Best Houston Neighborhoods: Winners & Losers Over The Past Decade
Do you know which Houston neighborhoods had the best appreciation rates over the past 1, 5, and 10 years?
Executive Summary:
The oil price crash and COVID-19 pandemic are impacting Houston home sales. Add the current financial and post-lockdown trends and we're now seeing a “tale of two cities” both locally and nationally.
While the real estate market remains hot, there's a lot of fear, uncertainty, and doubt surrounding it right now.
We studied over 500,000 home sales and appreciation rates of more than 30 Close-In Houston geo market areas over the past 10 years.
Over the past decade:
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All of the 30 geo market areas we analyzed netted at least 10% growth
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About a third had more than 70% growth
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The best performers were Upper Kirby, River Oaks, Oak Forest, Highland Village, Braeswood Place, and Memorial Park
Over the past five years:
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Only 3 of the 30 geo market areas recorded a loss in value
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The best performers were Highland Village, Memorial Park, Briar Hollow, River Oaks Shopping Area, Garden Oaks, and EaDo
Over the past year (year-to-date data):
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About half of the 30 geo market areas saw negative or 0% growth
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Five neighborhoods experienced double-digit growth rates.
For more information or trends for your home, contact Paige Martin, Broker Associate Keller Williams (Ranked #1 Individual Keller Williams Agent in Houston and #2 Individual Keller Williams Agent in Texas.)
Get a Custom Home Valuation from a Top-Ranked Realtor
If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Houston and need advice about the market, please contact Paige Martin and The Houston Properties Team at [email protected]. Paige Martin is ranked as the #1 Keller Williams Realtor in Houston and #5 Keller Williams Realtor in the United States.
Table of Contents
- Real Estate Appreciation Trends Of 30 Houston Geo Market Areas
- 1-Year Real Estate Appreciation Trends
- 5-Year Real Estate Appreciation Trends
- 10-Year Real Estate Appreciation Trends
- 20 Best Houston Neighborhoods In Real Estate Appreciation
- Sources, Methodology & Disclosures
- Top Ranked Realtors: Paige Martin & The Houston Properties Team
Real Estate Appreciation Trends Of 30 Houston Geo Market Areas
“Paige Martin is Houston's best Realtor. She is highly experienced and very knowledgeable. She made our buying experience an enjoyable one, not only for us, but for our daughter, son-in-law and several of our friends. We have bought and sold many houses, and Paige has been the best realtor we have ever worked with. We highly recommend her and The Houston Properties Team.” Jeremy & Lynn Greene
The list above is in alphabetical order.
*Default median sales values are from single-family homes except in these neighborhoods, which have an above-average # of condos and townhomes.
DISCLAIMER: Real estate is local. If you’re looking to buy or sell: Get a custom report for your home or request trends on the area where you’re looking to buy.
1-Year Real Estate Appreciation Trends
Many of Houston’s most popular neighborhoods are also, historically, the best performers in real estate appreciation. Contact us for a custom list of homes in these areas.
Neighborhood | 1-Yr Appreciation | Median Sales Price | Median Sales Price/Sq Ft |
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Memorial Park | -13.4% | $1,560,000 | $382 |
River Oaks Shopping Area | 4.3% | $989,900 | $331 |
Rice / Museum District | -2.4% | $1,025,000 | $386 |
*East End Revitalized | -0.2% | $355,000 | $212 |
Washington East/Sabine | 1.4% | $540,000 | $242 |
Knollwood/Woodside | 11.0% | $557,600 | $260 |
Garden Oaks | 16.4% | $845,000 | $350 |
University Area | -7.1% | $325,000 | $189 |
Timbergrove/Lazybrook | 8.3% | $625,000 | $300 |
Upper Kirby | -4.2% | $1,053,441 | $352 |
*Midtown Houston | 5.1% | $389,000 | $213 |
West University/Southside Area | 9.0% | $1,875,500 | $509 |
*Briar Hollow | 32.8% | $777,500 | $346 |
River Oaks Area | 19.5% | $3,226,514 | $584 |
Highland Village / Midlane | 8.5% | $1,247,500 | $413 |
*Galleria | 1.7% | $307,000 | $187 |
Rice Military/Washington Corridor | -1.3% | $555,000 | $240 |
*Downtown Houston | -0.9% | $290,000 | $265 |
Oak Forest East | -2.0% | $490,000 | $271 |
Riverside | 0.4% | $399,000 | $187 |
Meyerland Area | 6.7% | $507,000 | $208 |
Cottage Grove | 1.9% | $519,900 | $225 |
*Medical Center Area | 18.1% | $251,000 | $181 |
Heights/Greater Heights | -0.1% | $680,000 | $319 |
Montrose | 5.4% | $775,000 | $303 |
Willow Meadows Area | 0.6% | $360,000 | $194 |
Bellaire Area | 3.1% | $1,195,500 | $310 |
*Greenway Plaza | -15.6% | $460,000 | $259 |
Braeswood Place | 2.4% | $1,356,375 | $337 |
Royden Oaks/Afton Oaks | 8.2% | $1,187,500 | $382 |
*Default median sales values are from single-family homes except in these neighborhoods, which have an above average # of condos and townhomes.
