right away.
What if the seller gives me the disclosure after we sign?
Texas law requires the Seller's Disclosure Notice before the contract's effective date. If the seller delivers it after you sign, you can end the contract for any reason within 7 days after you receive it, or before closing if that comes first, and the TREC resale contract refunds your earnest money. If you never receive it, the contract lets you end it at any time before closing. This doesn't apply to sellers who are exempt from the disclosure. See Which sellers don't have to give a Seller's Disclosure Notice?
Do lead-paint rules apply to older Houston homes?
Yes, for most homes built before 1978. The seller must:
- disclose any known lead-based paint and any reports, on TREC's lead-based paint addendum;
- give you the EPA's lead pamphlet;
- offer a 10-day window for a lead inspection or risk assessment, which you can waive.
Many bungalows in the Heights, Woodland Heights, Garden Oaks, Montrose and Near Northside were built well before 1978, so expect this addendum there. Intact paint under newer layers is usually less of a concern than peeling paint and renovation dust. Ask your inspector to note chipping paint, and use EPA-certified contractors for any renovation work.
What if the lender requires repairs or the home doesn't appraise?
Lender-required repairs. These are common with FHA and VA loans: peeling paint, missing handrails, roof or safety items. The TREC resale contract doesn't make either side pay for them. If you and the seller can't agree on who does, the contract can end and your earnest money is refunded.
Low appraisal. Your protection depends on the financing addendum's property approval and any appraisal terms in your contract. The usual options are:
- renegotiate the price;
- cover the gap in cash;
- ask your lender to reconsider the value with better comparable sales;
- end the contract under your contract rights.
See What if the appraisal requires repairs? and Can I challenge a low appraisal?
Thinking about buying with an AI tool instead of an agent? Read AI vs. an Experienced Agent on offers, inspections and who is accountable when something goes wrong.
Mortgages and Home Financing
These 20 answers also have their own page: Mortgages FAQ.
Want the numbers for a specific price? Use our Houston mortgage calculator, which includes property tax, insurance, HOA dues and a MUD toggle.
What credit score do I need to buy a house in Texas?
Texas has no state minimum; the loan program sets it. Conventional lenders commonly look for 620 or better, FHA allows 580 with 3.5 percent down (500 to 579 with 10 percent down), and VA and USDA set no official floor, though most lenders look for the high 500s to low 600s. A higher score lowers both your rate and your mortgage insurance, so pulling your score a few months before you shop gives you time to fix errors or pay down balances.
How much do I need for a down payment in Houston?
Less than most buyers think. Conventional first-time buyer programs start at 3 percent down, FHA at 3.5 percent, and VA and USDA loans can be zero down for eligible buyers. Twenty percent avoids private mortgage insurance but is not required. Budget another 2 to 5 percent of the price for closing costs and prepaid taxes and insurance. In 2026 a conventional loan is "conforming" up to $832,750 and the FHA limit in Harris County is $541,287 (both limits are reset each January); above the conforming limit you are in jumbo territory with stricter rules. There are also 0 percent down programs in certain parts of town or with certain lenders if you qualify; ask us for details.
Are there down payment assistance programs in Houston?
Yes, several. The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs runs My First Texas Home and My Choice Texas Home, which pair a 30-year loan with up to 5 percent of the loan amount in assistance. The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation offers Home Sweet Texas and Homes for Texas Heroes grants and second liens, also up to 5 percent. The City of Houston's Homebuyer Assistance Program lists up to $125,000 for income-qualified buyers of homes inside the city, and Harris County runs its own program for unincorporated areas. Income limits, purchase price caps and funding change often, so confirm current terms with the program and a participating lender.
How much are property taxes in Houston, and are they part of the mortgage payment?
Inside the City of Houston the combined rate is about 2.1 percent of appraised value before exemptions; many suburbs run 2 to 2.5 percent, and newer subdivisions with a MUD can exceed 3 percent. Most lenders collect one twelfth of the annual bill each month in escrow and pay the county by January 31. A homestead exemption and a yearly protest both lower the bill, and your escrow payment adjusts after the county updates the value.
What is a MUD tax and how much does it add?
A municipal utility district is a special district that borrowed money to build a subdivision's water, sewer and drainage systems and repays it with its own property tax. They are common in Katy, Cypress, Spring, Pearland, Fulshear, League City and most newer master-planned communities. Rates run from about $0.25 to $1.50 per $100 of value for the MUD itself, with new districts at the high end and mature districts that have paid down their bonds at the low end; with a levee or drainage district added, the total can reach about $2.00 (2%). Our calculator's MUD toggle adds 1 percentage point as a placeholder. Texas law requires the seller to give you a notice of the district's tax rate and bonded debt before you sign a contract, and the county appraisal district lists every taxing unit for the address.
How does the Texas homestead exemption lower my payment?
Three ways. It removes $140,000 of value from school district taxes (Houston ISD also takes 20 percent off), Harris County's taxing units and the City of Houston take 20 percent off their portion, and once it is in place your appraised value can rise no more than 10 percent a year. Owners 65 or older or with a qualifying disability get an extra $60,000 off school taxes and a school tax ceiling. You can apply with the county appraisal district as soon as you move into the home as your primary residence; it is free and there is no reason to pay a service to file it. Your lender lowers the escrow once the county applies it. Example: on a $450,000 home inside the City of Houston and Houston ISD, the 2026 tax bill is about $9,600 a year with no exemption. With a homestead, Houston ISD taxes $220,000 of value and the city and county entities tax $360,000, so the bill drops to roughly $6,500 to $6,600, a savings of about $3,000 a year, or about $250 a month in your escrow payment. The Texas Comptroller explains how these exemptions work statewide: Texas property tax exemptions.
How much is homeowners insurance in Houston?
For budgeting, we use about 0.5 percent of the purchase price per year, about $1,625 on a $325,000 home, and our mortgage calculator fills that in for you. Quotes run higher for older roofs, larger homes and coastal addresses. Houston policies usually carry a separate wind and hail deductible of 1 to 2 percent of the dwelling coverage, so compare that deductible along with the premium. Get quotes during your option period, since the roof's age and condition drive much of the price and can affect which carriers will write the policy.
Do I need flood insurance in Houston?
If the home sits in a FEMA special flood hazard area, such as zone A or AE, your lender will require it. Outside those zones it is optional, but a large share of Harvey's flooded homes were outside the mapped high-risk areas, so many Houston owners carry it anyway. To see how far Harvey's flooding reached, compare NASA's satellite images of the Houston area before and during the flood with the Harris County Flood Control District's estimated maximum inundation map, which shows where bayous and creeks left their banks rather than which homes took on water. Policies come from the National Flood Insurance Program or private insurers and cost from a few hundred dollars a year in lower-risk zones to several thousand in high-risk zones. Texas sellers must disclose known flooding and flood insurance claims on the seller's disclosure notice, and we share tools and information for reviewing the flood zone and flood maps for any home you consider.
From our guide: Houston flood zones and flood insurance
What are closing costs for a buyer in Texas?
Plan on 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price. That covers lender fees, the appraisal, the lender's title policy, a survey if a recent one is not available, recording fees, prepaid interest and the first deposits into your tax and insurance escrow. Texas has no transfer tax, title insurance rates are set by the state, and in Houston the seller customarily pays for the owner's title policy, although everything is negotiable. We can work on negotiating seller credits to help you offset closing expenses. Lenders want YOU to come up with the down payment, but the rest we can work on negotiating if needed. We'll help you evaluate the options.
How much house can I afford on a $100,000 salary in Houston?
At late-2026 rates, with 10 percent down and modest other debts, a $100,000 household income supports roughly a $265,000 to $340,000 purchase, which is a payment of about $2,300 to $3,000 a month including Houston taxes and insurance. A car payment or student loans pull that down; a larger down payment, a lower rate or a seller-paid buydown pushes it up. Lenders count the minimum required payment on each debt, not what you actually pay each month or the total you owe. A lender's pre-approval, which checks your actual credit, income and debts, is the figure to shop with.
Run your own numbers: Houston mortgage calculator
How much do I need to earn to afford a $1 million home in Houston, and what is the monthly payment?
Here's an example at 7% on a 30-year loan with 20% down:
- Down payment: $200,000, leaving an $800,000 loan, which is under the 2026 conforming limit of $832,750, so it isn't a jumbo loan.
- Principal and interest: about $5,322 a month.
- Property taxes at Houston's typical combined rate of about 2.2%: about $1,833 a month.
- Homeowners insurance at about 0.5% of the price: about $417 a month.
- Total: about $7,572 a month, with no mortgage insurance at 20% down.
A household income of about $252,000 a year keeps that payment near 36 percent of gross income, and about $325,000 keeps it near 28 percent, the traditional comfort zone. With little other debt, many lenders approve total debt payments up to about 45 percent of income, or roughly $202,000 a year here. Lenders look at the minimum required payment on each debt, such as car loans, student loans and credit cards, not what you actually pay each month or the total you owe. Once your homestead exemption is in place, the tax portion drops to roughly $1,400 a month, and a lender's pre-approval gives you the exact numbers.
Is it better to pay points, take a seller credit or use a 2-1 buydown?
It depends on how long you will keep the loan. A permanent buydown costs about 1 percent of the loan per point and usually lowers the rate by roughly a quarter point, so it pays off if you stay past the break-even year. A 2-1 buydown lowers the rate by 2 points in year one and 1 point in year two, and sellers or builders often fund it. A straight seller credit toward closing costs keeps more cash in your pocket on day one. In a high-rate market we see all three in Houston negotiations, and the right pick depends on your plans and the lender's quote, so run the numbers with your lender before you choose. Example: on a $292,500 loan, which is a $325,000 home with 10 percent down, at 7.25 percent the principal and interest payment is about $1,995 a month. Paying one point costs about $2,925 and might lower the rate to 7 percent, saving roughly $49 a month, so the break-even is about five years. A 2-1 buydown on the same loan costs the seller about $6,900 and cuts the payment to roughly $1,615 in year one and $1,800 in year two before it returns to $1,995. Many buyers take a seller credit or a temporary buydown today and plan to refinance if rates come down, but nobody can promise that they will, so make sure the payment works at today's rate.
From our guide: Mortgage rates, seller credits and buydowns
Should I get pre-approved before touring homes in Houston?
Yes. Houston sellers expect a pre-approval letter with every offer, and a pre-approval, unlike a quick pre-qualification, means the lender has verified your credit, income and assets. It usually takes a day or two, stays valid for 60 to 90 days, and lets you compare rate quotes from several lenders within a short window with a single credit inquiry. Texas also now requires a written agreement with your agent before showings, effective January 1, 2026, so talk to an agent and a lender at the same time.
When will I get a Loan Estimate, and how do I compare them?
Within three business days after you apply, the lender must send a Loan Estimate, a standard three-page federal form. An application here means six things: your name, income, Social Security number, the property address, an estimated value and the loan amount. Every lender uses the same form, so compare:
- the rate and APR on page 1;
- the lender's own charges and any points in section A on page 2;
- total loan costs;
- the "In 5 Years" figures on page 3.
Request your estimates on the same day, for the same loan type, amount and lock period, because rates change daily. Pre-approval letters can't be compared this way; Loan Estimates can.
How far ahead of closing do I see my final loan numbers?
You must receive the Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing. It shows your final loan terms and the cash you need to close. Compare it line by line with your Loan Estimate: some fees can't go up at all, some can rise up to 10% in total, and others can change. Three changes restart the three-day wait: a large enough rise in the APR, a change in the loan product, or an added prepayment penalty. Before you wire closing funds, call the title company at a number you already have to confirm the wiring instructions. Never use instructions from an email alone.
What is the 2026 conforming loan limit, and when do I need a jumbo loan?
For 2026, the conforming loan limit for a one-unit home in the Houston area is $832,750. A loan above that is a jumbo loan. Jumbo loans usually need a larger down payment, higher credit scores and more cash in reserve, and each lender sets its own rules. Many purchases in River Oaks, West University Place, Bellaire and Memorial cross that line. The limit is reset each January, so check the current figure with your lender.
Why did my mortgage payment go up when my rate is fixed?
Your payment usually includes escrow for property taxes and homeowners insurance, and those aren't fixed. Once a year the lender reviews the escrow account. If taxes or insurance went up, your monthly payment rises, and you may also owe a shortage, paid at once or spread over 12 months. Common Houston causes:
- The first-year bill on a new build was based on the lot or a partly built home.
- The homestead exemption wasn't filed.
- The insurance premium went up.
- The purchase price became the new appraised value.
I know a higher payment is never welcome news. The good news is that some of it is in your control: file your homestead exemption, protest your appraised value by the deadline (usually May 15) and compare insurance quotes every year or two.
When can I drop private mortgage insurance?
On a conventional loan, you can ask the lender to cancel private mortgage insurance once your balance reaches 80% of the home's original value, if your payments are current and on time. The lender may ask for an appraisal to show the value hasn't dropped. It ends automatically at 78% of the original value. Some lenders also let you remove it based on a new appraisal after the home's value rises, usually after two to five years. FHA mortgage insurance works differently: with less than 10% down, it generally lasts as long as the loan unless you refinance.
Do VA loans require a down payment?
Usually not. Eligible veterans, service members and surviving spouses with full entitlement can buy with no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance, as long as the price doesn't exceed the VA appraisal (see What is a VA notice of value?). Most borrowers pay a one-time VA funding fee, which can be added to the loan. Veterans who receive VA disability compensation are exempt from it. The home also has to meet the VA's minimum property requirements.
How much can I borrow against my Texas home?
Texas limits a home equity loan, HELOC or cash-out refinance on your homestead to 80% of the home's fair market value, counting every loan against it. Other Texas rules:
- generally no more than one such loan every 12 months;
- a 12-day wait after you receive the required notice before you can close;
- closing at the lender's office, a title company or an attorney's office;
- a 3-day right to cancel after closing.
Your lender can explain how the rules apply to you.
More on this topic: Houston Mortgage Calculator and Houston property taxes and MUD taxes.
New Construction
These 26 answers also have their own page: New Construction FAQ.
Comparing builders? See our new construction buyer guide.
Do I need my own agent to buy a new construction home?
The builder's salesperson works for the builder. Your own agent compares the home with other builders and resales, negotiates for you and keeps the contract, inspections and closing on track. Every builder works a little differently, from contracts and incentives to upgrade pricing and what they will or won't change, so experience with many builders helps us negotiate better and tell you what's possible and what isn't. That's where a good, experienced agent comes in. Many builders offer to pay buyer-agent compensation, and we explain how our fee works before you sign anything.
Do you also represent buyers of new construction?
Yes. We represent buyers purchasing from builders, from the contract and inspections through the final walkthrough and closing.
Why do builders want my agent at the first visit?
Most builders require your agent to register you at, or before, your first visit to a community. If you tour alone first, the builder may not recognize your agent later. Call us before you go, and we'll register you or meet you there.
Can I negotiate with a builder?
Builders protect their base prices, but there is often room on incentives: rate buydowns, closing-cost help, upgrade credits and lot premiums. Finished spec homes, and homes near quarter-end or year-end, usually have the most room.
Why are finished spec homes often a good deal?
A spec home is one the builder starts without a buyer under contract. Once it's finished, every month it sits costs the builder money: interest on the construction loan, property taxes, insurance, utilities, lawn care and upkeep, HOA dues and marketing. Builders would rather put that money and their construction credit into the next home, so finished specs often come with bigger incentives, such as rate buydowns, closing-cost help or a lower price, especially near quarter-end or year-end. You also get a home you can walk through, inspect and close on in weeks instead of waiting months for a build; the trade-off is that the finishes and floor plan are already chosen. We still recommend an independent inspection, even on a brand-new home.
How do you compare values on new construction homes?
We compare the builder's price with recent sales of similar new homes in the same and nearby communities, other builders' current inventory and incentives, and recent resales of comparable homes that are a few years old. Then we adjust for lot size and position, square footage, upgrades and finishes, and what's included, such as blinds, appliances, fencing and landscaping. Incentives matter too, since a rate buydown or closing-cost credit can be worth more than a small price cut, and so does the total monthly cost, including the property tax rate and any MUD, PID and HOA fees, which vary by community. New homes often carry a premium over comparable resales, so we show you what you're paying for and where there's room to negotiate.
Should I use the builder's preferred lender?
The biggest incentives are often tied to the builder's lender. Compare that lender's Loan Estimate with at least one outside lender. The incentive is only worth it if your total cost over the years you expect to own the home is lower.
Do I need an inspection if the home is brand new?
Yes. City inspections check minimum code, not workmanship. We recommend a pre-drywall inspection, a final inspection before closing and an 11-month inspection before the first-year warranty runs out.
What are MUD and PID taxes?
Many new Houston-area communities sit in a Municipal Utility District (MUD) or Public Improvement District (PID) that repays the bonds used to build roads, water and sewer lines. They add to your property tax rate, so compare total tax rates, not just prices, when you shop communities.
What warranty comes with a new home?
Most production builders include a limited warranty, typically 1 year for workmanship and materials, 2 years for plumbing, electrical, heating and air-conditioning systems, and 6 to 10 years for major structural components. Texas doesn't require builders to give a warranty, but state law sets the minimums for one that counts: under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 16.009, a builder whose written warranty covers at least 1 year for workmanship and materials, 2 years for those systems and 6 years for major structural components shortens the deadline to sue over construction defects from 10 years to 6. Texas law can also give new-home buyers implied warranties, but builder contracts often limit or replace them, and Texas Property Code Chapter 27 sets out how defect claims work, including written notice to the builder at least 60 days before filing suit. Read what's excluded and how claims are handled, and have a Texas real estate attorney review the warranty and contract before you sign.
Should I buy a finished spec home or build from the ground up?
A spec (inventory) home is finished or nearly finished, so you can often close within weeks, and specs are usually the better deal because the builder is paying to carry them and wants to move on to the next home. A home built from the ground up generally comes at a premium, since the builder isn't carrying holding costs at that point and has less reason to discount, but you choose the lot, plan and finishes, and production builders typically take six to twelve months.
Which upgrades are worth paying for?
Put your budget into things that are hard to change later: structural options, ceiling height, extra outlets and data lines, plumbing rough-ins, insulation and windows. Flooring, light fixtures and paint are often cheaper to change after closing.
How is a builder's contract different from a resale contract?
Many builders use their own contract instead of the standard Texas resale form, with their own deadlines, earnest money rules and dispute terms. We go over it with you before you sign, explain what we typically run into with that builder and answer your questions, including what's negotiable and what isn't. Because it's a legally binding contract, you can also have a real estate attorney review it and answer any legal questions.
Should I buy new construction or a resale home in Houston?
New construction gets you a home built to current codes, new systems and usually a builder warranty. A resale home can offer a bigger yard, mature trees or a lower price per square foot. Compare price per square foot, lot position, HOA or shared-driveway rules and flood history, and get an independent inspection either way.
What should I check before buying a lot to build on?
Check the survey against the plat for building lines and easements, deed restrictions, historic district rules, the flood zone, utility access and whether the lot can be subdivided. Use the option period to confirm each one before you're committed.
Do you list new construction for builders in Houston?
Yes. Builder homes we've listed include 4002 Marquette St in West University Place, 1110 Peden St in Montrose, 903 Quitman St in Near Northside and a new duplex at 7818 Hanfro Ln. We price each home separately based on its lot position and features. Listing for builders also gives our buyers a unique benefit: we know what builders look for in an offer and where they can and can't negotiate.
Can you help me find lots to build on?
Yes. We regularly see off-market lots and land kits, and we track lot sales so you can see what similar lots have sold for before you make an offer.
Can a real estate agent help with a land purchase for development?
Yes. We pull lot comps, help price out what a finished development could sell for, and negotiate an option period long enough for your feasibility work. We'll also advise you to confirm the survey against the plat, any deed restrictions and historic district rules with your surveyor, the title company and the city before you commit.
Do you review floor plans before construction?
Yes. We review floor plans and finish boards from a buyer's perspective and tell you which features help a home sell at your target price.
How do you estimate what a new build will sell for?
From recent sales of comparable new construction and nearby resales, adjusted for lot position, features and current mortgage rates.
Can you sell lots as well as finished homes?
Yes. We list single lots, finished homes and multi-unit projects.
How does the homestead exemption work on a newly built home?
Two things surprise new-build buyers, and we'd rather you hear them from us before closing.
First, appraisal districts value property as of January 1. If your home was only a lot or partly built on that date, the first year's bill is based on that lower value, and the next year's bill on the finished home can be several times higher. Many lenders set the first escrow from the low figure, so the payment then rises after an escrow shortage. Budget for the full tax from the start.
Second, you can file for the exemption once you own the home and live in it. Buyers who close after January 1 can get it for the rest of that year, prorated from the closing date, if the previous owner didn't have one. The 10% limit on yearly homestead value increases starts only after your first year with the exemption, and newly finished construction is added at full value.
What are phase inspections (pre-pour, pre-drywall, final)?
A new home can be inspected in stages while it's built:
- Pre-pour: foundation forms, steel or cables and under-slab plumbing, before the concrete goes in.
- Pre-drywall: framing, wiring, plumbing, ductwork, windows and insulation, while the walls are still open.
- Final: the finished home, before closing.
Problems caught before the drywall goes up cost far less to fix. Before you sign, confirm in the builder's contract that your TREC-licensed inspector can visit at each stage and how much notice the builder will give. Schedule an 11-month inspection too, before the one-year workmanship warranty ends.
What happens if the builder finishes late?
The builder's contract decides. Most builder contracts give an estimated completion date rather than a firm one, and let the builder extend it for weather, materials, permits and other delays outside its control, sometimes by months. Before you sign, check:
- whether there's an outside date after which you can cancel and get your deposit back;
- how long your rate lock lasts and who pays to extend it;
- whether any incentives depend on closing by a certain date.
If you're selling a home or timing a move around completion, build in extra time.
How much earnest money do builders ask for, and is it refundable?
There's no standard amount. It ranges from a few thousand dollars on a finished home to a percentage of the price on a home built from the ground up. Design-center upgrades are often paid separately and up front, and those deposits are commonly nonrefundable because they're specific to your home. Before you sign, ask:
- who holds the money, a title company or the builder;
- when it's refundable;
- what happens to it if your loan falls through;
- whether upgrade deposits count toward your down payment.
Who does the builder's on-site sales agent represent?
The builder. The on-site sales consultant works for the builder, and their job is to sell the builder's homes on the builder's terms. For what it's worth, many of them are helpful and honest, but they don't owe you advice on price, contract terms or other communities. To have someone on your side, bring your own agent to your first visit, or name them on the registration card. Many builders won't recognize an agent added later. See Do you represent buyers of new construction homes?
More on this topic: For Buyers, For Builders and For Developers.
Owning a Home in Houston
These 27 answers also have their own page: Owning a Home FAQ.
Do I need flood insurance in Houston?
Lenders require it in high-risk flood zones, and many Houston owners carry it anyway because homes outside mapped floodplains have flooded. Get a quote during your option period so the cost is clear before you commit.
What's the difference between a floodplain and a floodway?
A floodway is the channel of a bayou or creek and the nearby land that must stay open to carry floodwater; a floodplain is the wider area with a set chance of flooding each year, such as the 1% annual chance of the 100-year floodplain. Official FEMA flood maps show which applies to a property, and you can look up any address on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. For buyers, a home in a floodway or the 100-year floodplain usually means required flood insurance with a federally backed mortgage and stricter rules for rebuilding or adding on, so check the map before your option period ends. For sellers, the Texas seller's disclosure asks whether the property is in a floodplain, floodway, flood pool or reservoir, so answer what you know from the FEMA map and your own experience.
How do I protest my property taxes in Houston?
File with your county appraisal district by May 15 or 30 days after your notice, whichever is later, and bring recent comparable sales. We pull comparable sales for past clients from the period the district reviews.
What is a MUD tax?
A municipal utility district (MUD) funds water, sewer and drainage in many suburbs, and its tax is added to your property tax rate. The tax certificate and seller's disclosures show whether a home is in one.
Why do so many Houston homes have foundation issues?
Houston's clay soils swell when wet and shrink when dry, which moves foundations. Pier-and-beam homes often just need re-shimming, while slab repairs cost more; get a foundation company's opinion before negotiating.
Are termites common in Houston?
Yes, and not just in older homes inside the city: termites also show up in newer homes and out in the suburbs, which is one reason a termite inspection is standard. Subterranean termites need treatment, and one recent Heights quote was about $2,100. An active drywood infestation usually calls for tenting the home for fumigation, which typically runs about $5,000 to $10,000 and means leaving the home for about 2 days. Drywood termite wings are common in older Heights homes and don't automatically mean an active infestation.
How often does stucco need maintenance?
Caulking, sealing and paint touch-ups every 3 to 5 years, and a full repaint with elastomeric paint every 6 to 8 years, though how often depends on how much exposure the home gets to the sun and the elements. Most stucco damage we see starts with failed sealant around windows.
How expensive are stucco repairs?
It depends on how many areas are damaged. On one Midtown townhome, two repair bids came in at $29,500 and $36,800, plus about $15,000 to repaint afterward. Another home needed only minor repairs of about $5,000, while other homes have needed major repairs that meant redoing much of the stucco exterior, which can exceed $75,000.
Do historic districts in Houston limit renovations?
Yes. Many Houston neighborhoods have City of Houston historic districts, including parts of the Heights, Norhill, Montrose and others, and most exterior changes there need a Certificate of Appropriateness before work starts. You can check whether an address is inside one on the City of Houston's historic districts and sites map, then review that district's rules before planning an addition, new windows or a teardown.
What should I know about crawlspaces in older Houston homes?
Look for insulation pulled down by animals, missing moisture barriers, loose piers and water pooling under the house, which is bad for the piers and beams that support the home. On one Heights sale, animal-damaged insulation became a negotiation item, so screening and sealing crawlspace openings is worth doing before you list. Another home's crawlspace was too tight to actually crawl through, so the inspector couldn't fully check it, and on another, ponding water had soaked the crawlspace and was causing the home to settle excessively. Good drainage around and under the house protects the foundation.
How much are property taxes on a $400,000 home in Houston?
About $5,700 a year for a homestead inside the City of Houston and Houston ISD at 2026 rates, or about $8,550 without a homestead exemption. Suburban homes in a MUD often pay more.
From our guide: Houston property taxes and MUD taxes in 2026
When are Houston property taxes due?
Bills are mailed in October and are due by January 31 of the following year. Pay even one day late and the bill jumps 7% on February 1: a 6% penalty plus 1% interest, so a $9,900 bill paid on February 1 costs about $693 more. Each month after that adds another 1% penalty and 1% interest (9% in March, 11% in April, 13% in May and 15% in June), and on July 1 the total reaches 18%. That's also when Harris County turns delinquent accounts over to its collection attorneys, who can add a collection penalty of up to 20%, and interest keeps adding 1% a month after that.
From our guide: Houston property taxes and MUD taxes in 2026
Do MUD taxes ever go down?
Often, yes. As a district adds homes and pays down its bonds, many MUDs lower their rates over time, but it varies by district, so check the rate history before you buy.
From our guide: Houston property taxes and MUD taxes in 2026
How much does the homestead exemption save in Houston?
On a $400,000 home inside the City of Houston and Houston ISD, about $2,800 a year at 2026 rates. The exact amount depends on your home's value and the taxing units at your address.
From our guide: Texas homestead exemption: savings and how to file
Can I file for the homestead exemption the same year I buy?
Yes. Texas law lets you receive it for the rest of the year once you own and live in the home, as long as the previous owner didn't already have the same exemption that year.
From our guide: Texas homestead exemption: savings and how to file
What is the deadline to file for a homestead exemption in Texas?
The standard deadline is April 30, but appraisal districts accept late applications for up to two years after the delinquency date, which is usually February 1.
From our guide: Texas homestead exemption: savings and how to file
Do I have to reapply every year?
No. Once approved, the exemption stays in place as long as you own and live in the home, unless the appraisal district asks you to reapply.
From our guide: Texas homestead exemption: savings and how to file
Should I pay a company to file my homestead exemption?
No. Filing is free through your county appraisal district, and most applications take about 10 minutes online.
From our guide: Texas homestead exemption: savings and how to file
When will Harris County's new flood maps take effect?
Not soon. FEMA posted draft MAAPnext maps in February 2026, preliminary maps and an appeal period come next, and the Flood Control District has estimated effective maps around 2028 to 2029.
From our guide: Houston flood zones and flood insurance
Why does Houston have MUD taxes when most other states don't?
Texas law lets developers create municipal utility districts to build water, sewer and drainage systems for new subdivisions outside city limits, where no city provides those services. The district sells bonds to pay for that infrastructure, and homeowners repay them through a MUD tax on their property tax bill instead of paying for it up front in the lot price. A few other states use similar special districts under other names, such as community development districts in Florida and metropolitan districts in Colorado, but Texas relies on them heavily because so much growth happens in unincorporated areas. A MUD's rate often comes down as its bonds are paid off and its tax base grows.
Why are power lines above ground in older Houston neighborhoods and buried in newer ones?
Older neighborhoods were built when overhead lines were the standard and cheapest way to run power, and moving them underground later is expensive and disruptive. Newer subdivisions were usually built with underground utilities from the start, installed while the streets and lots were being developed. Buried lines are protected from wind and falling trees, while overhead lines are easier to reach for repairs but more exposed in storms like Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
How do I check a property's FEMA flood zone?
Enter the address on FEMA's Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov). In Harris County, you can also use the Harris County Flood Control District's Flood Education Mapping Tool (harriscountyfemt.org), which shows the current maps alongside the county's newer preliminary maps. The zone tells you how the mapped risk is rated. It doesn't tell you whether the house has flooded. For that, read the seller's disclosure and ask the seller about past flood claims. See our Houston flood zones and elevation certificates guide.
What do the flood zone letters mean (AE, A, AO, shaded X, X)?
- AE: high risk, the 1% annual chance ("100-year") floodplain, with base flood elevations calculated.
- A: high risk, without detailed base flood elevations.
- AO and AH: high risk from shallow flooding, usually 1 to 3 feet (sheet flow or ponding).
- VE: coastal high risk with waves, along Galveston Bay and the coast.
- Shaded X: moderate risk, the 0.2% annual chance ("500-year") floodplain.
- X (unshaded): minimal mapped risk, which isn't the same as no risk.
Lenders with federally backed loans require flood insurance in the A and V zones. Many homes that flooded in Harvey were outside the mapped floodplains, so our advice is the same everywhere in Houston: get a flood insurance quote before your option period ends.
What do "100-year" and "500-year" floodplain really mean?
They're odds, not schedules. A "100-year" floodplain has a 1% chance of flooding in any year, and a "500-year" floodplain has a 0.2% chance. Over a 30-year mortgage, a 1% yearly chance adds up to about a 26% chance of at least one flood. Houston has seen several storms beyond those levels within a few years. Harris County's MAAPnext draft maps, built on newer rainfall data, may change which homes fall in these floodplains once FEMA finalizes them, so check both the current map and the draft for any home you consider.
What flood questions are on the Texas Seller's Disclosure?
Since 2019, the Texas seller's disclosure has asked whether the home:
- is in a 100-year or 500-year floodplain, a floodway, a flood pool or a reservoir area;
- has flood insurance;
- has flooded, meaning water entered the structure, or has had flood damage, including from a reservoir release;
- has had a flood insurance claim or received FEMA or SBA aid for flood damage.
TREC's form 55-1 carries these questions. Buyers should read the answers closely and ask follow-up questions. Sellers should answer from what they know and mark "unknown" when they don't.
What is an elevation certificate, and how do I get one?
An elevation certificate is a FEMA form, completed by a licensed surveyor, engineer or architect, that records the home's lowest floor and other elevations compared with the base flood elevation for its zone. Since FEMA's newer pricing system began in 2021, most flood policies don't require one, but it can still lower the premium for a home that sits high, and it's needed to apply for a LOMA. First check whether one already exists. Ask the seller, since it's sometimes in the closing file, and the city or county floodplain office, which often has them for newer homes. If none exists, a licensed surveyor can prepare one.
What are a LOMA and a LOMR, and can they lower my insurance?
They're FEMA letters that change how a property is mapped:
- LOMA (Letter of Map Amendment): confirms that a structure or lot on natural ground sits above the base flood elevation, which takes it out of the high-risk zone.
- LOMR-F: does the same where fill was added to raise the site.
- LOMR (Letter of Map Revision): changes the map for a whole area, often after a drainage project.
Once a home is out of the high-risk zone, a federally backed lender may no longer require flood insurance, and the premium may drop. The risk doesn't go away, though, and many Houston owners outside the floodplain keep coverage. FEMA's Flood Map Service Center shows letters already issued for an address.
Moving to Houston
These 19 answers also have their own page: Moving to Houston FAQ.
Comparing schools? See 2026 school ratings by neighborhood and ZIP code.
Relocating to Houston? Discuss your move and neighborhood priorities.
Does Texas have a state income tax?
No. Texas doesn't tax personal income, including wages, retirement income and capital gains, and a 2019 constitutional amendment prohibits a state income tax.
From our guide: No state income tax in Texas: what moving to Houston saves
Are property taxes higher in Texas?
Yes. Houston-area rates usually run about 2% to 3.5% of value before exemptions, compared with roughly 1.1% to 1.25% of the purchase price in California. Homestead exemptions lower the bill for owner-occupied homes.
From our guide: No state income tax in Texas: what moving to Houston saves
How much would I save moving from California to Houston?
It depends on income and the home you buy. A married couple earning $150,000 saves about $5,600 a year in California income tax, and at $300,000 about $19,400, before accounting for higher Texas property taxes.
From our guide: No state income tax in Texas: what moving to Houston saves
What is the sales tax in Houston?
8.25%: the 6.25% state rate plus 2% in local taxes.
From our guide: No state income tax in Texas: what moving to Houston saves
What is the average commute time in Houston?
About 28 minutes one way for workers who live in the City of Houston, and about 31 minutes across the metro area, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2024 American Community Survey. The metro area covers about 10,000 square miles counting its bays and lakes, roughly the size of Massachusetts and close to the size of Belgium, so your own commute depends on where you live relative to work, friends and family, which freeway you drive and the time of day. Map those places before you pick an area, and try the drive at rush hour before you commit to a home.
Why should I know where I'll work before buying a home in Houston?
The metro area is spread out, and jobs are spread across several centers, including Downtown, the Texas Medical Center, the Galleria and Uptown, the Energy Corridor, Greenspoint, The Woodlands, Westchase and the Clear Lake and NASA area. The same price range can mean a 15-minute commute or an hour-plus drive depending on where you work, and toll roads, freeway access and school-day traffic all play a part. Knowing your workplace, and your partner's if you have one, lets us focus on the areas that fit your drive.
How many suburbs does Houston have?
There's no official count. The Houston metro area spans 10 counties (Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Brazoria, Galveston, Liberty, Waller, Chambers, Austin and San Jacinto) with more than 100 cities and towns, from Sugar Land, Pearland and League City to smaller towns like Fulshear and Tomball, plus large unincorporated areas such as Cypress, Spring and The Woodlands. Our Houston ZIP code map covers 224 ZIP codes within about 50 miles of downtown.
Does Houston have zoning?
No. Houston is the largest U.S. city without zoning, and voters rejected it in 1948, 1962 and 1993. Land use is shaped instead by deed restrictions that neighborhood associations enforce, the city's development rules on lot size, setbacks and parking, historic district rules, and minimum lot size or building line areas that some neighborhoods adopt. Where no restrictions apply, a townhome project or a business can go up next to single-family homes, so check the deed restrictions and what's around a property before you buy.
Why does Houston have MUD taxes when most other states don't?
Texas law lets developers create municipal utility districts to build water, sewer and drainage systems for new subdivisions outside city limits, where no city provides those services. The district sells bonds to pay for that infrastructure, and homeowners repay them through a MUD tax on their property tax bill instead of paying for it up front in the lot price. A few other states use similar special districts under other names, such as community development districts in Florida and metropolitan districts in Colorado, but Texas relies on them heavily because so much growth happens in unincorporated areas. A MUD's rate often comes down as its bonds are paid off and its tax base grows.
Why are power lines above ground in older Houston neighborhoods and buried in newer ones?
Older neighborhoods were built when overhead lines were the standard and cheapest way to run power, and moving them underground later is expensive and disruptive. Newer subdivisions were usually built with underground utilities from the start, installed while the streets and lots were being developed. Buried lines are protected from wind and falling trees, while overhead lines are easier to reach for repairs but more exposed in storms like Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
Why is Houston known for its food scene?
Houston has thousands of restaurants serving Gulf seafood, Tex-Mex, barbecue, Viet-Cajun crawfish and cuisines from around the world, often tucked into strip centers as much as fine-dining rooms, and Houston restaurants earned stars when the Michelin Guide launched in Texas in 2024. Our ZIP code and neighborhood guides list local restaurants with their ratings, so you can see the options near any home you're considering.
What airports serve Houston?
Two major airports: George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), about 23 miles north of downtown, a United Airlines hub with nonstop flights worldwide, and William P. Hobby (HOU), about 7 miles southeast of downtown, where Southwest Airlines is the largest carrier and some international flights also operate. If you fly often, the drive to your usual airport is worth weighing when you choose between the north and south sides of town.
How far is Houston from Galveston?
Galveston is about 50 miles southeast of downtown Houston on I-45, roughly an hour's drive without traffic. The beaches, the Strand, the Seawall and the cruise terminal make it a common day trip, and Bay Area suburbs like League City, Clear Lake and Friendswood put it about 30 to 40 minutes away.
Do Houstonians take weekend trips to the Hill Country?
Many do; it's one of the most popular weekend getaways from Houston. Towns like Fredericksburg, Wimberley, Gruene and New Braunfels, Kerrville and Johnson City are about 2.5 to 4 hours away by car, close enough for a long weekend. People go for the scenery, with rolling hills, rivers like the Guadalupe and the Comal, spring wildflowers and state parks, and for the small-town main streets, shops and restaurants.
What do I need to do in my first 90 days in Texas (driver's license, car registration, inspection)?
- Register your car within 30 days. In Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Brazoria and Galveston counties, the car needs an emissions test first. Texas ended the separate safety inspection for most passenger vehicles on January 1, 2025. Take proof of Texas liability insurance, your title or out-of-state registration and your ID to your county tax office.
- Get a Texas driver's license within 90 days. You can drive on your out-of-state license until then. Book a Texas DPS appointment early, and bring proof of Texas registration for each vehicle you own.
- File your homestead exemption once you own and live in your home. The address on your license must match the home.
How do I confirm which schools serve a home?
Check the exact address, not the neighborhood name or ZIP code. Use the school district's own attendance-zone lookup. Houston ISD, Humble ISD, Cy-Fair ISD, Katy ISD, Fort Bend ISD, Conroe ISD and the others all have one. If the home is near a boundary, call the district, because zones change and new schools open. Listing descriptions and third-party sites can be out of date, and one ZIP code or city name can include several districts. For ratings, use TEA's official accountability ratings, with the year shown. See our 2026 Houston school ratings.
Can I choose my electricity company in Houston?
In most of the Houston area, yes. Where CenterPoint Energy runs the power lines, you pick your retail electricity provider and plan on the state's Power to Choose site (powertochoose.org). CenterPoint still owns the lines and handles outages. Some addresses can't choose. Parts of Montgomery County, including Conroe and parts of The Woodlands, are served by Entergy Texas, and a few areas get power from a city utility or an electric co-op. Check the exact address before you move. Water and sewer come from the city or, in many suburbs, a MUD, so ask the seller who provides them.
What transit options exist for commuting into Houston?
METRO runs Houston's buses, three light rail lines (Red, Green and Purple) and Park & Ride commuter buses. Park & Ride buses run from suburban lots to Downtown, the Texas Medical Center, Uptown and Greenway Plaza, using the HOV/HOT lanes. The Woodlands runs its own commuter buses into Houston. Most Houstonians still drive, so our advice is simple: before you make an offer, drive the commute at the time you'd actually make it. See Houston neighborhoods by commute.
International Buyers and Sellers
These 7 answers also have their own page: International FAQ.
Buying or selling from abroad? Talk with us about your plans and timeline.
What is FIRPTA, and how does it affect international buyers and sellers?
FIRPTA, the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act, applies when the seller is a foreign person under U.S. tax law. In most cases the buyer must withhold 15% of the sales price at closing and send it to the IRS, and the title company handles that withholding for the buyer. If the buyer will live in the home and the price is $300,000 or less, no withholding is required, and a reduced 10% rate can apply up to $1 million. Foreign sellers can apply for a withholding certificate (IRS Form 8288-B) to reduce the amount based on their actual tax, and they generally need a U.S. taxpayer identification number to file a return and claim any refund, so we recommend talking with a CPA early. A foreign buyer isn't subject to FIRPTA when buying, but it will apply when they later sell. See the IRS guide to FIRPTA withholding.
Can international owners get the Texas homestead exemption?
Only if the home is their principal residence. The exemption is for an owner's main home, so a Houston home owned from abroad or used as a second home doesn't qualify and is taxed on its full appraised value, without the $140,000 school district exemption or the 10 percent annual cap on appraisal increases. On a $450,000 home inside the City of Houston and Houston ISD, that means a 2026 tax bill of about $9,600 a year instead of roughly $6,500 to $6,600 with a homestead, so budget for the full amount when you compare homes.
Can foreign citizens buy a home in Houston?
Yes, in most cases foreign citizens can buy residential property in Texas. A 2025 Texas law, Senate Bill 17, restricts purchases by certain individuals, companies and governments tied to China, Iran, North Korea and Russia, with exceptions that include U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. If it could apply to you, talk with a Texas real estate attorney before you make an offer.
Can I get a mortgage in the U.S. as a foreign national?
Yes. Some lenders offer foreign national loans that don't require a U.S. credit history, but they usually call for a larger down payment, more documentation and a higher rate than a standard loan, and many international buyers pay cash. We can share the names of several lenders who work with international buyers, so you know your options before you make an offer, and you're free to choose any lender.
Can you sell my Houston home if I live out of state or overseas?
Yes. We regularly sell for owners in other states and countries. We have the title company review any power of attorney before the first offer, handle access and vendors locally, and arrange remote or mail-away signing for closing. We can often also set up online notarization from almost anywhere in the world, as long as you have a webcam and an internet connection.
How can I sign closing documents from another country?
Often through online notarization with a webcam and an internet connection, when the title company and lender accept it. Otherwise, documents can be signed at a U.S. embassy or consulate, or before a local notary with an apostille in countries that use them, and some owners give a trusted person a power of attorney that the title company reviews in advance. We plan the method early so shipping or appointment times don't delay closing.
How do I send closing funds from overseas?
By wire transfer to the title company, after confirming the wiring instructions by phone at a number you already know, never one taken from an email. International wires can take several business days and may be held for bank compliance checks, so we plan for them early, along with any currency exchange.
Houston Market
These 5 answers also have their own page: Houston Market FAQ.
What is the median home price in Houston right now?
The median single-family price in Greater Houston was $325,000 in September 2026, according to HAR. Inside the City of Houston, the median of all closed residential sales was about $300,000 that month.
From our guide: Houston home prices by neighborhood
Are Houston home prices dropping?
Not overall. The metro median was essentially flat from a year earlier, but townhome and condo prices fell about 9% and individual neighborhoods vary, so look at your specific area.
From our guide: Houston home prices by neighborhood
Is Houston a buyer's market in 2026?
It's close. Inventory reached 5.5 months in September 2026, near the roughly six months many consider a buyer's market, and the homes that sold averaged 58 days on the market. The two figures measure different things: months of inventory is how long the homes for sale now would take to sell at the current pace (all active listings divided by a month's sales), while days on market counts only the homes that sold, from listing to sale, so a listing that sits unsold is in the inventory figure but not in the days figure.
From our guide: Houston home prices by neighborhood
What are the most expensive neighborhoods in Houston?
Among the 30 areas we track, these had the highest typical prices over the 12 months through September 2026, measured as the median of each month's median sale price:
- River Oaks: about $2.54 million
- West University Place: about $1.83 million
- Bellaire: about $1.24 million
- Garden Oaks: about $910,000
- Woodland Heights: about $873,000
- Memorial: about $802,000
- Greater Heights: about $681,000
- Montrose: about $658,000
- Lazybrook and Timbergrove: about $635,000
- Rice Military: about $621,000
The Memorial Villages and Tanglewood also rank among Houston's highest-priced areas but aren't in the list we track.
From our guide: Houston home prices by neighborhood
Where do the most homes sell in the Houston area?
Katy had the most closed sales of the areas we track over the last 12 months, about 6,100, followed by Spring, Cypress and Richmond.
From our guide: Houston home prices by neighborhood
Working With Compean Group
These 13 answers also have their own page: Working With Us FAQ.
Is Evan Compean a licensed loan officer?
Yes. Evan holds a loan officer license but doesn't originate loans. It helps him read a buyer's pre-approval and spot weak financing before you accept an offer.
Do you sell new construction for Houston builders?
Yes. We price, market and sell new homes for builders and advise on floor plans and finishes before launch. See our services for builders.
Which parts of Houston do you serve?
All of Greater Houston, with the most experience in Inner Loop neighborhoods such as the Heights, Montrose, EaDo, Near Northside and West University, and suburbs including Katy, Cypress, Spring, The Woodlands, Pearland and Sugar Land. We publish free guides to 30 areas and over 100 ZIP codes.
Do you work with Spanish-speaking sellers?
Yes. Our team works with clients in English and Spanish.
What should I gather before we meet to sell my home?
Your mortgage payoff estimate, HOA contact details and a list of the updates you've made to the home, such as a new roof, HVAC system, windows, flooring or remodeling, with approximate dates. That list helps us price the home and answer buyers' questions.
What should I gather before we meet to buy a home?
Your pre-approval or lender's contact information if you have one, your budget and timing, and a list of needs and wants, such as bedrooms, commute, schools, yard size and must-have features. That list helps us focus the search and spot the right homes quickly.
What makes Compean Group different?
Evan Compean started in real estate in 2002 on the investment side, before representing buyers and sellers, and he has passed that experience down to his team, training each agent in the art of negotiating, a high level of service and a real understanding of the Houston market. He's also a part owner of a Houston title company, which we disclose in writing (you're never required to use it), and he holds a loan officer license but doesn't originate loans, which helps us spot weak financing early. Loan terms always come from your own lender.
Who is on the Compean Group team?
Evan Compean (founder), Pilar Compean (co-owner), Amanda Milligan (licensed broker, operations and compliance manager) and agents Dustin Young and Celena Compean. Evan leads every listing strategy, and buyer specialists handle showings and day-to-day questions.
Where can I read Compean Group's reviews?
On Google (216 reviews, 5.0), Zillow (153 reviews, 5.0), Yelp (147 reviews, 4.9), RateMyAgent (56 reviews, 5.0) and HAR (349 client surveys, 4.99), 921 in all as of October 30, 2026, along with selected client reviews on our site.
Where is Compean Group's office?
Our office is at 802 W. Patton St., Houston, TX 77009, in the Greater Heights just north of downtown. Call (832) 777-3904 to set a time to meet.
Do you offer free home valuations?
Yes. We prepare a free written pricing analysis, a comparative market analysis rather than an appraisal, based on the homes you would compete with now and recent nearby sales, with no obligation. Request one on our Home Valuation page or call (832) 777-3904.
Does Evan Compean own a title company?
Yes. Evan Compean is a part owner of a Houston title company, and we disclose that in writing at the start. You're never required to use it. Texas sets title insurance premiums, so the premium is the same at every title company, but escrow and other closing fees vary, so compare the estimates.
Why should I choose Compean Group when other companies have more reviews?
Because the total number of reviews isn't the whole story. Many of the companies with more reviews are large teams or brokerages with dozens or even hundreds of agents, so their reviews are spread across far more people, and the agent who would actually handle your sale or purchase often has only a handful of their own. Compean Group is a small team with 921 reviews and ratings across Google, Zillow, Yelp, RateMyAgent and HAR, which works out to far more reviews per agent than most large operations. When you compare, ask how many reviews the agent you'd actually work with has.
More on this topic: About Us & Our Team.
AI and Your Transaction
These 15 answers also have their own page: AI FAQ.
Where we use AI, who signs off on it, and how an AI-only sale compares with a typical agent and an experienced brokerage: AI vs. an Experienced Agent: Why You Still Need a Human in a Houston Home Sale.
Can AI replace a real estate agent?
Not for the parts that carry money and risk. AI drafts, searches and summarizes well, and nearly half of agents already use it daily or weekly (NAR 2026 Technology Report). It cannot walk a house, read the other side of a negotiation, listen to the tonality of the other party, or be accountable when a deadline is missed. The best agents use the time AI saves on the decisions that matter. The expensive mistakes in a transaction are the ones nobody catches until closing, and software does not catch them unless the other party is communicating directly with your AI, which isn't happening.
Can I buy a house in Texas with ChatGPT instead of an agent?
You can research with it, and many buyers do. Texas requires a licensed agent or broker to perform brokerage services for someone else, contracts run on TREC forms with hard deadlines, and since January 1, 2026 an agent must have a written agreement with you before showing a home. The AI-first platforms operating in Texas still put a licensed agent on the contract. What you give up going alone is a person who has seen the house and negotiates for you.
How accurate are AI home values like the Zestimate?
Zillow says its estimate lands within 1.77 percent of the sale price half the time for homes already listed, and within 7.2 percent for homes that are not on the market (Boston Globe, October 2026). You shouldn't need AI values once you've already listed since the best time to properly price a home is the first time. On a $400,000 Houston home the off-market figure is about $29,000 either way, and half of homes miss by more than the median. That means the range of your home could be $371k-$429k. That's a massive range. Treat it as a starting point. If you only use AI to price your home, you could either leave money on the table or sit on the market. A good list price and strategy can go much further than just using AI to price your home.