DISCLAIMER: Real estate is local. If you’re looking to buy or sell: Get a custom report for your home or request trends on the area where you’re looking to buy.
5-Year Real Estate Appreciation Trends
“The Houston Properties Team is simply amazing! Its team lead, Paige Martin, is a customer service driven agent that doesn’t let any small details slip past her. She is meticulous with her offers, inspections, and knows how to effectively negotiate the right price for her buyers and sellers” – William Swallen
Neighborhood | 5-Yr Appreciation | Median Sales Price | Median Sales Price/Sq Ft |
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Highland Village / Midlane | 14% | $1,247,500 | $413 |
Memorial Park | 4% | $1,560,000 | $382 |
*Briar Hollow | 25% | $777,500 | $346 |
River Oaks Shopping Area | 24% | $989,900 | $331 |
*East End Revitalized | 11% | $355,000 | $212 |
*Downtown Houston | 5% | $290,000 | $265 |
Rice / Museum District | 2% | $1,025,000 | $386 |
*Medical Center Area | 0% | $251,000 | $181 |
Washington East/Sabine | 20% | $540,000 | $242 |
Garden Oaks | 45% | $845,000 | $350 |
Oak Forest East | 24% | $490,000 | $271 |
Timbergrove/Lazybrook | 27% | $625,000 | $300 |
West University/Southside Area | 34% | $1,875,500 | $509 |
Heights/Greater Heights | 30% | $680,000 | $319 |
*Greenway Plaza | -13% | $460,000 | $259 |
Rice Military/Washington Corridor | 16% | $555,000 | $240 |
Montrose | 17% | $775,000 | $303 |
Knollwood/Woodside | 22% | $557,600 | $260 |
*Midtown Houston | 17% | $389,000 | $213 |
Cottage Grove | 25% | $519,900 | $225 |
University Area | 22% | $325,000 | $189 |
Upper Kirby | 20% | $1,053,441 | $352 |
River Oaks Area | 37% | $3,226,514 | $584 |
*Galleria | 15% | $307,000 | $187 |
Riverside | 11% | $399,000 | $187 |
Royden Oaks/Afton Oaks | 22% | $1,187,500 | $382 |
Meyerland Area | 34% | $507,000 | $208 |
Willow Meadows Area | 22% | $360,000 | $194 |
Bellaire Area | 33% | $1,195,500 | $310 |
Braeswood Place | 45% | $1,356,375 | $337 |
*Default median sales values are from single-family homes except these neighborhoods, which have an above average # of condos and townhomes.
DISCLAIMER: Real estate is local. If you’re looking to buy or sell: Get a custom report for your home or request trends on the area where you’re looking to buy.
10-Year Real Estate Appreciation Trends
Whether you buy or sell first depends on the current market and your unique situation. Both options come with an element of risk. Our experience taught us to make the proper assessment out of the overall scenario every homeowner is in. Contact us to help you make the most viable decision.
Neighborhood | 10-Yr Appreciation | Median Sales Price | Median Sales Price/Sq Ft |
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Upper Kirby | 34% | $1,053,441 | $352 |
River Oaks Area | 53% | $3,226,514 | $584 |
Oak Forest East | 42% | $490,000 | $271 |
Highland Village / Midlane | 56% | $1,247,500 | $413 |
Memorial Park | 4% | $1,560,000 | $382 |
Garden Oaks | 89% | $845,000 | $350 |
*Greenway Plaza | 3% | $460,000 | $259 |
River Oaks Shopping Area | 32% | $989,900 | $331 |
*East End Revitalized | 21% | $355,000 | $212 |
Timbergrove/Lazybrook | 53% | $625,000 | $300 |
Washington East/Sabine | 29% | $540,000 | $242 |
Montrose | 19% | $775,000 | $303 |
Rice / Museum District | 36% | $1,025,000 | $386 |
West University/Southside Area | 49% | $1,875,500 | $509 |
Heights/Greater Heights | 44% | $680,000 | $319 |
Cottage Grove | 28% | $519,900 | $225 |
*Briar Hollow | 52% | $777,500 | $346 |
*Downtown Houston | 7% | $290,000 | $265 |
Knollwood/Woodside | 16% | $557,600 | $260 |
*Midtown Houston | 11% | $389,000 | $213 |
University Area | 24% | $325,000 | $189 |
Braeswood Place | 77% | $1,356,375 | $337 |
Rice Military/Washington Corridor | 17% | $555,000 | $240 |
Willow Meadows Area | 12% | $360,000 | $194 |
*Medical Center Area | 14% | $251,000 | $181 |
Royden Oaks/Afton Oaks | 43% | $1,187,500 | $382 |
Bellaire Area | 25% | $1,195,500 | $310 |
Riverside | 15% | $399,000 | $187 |
Meyerland Area | 16% | $507,000 | $208 |
*Galleria | 3% | $307,000 | $187 |
*Default median sales values are from single-family homes except these neighborhoods, which have an above average # of condos and townhomes.
DISCLAIMER: Real estate is local. If you’re looking to buy or sell: Get a custom report for your home or request trends on the area where you’re looking to buy.
20 Best Houston Neighborhoods In Real Estate Appreciation
Houston real-estate is hyper local. Don't rely on raw averages. Contact us for a more meaningful analysis of how specific sub-sections are doing compares to the area's raw averages.
River Oaks
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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River Oaks Area | $3,226,514 | $584 | 53% |
One of Houston’s most exclusive neighborhoods, River Oaks is centrally located within the Inner Loop. Deed-restricted and historic, the area features some of the most expensive homes in Bayou City.
River Oaks is well-known for its:
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UPSCALE NEIGHBORHOOD: The neighborhood is a mix of 1920s and 1930s traditional homes, grand estates, luxury condos, and townhomes in gated communities. River Oaks is one of the most expensive Houston neighborhoods.
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TOP-RANKED SCHOOLS: River Oaks homes are zoned to the Houston ISD. The area benefits from excellent schools, including River Oaks Elem and Lanier Middle. The community also has several premier private schools, such as St. John’s and River Oaks Baptist.
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STRONG REAL ESTATE APPRECIATION: River Oaks is among the best Inner Loop neighborhoods in real estate appreciation. The neighborhood has posted impressive appreciation rates over the last 10 years.
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PRIME LOCATION: River Oaks boasts an excellent location in Houston. The area provides easy access to Downtown, the Medical Center, and the Galleria. Major highways like Southwest Freeway, Loop 610, Katy Freeway, and I-45 surround the neighborhood.
River Oaks is home to the River Oaks Country Club Estates, one of Houston’s most affluent golf communities. The country club features a golf course, tennis courts, swimming pools, and a fitness center.
Heights / Greater Heights
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Heights/Greater Heights | $680,000 | $319 | 44% |
Houston Heights is a well-known historic district and one of Houston's first planned communities. It is a short commute to Downtown, Galleria, and Medical Center, Houston’s major business and retail hubs.
Houston Heights’ appeal includes:
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FASCINATING ARCHITECTURE: Well-preserved Victorian homes and turn-of-the-century architecture add charm, character, and value to this neighborhood.
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ACCESSIBILITY: Residents have access to over 450 Yelp-rated establishments in the Heights. Schools, parks, and retail centers are also minutes from many residential communities.
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PARK AND TRAILS: Heights Hike and Bike Trail and White Oak Bayou Trail cover several parks in the Heights. The parks host outdoor activities and other riveting adventures with nature.
Houston Heights has enjoyed rising property values. It has performed well over the past one, five, and ten years compared to other Houston neighborhoods.