What do real estate agents actually use AI for?
In NAR's 2026 survey, 23 percent of agents use AI daily and 25 percent weekly. Among users, 75 percent write listing descriptions with it, 56 percent social posts and 52 percent emails and follow-ups. Our own list, along with who signs off on each use, is on our AI vs. an Experienced Agent page. There are also a few other things we do with AI that aren't listed there, to keep our competitive advantage.
Can AI review my purchase contract?
It can summarize one and flag unusual terms, which makes it a good way to prepare questions. It cannot give legal advice and it cannot compare the terms and your questions with the common practices seen in your neighborhood. In fact, negotiation tactics can change from area to area depending on demand, or the lack of it. It also does not know how the option period, inspection results, financing issues, appraisal concerns, survey issues, or HOA addendum play out in the real world here in the Greater Houston area. Have your agent walk you through the contract, and bring a Texas real estate attorney in for anything unusual.
Will AI negotiate for me?
It can model scenarios and draft a message. Negotiation itself is a live exchange between people with something at stake, and it turns on reading hesitation, leveraging information gained, using tactful strength, and proper timing. Buyers seem to sense this: trust in AI to help find a home fell from 30 percent in 2025 to 16 percent in 2026 (Cotality, April 2026).
Is it safe to put my documents into an AI tool?
Be careful. Consumer tools may keep what you upload and use it to train models, so do not paste contracts, pay stubs, IDs or bank statements into them. Ask any agent or platform what tools they use and what they do with your data. We don't put client documents into free consumer AI tools, and the business AI tools we use are set not to train on our data.
Should I use a 100% AI-powered brokerage?
They now operate in Texas and can suit a simple purchase where you are comfortable doing most of the work. Before you sign, ask who the licensed agent on your contract is, who inspects and walks the house, who negotiates repairs, and what happens when the appraisal comes in low. The answers show how much of the transaction is still human, and whether that human knows Houston. Ask who you will speak to when a problem comes up, and then ask to speak to them to be sure they know what they're doing or if they just became licensed. And remember, you don't know what you don't know, which means you can't ask about it; an experienced agent knows what to look for.
Can AI tell me when prices or rates will move?
It can show the trend and explain it. Nobody reliably calls short-term moves; mortgage rates climbed from the sixes into the sevens during 2026 and no model picked the timing (Freddie Mac via FRED). Buy or sell on your own timeline and let the strategy adjust to the market.
How can I tell whether an agent is experienced or just AI-polished?
Ask four questions: how many homes they closed in the last 12 months, who personally negotiates your offers, how they handled repair credits and concessions on their last few deals, and for two examples of a transaction they rescued. Then read their reviews for specific problems solved rather than star counts. Our answer: 140 closings in the last 12 months and more than 1,000 homes sold.
Does using AI make mistakes less likely?
It cuts typos, missed follow-ups and slow replies. It also produces confident errors, and 64 percent of buyers worry that AI recycles unverified data (Cotality, April 2026). The fix is not less AI; it is a person who checks the output against their experience. Ask yourself: who would drive a Ferrari faster around a race track, you or a trained driver?
Can I sell my house with AI alone?
Few people do. In NAR's latest profile, 5 percent of sales were by owner, the lowest on record, and 91 percent of sellers used an agent. Homes sold by owners had a median price of $360,000 against $425,000 for agent-assisted sales (NAR 2025 Profile); part of that gap is different homes, part is pricing, exposure and negotiation. AI can write the description. It cannot run showings, read offers or manage the deadlines.
Will you tell me when AI was used on my transaction?
Yes. The table at the top of our AI vs. an Experienced Agent page is our disclosure, and we will answer any question about it. Just ask and we will answer. Thirty-seven percent of buyers want AI use labeled, and among baby boomers it is 61 percent (Cotality, April 2026).
What happens when the AI gets a Houston detail wrong?
Common problems are wrong negotiation suggestions, wrong facts, such as a MUD tax rate, a flood zone confused with flood history, a deed restriction or the 2026 homestead rules, and a misread of real-life demand in an area. AI also misses the visible growth of a community, because it can't walk the area or see how it's changing; it can only interpret data and facts. Any of these can change a payment or a sale by thousands, so we run through scenarios with you about any potential concern.
Does Texas law let an AI represent me?
No. Brokerage activity in Texas requires a license issued to a person or a company, and a software tool cannot hold one. Any platform you use has a licensed human behind the contract; ask for that person's name, their experience and how to reach them.
More on this topic: AI vs. an Experienced Agent.
Neighborhood Questions
Questions buyers ask about the areas in our Neighborhood Resources, listed from closest to farthest from Downtown. Open an area to see its questions, or read the full guide for prices, schools, commutes and more.
How many suburbs does Houston have?
There's no official count. The Houston metro area spans 10 counties (Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Brazoria, Galveston, Liberty, Waller, Chambers, Austin and San Jacinto) with more than 100 cities and towns, from Sugar Land, Pearland and League City to smaller towns like Fulshear and Tomball, plus large unincorporated areas such as Cypress, Spring and The Woodlands. Our Houston ZIP code map covers 224 ZIP codes within about 50 miles of downtown.
Why is Houston known for its food scene?
Houston has thousands of restaurants serving Gulf seafood, Tex-Mex, barbecue, Viet-Cajun crawfish and cuisines from around the world, often tucked into strip centers as much as fine-dining rooms, and Houston restaurants earned stars when the Michelin Guide launched in Texas in 2024. Our ZIP code and neighborhood guides list local restaurants with their ratings, so you can see the options near any home you're considering.
EaDo (20 questions)
What is EaDo in Houston?
EaDo is short for East Downtown, the neighborhood just east of Downtown Houston across US-59 (I-69). Once a warehouse district, it's now known for townhomes, lofts, Shell Energy Stadium, breweries and street art.
What ZIP code is EaDo in?
Most of EaDo is in ZIP code 77003, with edges in 77002 and 77011. ZIP codes don't follow neighborhood lines exactly, so confirm the specific address.
Is EaDo safe?
EaDo is served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
Is EaDo a good place to live?
It's a strong fit if you want to be close to Downtown, games and nightlife in a low-maintenance townhome or loft. Expect event-day traffic and noise near the stadiums and fewer yards than in neighborhoods like the Heights.
How much do homes cost in EaDo?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 61 homes sold in EaDo on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $365,000, with sales ranging from about $213,000 to $659,000. Most were townhomes and condos.
Does EaDo flood?
Flood risk varies by street, and low spots and areas near Buffalo Bayou can take on water in heavy storms. Check the FEMA flood zone and the Harris County Flood Control District's maps, read the seller's disclosure for past flooding, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What school district serves EaDo?
EaDo is in Houston ISD. Zoned schools depend on the address, and HISD also offers magnet programs; confirm zoning with HISD's school finder before you buy.
How far is EaDo from Downtown and the Medical Center?
By car, EaDo is about 1.6 miles from Downtown, 4.9 miles from the Texas Medical Center, 8 miles from the Galleria and 10.4 miles from Hobby Airport. METRORail also connects EaDo to Downtown.
What was the FIFA Fan Festival in EaDo?
During the 2026 World Cup, EaDo hosted Houston's official FIFA Fan Festival from June 11 to July 19 on a site behind the George R. Brown Convention Center, with free admission, giant screens, music and food.
Is EaDo walkable?
The core of EaDo is walkable, with restaurants, bars, breweries and Shell Energy Stadium within a few blocks of each other, and Downtown is a short walk or rail ride west. Sidewalks are still uneven on some warehouse blocks, and most residents drive for groceries.
What are the boundaries of EaDo?
EaDo (East Downtown) sits just east of Downtown across US-59/I-69. It is roughly bounded by US-59/I-69 on the west, Buffalo Bayou on the north, I-45 (Gulf Freeway) on the south and the rail lines near Lockwood Drive on the east.
Is there light rail in EaDo?
Yes. The METRORail Green and Purple lines run through EaDo, with the EaDo/Stadium station beside Shell Energy Stadium. Both lines connect west into Downtown and east toward the East End and the Third Ward/University of Houston area.
What stadiums and venues are near EaDo?
Shell Energy Stadium, home of MLS's Houston Dynamo and the NWSL's Houston Dash, is in EaDo. Daikin Park (formerly Minute Maid Park), Toyota Center and the George R. Brown Convention Center are just across US-59 in Downtown, so game and event days bring heavy foot traffic.
What is the Columbia Tap Trail?
The Columbia Tap is a hike-and-bike trail built on a former rail line that runs from EaDo south through the Third Ward. Its first phase of upgrades, including more than 300 solar lights, launched in 2026 as part of a $7.5 million investment.
What is being built in EaDo?
Pagewood's East Blocks project is turning warehouses on Hutchins and Dallas streets into a walkable district of shops, restaurants, offices and green space, and broke ground on phase one in 2026. The City and Houston First also unveiled a master plan in March 2026 for the core of East Downtown around the convention center.
Where are the best places to eat in EaDo?
Popular choices include Nancy's Hustle (Michelin Bib Gourmand bistro), J-Bar-M Barbecue (Texas barbecue), Huynh (Vietnamese), Koffeteria (bakery and coffee) and Tiny Champions (pizza and pasta).
Where can I shop local in EaDo?
EaDo's independent shops lean toward art and design, including Magpies & Peacocks (upcycled fashion) and Texas Art Asylum (reclaimed art supplies). The neighborhood's street murals make it easy to combine shopping with a walking art tour.
Should I buy in EaDo or Midtown?
Both are townhome-heavy neighborhoods next to Downtown with light rail access. Midtown has a longer-established restaurant and bar scene and the Red Line to the Museum District and Medical Center, while EaDo is newer, with Shell Energy Stadium, warehouse conversions and large projects such as East Blocks still under way, so more nearby retail is still being built. Comparing recent townhome sales, HOA terms and commute routes for each is the best way to decide.
Who is a good realtor in EaDo?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Evan Compean and the Compean Group work in EaDo very often, so we understand the local market and what sets one street apart from the next. Our team has sold more than 1,000 homes and holds 5.0-star ratings on Google and Zillow across hundreds of reviews. This guide covers much more to help you get started, or call or text us at (832) 777-3904.
Midtown (19 questions)
Is Midtown Houston a good place to live?
It's one of Houston's best fits if you want a walkable, urban lifestyle close to Downtown, the Museum District and the Texas Medical Center. You trade yard space for convenience: most homes are condos and townhomes, and weekend nightlife on streets like Bagby can be lively.
Is Midtown Houston safe?
Midtown is served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
Is Midtown Houston walkable?
Yes, it's one of the most walkable parts of Houston. Restaurants, bars, groceries, Midtown Park and METRORail's Red Line on Main Street are within walking distance of many homes, and the rail runs to Downtown, the Museum District and the Medical Center.
How much do homes cost in Midtown?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 109 homes sold in Midtown on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $361,000 and an average near $368,000. Most were condos and townhomes; newer and larger townhomes sell for more.
What ZIP code is Midtown Houston?
Midtown spans parts of ZIP codes 77002, 77004 and 77006, so confirm the ZIP code for a specific address.
Is it better to live in Midtown or Downtown Houston?
Downtown is mostly high-rise buildings and offices and quieter at night outside event days. Midtown has more townhomes and condos to buy, a denser mix of restaurants and bars, and sits closer to the Museum District, Montrose and the Medical Center.
Does Midtown Houston flood?
Midtown isn't next to a major bayou, but streets can flood in heavy downpours and some garages and ground floors are more exposed than others. Check FEMA and Harris County Flood Control District maps, ask the seller and HOA about past water, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What schools serve Midtown?
Midtown is in Houston ISD, and zoned schools vary by address, so confirm with HISD's school finder. Houston Community College's Central campus is also in Midtown.
What is there to do in Midtown Houston?
Bagby Street's restaurants and bars, Midtown Park and its events, Elizabeth Baldwin Park, the Ensemble Theatre and quick rail rides to Downtown games, the Museum District and Hermann Park.
Do Midtown condos and townhomes have HOA fees?
Most do. Condo dues usually cover building insurance, exterior upkeep and amenities, while townhome HOAs often cover gates and common areas. Compare dues and reserves, and read recent HOA minutes for planned special assessments before you commit.
Does the METRORail run through Midtown?
Yes. The METRORail Red Line runs along Main Street through Midtown, with stops including McGowen, Ensemble/HCC and Wheeler. It connects north to Downtown and south to the Museum District, the Texas Medical Center and NRG Park, so many residents commute without a car.
What are the boundaries of Midtown Houston?
Midtown sits between Downtown and the Museum District. It is roughly bounded by I-45 (the Pierce Elevated) on the north, Spur 527 on the west, US-59/I-69 on the south and the Hwy 288 area on the east.
What kind of homes are in Midtown?
For buyers, Midtown is mostly townhomes and condos, with very few detached single-family houses. Many townhomes date from the late 1990s onward and share driveways or sit in small gated groups. Buyers who want a yard usually look at nearby Montrose, the Museum District or Third Ward instead.
What is the Ion District?
The Ion is an innovation hub in the former Sears building at 4201 Main Street in Midtown, developed by Rice University. It houses startup programs, offices, event space and restaurants, and the surrounding blocks are being redeveloped as the Ion District.
Are there parks in Midtown?
Midtown has several small, well-kept parks run by the district, including Bagby Park, Midtown Park, Baldwin Park and Glover Park. They host free programming such as yoga, movie nights and seasonal events, and Midtown Park hosts festivals during the year. Buffalo Bayou Park and the Museum District's Hermann Park are a short drive away.
Where are the best places to eat in Midtown?
Popular choices include The Breakfast Klub (soul-food breakfast), Brennan's of Houston (Texas Creole), Mai's Restaurant (Vietnamese since 1978), Cali Sandwich (banh mi) and Tacos A Go Go (breakfast tacos).
Where can I shop local in Midtown?
Main and Milam streets are the best stretches for independent shops, including Sig's Lagoon (records), All the Feels (handmade gifts and local art) and The Flora Culture (houseplants). Mid Main's First Thursdays block party on the 3500-3700 blocks of Main Street is a good time to browse.
Is Midtown Houston loud on weekends?
Midtown is one of Houston's busiest nightlife areas, with bars and rooftop venues concentrated along Bagby Street, Main Street and nearby blocks, so homes close to those strips hear more weekend activity. Townhomes and condos a few blocks away from the bar clusters are typically quieter. The City of Houston's sound ordinance sets lower nighttime limits for residential property, and buyers can check a block in person on a Friday or Saturday night before making an offer.
Who is a good realtor in Midtown?
Compean Group ranks #2 on AgentPronto's list of top agents for Midtown and #3 on its Houston list (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Evan Compean and the Compean Group work in Midtown very often, so we understand the local market and what sets one street apart from the next. Our team has sold more than 1,000 homes and holds 5.0-star ratings on Google and Zillow across hundreds of reviews. This guide covers much more to help you get started, or call or text us at (832) 777-3904.
Montrose (20 questions)
Is Montrose Houston a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes. Montrose puts you near Downtown, the Museum District, River Oaks and the Medical Center, with some of Houston's best restaurants, art and walkable blocks. The trade-offs are traffic and nightlife noise along busy streets like Westheimer, and smaller lots than in many neighborhoods.
Is Montrose safe?
Montrose is served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
Is Montrose walkable?
Parts of it are among Houston's most walkable areas. Many homes are within a few blocks of restaurants, coffee shops, galleries and parks, though most residents still drive for errands and commuting.
What is Montrose known for?
Art, food and history: the Menil Collection and Rothko Chapel, Westheimer Road's restaurants and vintage shops, the University of St. Thomas, and historic districts of early-1900s bungalows on tree-lined streets.
How much do homes cost in Montrose?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 534 homes sold in Montrose on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $658,000 and an average near $747,000. Condos start lower, while restored historic homes and new construction reach into the millions.
Is Montrose or the Heights better?
Both are close-in and walkable in places. The Heights has more single-family bungalows, deed-restricted blocks and a quieter feel, while Montrose has more museums, nightlife and a mix of condos, townhomes and historic homes. Typical prices over the last year were similar.
Does Montrose flood?
Most of Montrose sits away from the big bayous, but streets can flood in heavy rain, and the northern edge near Buffalo Bayou is closer to mapped floodplains. Check FEMA and Harris County Flood Control District maps and the seller's disclosure, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What ZIP codes are in Montrose?
Most of Montrose is in ZIP code 77006, with parts in 77019 and 77098. Confirm the ZIP code for a specific address.
Are there historic districts in Montrose?
Yes. Montrose includes several City of Houston historic districts, such as Avondale East, Audubon Place, Courtlandt Place and Westmoreland. Most exterior changes there need city approval, so check before planning a remodel or rebuild.
What school district serves Montrose?
Montrose is in Houston ISD. Zoned schools vary by address, and many students also apply to HISD magnet programs; confirm zoning with HISD's school finder.
What are the boundaries of Montrose?
Montrose generally runs from Buffalo Bayou and Allen Parkway south to US-59, between Shepherd Drive on the west and roughly Bagby Street/Spur 527 on the east. The City of Houston groups it into the Neartown/Montrose Super Neighborhood.
How far is Montrose from Downtown and the Texas Medical Center?
Montrose sits about 2 to 3 miles from both Downtown and the Texas Medical Center, usually a 10 to 15 minute drive outside rush hour. METRO bus routes run along Westheimer and Montrose Boulevard, and the Red Line light rail is a short drive away in Midtown and the Museum District.
Are homes in Montrose mostly townhomes or single-family houses?
Both. Montrose mixes 1910s-1930s bungalows and two-story homes on tree-lined streets with newer townhomes and condos. Townhomes and condos usually cost less than renovated single-family homes on full lots, especially in the historic districts.
Is parking hard in Montrose?
Parking is easy on most residential blocks but tighter near busy restaurant and nightlife strips. A 2026 study for the Montrose area found more parking than needed overall, with a few challenge areas. Many newer townhomes include garages.
What is the Montrose Boulevard project?
The Montrose Redevelopment Authority (TIRZ 27) is planning a phased reconstruction of Montrose Boulevard, with wider sidewalks, new trees, drainage upgrades and safer crossings. The TIRZ also funds sidewalk, lighting and mobility projects across the neighborhood.
What are property taxes like in Montrose?
Montrose homes pay City of Houston, Houston ISD, Harris County and related taxes, which together usually add up to roughly 2% of assessed value per year before exemptions. There are no MUD taxes. If the home will be your primary residence, file for the homestead exemption: it lowers your taxable value, and starting the year after the home qualifies, its appraised value for taxes generally can't rise more than 10% a year.
Where are the best places to eat in Montrose?
Where can I shop local in Montrose?
Westheimer Road and the streets around it are lined with independent shops. Favorites include Basket Books & Art (books plus a gallery), Magick Cauldron (open since 1985) and Space Montrose (goods by Houston artists and makers). The area also has several vintage and resale shops.
Is it noisy living near the bars on Westheimer in Montrose?
Most bars and late-night venues cluster along Westheimer Road and around Pacific Street, so blocks right next to those corridors see more weekend traffic and sound than the quieter residential streets a few blocks away. The City of Houston's sound ordinance caps noise at residential property lines at 65 dB(A) by day and 58 dB(A) at night, and businesses near homes need a permit for outdoor amplified sound. Visiting a block on a Friday or Saturday night is the simplest way to judge it.
Who is a good realtor in Montrose?
Compean Group ranks #3 on AgentPronto's list of top agents for Montrose and #3 on its Houston list (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Evan Compean and the Compean Group help buyers and sellers in Montrose all the time. Local knowledge matters here, and we understand the pricing, the housing and what buyers look for. Our team has sold more than 1,000 homes and earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. This guide includes much more information to help you start your search.
Woodland Heights (19 questions)
Where is Woodland Heights in Houston?
Just north of Downtown, between the Heights and I-45, with Woodland Park and Little White Oak Bayou along its northern edge. It's about 2.4 miles from Downtown by car.
Is Woodland Heights the same as The Woodlands?
No. Woodland Heights is a historic Inner Loop neighborhood about 2 miles from Downtown, while The Woodlands is a master-planned community about 30 miles north in Montgomery County. The similar names cause a lot of mix-ups.
Is Woodland Heights safe?
Woodland Heights is served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Woodland Heights?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 113 homes sold in Woodland Heights on the MLS, with an average price near $1.05 million and typical monthly median prices mostly between about $750,000 and $1.25 million. New construction over 3,500 sq ft is usually priced between $1.5-$2.5 million. There are also smaller restored bungalows on original lots, which add to the character. 5,000 sq ft lots usually range between $600k-$800k for just the land.
What ZIP code is Woodland Heights?
Woodland Heights is in ZIP code 77009.
What are the homes like in Woodland Heights?
Early-1900s bungalows and Victorian-era homes on tree-lined streets, many restored or expanded, plus newer and larger homes on original lots. Due to high land values, most new development has focused on larger homes approaching $2 million. Development began in 1907, making it one of Houston's oldest planned neighborhoods.
Does Woodland Heights flood?
Most streets sit on higher ground, but homes near Little White Oak Bayou and White Oak Bayou are closer to mapped floodplains. Check the FEMA flood zone and Harris County Flood Control District maps, read the seller's disclosure, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What schools serve Woodland Heights?
Woodland Heights is in Houston ISD, and Travis Elementary is the neighborhood's popular zoned elementary school. Confirm zoning for any address with HISD's school finder.
What is there to do in Woodland Heights?
Woodland Park, the White Oak Bayou trail, local restaurants and coffee shops along Studewood and White Oak, and quick access to the Heights, Downtown and the Near Northside.
Is Woodland Heights part of the Heights?
It's next door and often grouped into the Greater Heights, but it's its own historic neighborhood with its own civic association, east of the original Houston Heights.
Is Woodland Heights walkable?
Walking is good inside the neighborhood, with tree-lined streets and sidewalks on most blocks. Restaurants and shops line Studewood Street and Houston Avenue on its edges, and the White Oak Bayou trail and Woodland Park are within a few minutes' walk. Most residents still drive for groceries and commuting.
Can I tear down or remodel a home in the Woodland Heights historic district?
Houston City Council designated part of Woodland Heights as a city historic district in 2011, covering about 386 homes. Inside the district, exterior changes, additions, new construction and demolitions need a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission. Homes outside the district boundary don't need one, but check deed restrictions before buying.
What is Lights in the Heights?
Lights in the Heights is a December holiday celebration put on by the Woodland Heights Civic Association. Blocks of the neighborhood are lit with luminarias and closed to cars, with live music and hot drinks along the route. It's usually the 2nd Saturday in December and starts at sundown. Be prepared to bring walking shoes, a beverage of your choice, and a wagon for the little ones.
Where are the best places to eat in Woodland Heights?
Popular choices include Pinkerton's Barbecue (a Michelin Bib Gourmand), Sushi By The Heights and Spice in Heights on Studewood Street, White Oak Social next to White Oak Music Hall, and Alturas Mexican Cafe on Airline Drive.
Where can I shop local in Woodland Heights?
Kaboom Books on Houston Avenue is the neighborhood's own used bookstore. A few blocks west on East 11th Street is Buchanan's Native Plants, a nursery since 1986.
Does Woodland Heights have deed restrictions?
Yes. After the original restrictions lapsed, residents used a 1988 Texas law to reinstate deed restrictions, and parts of the neighborhood also have City of Houston minimum lot size and minimum building line protections that limit lot splits and keep front setbacks consistent. These rules apply in addition to the historic-district review inside the district boundary. Ask for the recorded restrictions for the specific block before buying.
Will the I-45 expansion affect Woodland Heights?
Woodland Heights sits next to I-45, and the stretch between Loop 610 and I-10 is Segment 2 of TxDOT's North Houston Highway Improvement Project. TxDOT's 2025 materials say final design for Segment 2 has not started because of pending funding, with construction anticipated to begin around 2031. Buyers near the freeway can check the project maps at txdot.gov/nhhip for the latest plans and right-of-way details.
How far is Woodland Heights from Downtown Houston?
Woodland Heights is about 2 to 3 miles north of Downtown, usually a 5- to 10-minute drive via Houston Avenue, North Main or I-45 outside rush hour. The White Oak Bayou Greenway trail also connects the area to Downtown by bike.
Who is a good realtor in Woodland Heights?
Evan Compean and the Compean Group rank #1 on AgentPronto's list of top agents for Greater Heights, the City of Houston super neighborhood that includes Woodland Heights, and #3 on its Houston list (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Woodland Heights is one of the areas where we work most often, and Evan actually lives in the neighborhood. He and his team know this local market well. Based at 802 W. Patton St just north of Downtown, the Compean Group has sold more than 1,000 Houston homes over 15 years, with 921 reviews and ratings across five sites. The rest of this guide has much more to get your search started.
Near Northside (19 questions)
Is Near Northside a good place to live?
For buyers who want to be close to Downtown at a lower price than most Inner Loop neighborhoods, it's a strong option, with rail access and a strong neighborhood identity. Expect a mix of older homes, renovations and new townhomes, plus some commercial and industrial edges.
Is Near Northside safe?