Garden Oaks
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Garden Oaks | $845,000 | $350 | 89% |
With about 1,400 homesites, Garden Oaks showcases a variety of traditional and new construction homes. Located just off Loop 610, this largely residential neighborhood has some of the Best Land Value Appreciation Rates in Houston.
Garden Oaks features:
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LARGE LOTS: By Houston standards, homes in Garden Oaks sit on mid-to-large-sized lots. Lot areas range from 6,000 to 17,000 square feet, allowing for vast green space.
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GREAT ACCESSIBILITY: Garden Oaks has tree-lined streets near the city’s main entertainment and commercial districts. Commuting to Downtown, EaDo, Heights, and Rice Military takes about 15 minutes.
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BEAUTIFUL VINTAGE HOMES: There are a number of home options in Garden Oaks. These include bungalows, plantation-style homes, quaint patio homes, ranch-style homes, and townhomes.
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ACTIVE CIVIC CLUB: Garden Oaks Civic Club enforces deed restrictions and organizes events in the community. Their projects include neighborhood beautification and a constable program.
The Garden Oaks community continues to grow as developers buy up land in the area.
Knollwood / Woodside Area
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Knollwood/Woodside | $557,600 | $260 | 16% |
Knollwood / Woodside is a residential area split into 11 deed-restricted sections. The neighborhood is of its tree-lined streets and homes with manicured lawns.
Knollwood / Woodside is popular due to its:
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ACCESSIBILITY: It is near main roads like Buffalo Speedway, and Braeswood Boulevard. Major job spots like Texas Medical Center and The Galleria are only a short distance from the area.
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ACTIVE CIVIC CLUB: The Knollwood Village Civic Club actively enforces deed restrictions. It manages the neighborhood’s security as well.
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NEARNESS TO AMENITIES: Moreover, Knollwood / Woodside is close to several retail and dining spots. It is only a few minutes away from Vanderbilt Square and Meyerland.
Homes in Knollwood / Woodside have traditional and ranch-style designs. They also come in big lot sizes, ranging from 6,000 to 10,000 square feet.
Briar Hollow
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Briar Hollow | $777,500 | $346 | 52% |
Located south of Buffalo Bayou and Memorial Park, Briar Hollow is home to numerous upscale gated communities, luxury high-rise condominiums, and world-class retail centers. The neighborhood is nestled between the Galleria and River Oaks, one of Houston’s most expensive neighborhoods.
The community is known for its:
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PROXIMITY TO GALLERIA: Briar Hollow provides quick access to the Galleria, one of the city’s most vibrant retail and business districts. The area is home to over 23 million square feet of office space and around 5 million square feet of retail spots.
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HIGHLAND VILLAGE & RIVER OAKS DISTRICT: The neighborhood is located near the River Oaks District and Highland Village, which offer a mix of premier boutiques and high-end dining. Other exciting retail centers nearby are Uptown Park and Post Oak Plaza.
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MEMORIAL PARK: Residents can enjoy miles of hike and bike trails, the Memorial Park Golf Course, and the Seymour Lieberman Exer-trail. The 1500-acre Memorial park has croquet, volleyball, skating, swimming, and tennis facilities, along with playgrounds and picnic spots.
The Wilshire and the Arabella are two new upscale high-rise developments with lavish amenities located within Briar Hollow. Audubon Hollow, Eaton Square, and River Hollow are among the best-gated communities in Houston.
Cottage Grove
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Cottage Grove | $519,900 | $225 | 28% |
Located just south of The Heights, Cottage Grove is one of the Best Houston Neighborhoods in Land Value Appreciation. This neighborhood offers exclusive gated communities, top schools, and multiple outdoor activity hubs.
Cottage Grove is popular thanks to its:
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LUXURY COMMUNITIES: The neighborhood’s reemergence brought luxury development like Larkin at Cottage Grove, Patterson Heights, Reserve on Kansas, and Reserve at Washington. These exclusive gated communities offer new construction homes, luxury amenities, and secure access.
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TOP SCHOOLS: Lamar High School, an IB World School and one of Houston’s Best Schools, serves a portion of Cottage Grove. Hogg Middle School, serving the IB Middle Years Programme, is also zoned to the neighborhood.
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OUTDOOR ACTIVITY HUBS: Memorial Park, Houston’s largest urban park, is minutes away from Cottage Grove. Residents have plenty of outdoor activity options: Memorial Park Golf Course, miles of multi-use trails, picnic areas, tennis courts, and other facilities.