Near Northside is served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Near Northside?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 218 homes sold in Near Northside on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $330,000 and an average near $346,000. New construction generally sells above that median.
What ZIP code is Near Northside?
Most of Near Northside is in ZIP code 77009, with parts in 77026. Confirm the ZIP code for a specific address.
Is Near Northside gentrifying?
It's changing quickly. New townhomes and projects such as Hardy Yards have added housing and pushed prices higher, and longtime homes, renovations and new builds often share the same block.
How do you get to Downtown from Near Northside?
It's about 3 miles by car, and METRORail's Red Line runs along Fulton Street with several Near Northside stations, connecting to Downtown, Midtown, the Museum District and the Medical Center.
Does Near Northside flood?
Flood risk varies by street, with lower-lying areas and land near Little White Oak Bayou more exposed. Check the FEMA flood zone and Harris County Flood Control District maps, read the seller's disclosure, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What school district serves Near Northside?
Near Northside is in Houston ISD. Zoned schools depend on the address, so confirm with HISD's school finder.
What is Near Northside known for?
Moody Park, historic churches, family-run taquerias, murals and the Fulton Street rail line. Compean Group's office is nearby on West Patton Street.
What kinds of homes are in Near Northside?
Early-1900s bungalows and cottages, renovated homes and a growing number of new townhomes and single-family builds, often on narrow lots. Compean Group has listed new construction here, including on Quitman Street.
Is Near Northside on the METRORail line?
Yes. The METRORail Red Line has run through Near Northside along North Main and Fulton streets since December 2013, with stations including Quitman/Near Northside, Moody Park, Fulton/North Central, Cavalcade and Burnett Transit Center. The line reaches Downtown in minutes and continues to the Museum District and the Texas Medical Center.
What are the boundaries of Near Northside?
Near Northside sits just north of Downtown. It is roughly bounded by I-45 on the west, Hardy Street on the east, Burnett Street on the south and the Cavalcade Street area on the north.
Is Near Northside a historic district?
Parts of the neighborhood were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011. Development began in the 1880s and 1890s around the Hardy rail yards, and many homes are early-1900s bungalows and cottages. National Register listing is honorary and does not by itself restrict remodeling the way a City of Houston historic district does.
What parks are in Near Northside?
Moody Park is the neighborhood's main park, with a community center and sports fields. Harris County is set to take over its operation, and plans announced in 2026 include four new soccer fields through a FIFA World Cup 2026 youth soccer program. The White Oak Bayou trail is a short ride west.
Where are the best places to eat in Near Northside?
Popular choices include Pinkerton's Barbecue (Michelin Bib Gourmand barbecue), Teotihuacan Mexican Cafe (family-run Tex-Mex), Khói Barbecue (Vietnamese-Texas barbecue), Casaema (Mexican bakery-cafe) and Cochinita & Co. (Mexican breakfast and lunch).
Where can I shop local in Near Northside?
Airline Drive is the main strip for local shopping, including El Bolillo Bakery (Mexican panaderia) and the Houston Farmers Market's independent vendors. Weekend mornings are the busiest and best-stocked time to go.
Are there freight train tracks in Near Northside?
Yes. Near Northside grew up around Houston's rail yards, and active freight lines still cross parts of the neighborhood, including several street-level crossings. Homes near the tracks can hear passing trains and horns, and crossings can briefly delay drives. Buyers can check a property's distance from the nearest line on a map and visit at different times of day.
Will the I-45 project affect Near Northside?
Near Northside's western edge borders I-45, part of TxDOT's North Houston Highway Improvement Project. TxDOT's 2025 materials list the stretch between Loop 610 and I-10 as Segment 2, with final design pending funding and construction anticipated around 2031. The project maps at txdot.gov/nhhip show planned changes and right-of-way near specific streets.
Who is a good realtor in Near Northside?
Compean Group ranks #1 on AgentPronto's list of top agents for Northside Village, AgentPronto's name for the Near Northside area (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). We work in Near Northside very often and understand its local market, from how homes are priced to what buyers look for. Based at 802 W. Patton St just north of Downtown, Evan Compean and the Compean Group have sold more than 1,000 Houston homes over 15 years, with 921 reviews and ratings across five sites. This guide includes much more information to help you get started with your search.
Museum District (18 questions)
What museums are in the Houston Museum District?
About 20, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Children's Museum Houston, the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, Holocaust Museum Houston, Asia Society Texas and The Health Museum, with Hermann Park and the Houston Zoo next door.
Are the museums in the Museum District free?
Several are always free, such as the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, and others offer free hours on certain days, like Thursdays at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Check each museum's website before you go.
Is the Museum District safe?
The Museum District is served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
Is the Museum District walkable?
Yes, especially near Hermann Park and the museums. METRORail's Red Line runs along Main Street to Midtown, Downtown, Rice University and the Texas Medical Center.
How much do homes cost in the Museum District?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 72 homes sold in the Museum District on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $521,000 and an average near $564,000. Condos make up much of the market, while historic homes and new townhomes sell higher.
What county is the Museum District in?
The Museum District is in Harris County, inside the City of Houston.
What kinds of homes are in the Museum District?
Early-1900s homes on tree-lined streets, mid-rise and high-rise condos near Hermann Park with park and skyline views, and newer townhomes.
Does the Museum District flood?
Most of the area isn't in the main floodplains, but Brays Bayou runs to the south near the Medical Center and streets can flood in heavy rain. Check FEMA and Harris County Flood Control District maps, the seller's disclosure and any condo garage flood history.
What schools are near the Museum District?
The Museum District is in Houston ISD, with zoned schools depending on the address. Rice University, the University of Houston and Texas Southern University are all close by.
How close is the Museum District to the Texas Medical Center?
About 2.5 miles by car or a short METRORail ride. Downtown is about 3.2 miles away and the Galleria about 5.6 miles.
Is the Museum District a good place to live?
Many buyers choose the Museum District for its walkable access to museums, Hermann Park and the METRORail Red Line, plus a short trip to the Texas Medical Center, Rice University and Downtown. Housing ranges from condos to historic homes and new townhomes, at prices below nearby West U and River Oaks. The trade-offs are event-day traffic and parking.
What ZIP code is the Museum District in?
Most of the Museum District is in ZIP code 77004, with parts near Rice University and the Museum of Fine Arts in 77005 and areas toward Montrose in 77006. Confirm the ZIP for a specific address before searching listings.
What is there to do in Hermann Park?
Hermann Park, on the Museum District's south edge, has the Houston Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theatre's free performances, McGovern Lake with pedal boats, the Japanese Garden and walking trails. The Hermann Park Golf Course is in the middle of a roughly $30 million renovation that began in late 2025.
Where are the best places to eat in the Museum District?
Popular choices include Le Jardinier (modern French, Michelin star), Lucille's (Southern), Monarch at Hotel ZaZa (global menu and cocktails), Sunday Press in Hermann Park (all-day cafe) and Kin Cafe at Asia Society Texas (vegetarian).
Where can I shop local in the Museum District?
Local favorites include Asher: Off the Wall at the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Melodrama Boutique on Almeda Road (women's fashion since 2002), and Kindred Stories, an independent bookstore in the Third Ward.
Can I take the light rail from the Museum District?
Yes. METRORail's Red Line runs along Main Street on the district's east side, with stops including Museum District and Hermann Park/Rice U. The same line connects north to Midtown and Downtown and south to the Texas Medical Center and NRG Park, which makes it a practical option for medical center commutes and game days.
Is parking hard in the Museum District?
Street parking near the museums and Hermann Park fills up on weekends and during major events, and many blocks have metered or restricted parking. Most condos and townhomes in the area include garage or assigned parking, so buyers should confirm how many spaces come with a unit and where guests can park.
Who is a good realtor in the Museum District?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Evan Compean and the Compean Group work in the Museum District very often, so we understand the local market and what sets one street apart from the next. Our team has sold more than 1,000 homes and holds 5.0-star ratings on Google and Zillow across hundreds of reviews. This guide covers much more to help you get started, or call or text us at (832) 777-3904.
Washington Ave / Rice Military (19 questions)
Where is Rice Military in Houston?
Northwest of Downtown, between I-10 and Memorial Drive, with Washington Avenue running through it and Memorial Park on its western edge. It's about 3.5 miles to Downtown and 5.4 miles to the Galleria by car.
Is Rice Military safe?
Rice Military is served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Rice Military?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 109 homes sold in Rice Military on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $621,000 and an average near $640,000. Most were two- and three-story townhomes.
Why are there so many townhomes in Rice Military?
Small original lots and strong demand for close-in living led builders to replace older cottages with two- and three-story townhomes starting in the 2000s. Today townhomes make up most of the homes, many with rooftop decks and attached garages.
What ZIP code is Rice Military?
Rice Military is in ZIP code 77007.
What is there to do in Rice Military?
Washington Avenue's restaurants and bars, Memorial Park's trails, golf course and Eastern Glades, the Buffalo Bayou trails to the south and the Sawyer Yards art studios nearby.
Does Rice Military flood?
Parts of Rice Military are close to Buffalo Bayou, and low-lying streets have flooded in major storms, so risk varies block to block. Since 2018, Houston has required new homes in mapped floodplains to be built higher. Check the FEMA flood zone, the seller's disclosure and an elevation certificate if available.
What school district serves Rice Military?
Rice Military is in Houston ISD. Zoned schools depend on the address, so confirm with HISD's school finder.
Do Rice Military townhomes have HOAs?
Many do, especially gated communities with shared driveways, while others are stand-alone homes with no HOA. Review the HOA budget, rules and any shared-driveway agreement before your option period ends.
Is Rice Military close to Memorial Park?
Yes. Memorial Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country at about 1,500 acres, borders the neighborhood to the west with running trails, golf, sports fields and the Eastern Glades.
Is Rice Military walkable?
For a Houston neighborhood, yes. Residents walk or bike to Washington Avenue's restaurants and bars, to Memorial Park and to the Buffalo Bayou trails along Memorial Drive. There is no rail line, so most people still drive for groceries and commuting.
What are the boundaries of Rice Military?
Rice Military is roughly bounded by Washington Avenue on the north, Memorial Drive on the south, Shepherd Drive on the east and Westcott Street on the west. The name comes from Camp Logan, a World War I Army training camp in what is now Memorial Park.
How far is Rice Military from Downtown and the Galleria?
Downtown is about 3 miles east via Memorial Drive or Washington Avenue, usually a 10-minute drive outside rush hour. The Galleria/Uptown area is about 5 miles southwest via Loop 610, and the Texas Medical Center is roughly 6 miles south.
Where are the best places to eat in Rice Military?
Popular choices include Truth BBQ (Michelin Bib Gourmand barbecue), Max's Wine Dive (fried chicken and wine), Burger Bodega (burgers), Miri's Kitchen (Persian) and El Rey Taqueria (Mexican and Cuban).
Where can I shop local in Rice Military?
Independent shopping is spread along the Washington Avenue corridor, including the artist studios at Sawyer Yards, The Arrangement furniture showroom and Henderson & Kane General Store. Sawyer Yards' Second Saturday open studios are the easiest way to buy directly from local artists.
Is guest parking hard in Rice Military?
Guest parking is limited on many blocks because townhome driveways and garages take up much of the curb, and some streets have permit-only or restricted parking. Blocks closest to the Washington Avenue bars and restaurants see more weekend visitor parking. Buyers should check whether a townhome has a guest space or a pad in front of the garage, and look at the street's posted parking rules.
Will I hear trains in Rice Military?
A Union Pacific freight line runs along the Washington Avenue corridor near Rice Military. The City of Houston set up a railroad quiet zone along this stretch, so trains generally don't sound horns at the crossings except in emergencies, though homes right next to the tracks still hear passing trains. Visiting a home at different times of day is the best way to judge it.
What should I check before buying a townhome in Rice Military?
Most Rice Military homes are townhomes built since the late 1990s, so build quality and upkeep vary by builder and age. Buyers typically order an independent inspection, review any shared-driveway or HOA agreements, ask about remaining builder warranty on newer homes, and check the lot on the FEMA and Harris County Flood Control District maps.
Who is a good realtor in Rice Military?
Compean Group ranks #2 on AgentPronto's list of top agents for Washington Avenue Coalition – Memorial Park and #3 on its Houston list (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Rice Military is one of the areas where the Compean Group works most often, and Evan and the team know this local market well. With more than 1,000 homes sold and hundreds of 5-star reviews on Google, Zillow, Yelp, RateMyAgent and HAR, we are ready to help you buy or sell. The rest of this guide has much more to get your search started.
Read the full Washington Ave / Rice Military neighborhood guide
River Oaks (19 questions)
What ZIP code is River Oaks in?
Most of River Oaks is in ZIP code 77019, with parts in 77027. Confirm the ZIP code for a specific address.
Is River Oaks part of Houston?
Yes. River Oaks is a neighborhood inside the City of Houston in Harris County, about 4 miles west of Downtown, with deed restrictions enforced by its property owners association.
How much do homes cost in River Oaks?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 134 homes sold in River Oaks on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $2.5 million, with the top sale near $19.2 million. Condos and townhomes near the edges of the area sell for far less.
Is River Oaks safe?
River Oaks is served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
Why is River Oaks so expensive?
Large lots, deed restrictions that protect the neighborhood's character, a central location near Downtown, Memorial Park and the Galleria, well-known schools such as River Oaks Elementary, and very few homes for sale at any time.
Did River Oaks flood during Hurricane Harvey?
Flood experience varied by street. Homes near Buffalo Bayou and in lower spots face more risk, while much of the neighborhood sits higher. Check each home's flood zone, an elevation certificate if available and the seller's disclosure for past flooding.
How far is River Oaks from Downtown Houston?
About 4.1 miles by car, with the Galleria about 2.8 miles away and the Texas Medical Center about 4.9 miles.
What schools serve River Oaks?
River Oaks is in Houston ISD, and River Oaks Elementary is one of the district's best-known Vanguard magnet schools. Several well-known private schools are also nearby; confirm zoning for any address.
What deed restrictions apply in River Oaks?
River Oaks has deed restrictions covering home use, setbacks and building standards, enforced by the River Oaks Property Owners association. Review them and any architectural review steps before buying to remodel or rebuild.
What is near River Oaks?
River Oaks Country Club, the Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, the River Oaks Shopping Center, Memorial Park across Buffalo Bayou, and the shops of River Oaks District and Highland Village to the west.
Is River Oaks walkable?
The residential streets are quiet and shaded, and many residents walk or jog them, but River Oaks is mostly a driving neighborhood. Homes near Westheimer and West Gray can walk to River Oaks Shopping Center, and Buffalo Bayou Park's trails are close to the northern edge. Most errands and commutes are by car.
What are the boundaries of River Oaks?
River Oaks sits between Buffalo Bayou on the north and Westheimer Road on the south, running roughly from Shepherd Drive on the east to near Loop 610 on the west. Nearby areas such as Upper Kirby, Highland Village and Montrose are sometimes marketed as "River Oaks area" but are outside the deed-restricted subdivision.
What are property taxes like in River Oaks?
River Oaks homes pay City of Houston, Houston ISD, Harris County and related taxes, which together usually add up to roughly 2% of assessed value per year before exemptions. There are no MUD taxes, but high home values mean large annual bills. If the home will be your primary residence, file for the homestead exemption: it lowers your taxable value, and starting the year after the home qualifies, its appraised value for taxes generally can't rise more than 10% a year.
Can anyone join River Oaks Country Club?
No. River Oaks Country Club is a private club, and membership is by invitation and approval, not automatic with buying a home in the neighborhood. The club, founded in the 1920s, anchors the neighborhood's center with its golf course and clubhouse.
Where are the best places to eat in River Oaks?
Popular choices include Bar Buena (Goode Co.'s agave bar, Michelin Bib Gourmand), Brasserie 19 (French brasserie), Armando's (Tex-Mex), Federal American Grill (American comfort food and whiskey) and Tiny Boxwood's (garden cafe).
Where can I shop local in River Oaks?
West Alabama and Kirby Drive have several independent stores, including Thompson + Hanson for plants and garden goods and Kuhl-Linscomb for home and design. River Oaks Shopping Center on West Gray adds a mix of local and national shops.
What private schools are near River Oaks?
Several well-known private schools sit in or next to River Oaks. St. John's School (pre-K through 12) is at 2401 Claremont Lane, River Oaks Baptist School is at 2300 Willowick Road, and Annunciation Orthodox School (pre-K through 8) is on Yoakum Boulevard in nearby Montrose. Each has its own admissions calendar, so buyers relocating mid-year should contact schools early.
Should I buy in River Oaks or Tanglewood?
Both are deed-restricted, established luxury neighborhoods with large homes. River Oaks sits inside the Loop between Downtown and the Galleria, near Buffalo Bayou Park and the River Oaks Shopping Center. Tanglewood sits just outside the Loop next to the Galleria and Uptown, with many newer large homes and the Tanglewood Boulevard walking path. Comparing recent sales, lot sizes and commute routes for the specific streets is the best way to decide.
Who is a good realtor in River Oaks?
Compean Group ranks #2 on AgentPronto's list of top agents for River Oaks and #3 on its Houston list (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). We commonly help clients buy and sell in River Oaks, and we follow this local market closely. Evan Compean and the Compean Group bring more than 1,000 homes sold and hundreds of 5-star reviews to every move. Use this guide to get started with your search; it has much more information about the area.
Houston Heights (19 questions)
Is the Houston Heights a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes. The Heights combines historic homes, walkable shopping streets, trails and a strong neighborhood feel about 5 miles from Downtown. The trade-offs are higher prices than much of Houston and older homes that can need updates.
Is the Houston Heights safe?
The Heights is served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in the Heights?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 1,095 homes sold in the Greater Heights on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $681,000 and an average near $814,000. Townhomes and smaller bungalows come in lower, while restored and new single-family homes often top $1 million.
Does the Houston Heights flood?
Much of the Heights sits higher than surrounding areas, but streets near White Oak Bayou and Little White Oak Bayou have flooded in major storms. Check the FEMA flood zone, Harris County Flood Control District maps and the seller's disclosure, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What high school serves the Heights?
Much of the Heights is zoned to Heights High School in Houston ISD, but zoning varies by address. Confirm with HISD's school finder before you buy.
Are there historic districts in the Heights?
Yes. Houston Heights East, West and South are City of Houston historic districts, and most exterior changes there need a Certificate of Appropriateness. Check the rules before planning an addition, new windows or a rebuild.
Is the Heights still a dry area?
Parts of the original Heights have long restricted alcohol sales. Since a 2016 vote, stores there can sell beer and wine, and many restaurants serve drinks through private club permits.
What ZIP codes are in the Heights?
The core of the Heights is in ZIP code 77008, with nearby parts of the Greater Heights in 77007, 77009 and 77018. Confirm the ZIP code for a specific address.
What is there to do in the Heights?
Shopping and dining on 19th Street, Heights Mercantile, the Heights Hike and Bike Trail, Donovan and Marmion parks, and dozens of independent restaurants and coffee shops.
How far is the Heights from Downtown Houston?
About 4.7 miles by car to Downtown, 7.1 miles to the Texas Medical Center and 8.1 miles to the Galleria.
Is the Heights walkable?
Parts of it are very walkable. Shops and restaurants cluster along 19th St, 20th St, Shepherd Dr, Yale St, Airline Dr, Main St and White Oak Dr, and the Heights Hike and Bike Trail and MKT Trail run through the neighborhood toward Downtown and Memorial Park. Most residents still drive for groceries and commuting.
What are the boundaries of the Houston Heights?
The original Houston Heights runs roughly from White Oak Bayou and I-10 north to about 20th–26th Street, between Oxford/Studewood on the east and Shepherd/Durham on the west. "Greater Heights" is used more loosely and includes Woodland Heights, Norhill, Shady Acres and Timbergrove, up to Loop 610.
Can I tear down or remodel a home in the Heights historic districts?
Inside the Heights East, West and South historic districts, exterior changes, additions, new construction and demolitions need a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission. The Heights Design Guidelines (adopted 2018) limit size and setbacks. Outside the districts, deed restrictions and the Heights Minimum Lot Size/Building Line rules may still apply.
What are property taxes like in the Heights?
Heights homes pay City of Houston, Houston ISD, Harris County and related taxes, which together usually add up to roughly 2% of assessed value per year before exemptions. There are no MUD taxes. If the home will be your primary residence, file for the homestead exemption: it lowers your taxable value, and starting the year after the home qualifies, its appraised value for taxes generally can't rise more than 10% a year.
Where are the best places to eat in the Heights?
Popular choices include Coltivare (Italian, garden-to-table), Agnes and Sherman (Asian-American diner), JŪN (New American with Southeast Asian flavors), Kin Dee (Thai) and Field & Tides (Southern coastal seafood).
Where can I shop local in the Heights?
Historic 19th Street is the main strip for independent shops, including Jubilee, Manready Mercantile and AG Antiques. The street hosts seasonal events such as First Saturday and holiday strolls.
What middle school serves the Houston Heights?
Most of the Heights is zoned to Hogg Middle School, with Hamilton Middle School (at Heights Boulevard and 20th Street) serving other parts of the area. Both are Houston ISD neighborhood schools, and students living inside a school's attendance zone are guaranteed a seat. Zones can change block by block, so check a specific address with HISD's school zone locator.
Should I buy in the Heights or Montrose?
Both are inner-loop neighborhoods with older bungalows, new townhomes, restaurants and trails. The Heights is larger, has more single-family streets and historic districts, and single-family homes there often sell for more than similar homes in Montrose. Montrose is closer to the Museum District, Medical Center and River Oaks, with more mixed retail and nightlife along Westheimer. Comparing recent sales for the exact streets you like is the best way to judge value.
Who is a good realtor in the Houston Heights?
Evan Compean and the Compean Group, based at 802 W. Patton St in the Heights area just north of Downtown, have sold more than 1,000 Houston homes over 15 years and are rated 5.0 on Google and Zillow, with 921 reviews and ratings across five sites. He lives in Woodland Heights and has his office in Brooke Smith. AgentPronto ranks the Compean Group #1 on its Greater Heights list and #3 on its Houston list (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews).
West University Place (19 questions)
Is West University Place its own city?
Yes. West U is an independent city of about two square miles, incorporated in 1925 and completely surrounded by Houston. It has its own mayor and council, police, fire, parks and public works, and a Houston mailing address.
Why is West University Place so expensive?
Its location next to Rice University and about 3 miles from the Medical Center and Galleria, its own city services, well-regarded Houston ISD schools and a fixed number of lots, most now built with newer, larger homes.
How much do homes cost in West University Place?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 176 homes sold in West U on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $1.82 million and an average near $1.97 million, with the top sale near $6.4 million.
Is West University Place safe?
West University Place has its own police department. Review the West University Place Police Department's recent crime data for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
Does West University Place flood?
Some West U streets have flooded in major storms, and risk varies block to block. Check the FEMA flood zone, ask for an elevation certificate, read the seller's disclosure and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What schools serve West University Place?
West U is in Houston ISD, and most homes are zoned to West University Elementary. Confirm zoning for any address with HISD's school finder, and many buyers also consider nearby private schools.
How far is West U from the Texas Medical Center?
About 3.1 miles to the Texas Medical Center, 3.3 miles to the Galleria and 6 miles to Downtown by car.
Is West University Place or River Oaks better?
Both are top-tier close-in neighborhoods. River Oaks has larger lots and estates at a median sale price around $2.5 million, while West U is a small separate city with newer single-family homes on standard lots at a median near $1.8 million and its own city services.
What is there to do in West University Place?
Neighborhood parks and pools, the recreation center, Rice Village's shops and restaurants next door, and Rice University's campus and events.
Can I rebuild or add on to a home in West U?
Yes, many buyers do, but West U has its own building codes, zoning and permits separate from Houston. Check setbacks, height limits and tree rules with the city before you buy.
Is West University Place walkable?
West U is walkable for a suburb-style city: most streets have sidewalks, and Rice Village's shops and restaurants sit just east of the city. Residents walk or bike to parks, schools and the Village, but most still drive for groceries and commuting. (West U received a federal grant in 2026 to study pedestrian safety, so sidewalk and crossing upgrades may follow.)
What ZIP code is West University Place?
West University Place uses ZIP code 77005, which it shares with nearby parts of Houston, including Rice Village and the area around Rice University. Because 77005 is not unique to West U, confirm that a listing is inside the City of West University Place before buying.
What are property taxes like in West University Place?
West U homes pay City of West University Place, Houston ISD, Harris County and related taxes, which together usually add up to roughly 2% of assessed value per year before exemptions. There are no MUD taxes. If the home will be your primary residence, file for the homestead exemption: it lowers your taxable value, and starting the year after the home qualifies, its appraised value for taxes generally can't rise more than 10% a year.
Is Rice Village part of West University Place?
No. Rice Village is a shopping district in the City of Houston, just east of West U and west of Rice University. Many West U residents treat it as their main street, since it is a short walk or bike ride from much of the city.
Is there public transportation near West U?