Residents have plenty of restaurants, bars, cafes, lounges, and retail centers nearby. Cottage Grove is located near the Heights and Rice Military, both of which offer great entertainment options.
Downtown Houston
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Downtown Houston | $290,000 | $265 | 7% |
Downtown Houston is a 1,178-acre area strategically located south of I-10 (Katy Freeway), west of I-45 (Eastex Freeway), and north of I-69 (Gulf Freeway).
The residential market in downtown Houston has grown in recent years as a result of:
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EXCELLENT COMMUTE: While the city employs over 200,000 people, there are roughly 6,000 residences available in the area. Many people who reside Downtown also work there.
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GREAT ACCESSIBILITY: Getting around Downtown is easy, thanks to a network of skywalks and tunnels. The Medical Center, EaDo, and Museum District are also highly accessible via METRORail, bus system, Houston B-Cycle, and Greenlink. In addition, most Downtown Condos are near the METRORail.
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DINING & CULTURAL OPTIONS: In addition to the 400+ Yelp-rated dining and retail establishments, Houston is home to the second-largest theatre community in the US.
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CONDO LIVING: The majority of Downtown’s residential options are Historic Houston Lofts and Downtown Houston Condos which offer great “lock and leave” benefits.
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LUXURY AMENITIES: Building amenities vary, though most Downtown Houston condos offer rooftop terraces, conference rooms, fitness centers, and pools. Some feature 24-hour concierge and valet services.
The Downtown Houston real estate market can be tricky to navigate due to some buildings having very poor resale rates (due to low-quality construction, HOA, parking, or general design problems). In addition, specific units within many buildings have resale issues due to views, noise, or individual parking spot problems.
East Downtown / EaDo
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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East End Revitalized | $355,000 | $212 | 21% |
East End Revitalized is one of Houston's most vibrant and rapidly growing neighborhoods. This inner-city community, once considered to be on the outskirts of town, has changed dramatically over the last five years.
Top reasons why East End Revitalized is an interesting neighborhood:
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NEW DEVELOPMENTS: The new infrastructures and redevelopment projects signal exciting growth in the area. In addition to its proximity to major thoroughfares, the METRORail expansion makes the district more accessible.
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HIGH ACCESSIBILITY: Located close to Medical Center and Downtown, EaDo is one of Houston's most accessible neighborhoods. Several top-notch attractions such as restaurants, bars, breweries, and gyms are nearby.
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STRONG REAL ESTATE MARKET: EaDo offers some of the most competitively priced properties in the Inner Loop. Property values have appreciated over the past decade as a result of the recent developments in the area.
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AFFORDABLE HOME OPTIONS: Over the past 10 years, the median sales prices of homes in the area range from $250,000 to $350,000.
If you're thinking of relocating to Houston, East End Revitalized is a great neighborhood to consider. It's centrally located, making it easy to get around, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars in the area.
Timbergrove / Lazybrook
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Timbergrove/Lazybrook | $625,000 | $300 | 53% |
Located 5 miles Northwest of Downtown Houston. Timbergrove is a deed-restricted residential neighborhood.
Timbergrove homes are popular for their:
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IMPRESSIVE REAL ESTATE APPRECIATION: Timbergrove is one of the best investments over the last decade in terms of land and real estate value appreciation.
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ACCESSIBILITY TO BUSINESS AND EMPLOYMENT DISTRICTS: Timbergrove is just minutes away from Houston's major job centers, Downtown Houston and Texas Medical Center.
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OPTIONS FOR RETAIL AND ENTERTAINMENT: Timbergrove homes are convenient to parks, golf, top-rated restaurants, and great shopping, including Memorial Park, Galleria, Heights, and Rice Military.
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LARGE LOTS: Timbergrove homes feature mid-to-large lots by Houston standards ranging from 7,000 to over 20,000 square feet, providing plenty of greenery.
Timbergrove homes are in high demand because it is one of the Inner Loop's fastest-growing real estate markets.
Medical Center
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Medical Center Area | $251,000 | $181 | 14% |
The Medical Center area is known for its world-class health facilities. Due to this, the demand for homes in the area is increasing over time.
The Texas Medical Center features:
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GREAT ACCESSIBILITY: The neighborhood is along the METRORail Red Line stations and freeways. Some of the best communities around Houston are also accessible including Downtown.
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TOP-RANKED SCHOOLS: Medical Center is zoned to Houston ISD, which is home to many of Houston's top-ranked schools. Roberts Elem, Pershing Middle, and Lamar High are some of the best schools that serve the area.
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WIDE VARIETY OF AMENITIES: Several local amenities are available due to the area's location within the Inner Loop. Museums, restaurants, and retail centers are located around the area. Residents also have easy access to the state's largest medical district.
The Texas Medical Center was founded in the mid-1940s. Over time, new construction townhomes emerged in the area to replace the old ones. Recent developments have also resulted in good appreciation rates over the last decade.
Memorial Park
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Memorial Park | $1,560,000 | $382 | 4% |
The area of Memorial Park is one of the most renowned neighborhoods within the Inner Loop. Located east of Loop 610 and south of I-10.
Its many features and amenities include:
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MEMORIAL PARK GOLF COURSE: The John Bredemus-designed course has a 73-course and 122-slope rating. It was opened in the 1920s. Residents can enjoy playing tennis, croquet, volleyball, flag football, and baseball.
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OUTDOOR RECREATION: Most areas can access many trails like Seymour Lieberman Exertrail and Picnic Loop. Also, other parks through The Buffalo Bayou and Beyond initiative.
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ACCESSIBILITY: The residents have access to main roads such as I-10, Memorial Drive, Loop 610, Washington Avenue, and Allen Parkway. Four miles away from Downtown Houston, while less than 5 miles away from the Galleria.
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EXCLUSIVITY: Some of Houston’s most expensive real estate are in the areas of Glen Cove and Crestwood. They have median sale prices of over $1,500,000. The upscale Houston gated community of Caceres is a few minutes from the area.
The area of Memorial Park features a wide range of home options, such as upscale townhomes, mansions, and patio and ranch-style homes. Memorial Park is also zoned to the Houston Independent School District (HISD).
Midtown
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Midtown Houston | $389,000 | $213 | 11% |
One of Houston’s Most Accessible Neighborhoods, Midtown claims to be “right in the middle of it all”. It sits along Houston’s major freeways (Southwest and Gulf) and major thoroughfares (Main Street, Fannin Street, and Alabama Street).
Midtown is in demand, thanks to its:
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ACCESSIBILITY: The METRORail Red Line cuts through the neighborhood, offering easy access to key neighborhoods. Residents are also in close proximity to Downtown Houston and Texas Medical Center, which are accessible via a 5-minute METRORail ride, bike, or Uber.
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VIBRANT LOCAL SCENE: Around 340 Yelp-rated establishments consider Midtown their home. Residents are minutes away from bars, coffee shops, retail stores, restaurants, lounges, and boutiques.
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AFFORDABILITY:The neighborhood features a variety of affordable residential options, including condos, townhomes, and single-family dwellings. Townhomes are the most common residential option in the neighborhood. They typically come with 2- to 4-story floor plans with options for 3 or 4 bedrooms.
Midtown homes are zoned to the Houston ISD. Students in the area are served by the Baylor College of Medicine Academy, a top-rated school in Houston.
Montrose
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Montrose | $775,000 | $303 | 19% |
Known as a vibrant neighborhood, Montrose features a mix of historic homes, custom-built contemporary homes, and recent construction townhomes. It is one of the most accessible neighborhoods in Houston.
Montrose homes are in high demand, thanks to their:
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UNIQUE ATMOSPHERE: Montrose is home to museums, parks, and historic neighborhoods. It is often considered one of Houston's cultural centers.
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VIBRANT STREET SCENE: Montrose's main thoroughfares (Shepherd Drive, Montrose Boulevard, and West Alabama Street) are lined with many retail, dining, and nightlife spots.
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STRONG APPRECIATION: The neighborhood has had one of Houston's best real estate appreciation rates over the past years.
Montrose is about 3 miles away from Downtown Houston. It is south of the Buffalo Bayou and north of Southwest Freeway. The area showcases several historic neighborhoods.
Oak Forest
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Oak Forest East | $490,000 | $271 | 42% |
Located about 10 miles from downtown Houston, Oak Forest East is one of Houston’s best neighborhoods in land value appreciation.