METRO bus routes run along major streets near West U, and the METRORail Red Line stops along Main Street at Hermann Park and Rice University, a short drive or bike ride east. Most residents drive to work at the Texas Medical Center, the Galleria or Downtown.
Where are the best places to eat in West University Place?
Popular choices include Maximo (progressive Mexican, Michelin Bib Gourmand), Osteria di Mercato (Italian, Michelin recommended), Navy Blue (Gulf Coast seafood), Hamsa (modern Israeli) and Cafe Rabelais (French bistro), most of them in or next to Rice Village.
Where can I shop local in West University Place?
Bissonnet Street on West U's north edge is the main spot for independent stores, including Bering's, the family-owned hardware and gift store, Brazos Bookstore and Murder by the Book. Rice Village next door adds boutiques and the Rice Village Farmers Market.
Are there train tracks near West University Place?
Yes. A Union Pacific freight line runs along the west side of West U, roughly following Community Drive, between West U and Bellaire. The crossings were made part of a railroad quiet zone, so trains generally don't sound horns there except in emergencies, though homes closest to the tracks still hear passing trains. Buyers looking at streets near Community Drive should visit at different times of day.
Who is a good realtor in West University Place?
Compean Group, a Houston team based at 802 W. Patton St in the Heights area, works with buyers and sellers in West University Place, has sold more than 1,000 Greater Houston homes over 15 years and is rated 5.0 on Google and Zillow, with 921 reviews and ratings across five sites. AgentPronto ranks Compean Group #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews).
Lazybrook and Timbergrove (18 questions)
Where is Timbergrove in Houston?
Timbergrove and neighboring Lazybrook are northwest of the Heights and both are inside Loop 610. Lazybrook lies between West 18th Street, Ella Boulevard, Loop 610 and West T. C. Jester Boulevard. Check the specific address and subdivision boundaries when comparing homes.
Is Timbergrove part of the Heights?
It's next door and often counted as part of the Greater Heights, but Timbergrove Manor is its own 1950s subdivision with larger lots and ranch-style roots.
Is Lazybrook / Timbergrove safe?
Lazybrook and Timbergrove are served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Lazybrook and Timbergrove?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 214 homes sold in Lazybrook and Timbergrove on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $635,000 and an average near $671,000. Updated ranch homes come in lower than new two-story builds.
What ZIP codes are Lazybrook and Timbergrove in?
Timbergrove is mostly in ZIP code 77008 and Lazybrook in 77018. Confirm the ZIP code for a specific address.
What are the homes like in Lazybrook and Timbergrove?
Original 1950s ranch homes on generous lots, many updated, plus a large share of new two-story homes built on those lots. Buyers come here for more yard than in the older parts of the Heights.
Does Timbergrove flood?
Some streets near White Oak Bayou are in mapped floodplains and have flooded in past major storms, and many homes there have been elevated or rebuilt. Check the FEMA flood zone, ask for an elevation certificate and the seller's disclosure, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What schools serve Lazybrook and Timbergrove?
Both are in Houston ISD, and zoned schools depend on the address. Confirm zoning with HISD's school finder before you buy.
What is near Lazybrook and Timbergrove?
The White Oak Bayou trail, T.C. Jester Park, the Heights' restaurants and shops, and quick access to I-610, I-10 and US-290.
How is Lazybrook different from Timbergrove?
Lazybrook sits just north of Loop 610 with larger lots and quieter streets, while Timbergrove Manor sits inside the Loop, closer to the Heights. Both began as 1950s ranch-home subdivisions.
Is there a hike and bike trail in Timbergrove?
Yes. The West White Oak Bayou Trail starts in Timbergrove Manor and follows the bayou along T.C. Jester Boulevard from 11th Street through Lazybrook and Oak Forest. It is about 7.4 miles long, mostly concrete and asphalt, and lit in places. It also connects toward the Heights and Downtown trail network.
Are Lazybrook and Timbergrove deed restricted?
Yes, both neighborhoods have deed restrictions that limit lot use and building types. Rules vary by section, so buyers should request the current restrictions from the civic association or title company before buying or planning a rebuild.
What are property taxes like in Lazybrook and Timbergrove?
Homes here pay City of Houston, Houston ISD, Harris County and related taxes, which together usually add up to roughly 2% of assessed value per year before exemptions. There are no MUD taxes. If the home will be your primary residence, file for the homestead exemption: it lowers your taxable value, and starting the year after the home qualifies, its appraised value for taxes generally can't rise more than 10% a year.
Where are the best places to eat in Lazybrook and Timbergrove?
Popular choices include Rainbow Lodge (game and seafood in a log cabin on White Oak Bayou), Long Weekend (casual, breakfast to dinner), Hughie's (Vietnamese and American) and Terry Black's Barbecue on North Shepherd.
Where can I shop local near Lazybrook and Timbergrove?
I-Cycle is a longtime independent bike shop near the White Oak Bayou trail. A few minutes east on 18th Street, Joshua's Native Plants & Garden Antiques and Heaven Bites Vintage are popular independent shops.
How big are the lots in Lazybrook and Timbergrove?
Lots are large for inside the Loop, commonly around 7,500 to 10,000 square feet, with many original 1950s and 1960s ranch homes. In Timbergrove, homes east of T.C. Jester tend to be smaller and older, while the area west of T.C. Jester has more larger homes. Check the exact lot size on Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD) records for any address.
Should I buy in Lazybrook/Timbergrove or Oak Forest?
Both are deed-restricted, mid-century neighborhoods with ranch homes and a steady pace of new construction. Lazybrook/Timbergrove sits closer to the Heights, Washington Avenue and I-10, while Oak Forest sits farther north along T.C. Jester and Ella Boulevard, with homes often priced somewhat higher. Compare recent sales, zoned HISD schools and each property's location in the FEMA and Harris County flood maps, since conditions differ street by street.
Who is a good realtor in Lazybrook and Timbergrove?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). We very commonly work in Lazybrook and Timbergrove and understand its local market, from how homes are priced to what buyers look for. Evan Compean and the Compean Group have sold more than 1,000 homes and earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. This guide includes much more information to help you get started with your search.
Garden Oaks / Oak Forest (20 questions)
Are Garden Oaks and Oak Forest good places to live?
For buyers who want a big lot close to central Houston, Garden Oaks is one of the best options, and Oak Forest next door offers mid-century homes and new construction on standard lots. Both have mature trees and quick access to the Heights. Trade-offs include some older homes needing updates and streets without sidewalks.
Are Garden Oaks and Oak Forest safe?
Both neighborhoods are served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Garden Oaks and Oak Forest?
In the 12 months through October 2026, 80 homes sold in Garden Oaks on the MLS at a typical price around $910,000 and an average near $1.04 million, and 309 sold in Oak Forest at a typical price around $766,000 and an average near $954,000. Original homes come in lower: Oak Forest's original ranch homes sold at a median near $443,000 and its homes built since 2015 near $1.46 million, while new custom homes in Garden Oaks often top $1.5 million.
How big are the lots in Garden Oaks and Oak Forest?
Larger than in most neighborhoods this close in. Many Garden Oaks lots are a quarter acre or more, which is a big part of its appeal and value, and most Oak Forest lots run about 7,000 to 8,500 square feet.
Where are Garden Oaks and Oak Forest in Houston?
Just north of Loop 610 and the Heights, side by side, with Oak Forest to the west of Garden Oaks. Garden Oaks is about 7 miles from Downtown and 8 miles from the Galleria by car.
What school district serves Garden Oaks and Oak Forest?
Both are in Houston ISD. Garden Oaks Montessori is a popular public magnet school in Garden Oaks, and Oak Forest Elementary, Black Middle School and Waltrip High School are nearby; all four were rated A by the Texas Education Agency for 2025-26. Confirm zoning for a specific address with HISD's school finder.
Do Garden Oaks and Oak Forest flood?
Flood risk and drainage vary by street, and some low spots hold water in heavy rain; much of ZIP 77018 drains to the White Oak Bayou watershed. Check the FEMA flood zone and Harris County Flood Control District maps, read the seller's disclosure, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
Are Garden Oaks and Oak Forest deed restricted?
Parts of Garden Oaks have deed restrictions, and many blocks have city minimum lot size protections that limit subdividing. Oak Forest is deed-restricted too. Check what applies to a specific lot before buying to rebuild or add on.
How is Garden Oaks different from Oak Forest?
They're popular neighbors north of the Heights. Garden Oaks generally has larger lots and a garden-suburb feel, while Oak Forest has more mid-century homes on standard lots and a lot of new construction: about 45% of its sales in the last 12 months were homes built in 2015 or later.
What ZIP codes are Garden Oaks and Oak Forest in?
Garden Oaks is in ZIP code 77018, and Oak Forest spans 77018 and 77092.
When were Garden Oaks and Oak Forest built?
Developer Edward L. Crain established Garden Oaks in 1937. It was planned with large, garden-sized lots, which is still what sets it apart from most inner-loop neighborhoods. Many original oak, pecan and pine trees remain. Oak Forest was developed by Frank Sharp starting in the late 1940s and was largely built out by the mid-1950s.
What are the homes like in Garden Oaks and Oak Forest?
Garden Oaks' original housing stock is mostly 1930s-1950s ranch homes and bungalows on large lots, and Oak Forest's is mostly ranch homes built from about 1949 to 1960. Over the past two decades many have been renovated or replaced with larger new construction, so streets often mix original homes and modern farmhouse-style homes. Prices vary widely as a result.
Are Garden Oaks and Oak Forest walkable?
Both are mostly car-oriented, but their tree-lined streets are popular for walking and biking, and the West White Oak Bayou Trail runs through Oak Forest along T.C. Jester Boulevard. Restaurants and shops cluster along West 34th Street, West 43rd Street and Ella Boulevard, including the Stomping Grounds. The Stomping Grounds is a 26,000-square-foot development with restaurants, shops and a green space that hosts community events.
Are there parks near Garden Oaks and Oak Forest?
Yes. T.C. Jester Park has dog parks, walking trails, a playground and a disc golf course. Oak Forest Park on Judiway has an inclusive playground and updated tennis and basketball courts. Candlelight Park has a playground, a walking trail and a ball field, and the West White Oak Bayou Trail follows T.C. Jester Boulevard through Oak Forest.
What are property taxes like in Garden Oaks and Oak Forest?
Homes in both pay City of Houston, Houston ISD, Harris County and related taxes, which together usually add up to roughly 2% of assessed value per year before exemptions. There are no MUD taxes. If the home will be your primary residence, file for the homestead exemption: it lowers your taxable value, and starting the year after the home qualifies, its appraised value for taxes generally can't rise more than 10% a year.
Where are the best places to eat in Garden Oaks and Oak Forest?
Popular choices include Lazy Lane (steaks, pizza and brunch), BeauSoleil (French-American with Cajun influences), Gatlin's BBQ, Plonk! Bistro (wine bar with a dog-friendly patio) and Sunday Press (all-day cafe), plus Millie's Kitchen & Cocktails (seafood and brunch) on Oak Forest Drive.
Where can I shop local in Garden Oaks?
The Stomping Grounds on West 34th Street has Threadfare Children's Boutique and Her & Reese Boutique. On North Shepherd, Wabash Feed & Garden is a longtime independent store for plants, garden supplies and pet food.
How far are Garden Oaks and Oak Forest from Downtown Houston?
Garden Oaks is about 6 to 8 miles northwest of Downtown, typically a 15- to 20-minute drive outside rush hour via North Shepherd/Durham, Loop 610 or I-45. Oak Forest, just to the west, is usually a few minutes farther. The Heights is about 10 minutes south, and the Galleria is roughly 15 to 25 minutes via Loop 610.
Should I buy in Garden Oaks, Oak Forest or the Heights?
Garden Oaks generally offers larger lots, deed restrictions and more of a suburban-in-the-city feel; Oak Forest offers mid-century homes and new construction on standard lots at a lower typical price; and the Heights has smaller lots, historic districts and more walkable shopping and dining strips like 19th Street and White Oak Drive. All three are Houston ISD neighborhoods with no MUD taxes. Comparing recent sales, lot sizes and zoned schools for the specific homes you like is the best way to decide.
Who is a good realtor in Garden Oaks and Oak Forest?
Compean Group ranks #3 on AgentPronto's list of top agents for Garden Oaks, #2 on its Oak Forest list and #3 on its Houston list (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). We commonly help clients buy and sell in Garden Oaks and Oak Forest, and we follow this local market closely. Evan Compean and the Compean Group bring more than 1,000 homes sold and hundreds of 5-star reviews to every move. Use this guide to get started with your search; it has much more information about the area.
Bellaire (21 questions)
Is Bellaire part of Houston?
No. Bellaire is a separate city of about 3.6 square miles surrounded by Houston in Harris County, with its own city government, police and fire departments.
Is Bellaire a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: newer single-family homes, its own city services, Houston ISD schools such as Bellaire High School and a short drive to the Galleria and Medical Center. Prices are high for the area, and flood risk varies by street.
Is Bellaire safe?
Bellaire has its own police department. Review the Bellaire Police Department's recent crime data for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Bellaire?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 209 homes sold in Bellaire on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $1.24 million and an average near $1.21 million. Original ranch homes on larger lots sell for less than new construction.
Does Bellaire flood?
Parts of Bellaire have flooded in major storms, including Hurricane Harvey in 2017, and risk varies block to block. Check the FEMA flood zone, ask for an elevation certificate and flood history, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What schools serve Bellaire?
Bellaire is in Houston ISD. Bellaire High School is one of the district's best-known high schools, and zoned elementary and middle schools depend on the address.
What ZIP code is Bellaire, Texas?
Most of the City of Bellaire is in ZIP code 77401. Some nearby Houston addresses use "Bellaire" in their name, so confirm the city and ZIP code for a specific property.
How far is Bellaire from the Galleria and the Medical Center?
About 2.9 miles to the Galleria, 3.8 miles to the Texas Medical Center and 8.4 miles to Downtown by car.
Is Bellaire or West University Place better?
Both are small independent cities with their own services and Houston ISD schools. West U sits closer to Rice and the Medical Center with a median sale price near $1.8 million, while Bellaire is a bit larger and closer to the Galleria, with a median near $1.24 million over the last year.
What is there to do in Bellaire?
Evelyn's Park, Bellaire Town Square with its library and recreation center, local restaurants along Bellaire Boulevard and Rice Avenue, and the Galleria a few minutes away.
What are property taxes like in Bellaire?
Bellaire homes pay City of Bellaire, Houston ISD, Harris County and related taxes, which together usually add up to roughly 2% of assessed value per year before exemptions. There are no MUD taxes. If the home will be your primary residence, file for the homestead exemption: it lowers your taxable value, and starting the year after the home qualifies, its appraised value for taxes generally can't rise more than 10% a year.
Is Bellaire walkable?
Bellaire's residential streets are quiet and many have sidewalks, and homes near Bellaire Boulevard, Evelyn's Park and Bellaire Town Square can walk to restaurants, parks and the library. Groceries, errands and commutes to the Galleria or Medical Center are still easiest by car.
Why is there so much new construction in Bellaire?
Many of Bellaire's original 1950s ranch homes sit on generous lots close to the Galleria and Medical Center, so builders replace them with larger new homes. Flooding in past storms also led many owners to rebuild at higher elevations. New homes must meet the City of Bellaire's building and floodplain rules.
What parks are in Bellaire?
The city manages 17 parks, including Evelyn's Park on Bellaire Boulevard, Bellaire Town Square with its recreation center and library, and Russ Pitman Park, home of the Nature Discovery Center. A new nature playground called Enchanted Woods is being built at Russ Pitman Park, and in 2026 the city began a new 10-year Parks Master Plan covering all of its parks.
Is Bellaire the same as Chinatown on Bellaire Boulevard?
No. Houston's Chinatown (often called Asiatown) runs along Bellaire Boulevard several miles west, near Beltway 8, inside the City of Houston. The City of Bellaire is a separate small city just west of Loop 610, though both share the same boulevard name.
Does Bellaire have an HOA?
Most of Bellaire has no traditional homeowners association. Instead, the City of Bellaire's zoning, building codes and permits govern what can be built, and some subdivisions also have deed restrictions. Buyers should check both city rules and any deed restrictions for a specific lot.
Is there public transportation in Bellaire?
METRO bus routes serve Bellaire, including service along Bellaire Boulevard toward the Texas Medical Center and other parts of Houston. There is no light rail in Bellaire, so most residents drive.
Where are the best places to eat in Bellaire?
Popular choices include Blood Bros. BBQ (Asian-influenced Texas barbecue, Michelin Bib Gourmand), Dandelion Cafe (breakfast and brunch), Bistro Mistral (French) and Betsy's at Evelyn's Park (park cafe).
Where can I shop local in Bellaire?
Bellaire Boulevard has several independent shops, including Magpies Gifts, family-run since 1983, and French Cuff Boutique for women’s clothing. Papa Ben's Train Place, a hobby shop, is just east of the city line.
How big are the lots in Bellaire?
Lot sizes vary by section. Many Bellaire lots are in the 7,500 to 10,000 square-foot range, often larger than the typical lots in neighboring West University Place, while some streets have smaller lots and a few areas have lots of 14,000 square feet or more. Minimum lot sizes differ by City of Bellaire zoning district, so check the city's current zoning rules for a specific lot, and its size on Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD) records.
Who is a good realtor in Bellaire?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Evan Compean and the Compean Group work in Bellaire very often, so we understand the local market and what sets one street apart from the next. Our team has sold more than 1,000 homes and holds 5.0-star ratings on Google and Zillow across hundreds of reviews. This guide covers much more to help you get started, or call or text us at (832) 777-3904.
Memorial (20 questions)
Where is Memorial in Houston?
West of Downtown, stretching from Memorial Park toward the Energy Corridor along Memorial Drive, Buffalo Bayou and I-10. It's about 12 miles from Downtown and 6 miles from the Galleria by car.
What are the Memorial Villages?
Six small independent cities inside the Memorial area: Bunker Hill Village, Hedwig Village, Hilshire Village, Hunters Creek Village, Piney Point Village and Spring Valley Village. Each has its own city government and building rules, and many homes sit on large wooded lots.
Is Memorial safe?
Parts of Memorial are served by the Houston Police Department, and the Villages have their own police departments. Review recent crime data from the agency that covers the address, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Memorial?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 630 homes sold in the Memorial area on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $800,000 and an average near $935,000, with the top sale near $7.8 million. Townhomes and older ranch homes come in lower, while Village estates sell for several million.
What school district serves Memorial?
Most of Memorial is in Spring Branch ISD, including Memorial High School and Stratford High School. Some areas are zoned to Houston ISD or Katy ISD, so confirm zoning for a specific address.
Does Memorial flood?
Some homes near Buffalo Bayou flooded during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, when releases from the Addicks and Barker reservoirs kept the bayou high for days. Check the FEMA flood zone, flood history and an elevation certificate, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
Is Memorial City the same as Memorial?
Memorial City is the shopping and medical hub around Memorial City mall and Memorial Hermann Memorial City at I-10 and Gessner, inside the larger Memorial area. "Memorial" usually means the whole residential area along Memorial Drive.
Is Memorial or Katy better for buyers?
Memorial is closer in, with mature trees, older and custom homes and a median sale price around $800,000. Katy offers newer master-planned communities, Katy ISD schools and more house for the money, with a median near $346,000, but a longer drive to central Houston.
How far is Memorial from Downtown and the Galleria?
About 12 miles to Downtown, 6 miles to the Galleria and 12.6 miles to the Texas Medical Center by car, depending on where in Memorial you live.
What is there to do in Memorial?
Memorial Park's trails, golf course and Eastern Glades, Terry Hershey Park, Memorial City mall, CityCentre's restaurants and the Buffalo Bayou trails.
Are the Memorial Villages separate cities from Houston?
Yes. Bunker Hill, Hedwig, Hilshire, Hunters Creek, Piney Point and Spring Valley are six small incorporated cities with their own city councils, building rules and permits. Police and fire service are shared or contracted among the villages, and the Village Fire Department covers the group.
What are property taxes like in Memorial?
Homes in the Memorial Villages pay the village's own city tax instead of the City of Houston's. Homes elsewhere in Memorial pay City of Houston taxes. Most of the area also pays Spring Branch ISD and Harris County taxes, and there are generally no MUD taxes. All-in rates usually land around 2% of assessed value before exemptions.
What private schools are near Memorial?
Several well-known private schools sit inside the area, including The Kinkaid School and St. Francis Episcopal School in Piney Point Village and Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart on Memorial Drive. Many buyers also look at schools along the I-10 and Beltway 8 corridors.
Can I tear down and rebuild in Memorial?
Yes. Memorial and the Villages are among Houston's most active rebuild markets, and older ranch homes on large lots are regularly replaced with new custom homes. Each village has its own building codes, setback and drainage rules, and subdivisions in Houston city limits often have deed restrictions. Check village or HOA rules before you buy a lot.
Is Memorial good for walking and biking?
Memorial has some of west Houston's best trails. Terry Hershey Park runs along Buffalo Bayou with paved hike-and-bike paths, and Memorial Park is at the area's east end. Day-to-day errands are mostly by car, and many streets in the Villages have no sidewalks.
How long is the commute from Memorial to the Energy Corridor?
Memorial sits between Memorial Park and the Energy Corridor, so most drives west along I-10 or Memorial Drive take about 10–25 minutes depending on start point and traffic. Downtown and the Galleria are typically 15–30 minutes east. (Times are approximate.)
Where are the best places to eat in Memorial?
Popular choices include Bar Bludorn (Michelin-recommended tavern), Credence (live-fire cooking at Memorial City), Taste of Texas (family-owned steakhouse since 1977), Sushi Jin (longtime sushi spot on Memorial Drive) and Bistro Mistral (French).
Where can I shop local in Memorial?
Blue Willow Bookshop on Memorial Drive is the area's independent bookstore and hosts author events. At Town & Country Village, Mine Gifts & Monograms is a local option among the national chains.
Which high schools serve the Memorial area?
Most of Memorial is in Spring Branch ISD and is zoned to either Memorial High School or Stratford High School, depending on the address. Some homes on the area's far west side fall in Katy ISD instead. Attendance zones can split neighborhoods, so confirm an address with the district's school-zone lookup before buying.
Who is a good realtor in Memorial?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Memorial is one of the areas where the Compean Group works most often, and Evan and the team know this local market well. With more than 1,000 homes sold and hundreds of 5-star reviews on Google, Zillow, Yelp, RateMyAgent and HAR, we are ready to help you buy or sell. The rest of this guide has much more to get your search started.
Meyerland / Westbury (20 questions)
Where are Meyerland and Westbury in Houston?
Both are in southwest Houston, inside the City of Houston, just outside the southwest corner of Loop 610. Meyerland straddles Brays Bayou west of the loop around Meyerland Plaza, and Westbury lies directly south, roughly between Willowbend Boulevard and U.S. 90A. The City of Bellaire borders Meyerland to the north.
Are Meyerland and Westbury safe?
Meyerland and Westbury are served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Meyerland and Westbury?
In the 12 months through September 2026, 208 homes sold in the Meyerland Area on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $515,000 and an average near $616,000, with the top sale near $1.9 million. Westbury sold for less: 176 homes at a typical price around $305,000 and an average near $324,000. Prices vary widely by flood history, elevation and condition, and elevated new construction sits at the top of the range.
What ZIP codes are Meyerland and Westbury in?
Meyerland is in ZIP code 77096. Most of Westbury is in 77035, though its northern edge along Willowbend Boulevard is in 77096. Check the exact ZIP on the property's listing or appraisal district record.
Does Meyerland flood?
Parts of Meyerland have flooded repeatedly, including during Tropical Storm Allison in 2001, the Memorial Day flood of 2015, the Tax Day flood of April 2016 and Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Project Brays, a $480 million Harris County Flood Control District and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project celebrated as complete in May 2022, widened 21 miles of Brays Bayou, replaced or modified 32 bridges and expanded four detention basins to hold about 3.5 billion gallons. Risk still varies by lot, so check the home's flood history, elevation and the Harris County flood risk maps before buying.
Did Westbury flood during Harvey?
Some Westbury streets flooded during Harvey and others did not, depending mostly on how close a home sits to Brays Bayou or Willow Waterhole Bayou and on its own elevation. The Willow Waterhole Greenway, begun in 2004, was built partly as a flood-detention project for the area. Ask for the seller's disclosure notice, which asks about past flooding and flood insurance claims, and check the FEMA and Harris County maps. Most Texas home sellers must provide one, though some sales, such as foreclosures, estate sales and never-occupied new homes, are exempt.
What is an elevated home, and why are there so many in Meyerland?
An elevated home has been raised on new piers or a raised slab, or rebuilt new, so its finished floor sits above expected flood levels. After the 2015 to 2017 floods, many Meyerland owners lifted their houses, and since September 1, 2018, City of Houston rules require new construction and substantial improvements in the 500-year floodplain to sit at least two feet above the 500-year flood elevation. Ask for the elevation certificate, the date of the lift or rebuild and the engineering and permit records.
What school district serves Meyerland and Westbury?