Oak Forest East is known for its:
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IDEAL LOCATION & ACCESSIBILITY: Oak Forest East is located just minutes from downtown Houston and the Galleria. Major roads and freeways are highly accessible from the neighborhood, including Loop 610, US 290, Ella Blvd, and TC Jester Blvd.
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NOTABLE SCHOOLS: Oak Forest Elementary is one of the best schools in the city and in the State of Texas.
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LARGE LOTS: Oak Forest East is known for its spacious lots ranging from 6,000 to over 17,000 sq. ft.
One of Houston’s older neighborhoods, Oak Forest features a mix of older ranch-style homes from the 1950s and 1960s and newer custom-built homes. The neighborhood also has an HOA that enforces deed restrictions.
Museum District
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Rice / Museum District | $1,025,000 | $386 | 36% |
Vibrant and highly accessible, the Museum District is one of Houston’s premier cultural and art centers. It is located just north of the Texas Medical Center.
The district’s appeal stems from several factors, including:
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CULTURE AND ARTS CENTERS: True to its name, the Museum District is home to 19 culture, arts, and scientific institutions. It has the second largest number of museums in a contiguous area in the US.
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ACCESSIBLE LOCATION AND EASY COMMUTE: The district is nestled between two major employment centers and allows easy access to I-45 and Highway 59. The METRORail Red Line has three stops within the Museum District.
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LUXURY CONDO LIVING: The Museum District has both established landmarks like the Warwick Towers and 1400 Hermann as well as newer condos like Oaks on Caroline and Museum Flats. Amenities may include private balconies, valet and concierge services, and reserved parking.
Aside from its lively arts and culture scene, the Museum District also offers a lot of outdoor entertainment and recreation options in Hermann Park. This includes the Houston Zoo, the Houston Garden Center, and a golf course.
River Oaks Shopping Area
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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River Oaks Shopping Area | $989,900 | $331 | 32% |
River Oaks Shopping Area is nestled between River Oaks and Montrose. Rice Military borders the north side, while Upper Kirby is on the southwest of the neighborhood.
The district is highly in demand thanks to its:
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EXCELLENT LOCATION: River Oaks Shopping Area boasts an excellent location within the Inner Loop and provides easy access to Downtown, Galleria, and the Medical Center. Along with the Highland Village, boutiques and restaurants in Westheimer and San Felipe are minutes away.
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SHOPPING, DINING, AND ENTERTAINMENT: The area is home to the River Oaks Shopping Center which has 100+ retail shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The River Oaks Theater, Houston's premier art house cinema, is within the shopping center.
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TOP-RANKED SCHOOLS: The neighborhood is zoned to top-ranked schools such as Lanier Middle and Lamar High School. Both are IB World Schools.
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PARKS & RECREATION: The neighborhood is a few minutes away from River Oaks Park. Memorial Park, one of Houston's largest urban parks, is just a short drive away. The park features a golf course, tennis courts, trails, and picnic areas.
River Oaks Shopping Area is near major thoroughfares, including Katy Freeway (I-10), Loop 610, and Southwest Freeway (US 59).
Upper Kirby
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Upper Kirby | $1,053,441 | $352 | 34% |
Upper Kirby is a vibrant mixed-use district located next to Greenway Plaza and Montrose. One of Houston’s most accessible neighborhoods, the area features plenty of bars, cafes, lounges, restaurants, and stores.
Upper Kirby neighborhood is highly sought after for its:
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PRIME LOCATION: The district is less than 15 minutes away from the key business and commercial centers of Houston, namely Downtown Houston, Texas Medical Center, and The Galleria.
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SHOPPING & DINING HUBS: Upper Kirby boasts more than 150 Yelp-rated retail, dining, and entertainment establishments. Most shops sit along Kirby Drive, Shepherd Drive, and Westheimer Road.
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ACCESS TO MAJOR THOROUGHFARES: The neighborhood is close to main streets and freeways. These include Kirby Drive, Westheimer Road, Buffalo Speedway, Richmond Avenue, and W Alabama Street.
While Upper Kirby homes are more affordable than residences in the neighboring River Oaks, the district's land and real estate value have continued to grow over the past ten years.
West University
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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West University/Southside Area | $1,875,500 | $509 | 49% |
West University Place is a city within a city, subdivided into 26 sections called blocks. It has Bellaire to the west, Southside Place to the south, and Houston to the east and north.