Both neighborhoods are in Houston ISD. Zoned elementary, middle and high schools vary by address, and many Meyerland addresses are zoned to Bellaire High School. Confirm the zoned schools for any specific home with HISD's School Navigator.
What is the difference between Meyerland and Bellaire?
Bellaire is a separate city with its own police, city services and building rules, while Meyerland is a neighborhood inside the City of Houston. Both are in Houston ISD. Bellaire homes generally sell for much more, with a typical price around $1.24 million over the 12 months through September 2026, compared with about $515,000 in the Meyerland Area.
Does Meyerland or Westbury have deed restrictions or a civic club?
Meyerland was one of the first deed-restricted communities in Houston, and the Meyerland Community Improvement Association, formed in 1954, is its civic association. Westbury is served by the Westbury Civic Club, whose area covers Westbury sections 1 to 5, Parkwest 1 to 3 and Westbury South. Read the deed restrictions for the specific section, since rules on lot use, setbacks and fees vary.
What is happening with Meyerland Plaza?
Meyerland Plaza, which opened in 1957, is filling former anchor spaces. Hobby Lobby is renovating the former Palais Royal space and HomeGoods is building out a space between Nordstrom Rack and Office Depot, with both projects estimated for completion in March 2027 per state filings. The center added a two-story H-E-B in 2020, and Meyerland Crossing next door added a Shake Shack in 2026.
How long is the commute from Meyerland?
Meyerland sits on Loop 610, so the Galleria is about 5 miles away, the Texas Medical Center about 6 miles and Downtown about 10 miles. Off-peak drives to these job centers usually take about 10 to 20 minutes, longer at rush hour. Westbury adds a few miles to each trip.
Are Meyerland and Westbury walkable?
Most errands require a car, though homes near Meyerland Plaza can walk to groceries and restaurants. The Brays Bayou Greenway trail runs through Meyerland, and Westbury borders the Willow Waterhole Greenway's lakes and trails. Godwin Park and Westbury Park are the main neighborhood parks.
Where are the best places to eat in Meyerland and Westbury?
Local favorites include Fadi's Mediterranean Grill (Mediterranean), Tapester's Grill (breakfast tacos and burgers), La Fresca Pizza (pizza), Exodus Bar & Grill (steaks, seafood and sushi) and New York Deli & Coffee Shop (bagels and diner breakfasts).
Where can I shop local near Meyerland and Westbury?
Tomfoolery Toys & Books, across Beechnut from Meyerland Plaza, is an independent toy and book store. Three Brothers Bakery on South Braeswood, at that location since 1960, is just east of Loop 610, and Magpies Gifts on Bellaire Boulevard is a family-owned gift shop in nearby Bellaire.
What are property taxes like in Meyerland and Westbury?
Homes pay City of Houston, Houston ISD, Harris County and related taxes (flood control, hospital district, Houston Community College and the Port of Houston), with no MUD tax. The 2025 rates HAR lists for Meyerland add up to about 2.09% of assessed value before exemptions. Filing a homestead exemption with the Harris Central Appraisal District lowers the taxable value and caps yearly increases in a homestead's assessed value at 10%.
Do I need flood insurance in Meyerland or Westbury?
Lenders require flood insurance for homes in a FEMA high-risk flood zone with a federally backed mortgage, and much of Meyerland is in the 100-year floodplain. Many owners outside those zones buy it anyway, since homes outside mapped zones have also flooded. Get a quote early, since an elevated home can cost much less to insure. New National Flood Insurance Program policies generally have a 30-day waiting period, though a policy bought when you take out a new mortgage can start at closing.
What should I ask about a home's flood history?
Since September 1, 2019, the Texas seller's disclosure notice has asked whether the home has flooded, whether the seller has filed a flood insurance claim and whether the seller received FEMA or SBA flood assistance. Ask for the elevation certificate and any repair or lift records, and talk with neighbors on the block. An inspection that checks for past water damage is also worth ordering.
How old are the homes in Meyerland and Westbury?
Most original homes were built in the 1950s and 1960s, and HAR lists a median year built of 1962 for Meyerland. Many Meyerland homes have since been rebuilt or raised after the 2015 to 2017 floods. Westbury's housing is mostly original mid-century ranch homes, plus some later townhomes.
Who is a good realtor in Meyerland and Westbury?
Compean Group ranks #4 on AgentPronto's list of top agents for Westbury and #3 on its Houston list (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). We commonly help clients buy and sell in Meyerland and Westbury, and we follow this local market closely. Evan Compean and the Compean Group bring more than 1,000 homes sold and hundreds of 5-star reviews to every move. Use this guide to get started with your search; it has much more information about the area.
Spring Branch (18 questions)
Where is Spring Branch in Houston?
West Houston, north of I-10 and the Memorial Villages, roughly between Loop 610 and Beltway 8. It's about 12 miles from Downtown and 9 miles from the Galleria by car.
Is Spring Branch the same as Spring, TX?
No. Spring Branch is inside the City of Houston on the west side, while Spring is a separate unincorporated community about 20 miles north. There's also a small town called Spring Branch in the Texas Hill Country near San Antonio, so read listing addresses carefully.
Is Spring Branch a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: Spring Branch ISD schools, bigger lots than most close-in areas, plenty of new construction and a central west-side location. It varies a lot from street to street, so tour the specific blocks you're considering.
Is Spring Branch safe?
Spring Branch is served by the Houston Police Department. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Spring Branch?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 1,260 homes sold across Spring Branch East, Central, West and North on the MLS, with an average near $587,000. Typical prices ran from about $400,000 in parts of Spring Branch North and Central to around $640,000 in Spring Branch East, where new construction is common.
What school district serves Spring Branch?
Most of the area is in Spring Branch ISD. Zoned schools vary by street, so confirm with the district before you buy.
Does Spring Branch flood?
Flood risk varies, and some streets near Spring Branch Creek, Brickhouse Gully and other drainage channels are in mapped floodplains. Check the FEMA flood zone and Harris County Flood Control District maps, read the seller's disclosure and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
Is there new construction in Spring Branch?
Yes. Spring Branch is one of Houston's busiest areas for infill building, with new single-family homes and townhomes replacing older ranch homes, especially near I-10 and the Memorial Villages.
What is Spring Branch known for?
Its German farming roots, Spring Branch ISD, big-lot ranch homes, the Korean restaurants and markets along Long Point Road and easy access to Memorial City.
What is the difference between Spring Branch East and West?
Spring Branch East, closer to Loop 610 and the Memorial Villages, has the most new construction and the highest typical prices, while Spring Branch West, Central and North include more original homes at lower prices.
What are property taxes like in Spring Branch?
Spring Branch homes inside Houston city limits pay City of Houston, Spring Branch ISD, Harris County and related taxes, which usually add up to roughly 2% of assessed value before exemptions. Most of the area has no MUD taxes. If the home will be your primary residence, file for the homestead exemption: it lowers your taxable value, and starting the year after the home qualifies, its appraised value for taxes generally can't rise more than 10% a year.
Does Spring Branch have deed restrictions or HOAs?
Houston has no zoning, so many Spring Branch subdivisions rely on deed restrictions enforced by civic clubs or HOAs. Those rules can limit lot splits, building lines and commercial use. Rules differ from one subdivision to the next, so ask for the restrictions before you buy, especially for a teardown or new build.
Are there parks and trails in Spring Branch?
Yes. The Spring Branch Trail connects neighborhoods near Gessner, Triway Lane and Shadowdale Drive, and Schwartz Park on Vogue Lane links to it. Freed Park has a half-mile paved loop, and Agnes Moffitt Park on Hammerly has a pool and golf course. Haden Park also has a boardwalk.
How far is Spring Branch from Downtown, the Galleria and the Energy Corridor?
Spring Branch sits between I-10 and US-290 inside and around Beltway 8. Downtown is usually about 15–25 minutes away, and the Galleria about 15–20 minutes via Loop 610 or Beltway 8. The Energy Corridor is roughly 15 minutes west on I-10. Memorial City and CityCentre are just a few minutes away. (Times are approximate and depend on traffic.)
Where are the best places to eat in Spring Branch?
Popular choices include Tatemó (Michelin-starred Mexican tasting menu), Bori (modern Korean), Saigon Hustle (Vietnamese), The Blind Goat (Christine Ha's Vietnamese restaurant) and Tacos Doña Lena (popular local taqueria). Long Point Road is also known for long-running Korean restaurants.
Where can I shop local in Spring Branch?
Becker's Books on Westview, Cobble & Spoke on Blalock and Nice Winery are local options. Long Point Road also has Korean bakeries, markets and small shops.
Which high school will my Spring Branch home be zoned to?
Spring Branch ISD's neighborhood high schools are Memorial, Stratford, Spring Woods and Northbrook, and Spring Branch addresses can feed into any of them depending on location. Zone lines don't follow the East/West labels exactly, and homes on neighboring streets can feed different schools. Confirm an address with Spring Branch ISD's attendance-zone lookup before making an offer.
Who is a good realtor in Spring Branch?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Evan Compean and the Compean Group help buyers and sellers in Spring Branch all the time. Local knowledge matters here, and we understand the pricing, the housing and what buyers look for. Our team has sold more than 1,000 homes and earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. This guide includes much more information to help you start your search.
Pearland (19 questions)
Is Pearland a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: newer homes, good schools, parks and a quick drive to the Medical Center and Hobby Airport. Trade-offs include rush-hour traffic on SH 288 and flood risk in some neighborhoods.
Is Pearland safe?
Pearland has its own police department. Review the Pearland Police Department's recent crime data for the neighborhoods you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Pearland?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 1,390 homes sold in Pearland on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $373,000 and an average near $394,000.
Is Pearland in Harris County?
Mostly no. Pearland is mainly in Brazoria County, with smaller parts in Harris and Fort Bend counties. Your county determines your appraisal district and part of your property tax rate.
Did Pearland flood during Hurricane Harvey?
Parts of Pearland flooded during Harvey in 2017, especially near Clear Creek and other drainage channels. Check the FEMA flood zone and local drainage district maps, read the seller's disclosure and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What school district serves Pearland?
Pearland ISD serves much of the city, Shadow Creek Ranch and the west side are in Alvin ISD, and some areas are in Fort Bend ISD. Confirm zoning for any address.
Why is it called Pearland?
Pearland was named for the pear orchards early settlers planted in the 1890s. The town was founded in 1894.
How far is Pearland from the Medical Center and Downtown?
About 17.4 miles to the Texas Medical Center and 16.8 miles to Downtown via SH 288, and 7.5 miles to Hobby Airport.
What ZIP codes are in Pearland?
Most Pearland homes are in ZIP codes 77581 and 77584, which includes Shadow Creek Ranch. Confirm the ZIP code and city limits for a specific address.
Are there new construction homes in Pearland?
Yes. New homes are still being built in and around Pearland, including in nearby Manvel and Iowa Colony, often with builder incentives. See our new construction buyer's guide.
What is the property tax rate in Pearland?
For fiscal year 2026-27, Pearland adopted a city rate of about $0.628 per $100 of value, slightly lower than the prior $0.63. Homeowners also pay county, school district and often MUD taxes, so total rates commonly run from about 2.3% to over 3% depending on the subdivision.
Does Pearland have MUD taxes?
Many newer Pearland subdivisions, including much of the west side around Shadow Creek Ranch, are in municipal utility districts that add a separate tax on top of city, county and school taxes. Older neighborhoods closer to Old Town are less likely to carry MUD taxes.
What is Shadow Creek Ranch?
Shadow Creek Ranch is a large master-planned community on Pearland's west side near SH 288, with lakes, trails, parks and the Sportsplex at Shadow Creek Ranch. In October 2026, the city approved up to $22 million for upgrades including covered pickleball courts, batting cages and new lighting.
Is Pearland walkable?
Pearland is mostly car-dependent, but the city keeps adding trails and sidewalks, and the Clear Creek Trail project includes new trailheads. Independence Park and Shadow Creek Ranch offer walking and biking paths within their neighborhoods.
What is there to do in Pearland?
Residents use Independence Park, the Pearland Recreation Center and Natatorium, and Pearland Town Center for shopping and dining. Annual events include the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot and a February half marathon, both of which have grown enough to move to a new course near the recreation center.
Where are the best places to eat in Pearland?
Popular choices include Good Vibes Coastal Kitchen (seafood and oysters), Santa Barbara (BYOB Italian), Noodle Master (hand-pulled noodles), Nishiki (sushi and Japanese) and Magnolia Cajun Comfort (Cajun, family-owned).
Where can I shop local in Pearland?
Look along North Main Street and West Broadway for Last Page Books and More (used books and records), Events by Lindsay (bakery and gift boutique) and The Rip Room (trading cards and collectibles).
Are there toll lanes on Highway 288 from Pearland to the Medical Center?
Yes. The SH 288 express toll lanes, which opened around 2020, run in the highway's median from the Brazoria County line north to US 59, with direct connectors at Beltway 8 and near the Texas Medical Center. Toll prices vary by time of day, while the free main lanes remain available. Many Pearland commuters use the toll lanes at rush hour to make the Medical Center drive more predictable.
Who is a good realtor in Pearland?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Evan Compean and the Compean Group work in Pearland very often, so we understand the local market and what sets one street apart from the next. Our team has sold more than 1,000 homes and holds 5.0-star ratings on Google and Zillow across hundreds of reviews. This guide covers much more to help you get started, or call or text us at (832) 777-3904.
Missouri City (19 questions)
Is Missouri City a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: established neighborhoods and new master-planned communities, Fort Bend ISD schools, parks and trails, and a reasonable drive to the Medical Center and Galleria. Newer areas often carry MUD taxes, and commutes on US-90A and the Fort Bend Toll Road can be slow at rush hour.
Is Missouri City safe?
Missouri City has its own police department. Review the Missouri City Police Department's recent crime data for the neighborhoods you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Missouri City?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 1,490 homes sold in Missouri City on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $391,000 and an average near $457,000.
What county is Missouri City in?
Missouri City is mostly in Fort Bend County, with a small part in Harris County. Your county determines your appraisal district and part of your property tax rate.
Is Missouri City part of Houston?
No. Missouri City is a separate city southwest of Houston, about 17.6 miles from Downtown, with its own city government and police department.
Does Missouri City flood?
Flood risk varies. Some neighborhoods near Oyster Creek and other channels carry more risk, and parts of Sienna sit near the Brazos River behind levees maintained by local districts. Check the FEMA flood zone, read the seller's disclosure and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What ZIP codes are in Missouri City?
Most Missouri City addresses use ZIP codes 77459 and 77489. Confirm the ZIP code and city limits for a specific address.
How did Missouri City get its name?
Land promoters in the 1890s marketed the area to buyers in St. Louis and elsewhere in Missouri, and the name stuck.
What school district serves Missouri City?
Fort Bend ISD serves most of Missouri City. Zoned schools vary by address, so confirm before you buy.
What is Sienna?
Sienna is a large master-planned community in the Missouri City area along the Brazos River, with trails, lakes, golf, amenity centers and new construction. It was one of Houston's top-selling master-planned communities in 2025.
What is the property tax rate in Missouri City?
For fiscal year 2026-27, Missouri City adopted a city rate of about $0.578 per $100 of value, up from about $0.571. Homeowners also pay Fort Bend County, school district and, in many newer communities such as Sienna, MUD taxes, so total rates often run from about 2.3% to 3%.
How long is the commute from Missouri City to Downtown Houston and the Medical Center?
Downtown and the Texas Medical Center are roughly 15 to 25 miles away, depending on the neighborhood. The Fort Bend Toll Road, US 90A and Beltway 8 are the main routes, with typical drives of 25 to 45 minutes and longer at rush hour.
What is Quail Valley?
Quail Valley is one of Missouri City's established golf course communities, built around the city-owned Quail Valley Golf Club. In September 2026, the city reopened the La Quinta course and City Centre after upgrading grading, drainage, irrigation and cart paths, and expanding event and dining space.
Should I live in Missouri City or Sugar Land?
Both cities are in Fort Bend County and mostly served by Fort Bend ISD, and they share a border. Missouri City generally offers lower average prices (about $457,000 vs. $537,000 in average closed sales over the past 12 months), while Sugar Land has more big retail and entertainment centers.
Where are the best places to eat in Missouri City?
Popular choices include Texas Biergarten (German food and craft beer), Micheaux's Southern Cuisine (soul food), Triple S Pho & Grill (Vietnamese), Hong Kong Food Court (Hong Kong-style cafe) and Brandani's Restaurant & Wine Bar (New American and Italian).
Where can I shop local in Missouri City?
Locally owned options include Hue Darling Candle Co. (handmade candles and workshops), The Blue Willow Resale & Consignment in Quail Valley (clothing, decor and antiques) and Truboy BBQ Market (smoked meats and imported goods).
What is a levee improvement district in Missouri City?
Some Missouri City-area communities near the Brazos River, including Sienna, are protected by levees run by levee improvement districts (LIDs). An LID builds and maintains levees and drainage, and homeowners inside it pay an LID tax, often alongside MUD taxes, to repay bonds and cover operations. Rates vary by district, so check the tax line items for a specific address with the Fort Bend Central Appraisal District.
Should I worry about foundation issues in older Missouri City homes?
Like much of the Houston area, Missouri City sits on clay soils that expand and shrink with moisture, so foundation movement is a common inspection topic in homes of any age. Buyers of older homes in established neighborhoods often add a foundation or structural engineer's evaluation to their standard inspection, and ask sellers for any repair records and transferable warranties.
Who is a good realtor in Missouri City?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). We commonly help clients buy and sell in Missouri City, and we follow this local market closely. Evan Compean and the Compean Group bring more than 1,000 homes sold and hundreds of 5-star reviews to every move. Use this guide to get started with your search; it has much more information about the area.
Sugar Land (20 questions)
Is Sugar Land a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: Fort Bend ISD schools, established and newer master-planned communities, parks, dining and events. Prices run above many suburbs, and I-69 traffic can be heavy at rush hour.
Is Sugar Land safe?
Sugar Land has its own police department. Review the Sugar Land Police Department's recent crime data for the neighborhoods you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Sugar Land?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 1,375 homes sold in Sugar Land on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $446,000 and an average near $537,000, with the top sale near $6.25 million.
Why is it called Sugar Land?
The name comes from the area's sugar cane plantations and the Imperial Sugar company, whose refinery operated in town until 2003.
Is Sugar Land part of Houston?
No. Sugar Land is a separate city in Fort Bend County, about 20 miles southwest of Downtown Houston, with its own city government and police.
Does Sugar Land flood?
Some neighborhoods near the Brazos River and Oyster Creek carry more risk, and many communities are protected by levees run by local levee improvement districts. Check the FEMA flood zone, ask about the levee district and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What school district serves Sugar Land?
Most of Sugar Land is in Fort Bend ISD. Zoned schools vary by address, so confirm before you buy.
What ZIP codes are in Sugar Land?
Sugar Land addresses use ZIP codes 77478, 77479 and 77498. Confirm the ZIP code and city limits for a specific address.
Is Sugar Land or Katy a better choice?
Both are popular. Sugar Land is a bit closer to the Galleria and Medical Center via I-69, with a median sale price near $446,000, while Katy offers more new construction and Katy ISD schools at a median near $346,000, with I-10 commutes.
What is Sugar Land known for?
Its sugar-refining history, master-planned communities, Fort Bend ISD schools, Sugar Land Town Square and the Space Cowboys at Constellation Field.
What is the property tax rate in Sugar Land?
For fiscal year 2026-27, Sugar Land adopted a city rate of about $0.371 per $100 of value, up from about $0.359 the year before. Homeowners also pay Fort Bend County, Fort Bend ISD and, in some neighborhoods, levee or utility district taxes, so total rates often fall around 2% to 2.5% before exemptions.
Does Sugar Land have MUD taxes?
Most older neighborhoods inside city limits do not pay a separate MUD tax, but some areas pay levee improvement district or utility district taxes, and some communities with Sugar Land addresses sit outside city limits. Always check a specific address's tax bill before buying.
How long is the commute from Sugar Land to Downtown Houston?
Downtown is about 20 miles northeast via I-69/US 59. Expect roughly 25 minutes off-peak and 40 to 60 minutes at rush hour. Many residents also commute to the Galleria, the Texas Medical Center or the Energy Corridor via the Grand Parkway, Beltway 8 or Highway 6.
What are the best neighborhoods in Sugar Land?
Buyers often look at First Colony, Telfair, Riverstone, Sweetwater, New Territory and Greatwood. First Colony is the city's largest established master-planned community, while Telfair and Riverstone offer newer homes. The right fit depends on budget, lot size, and whether a home carries MUD or HOA fees.
Is Sugar Land walkable?
Sugar Land is mostly car-dependent, but Sugar Land Town Square is a walkable district with restaurants, shops, City Hall and a public plaza. The city also has hike-and-bike trails along Oyster Creek and at Memorial Park and Brazos River Park.
What is Sugar Land Town Square?
Sugar Land Town Square is the city's mixed-use center off US 59 and Highway 6, with City Hall, restaurants, shops, offices and a hotel around a central plaza. It hosts concerts, festivals and community events, and Smart Financial Centre is nearby.
Where are the best places to eat in Sugar Land?
Popular choices include Majestic Kitchen (Indian fine dining in Town Square), Japaneiro's (Japanese-Latin fusion), Taste Kitchen + Bar (Southern cooking from chef Don Bowie), Mia's Table (family comfort food) and Pho Ben (Vietnamese).
Where can I shop local in Sugar Land?
Locally owned favorites include Bouquet Florist, which has been on Highway 6 since 1992, Hala Market for halal groceries and cafe drinks, and The Mahj Society, a mahjong studio and boutique.
Which high schools serve Sugar Land, and do the zones change?
Most of Sugar Land is in Fort Bend ISD, with neighborhood high schools including Clements, Dulles, Austin, Kempner and Travis serving different parts of the city. Fort Bend ISD periodically reviews attendance boundaries as enrollment shifts, so a home's zoned schools can change over time. Check the district's school-zone lookup for a specific address and ask whether any boundary changes are under review.
Who is a good realtor in Sugar Land?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Evan Compean and the Compean Group work in Sugar Land very often, so we understand the local market and what sets one street apart from the next. Our team has sold more than 1,000 homes and holds 5.0-star ratings on Google and Zillow across hundreds of reviews. This guide covers much more to help you get started, or call or text us at (832) 777-3904.
Friendswood (19 questions)
Is Friendswood a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: a small-town feel, well-regarded schools, parks and a location between Houston, Clear Lake and Galveston. The main trade-off is flood risk near Clear Creek, plus fewer big shopping centers than larger suburbs.
Is Friendswood safe?
Friendswood has its own police department. Review the Friendswood Police Department's recent crime data for the neighborhoods you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Friendswood?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 760 homes sold in Friendswood on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $411,000 and an average near $526,000.
Is Friendswood in Harris County?
Partly. Most of Friendswood is in Galveston County, with a northern portion in Harris County. Your county determines your appraisal district and part of your tax rate.
Is Friendswood part of Houston?
No. Friendswood is a separate city about 23 miles south of Downtown Houston, next to Pearland, League City and the Clear Lake area.
Does Friendswood flood?
Parts of Friendswood flooded badly during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, especially near Clear Creek and its tributaries, and some homes have since been elevated. Check the FEMA flood zone, flood history and an elevation certificate, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What school district serves Friendswood?
Friendswood ISD serves much of the city and is a big draw for buyers, and some areas are in Clear Creek ISD. Confirm zoning for any address.
How did Friendswood get its name?
Quaker settlers founded the town in 1895, and the name reflects the Society of Friends, the formal name for Quakers.
Is Friendswood or League City better?
Friendswood is smaller and more established, with Friendswood ISD and many larger lots, and a median sale price near $411,000 over the last year. League City is larger, with more new construction and Clear Creek ISD, at a median near $400,000.
Are there homes with acreage in Friendswood?
Yes. Along with traditional subdivisions, parts of Friendswood have larger lots and acreage properties. Check deed restrictions, utility or septic service and the flood zone for these properties.
What are property taxes like in Friendswood?
Friendswood homeowners pay City of Friendswood, school district (Friendswood ISD or Clear Creek ISD, depending on the street) and county taxes, plus a few smaller entities. Because the city sits in both Galveston and Harris counties, the combined rate varies by address but usually runs roughly 2% to 2.5% of assessed value before exemptions. If the home will be your primary residence, file for the homestead exemption: it lowers your taxable value, and starting the year after the home qualifies, its appraised value for taxes generally can't rise more than 10% a year.
How long is the commute from Friendswood to Downtown Houston and NASA?
Downtown Houston is about 20 to 25 miles north, usually 30 to 45 minutes via I-45 or Beltway 8 depending on traffic. Johnson Space Center and the Clear Lake job hub are about 10 miles east, and Hobby Airport is roughly 15 miles away.
What is there to do in Friendswood?
Residents use city parks such as Stevenson Park and Centennial Park, and the city's Fourth of July celebration is one of the longest-running in Texas. Baybrook Mall and its restaurants sit just east of town, and Clear Lake, Kemah and Galveston Bay are a short drive away.
Is there new construction in Friendswood?
Friendswood is largely built out, so most homes for sale are resales on established, tree-lined streets. New construction is limited to a few newer subdivisions and infill lots, with West Ranch on the city's southwest side being the best-known newer community. Buyers wanting more new-build choice often also look at nearby League City and Pearland.
Where are the best places to eat in Friendswood?
Popular choices include Perry & Son's Market & Grille (steaks and a butcher counter since 1989), Parkwood American Grille (steaks and Gulf seafood, opened 2026), Good Good Thai Kitchen (Thai), Pearl's BBQ (pecan-smoked barbecue) and Bistro 313 (Italian-inspired cafe).
Where can I shop local in Friendswood?
South Friendswood Drive near the original downtown has several independent shops, including Two Friends Gifts (home decor and gifts), Silver Bee Boutique (women's apparel and local artisan goods) and That Vinyl Store (craft vinyl supplies). Baybrook Mall, just east of town, covers national brands.
Do Friendswood homes need windstorm insurance?
It depends on which county the home is in. All of Galveston County is in the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association's (TWIA) designated catastrophe area, so many standard homeowners policies on the Galveston County side of Friendswood exclude wind and hail, and owners buy separate windstorm coverage. The Harris County side of Friendswood is outside TWIA's area, which covers only the part of Harris County east of Highway 146. Get windstorm and flood insurance quotes for a specific address early in the buying process, and ask whether the home has a windstorm certificate of compliance (older ones were issued by TDI as a WPI-8; TWIA issues them now).
Should I live in Friendswood or Pearland?
The two cities border each other along Clear Creek. Friendswood is smaller and largely built out, with mostly resale homes on established streets, while Pearland is larger, with more retail, the SH 288 corridor and many newer master-planned communities. School districts, tax rates and MUD status differ by address in both cities, so compare a specific home's tax bill and zoned schools side by side.
Who is a good realtor in Friendswood?
Compean Group, a Houston team based at 802 W. Patton St in the Heights area, works with buyers and sellers in Friendswood, has sold more than 1,000 Greater Houston homes over 15 years and is rated 5.0 on Google and Zillow, with 921 reviews and ratings across five sites. AgentPronto ranks Compean Group #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews).
Clear Lake (20 questions)
Is Clear Lake part of Houston?
Mostly, yes. The City of Houston annexed Clear Lake City in 1977. Nearby communities such as Webster, Nassau Bay, Seabrook and League City are separate cities that are often grouped together as "Clear Lake."
Is Clear Lake a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: major employers like NASA's Johnson Space Center, boating on Clear Lake and Galveston Bay, Clear Creek ISD schools and lower prices than much of Houston. Trade-offs include hurricane and flood exposure and a roughly 24-mile drive to Downtown.
Is Clear Lake safe?
The Houston part of Clear Lake is served by the Houston Police Department's Clear Lake division, and nearby cities such as Webster, Nassau Bay, Seabrook and League City have their own police departments. Review recent crime data from the agency that covers the address, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Clear Lake?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 1,115 homes sold in Clear Lake on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $285,000 and an average near $325,000. Waterfront and newer homes sell for much more.
Why are homes in Clear Lake less expensive?
Much of the housing was built from the 1960s through the 1980s, there are many condos and townhomes near the lake, and it's farther from central Houston. Updated, newer and waterfront homes command higher prices.
Did Clear Lake flood during Hurricane Harvey?
Some Clear Lake neighborhoods flooded during Harvey. Low areas near creeks, bayous and the lake carry more risk, and storm surge matters closer to Galveston Bay. Check the FEMA flood zone, flood history and the seller's disclosure, and get flood and windstorm insurance quotes during your option period.
What county is Clear Lake in?
Clear Lake is in Harris County. Neighboring communities such as League City and Kemah are in Galveston County.
What school district serves Clear Lake?
Clear Lake is served by Clear Creek ISD. Zoned schools depend on the address, so confirm before you buy.
What is Clear Lake known for?
NASA's Johnson Space Center and Space Center Houston, the University of Houston-Clear Lake, marinas and boating on Clear Lake, the Armand Bayou Nature Center, and the Kemah Boardwalk nearby.
What ZIP codes are in Clear Lake?
Clear Lake addresses in Houston mostly use ZIP codes 77058, 77059 and 77062. Confirm the ZIP code and city for a specific address.
What is there to do in Clear Lake?
Space Center Houston, the official visitor center for NASA's Johnson Space Center, is the area's best-known attraction. Armand Bayou Nature Center protects one of the largest urban wilderness preserves in the country, and the lake itself is lined with marinas, waterfront restaurants and sailing schools. The Kemah Boardwalk is about 15 minutes away.
What are property taxes like in Clear Lake?
Most of Clear Lake is inside the City of Houston, so homes pay City of Houston, Clear Creek ISD, Harris County and related taxes. Many Clear Lake City sections also pay the Clear Lake City Water Authority and community association fees. Combined, rates usually run roughly 2% to 2.5% of assessed value before exemptions.
How long is the commute from Clear Lake to Downtown Houston?
Downtown is about 25 miles north via I-45, usually 30 to 50 minutes depending on traffic. The Texas Medical Center is a similar distance via I-45 and Loop 610 or Hwy. 288. Johnson Space Center and other large employers are close by, so a local commute can be much shorter.
Who are the major employers in Clear Lake?
NASA's Johnson Space Center and the aerospace contractors around it anchor the local economy. The University of Houston-Clear Lake, area hospitals such as Houston Methodist Clear Lake and HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake, and the petrochemical plants along the Hwy. 146 corridor are also large employers.
Is Clear Lake good for boating?
Yes. Clear Lake connects directly to Galveston Bay, and marinas in Clear Lake Shores, Kemah, Nassau Bay and Seabrook make it one of the largest recreational boating hubs on the Texas coast. Sailing schools and day-charter companies operate on the lake for newcomers.
Should I live in Clear Lake or League City?
Clear Lake is mostly inside the City of Houston, with established 1960s to 1990s neighborhoods and lower average prices (about $325,000 over the 12 months through September 2026). League City is its own city in Galveston County with more newer master-planned communities and a higher average (about $431,000). Both are largely served by Clear Creek ISD.
Where are the best places to eat in Clear Lake?
Popular choices include Tommy's Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar (Gulf seafood since 1994), Frenchie's Italian Restaurant (Italian, NASA memorabilia), Mediterraneo Market & Cafe (Mediterranean), Masa Sushi (sushi) and the new Kirby Ice House (patio bar with food trucks).
Where can I shop local in Clear Lake?
Independent options include Adelaide's Boutique (women's fashion and gifts since 2008), Space Center Souvenirs (NASA and space gifts) and the Assistance League Bay Area Resale Shop (nonprofit resale on NASA Parkway). Baybrook Mall, on the area's west side, covers national brands.
Is Clear Lake in a hurricane evacuation zone?
Parts of Clear Lake are in the Houston-Galveston Area Council's coastal hurricane evacuation zones. Zones are assigned by ZIP code and updated each year, so check the current zip-zone map at h-gac.com and Harris County's ReadyHarris site for a specific address.
Who is a good realtor in Clear Lake?
Compean Group ranks #4 on AgentPronto's list of top agents for Clear Lake and #3 on its Houston list (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). We commonly help clients buy and sell in Clear Lake, and we follow this local market closely. Evan Compean and the Compean Group bring more than 1,000 homes sold and hundreds of 5-star reviews to every move. Use this guide to get started with your search; it has much more information about the area.
Spring (19 questions)
Is Spring, TX a city?
No. Spring is an unincorporated community, so there's no city government. Services come from Harris or Montgomery County, emergency service districts and municipal utility districts (MUDs).
Is Spring part of Houston?
No. Spring has its own mailing addresses and sits about 24 miles north of Downtown in the Houston metro area, but it's outside Houston city limits.
Is Spring, TX a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: good value, a choice of school districts, big employers nearby and lots of newer homes. Trade-offs include MUD taxes, I-45 traffic and flood risk near the creeks.
Is Spring, TX safe?
Spring is patrolled by the Harris County Sheriff's Office and county constables, and by Montgomery County in its northern part. Review recent crime data from the agency that covers the address, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Spring?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 4,150 homes sold in Spring on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $344,000 and an average near $433,000.
What county is Spring, TX in?
Spring is mostly in Harris County, with parts in Montgomery County. Your county determines your appraisal district and part of your tax rate.
What school districts serve Spring, TX?
Spring ISD, Klein ISD, Conroe ISD and Tomball ISD each serve parts of Spring. Check the zoned district for any address, since it can change from one subdivision to the next.
Does Spring, TX flood?
Neighborhoods near Spring Creek and Cypress Creek flooded in major storms such as Hurricane Harvey. Check the FEMA flood zone, Harris County Flood Control District maps and the seller's disclosure, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
Is Spring the same as The Woodlands?
No. The Woodlands is a separate master-planned community to the north, mostly in Montgomery County and governed by The Woodlands Township. Spring is the unincorporated area to its south and east, and some Woodlands neighborhoods share Spring ZIP codes.
What are MUD taxes in Spring?
Most Spring subdivisions are in municipal utility districts, which add a tax to pay for water, sewer and drainage. Rates vary by neighborhood, so compare the total tax rate on each home's tax certificate.
What is Old Town Spring?
Old Town Spring is the historic heart of Spring, a former railroad town with restored homes and storefronts along Gentry, Main and Midway streets. Today it has more than 100 family-owned shops, restaurants and bars, and it hosts festivals throughout the year, including the Texas Crawfish & Music Festival each spring.
What are the best neighborhoods in Spring, TX?
Buyers often look at Gleannloch Farms, Northampton and Champion Forest in the Klein ISD area, Augusta Pines in Tomball ISD, and Springwoods Village near the ExxonMobil campus. Each has its own HOA, MUD and school mix, so compare the tax rate and zoned schools address by address.
How is the commute from Spring?
Spring sits on I-45, the Hardy Toll Road and the Grand Parkway (SH 99), so most of north Houston is within reach. The ExxonMobil campus at Springwoods Village and The Woodlands are typically 10 to 20 minutes away, while Downtown Houston is about 25 miles south and can take 30 to 60 minutes at rush hour.
What parks and trails are in Spring?
The Spring Creek Greenway, the area's largest park, runs along Spring Creek with miles of trails and nature preserves. Harris County Precinct 3 has recently added a new playground, boardwalk and trail at Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve, rebuilt the Gourley Nature Trail and added pickleball courts at Meyer Park, and added pickleball at Russ Poppe Family Park and I.T. May Park.
Where are the best places to eat in Spring?
Popular choices include CorkScrew BBQ (Michelin-starred barbecue), Belly of the Beast (chef-driven, Michelin-recognized), Wunsche Bros. Cafe & Saloon (Southern comfort food in a 1902 building), Chef's Providence (French bakery and cafe) and Excalibur Brewery (craft brewpub).
Where can I shop local in Spring?
Old Town Spring is the main spot for independent shops, including German Gift House (European gifts and foods), Pierce & Belle (clothing, accessories and home finds) and Storyteller's Thread (needlework supplies).
Is Klein the same as Spring, TX?
Klein is an unincorporated community and the name of Klein ISD, and much of it uses a Spring mailing address. A "Spring, TX" address can be served by Klein, Spring, Conroe, Tomball or Cypress-Fairbanks ISD depending on location, and district lines can change from one side of a road to the other. Confirm the school district for a specific address with the district's own lookup tool.
Did homes along Cypress Creek in Spring flood during Harvey?
Yes. Community Impact, citing Harris County figures, reported that more than 8,700 homes flooded along Cypress Creek during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, including homes in some Spring and Klein neighborhoods near the creek. Since then, the Harris County Flood Control District has funded buyouts and new detention projects in the watershed through the 2018 flood bond. Buyers can check any address on the FEMA flood map, HCFCD's Harris County Flood Education Mapping Tool and the seller's disclosure.
Who is a good realtor in Spring?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). We very commonly work in Spring and understand its local market, from how homes are priced to what buyers look for. Evan Compean and the Compean Group have sold more than 1,000 homes and earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. This guide includes much more information to help you get started with your search.
League City (20 questions)
Is League City a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: a growing suburb between Houston and Galveston with Clear Creek ISD schools, parks and quick access to boating on Clear Lake. Trade-offs include flood and hurricane exposure and I-45 traffic at rush hour.
Is League City safe?
League City has its own police department. Review the League City Police Department's recent crime data for the neighborhoods you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in League City?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 1,610 homes sold in League City on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $400,000 and an average near $431,000.
What county is League City in?
League City is mostly in Galveston County, with a small part in Harris County. Your county determines your appraisal district and part of your tax rate.
How far is League City from Houston and Galveston?
About 26 miles to Downtown Houston and 23 miles to the Texas Medical Center by car, and roughly 30 minutes to Galveston Island.
Did League City flood during Hurricane Harvey?
Some neighborhoods along Clear Creek and other channels flooded during Harvey in 2017. Check the FEMA flood zone and flood history, read the seller's disclosure and get flood and windstorm insurance quotes during your option period.
Do I need flood insurance in League City?
Lenders require it in high-risk flood zones, and many owners outside those zones buy it anyway because coverage there often costs less. Get quotes for flood and windstorm coverage during your option period so the total cost is clear.
What school district serves League City?
Most of League City is in Clear Creek ISD, and some areas are in Dickinson ISD. Confirm zoning for any address.
How did League City get its name?
League City is named for J.C. League, a Galveston businessman who acquired the land and laid out the townsite in the 1890s.
What ZIP code is League City?
Most League City addresses use ZIP code 77573. Confirm the ZIP code and city limits for a specific address.
What are property taxes like in League City?
League City homeowners pay City of League City, school district (mostly Clear Creek ISD, with some areas in Dickinson ISD), Galveston County and college district taxes. Many newer subdivisions also sit in a MUD, which can push the combined rate to roughly 2.5% to 3% of assessed value before exemptions. Check the specific MUD for any home you're considering.
Is League City growing?
Yes. Census Bureau data show League City grew from 83,560 residents in 2010 to an estimated 118,456 in July 2024. Recent projects include the $78 million Lilac Field mixed-use development off Hwy. 96, a mixed-use center on FM 518, and the planned Pat Hallisey Park on the city's west side.
What is there to do in League City?
The historic district along Main Street has restaurants, boutiques, League Park and Helen's Garden. Big League Dreams sports park, Walter Hall Park on Clear Creek and the coming Pat Hallisey Park (pickleball, ballfields, trails) serve sports and outdoor fans, and Kemah Boardwalk and Galveston are short drives away.
What are the most popular neighborhoods in League City?
Well-known communities include South Shore Harbour near Clear Lake, Tuscan Lakes, Victory Lakes, Mar Bella and Bay Colony, plus newer master-planned communities on the west side. Older homes cluster near the historic district and along FM 518.
What is League City's historic district like?
The historic district centers on East Main Street, shaded by old live oaks, with century-old homes now housing shops, cafes and a tea room. Landmarks include the West Bay Common School Museum, a one-room schoolhouse from 1898, along with League Park and Helen's Garden.
Where are the best places to eat in League City?
Popular choices include Main Street Bistro (French and Hispanic with Creole flair), Holly Berry Tea Room (tea room in a historic home), Esteban's Cafe y Cantina (family-owned Mexican), Red River Bar-B-Que & Grill (barbecue) and Red Oak Cafe (breakfast and lunch).
Where can I shop local in League City?
The historic district on East Main Street is the main spot for independent shops, including Annette's Emporium (American-made handcrafted goods), The Salted Hippie (women's boutique) and It's a Bling Thang (clothing and Houston sports gear on West Main). Founders Square groups several small shops in restored historic homes.
Do League City homes need windstorm insurance?
League City is in Galveston County, which is inside the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association's (TWIA) designated catastrophe area. Some homeowners policies there include wind and hail, while others exclude it, especially closer to the water, and those homes add a separate TWIA windstorm policy. Premiums vary with a home's age, construction and distance from the bay, so get wind and flood quotes early and ask whether the home has a windstorm certificate of compliance (older ones were issued by TDI as a WPI-8; TWIA issues them now).
How long is the commute from League City to the Texas Medical Center?
The Texas Medical Center is about 30 miles north of League City, typically 35 to 60 minutes via I-45 and Loop 610 or SH 288 depending on traffic and which side of town you start from. Neighborhoods west of I-45 near FM 646 and east toward South Shore Harbour can add 10 to 15 minutes just reaching the freeway.
Who is a good realtor in League City?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). We very commonly work in League City and understand its local market, from how homes are priced to what buyers look for. Evan Compean and the Compean Group have sold more than 1,000 homes and earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. This guide includes much more information to help you get started with your search.
Cypress (20 questions)
Is Cypress, TX a city?
No. Cypress is an unincorporated area of northwest Harris County. Services come from the county, emergency service districts and municipal utility districts (MUDs), and most neighborhoods have HOAs.
Is Cypress part of Houston?
No. Cypress has its own mailing addresses and is part of the Houston metro area, but it's outside Houston city limits.
Is Cypress a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: master-planned communities, Cy-Fair ISD schools, parks and lakes, and more house for the money than closer in. Trade-offs include MUD taxes, US-290 commutes and flood risk near the creeks.
Is Cypress, TX safe?
Cypress is patrolled by the Harris County Sheriff's Office and county constables. Review recent crime data from the agency that covers the address, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Cypress?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 3,620 homes sold in Cypress on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $406,000 and an average near $486,000.
What school district serves Cypress?
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD serves most of Cypress, and some western neighborhoods are in Waller ISD. Confirm zoning for any address.
What is the property tax rate in Cypress, TX?
It depends on the neighborhood. The total combines Harris County, the school district, a MUD or other utility district, an emergency services district and sometimes a PID, and it's often higher than inside Houston city limits. Compare the total rate on each home's tax certificate.
Does Cypress flood?
Some neighborhoods near Cypress Creek and its tributaries flooded during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, while many newer communities were built higher with detention ponds. Check the FEMA flood zone and Harris County Flood Control District maps, read the seller's disclosure and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
Is Cypress or Katy better?
Both are popular suburbs with master-planned communities and sought-after schools. Cypress, mostly in Cy-Fair ISD, had a median sale price near $406,000 over the last year, while Katy, mostly in Katy ISD, was near $346,000. Your commute, US-290 or I-10, is often the deciding factor.
What ZIP codes are in Cypress?
Most Cypress addresses use ZIP codes 77429 and 77433. Confirm the ZIP code for a specific address.
What are the best master-planned communities in Cypress?
Popular choices include Bridgeland, Towne Lake, Fairfield and Coles Crossing, with newer sections opening around Dunham Pointe. They differ in amenities, HOA dues, MUD taxes and zoned schools (most are in Cy-Fair ISD), so compare them address by address.
What is Bridgeland?
Bridgeland is an 11,500-acre master-planned community in Cypress developed by Howard Hughes. It is organized into villages (Lakeland, Parkland, Prairieland and Creekland) around Bridgeland Central, with lakes, trails and parks; in 2025 it announced nearly 40 more acres of parks and green space.
How much are HOA fees in Cypress?
Most Cypress subdivisions have an HOA. Dues commonly range from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,500 a year, and amenity-rich communities like Bridgeland and Towne Lake are at the higher end. Check the MUD tax rate too, since it often costs more than the HOA.
How bad is the commute from Cypress to Houston?
Most Cypress residents commute on US 290 or the Grand Parkway (SH 99). The Energy Corridor is often 25 to 40 minutes away, while Downtown can take 45 to 60 minutes or more at rush hour. Harris County Precinct 3 plans about $129.7 million in Cy-Fair road projects through 2030, including a $76 million Greenhouse Road underpass under US 290 that broke ground in May 2026.
Is Cypress still growing?
Yes. New home building is shifting toward Bridgeland and Towne Lake, and new sections are opening around Dunham Pointe and Richfield Ranch. A Costco on the Grand Parkway and a planned Houston Texans training center development (the Toro District) are among the larger projects.
What is there to do in Cypress?
Residents walk or paddle the Boardwalk at Towne Lake, use Bridgeland's lakes and trails, and shop at Houston Premium Outlets. Cypress Creek has nature preserves and paddling spots, and the community center and splash pads in most master-planned communities are busy on weekends.
Where are the best places to eat in Cypress?
Locally owned favorites include Saigon District (Vietnamese), Jonathan's The Rub (steaks and Italian in Bridgeland), Carmelita's Kitchen & Tequila (family-owned Mexican), Big Bertha Barbeque (smoked meats, lunch only) and Aleyotl Coffee & Bakery (Mexican-inspired cafe).
Where can I shop local in Cypress?
Independent options include X&O Books (romance-focused bookstore), Callahan's (family clothing and home goods in Bridgeland) and Teal Poppy (women's boutique at Bridgeland Central).
Is there a park and ride from Cypress to Downtown Houston?
Yes. METRO's Route 217 Cypress Park & Ride runs express buses from park-and-ride lots along US 290 to Downtown, using the 290 managed lanes for much of the trip. Many commuters use it to avoid driving and parking Downtown. Check ridemetro.org for current lot locations, schedules and fares.
Who is a good realtor in Cypress?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Cypress is one of the areas where the Compean Group works most often, and Evan and the team know this local market well. With more than 1,000 homes sold and hundreds of 5-star reviews on Google, Zillow, Yelp, RateMyAgent and HAR, we are ready to help you buy or sell. The rest of this guide has much more to get your search started.
Richmond (19 questions)
Is Richmond, TX a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: newer homes, community amenities, Lamar CISD and Fort Bend ISD schools, and good value. Trade-offs include a longer commute to central Houston, MUD taxes and flood risk near the Brazos River in some areas.
Is Richmond, TX a city?
Yes. Richmond is a small city and the Fort Bend County seat, but most homes with Richmond addresses are in master-planned communities outside the city limits.
Is Richmond, TX in Harris County?
No. Richmond is in Fort Bend County, which has its own appraisal district and tax rates.
Is Richmond, TX safe?
The City of Richmond has its own police department, and the surrounding communities are covered by the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office and constables. Review recent crime data from the agency that covers the address, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Richmond?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 2,930 homes sold with Richmond addresses on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $376,000 and an average near $439,000.
Did Richmond flood during Hurricane Harvey?
The Brazos River reached record levels at Richmond during Harvey in 2017, and some low-lying areas near the river and its creeks flooded, while many master-planned communities sit behind levees or were built higher. Check the FEMA flood zone, ask about levee districts and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What school districts serve Richmond, TX?
Lamar CISD and Fort Bend ISD each serve parts of the Richmond area. Confirm zoning for any address, since it can differ within the same community.
Is Richmond or Katy better?
Richmond, with a median sale price near $376,000 over the last year, offers newer master-planned communities in Lamar CISD and Fort Bend ISD. Katy, at a median near $346,000, is known for Katy ISD and quicker I-10 access to the Energy Corridor.
Are there new construction homes in Richmond?
Yes. Richmond is one of the busiest new-home markets around Houston, with many builders in communities like Harvest Green, Veranda and Aliana. See our new construction buyer's guide.
What is there to do in Richmond?
Historic downtown Richmond, the George Ranch Historical Park, Brazos River parks, community amenity centers and Sugar Land Town Square nearby.
What is historic downtown Richmond like?
Downtown Richmond centers on Morton Street, with restaurants, boutiques, the Fort Bend Museum and historic homes within a few blocks. As the Fort Bend County seat, it also has the county courthouse and government offices. The city has a downtown sidewalk and street reconstruction project planned for Morton and Third streets starting in 2026.
Which master-planned communities have Richmond addresses?
Popular communities with Richmond addresses include Harvest Green, Aliana, Veranda, Candela, Pecan Grove and Long Meadow Farms. Many of them are outside Richmond city limits in unincorporated Fort Bend County, which affects taxes and city services.
Are there MUD taxes in Richmond?
Most newer master-planned communities with Richmond addresses are in municipal utility districts, which add a separate tax to county and school taxes. Combined rates in these areas often run from about 2.5% to over 3% of assessed value.
How long is the commute from Richmond to Houston?
Downtown Houston is about 30 to 35 miles away via I-69/US 59 or the Westpark Tollway, and the Grand Parkway connects Richmond to Katy and Sugar Land. Expect roughly 40 minutes off-peak and an hour or more at rush hour.
Is Richmond the same as Rosenberg?
No. Richmond and Rosenberg are separate cities that share a border along the Brazos River corridor and are often called the "Twin Cities" of Fort Bend County. Many residents use services, shopping and parks in both, and parts of both are served by Lamar CISD.
Where are the best places to eat in Richmond?
Popular choices include Sandy McGee's (downtown staple), Gino's Italian Joint (pizza and Italian), Truffle & Rye Market & Café (breakfast and lunch sandwiches), the Lone Star Saloon (live music and bar food) and Soliz Tacos (family taqueria).
Where can I shop local in Richmond?
Historic downtown is the place for independent shops, including Treasure Hunter's Gallery (artisan gifts and furniture), The Rustic Closet (women's boutique) and LIT Bookbar (bookstore and cocktail bar).
Is there a commuter bus from Richmond to the Medical Center or Galleria?
Yes. Fort Bend Transit runs weekday commuter park-and-ride buses to the Texas Medical Center, Greenway Plaza and the Galleria area. The closest lots for Richmond residents are at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds in Rosenberg and the University of Houston at Sugar Land campus on University Boulevard. There is no weekend commuter service, so check Fort Bend County's public transportation site for current schedules and fares.
Who is a good realtor in Richmond?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). We very commonly work in Richmond and understand its local market, from how homes are priced to what buyers look for. Evan Compean and the Compean Group have sold more than 1,000 homes and earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. This guide includes much more information to help you get started with your search.
Katy (21 questions)
Is Katy, TX a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: Katy ISD schools, master-planned communities, lots of new construction and good value. Trade-offs include I-10 commutes, MUD taxes and flood risk in some neighborhoods.
Is Katy part of Houston?
No. The City of Katy is a separate small city, and most communities with Katy addresses are outside Houston city limits.
What county is Katy, TX in?
Katy spans Harris, Fort Bend and Waller counties. The county a home sits in determines its appraisal district and part of its tax rate.
Is Katy, TX safe?
The City of Katy has its own police department, and surrounding communities are covered by county sheriffs and constables. Review recent crime data from the agency that covers the address, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Katy?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 6,120 homes sold with Katy addresses on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $346,000 and an average near $414,000.
What school district serves Katy?
Katy ISD serves most of the area, and some Katy-address neighborhoods are in Lamar CISD, Royal ISD or Cy-Fair ISD. Confirm zoning for any address.
Does Katy flood?
Some Katy-area homes flooded during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, including neighborhoods within the Addicks and Barker reservoir flood pools. Check the FEMA flood zone and flood history, read the seller's disclosure and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
Is Katy or Sugar Land better?
Katy offers more new construction and Katy ISD schools at a median sale price near $346,000 over the last year. Sugar Land, closer to the Galleria and Medical Center via I-69, ran near $446,000.
What is the property tax rate in Katy?
It varies by community. The total combines the county, the school district, a MUD or other utility district and sometimes a PID or emergency services district. Compare the total rate on each home's tax certificate.
What is Katy known for?
Katy ISD, master-planned communities like Cinco Ranch, the annual Katy Rice Harvest Festival that celebrates its rice-farming roots, Katy Mills, Typhoon Texas and Katy Asian Town.
Is a Katy address the same as living in the City of Katy?
Usually not. The City of Katy itself is small (roughly 22,000 residents at the 2020 Census), while most homes with Katy mailing addresses sit in unincorporated Harris, Fort Bend or Waller County, often in master-planned communities. Your address doesn't tell you which city, county, MUD or school district you're in, so check the appraisal district record.
Do Katy homes have MUD taxes?
Many do. Most master-planned communities outside the City of Katy are served by Municipal Utility Districts, which add their own tax rate to the county and Katy ISD rates. That's why total tax rates can differ quite a bit from one subdivision to the next.
How long is the commute from Katy to Downtown Houston?
Downtown is about 30 miles east via I-10 (the Katy Freeway) or the Westpark Tollway. Expect roughly 35–60 minutes depending on traffic and start point. The Energy Corridor is much closer, often 15–25 minutes, and the Grand Parkway (SH 99) connects Katy to Cypress and Sugar Land. (Times are approximate.)
What are the most popular master-planned communities in Katy?
Well-known communities include Cinco Ranch, Elyson, Cane Island, Jordan Ranch, Firethorne, Grand Lakes, Seven Meadows, Tamarron and Sunterra. Cross Creek Ranch, on the Fulshear side, is also popular. Most offer pools, trails and HOA amenities, and many are served by Katy ISD or Lamar CISD. Fees and tax rates differ, so compare them before you choose.
What is Old Town Katy?
Old Town Katy is the historic downtown around Avenue B and Second Street, near the railroad tracks and the old rice-farming core of the city. It has antique shops, local cafes, No Label Brewing in a former rice dryer, and community events like Katy Sip N Stroll.
What parks and trails are in Katy?
Katy has city parks such as Mary Jo Peckham Park and Katy City Park, plus miles of HOA trails in communities like Cinco Ranch. The City of Katy is starting construction on the Snow Goose Trail, its first citywide trail, from Morton Road to Franz Road. Typhoon Texas water park and the Katy Prairie preserves are also nearby.
Where are the best places to eat in Katy?
Popular choices include Hong Kong Food Street (Michelin-recommended Cantonese in Asia Town), Midway BBQ (Old Katy barbecue), Southern Dough Baking Co. (Southern country cafe), Harvest Kitchen & Bakery (scratch breakfast and lunch) and El Kiche (Guatemalan).
Where can I shop local in Katy?
Old Town Katy is the main spot for independent shops, including KT Antiques, The Limited Edition Art & Antiques and The Lost Story Bookshop. Katy Sip N Stroll and other downtown events bring extra foot traffic to these stores.
What is the Barker Reservoir flood pool, and does it affect Katy homes?
Barker Reservoir, on Katy's east side, is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers flood-control reservoir designed to hold water during major storms. Some subdivisions near the reservoir, including parts of the Cinco Ranch area, sit inside its upstream flood pool, which is not the same as a FEMA flood zone, and some of those homes took on water during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Buyers can check whether a property is in the flood pool using Harris County Flood Control District and Fort Bend County resources, along with the FEMA flood map.
Is there a park and ride from Katy to Downtown Houston?
Yes. METRO runs park-and-ride buses along I-10 from lots at Grand Parkway, Kingsland and Addicks to Downtown, with routes 221, 222, 228 and 229. METRO estimates about 50 minutes each way from the Grand Parkway lot, with frequent buses at peak hours, and riders can connect to METRORail Downtown.
Who is a good realtor in Katy?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Evan Compean and the Compean Group help buyers and sellers in Katy all the time. Local knowledge matters here, and we understand the pricing, the housing and what buyers look for. Our team has sold more than 1,000 homes and earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. This guide includes much more information to help you start your search.
Kingwood (20 questions)
Is Kingwood part of Houston?
Yes. Houston annexed Kingwood in 1996, so most of it is inside Houston city limits, though it feels like a separate suburb about 29 miles northeast of Downtown.
Why is Kingwood called the Livable Forest?
Kingwood was planned in the 1970s around mature pine forest and greenbelts, with more than 75 miles of trails connecting its villages, schools and parks.
How did Kingwood get its name?
Kingwood was developed starting in the early 1970s as a joint venture of King Ranch and Friendswood Development Company, and its name combines the two.
Is Kingwood safe?
Kingwood is served by the Houston Police Department's Kingwood division. Review HPD's recent crime statistics for the streets you're considering, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Kingwood?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 830 homes sold with Kingwood addresses on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $350,000 and an average near $405,000.
Did Kingwood flood during Hurricane Harvey?
Yes. The San Jacinto River and Lake Houston rose to record levels during Harvey in 2017, flooding thousands of Kingwood homes and businesses and Kingwood High School. Flood control work, including San Jacinto River dredging, followed. Check each home's flood zone, elevation certificate and flood history, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What school district serves Kingwood?
Kingwood is in Humble ISD, including Kingwood High School and Kingwood Park High School. Confirm zoning for any address.
What county is Kingwood in?
Kingwood is mostly in Harris County, with a portion in Montgomery County.
What ZIP codes are in Kingwood?
Kingwood addresses mostly use ZIP codes 77339 and 77345.
How far is Kingwood from Bush Intercontinental Airport and Downtown?
About 16.7 miles to Bush Intercontinental and 29 miles to Downtown by car, mostly via I-69 (US-59).
Is Kingwood a good place to live?
Kingwood appeals to buyers who want mature trees, greenbelt trails and established neighborhoods within the City of Houston. Homes average about $405,000 (12 months through September 2026), and the community is served by Humble ISD. The main trade-offs are the commute to Downtown, about 25 to 30 miles, and flood risk near the San Jacinto River and Lake Houston, so check flood maps for any home you consider.
What are property taxes like in Kingwood?
Kingwood homes pay City of Houston, Humble ISD, Harris County (or Montgomery County for a few sections) and related taxes, which together usually add up to roughly 2% to 2.5% of assessed value before exemptions. Most villages also have community association fees. If the home will be your primary residence, file for the homestead exemption: it lowers your taxable value, and starting the year after the home qualifies, its appraised value for taxes generally can't rise more than 10% a year.
Does Kingwood have HOA fees?
Yes. Each Kingwood village has its own community association, and the Kingwood Service Association maintains the shared greenbelts, trails and parks. Annual fees vary by village, so ask for the specific association's dues and any pool or amenity fees during the option period.
How many miles of trails does Kingwood have?
Kingwood's greenbelt trail system covers roughly 75 miles of paved hike-and-bike paths running through wooded easements between neighborhoods, which is a big part of its "Livable Forest" identity. Many residents can walk or bike to schools, parks and pools without using main roads.
What is there to do in Kingwood?
Residents use the greenbelt trails, East End Park along Lake Houston, and boating on Lake Houston. Kingwood Town Center has restaurants, shops and community events, and Deerbrook Mall and the Lake Houston area are a short drive away.
Should I live in Kingwood or Atascocita?
Kingwood is inside the City of Houston (annexed in 1996), with older, heavily wooded villages and an extensive trail network. Atascocita, just south across Lake Houston, is unincorporated Harris County with more newer construction and no city tax but its own MUD taxes. Both are served by Humble ISD.
Where are the best places to eat in Kingwood?
Popular choices include Amedeo's Italian Restaurant (Italian, open since 1985), Chimichurri's South American Grill (South American grill), Sharky's Waterfront Grill (seafood with a lakeside patio), Miya Ramen Bistro (ramen) and Bill's Cafe (American, weekend live music).
Where can I shop local in Kingwood?
Kingwood Town Center and Kingwood Drive have several independent shops, including My Happy Place (locally owned gifts and decor), Toys & Candy on the Park (family-owned toy and candy store) and Melissa Sue's Boutique (women's clothing).
Is every home with a Kingwood address in Humble ISD?
No. Kingwood proper, inside the City of Houston, is served by Humble ISD, including Kingwood High School and Kingwood Park High School. Some nearby subdivisions that use "Kingwood" in their name or mailing address sit north of the city limits in Montgomery County and are served by New Caney ISD instead. Confirm the school district and taxing entities for a specific address on the listing and with the district before buying.
Who is a good realtor in Kingwood?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Kingwood is one of the areas where the Compean Group works most often, and Evan and the team know this local market well. With more than 1,000 homes sold and hundreds of 5-star reviews on Google, Zillow, Yelp, RateMyAgent and HAR, we are ready to help you buy or sell. The rest of this guide has much more to get your search started.
Tomball (18 questions)
Is Tomball, TX a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: a small-town historic downtown, Tomball ISD schools, newer subdivisions and room for acreage. Trade-offs include a 30-plus-mile drive to Downtown and MUD taxes in many subdivisions.
Is Tomball in Harris County?
Yes. The City of Tomball is in northwest Harris County, and some homes with Tomball addresses are in Montgomery County.
Is Tomball part of Houston?
No. Tomball is a separate city about 31 miles northwest of Downtown Houston, with its own city government and police department.
Is Tomball safe?
The City of Tomball has its own police department, and areas outside the city are covered by county sheriffs and constables. Review recent crime data from the agency that covers the address, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Tomball?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 1,690 homes sold with Tomball addresses on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $379,000 and an average near $454,000.
Does Tomball have a city property tax?
Yes. The City of Tomball's rate is about $0.34 per $100 of value for fiscal year 2026-27, and the city puts half a cent of its sales tax toward lowering property taxes. Homes outside city limits don't pay Tomball city tax but often pay MUD or other district taxes.
What school district serves Tomball?
Tomball ISD serves most of the area, and some Tomball-address neighborhoods are in Magnolia ISD or Klein ISD. Confirm zoning for any address.
Does Tomball flood?
Flood risk varies, with some areas near Spring Creek, Willow Creek and other channels in mapped floodplains. Check the FEMA flood zone and Harris County Flood Control District maps, read the seller's disclosure and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
Why is it called Tomball?
Tomball is named for Thomas Henry Ball, a congressman and attorney who helped bring the railroad through town in the early 1900s.
What is Tomball known for?
Its historic downtown and antique shops, the Tomball German Heritage Festival, Tomball ISD, the Tomball Parkway (SH 249) and room for acreage and new subdivisions.
Is Tomball growing?
Yes. Recent projects include the Everwood Reserve expansion, a planned $20 million H-E-B renovation and the Mathews Community Center that Harris County Precinct 3 plans to build next to Broussard Park, expected to open in 2028. Tomball ISD has also been adding schools to keep up with enrollment.
How long is the commute from Tomball to Houston?
Tomball is about 30 miles northwest of Downtown Houston. Most commuters use SH 249 (Tomball Parkway) or the Grand Parkway (SH 99), and Downtown typically takes 40 to 60 minutes at rush hour. The Woodlands, the ExxonMobil campus and Cypress are closer, often 20 to 30 minutes away.
What events and festivals are in Tomball?
Old Town Tomball hosts the Tomball German Heritage Festival each spring, along with holiday events and seasonal markets downtown. The Tomball Farmers Market runs on Saturdays, and Main Street's shops, restaurants and tasting rooms draw weekend crowds year-round.
Where are the best places to eat in Tomball?
Popular choices include Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue (barbecue and house-made chocolate), Manna Bread from Heaven (bakery and cafe), Bonfire Grill (seasonal menu), Mimi's Ethiopian Cuisine (new on Main Street) and Victory Pie Co. (pies and breakfast).
Where can I shop local in Tomball?
Old Town Tomball's Main Street is the main strip for independent shops, including Birds of a Feather (vintage clothing and home goods), From The Attic (antiques and collectibles) and The Book Attic (used books).
Can I buy a home on acreage near Tomball?
Yes. Outside the city limits, unincorporated parts of Harris and Montgomery counties around Tomball, including areas along FM 2920 and toward Magnolia, have homes on one acre or more, often with custom builders. Many of these properties use a private water well and an on-site septic system instead of city utilities, so buyers usually add well-water testing and a septic inspection, and check county permits and any deed restrictions.
Should I live in Tomball or Cypress?
Tomball is a small incorporated city with a historic Main Street, its own city services and mostly Tomball ISD schools, with acreage and newer subdivisions around it. Cypress is a large unincorporated area of Harris County, served mainly by Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, with big master-planned communities such as Bridgeland and Towne Lake. Tax structures differ: Tomball city homes pay a city tax, while many Cypress homes pay MUD taxes instead, so compare total rates by address.
Who is a good realtor in Tomball?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). Evan Compean and the Compean Group work in Tomball very often, so we understand the local market and what sets one street apart from the next. Our team has sold more than 1,000 homes and holds 5.0-star ratings on Google and Zillow across hundreds of reviews. This guide covers much more to help you get started, or call or text us at (832) 777-3904.
The Woodlands (21 questions)
Is The Woodlands a city?
No. The Woodlands is an unincorporated master-planned community governed by The Woodlands Township, which handles services like parks, fire protection and covenant enforcement. It isn't part of Houston.
Is The Woodlands in Harris County?
Mostly no. The Woodlands is mainly in Montgomery County; its Creekside Park village is in Harris County.
Is The Woodlands a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: trails, parks, schools, shopping and year-round community events. Trade-offs include higher prices than many suburbs, a roughly 33-mile drive to Downtown and Township plus MUD taxes.
Is The Woodlands safe?
The Woodlands is patrolled by the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, with Harris County coverage in Creekside Park. Review recent crime data from the agency that covers the address, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in The Woodlands?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 1,330 homes sold in The Woodlands on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $588,000 and an average near $794,000, with the top sale near $6.6 million.
What school district serves The Woodlands?
Most of The Woodlands is in Conroe ISD, Creekside Park is in Tomball ISD, and some areas are in Magnolia ISD. Confirm zoning for any address.
Does The Woodlands flood?
Some neighborhoods near Spring Creek and Panther Branch flooded in heavy storms such as the 2016 Tax Day flood and Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Check the FEMA flood zone and flood history, read the seller's disclosure and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
Is The Woodlands the same as Spring?
No. Spring is a separate unincorporated area to the south and east. Some Woodlands neighborhoods, including parts of Creekside Park, use Spring or Tomball ZIP codes, which causes confusion.
How far is The Woodlands from Houston and Bush Intercontinental?
About 33 miles to Downtown Houston and 26.5 miles to Bush Intercontinental by car, via I-45 or the Hardy Toll Road.
What is there to do in The Woodlands?
Walk The Woodlands Waterway, shop Market Street and The Woodlands Mall, catch a concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, paddle Lake Woodlands or ride the trails.
What are the villages of The Woodlands?
The Woodlands has nine residential villages: Grogan's Mill, Panther Creek, Cochran's Crossing, Indian Springs, Alden Bridge, Sterling Ridge, College Park, Harper's Landing and Creekside Park. They surround Town Center, home to Market Street, Hughes Landing, The Woodlands Mall and the Waterway. Creekside Park is the only village in Harris County; the rest are in Montgomery County.
Does The Woodlands have an HOA?
There is no single traditional HOA. The Woodlands Township enforces covenants and deed restrictions, and exterior changes such as additions, fences, pools and paint colors need approval from its design review committees. Some neighborhoods, especially gated sections, also have their own associations with separate dues.
What are property taxes like in The Woodlands?
Homeowners pay The Woodlands Township, their school district (mostly Conroe ISD, with Tomball and Magnolia ISD in some areas), Montgomery or Harris County, and usually a MUD. Combined rates often land around 1.9% to 2.4% of assessed value before exemptions, depending on the village. The Township's own rate is a small part of that total.
Is The Woodlands walkable or bike-friendly?
The Woodlands has more than 200 miles of hike-and-bike pathways connecting neighborhoods, schools, parks and village centers. In Town Center, the free Town Center Trolley links Hughes Landing, Market Street, The Woodlands Mall and the Pavilion. Most residents still drive for errands and commuting.
Will The Woodlands become a city?
Not for now. In November 2021, voters rejected a proposal to incorporate as a city, so The Woodlands remains a special-purpose township. The Township handles parks, covenants, trolleys and some public safety, while Montgomery and Harris counties provide other services.
Who are the major employers in and near The Woodlands?
Major employers include Chevron Phillips Chemical and Huntsman, which have headquarters in The Woodlands, along with several large hospitals. ExxonMobil's campus at Springwoods Village is a short drive south off I-45 and the Grand Parkway.
What hospitals are in The Woodlands?
The Woodlands has several full-service hospitals, including Memorial Hermann The Woodlands, Houston Methodist The Woodlands, St. Luke's Health–The Woodlands and Texas Children's Hospital The Woodlands. Many specialists who also practice at the Texas Medical Center have offices locally.
Where are the best places to eat in The Woodlands?
Popular choices include Bar Bludorn (upscale tavern on the Waterway), Bari Ristorante (contemporary Italian), Charolais (steak boards at Hughes Landing), Amerigo's Grille (Italian-leaning, open since 1994) and Schilleci's New Orleans Kitchen (Cajun and Creole).
Where can I shop local in The Woodlands?
Locally owned favorites include Village Books (independent bookstore), Tumbleweeds & Notions (gifts, decor and vintage finds) and Jen LOVES Paper (custom stationery and party supplies).
Is The Woodlands Hills part of The Woodlands?
No. The Woodlands Hills is a separate Howard Hughes master-planned community about 13 miles north of The Woodlands, in the Conroe and Willis area, and it is not one of The Woodlands Township's nine villages. It is zoned to Willis ISD and has its own HOA, MUD and city or county tax structure, so its taxes, services and covenants differ from homes inside the Township. Several other nearby subdivisions also use "Woodlands" in their names, so buyers should confirm whether an address is inside the Township before comparing taxes and fees.
Who is a good realtor in The Woodlands?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). We very commonly work in The Woodlands and understand its local market, from how homes are priced to what buyers look for. Evan Compean and the Compean Group have sold more than 1,000 homes and earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. This guide includes much more information to help you get started with your search.
Fulshear (19 questions)
Is Fulshear a good place to live?
For many buyers, yes: lots of new homes, master-planned amenities, Lamar CISD and Katy ISD schools and a small-town historic downtown. Trade-offs include a roughly 34-mile drive to Downtown, MUD taxes and construction traffic as the area grows.
How fast is Fulshear growing?
Very fast. Census estimates released in May 2026 ranked Fulshear the second-fastest-growing city in the U.S. among cities of 20,000 or more, after it grew about 21% from mid-2024 to mid-2025.
What county is Fulshear in?
Fulshear is in Fort Bend County, which has its own appraisal district and tax rates.
Is Fulshear part of Houston?
No. Fulshear is a separate city about 34 miles west of Downtown Houston, with its own city government and police department.
Is Fulshear safe?
The City of Fulshear has its own police department, and communities outside city limits are covered by the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office and constables. Review recent crime data from the agency that covers the address, and visit at different times of day.
How much do homes cost in Fulshear?
In the 12 months through September 2026, about 1,850 homes sold with Fulshear addresses on the MLS at a typical (median) price around $450,000 and an average near $520,000.
What school districts serve Fulshear?
Most of Fulshear is in Lamar CISD, including Fulshear High School, and some northern areas are in Katy ISD. Confirm zoning for any address.
What ZIP code is Fulshear?
Fulshear addresses use ZIP code 77441, and some nearby communities use Katy or Richmond ZIP codes. Confirm the ZIP code and city limits for a specific address.
Does Fulshear flood?
Flood risk varies. Low-lying areas near creeks and the Brazos River carry more risk, while many newer communities were built with detention ponds and drainage systems. Check the FEMA flood zone and flood history, and get a flood insurance quote during your option period.
What master-planned communities are in Fulshear?
Cross Creek Ranch, Fulbrook on Fulshear Creek, Fulshear Lakes and Jordan Ranch, with Tamarron just to the north. Tamarron and Jordan Ranch were among Houston's top-selling master-planned communities in 2025.
Do Fulshear homes have MUD taxes?
Most do. Nearly all of Fulshear's master-planned communities are served by Municipal Utility Districts, so homeowners pay a MUD tax plus city (inside city limits), Fort Bend County and school district taxes. Combined rates in newer MUDs are often well above 2% of assessed value.
How far is Fulshear from Houston and the Energy Corridor?
Downtown Fulshear is about 35 miles west of Downtown Houston. Most commuters use the Westpark Tollway, I-10 or the Grand Parkway (SH 99), and drives into Houston often take about 45–75 minutes at rush hour. The Energy Corridor and Katy are closer, typically about 20–35 minutes. (Times are approximate.)
Is there new construction in Fulshear?
Yes. Fulshear is one of the Houston area's fastest-growing places, and many buyers choose new homes in communities such as Cross Creek Ranch, Fulbrook on Fulshear Creek, Jordan Ranch and Cross Creek West. Compare builder incentives, MUD rates and HOA dues along with base price.
What is downtown Fulshear like?
Downtown Fulshear is a small historic district centered near Main Street (FM 359) and FM 1093, where most shops and restaurants are within about two blocks. It has local restaurants, boutiques and the Viola Heritage House Museum. The city is also working on a streetscape plan to make the area more walkable.
Where are the best places to eat in Fulshear?
Popular choices include Dozier's BBQ (barbecue since 1957), La Balance Café Mexicana (Mexican, on Main Street), Victor's Mexican Grille (Tex-Mex and brunch), Essence House Café (breakfast and lunch) and Texana Café (a cafe that trains neurodiverse adults).
Where can I shop local in Fulshear?
Downtown Fulshear has several independent shops, including Cobblestone Cottage (home decor and gifts), Freckles Stationery and Gifts, and Dogwood Lane Goods (furniture and home accents). Katy's Old Town antique shops are also a short drive away.
Is the Westpark Tollway being extended to Fulshear?
Yes. The Fort Bend County Toll Road Authority is extending the Westpark Tollway west along FM 1093 toward Fulshear, adding two tolled lanes in each direction in the middle of the road. The first two-mile segment, which lets toll traffic bypass the FM 1463/FM 359 signal, opened in February 2026, with the rest of the roughly $72 million project to Charger Way scheduled to follow later in 2026. TxDOT is also widening FM 1463 nearby.
Is Cross Creek Ranch in Katy ISD or Lamar CISD?
Both. Most of Cross Creek Ranch is zoned to Katy ISD, while some sections, mainly on the community's west side, are in Lamar Consolidated ISD. The same split applies across the wider Fulshear area, so confirm the district and zoned schools for a specific address with each district's lookup tool before buying.
Who is a good realtor in Fulshear?
Compean Group is one to consider: AgentPronto ranks it #3 on its list of top agents for Houston (November 2026; AgentPronto compares agents on transaction data, specialties and client reviews). We very commonly work in Fulshear and understand its local market, from how homes are priced to what buyers look for. Evan Compean and the Compean Group have sold more than 1,000 homes and earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. This guide includes much more information to help you get started with your search.
Have a question we didn't answer? Call (832) 777-3904 or send us a message.