West University is known for its:
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REAL ESTATE APPRECIATION RATES: Home prices are well over $1M, with one of the highest 10-year land value appreciation rates in Houston.
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CENTRAL LOCATION: West University homes are minutes away from Rice University, Texas Medical Center, the Galleria, Downtown Houston, and the Museum District.
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EASY ACCESSIBILITY: Nestled just south of Southwest Freeway, West U offers easy access to main roads like the Buffalo Speedway, Loop 610, and US 59 (Eastex Freeway).
West University also goes by “The Neighborhood City” as it exudes a small-town look that makes West University homes for sale highly sought-after.
Willow Meadows Area
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Willow Meadows Area | $360,000 | $194 | 12% |
Willow Meadows is a small deed-restricted community conveniently located just off Loop 610. Residents enjoy easy access to the Texas Medical Center, the Galleria, the Museum district, and Downtown Houston.
Willow Meadows features:
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CONVENIENT LOCATION: Willow Meadows is a few minutes from Houston's best hotspots. Business, retail, and entertainment hubs nearby include the Inner Loop, Medical Center, Downtown, and Uptown Houston.
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ACTIVE CIVIC ASSOCIATION: The Willow Meadows Civic Club has been operating since 1953. The association looks over the community's maintenance, beautification, and security.
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GREAT ACCESSIBILITY: Willow Meadows is within the Beltway 8 area, just off the southwest portion of Loop 610. Major roads such as Main Street, Braeswood Boulevard, and Stella Link Road are less than 7 miles from the neighborhood.
Willow Meadows homes for sale can start at around $300,000 and up to $1.5 million. Lot sizes in the area range from 9,000 to more than 15,000 square feet.
Braeswood Place
Neighborhood | Median Home Price | Home Price / Sq Ft | 10-Yr Apprec. % |
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Braeswood Place | $1,356,375 | $337 | 77% |
Braeswood Place is located 6 miles from Downtown Houston. Homes in the neighborhood sit on large lots, ranging from 7,000 to more than 20,000 square feet.
Residents enjoy:
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PROXIMITY TO THE MED CENTER: Braeswood is minutes away from the Texas Medical Center, one of Houston's leading employment centers. It is home to several medical-related institutions, organizations, schools, and hospitals.
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EXCELLENT ACCESSIBILITY: The neighborhood has immediate access to and from multiple Houston hubs like the Galleria and Downtown. Loop 610, Buffalo Speedway, Braeswood Boulevard, and Main Street are only minutes away.
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TOP-RATED SCHOOLS: Braeswood is zoned to some of Houston ISD's best schools, including Twain Elementary, Pershing Middle School, Bellaire High School, and Lamar High School.
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MULTIPLE PARKS: The area is home to several parks and outdoor entertainment areas. Hermann Park, located just a short drive away, offers more options.
Due to the neighborhood's deed restrictions, Braeswood Place is mainly made up of detached single-family homes. Some townhomes in the area feature smaller floor areas, around 1,500 to 2,000 square feet.
Sources, Methodology & Disclosures
With all the available information out there about Houston's top areas, it can be confusing when finally making a decision on which neighborhood to choose. Get the advice of the best Houston Realtors and remove the guesswork when looking for one of the best homes in Houston to live in.
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*Default median sales values are from single-family homes except for these neighborhoods, which have an above-average # of condos and townhomes.
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Oak Forest data consists of the combined sales of the Oak Forest East and Oak Forest West areas.
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2021 data are based on year-to-date sales numbers.
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All Houston property sale information was sourced from the HAR MLS database.
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Data is deemed accurate but is not guaranteed. Information is provided for informational purposes only.
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If you’d like to see any neighborhoods, master-planned communities or subdivisions added to this bi-annually updated watch list, please let me know.
Top Ranked Realtors: Paige Martin & The Houston Properties Team
The Houston Properties Team has a well-defined structure based on the individual strengths of each member. Each member is a specialist in their role – which is why our homes sell faster and for more money than average.
Paige Martin, Broker Associate with Keller Williams Realty, and the Houston Properties Team are ranked among the top residential Realtors in the world.
They have been featured on TV and in dozens of publications including The Wall Street Journal, Fortune Magazine, Reuters, Fox News in the Morning, Money Magazine, Houston Business Journal, Houstonia, and Houston Chronicle.
Paige Martin was just ranked as the #5 agent in the world with Keller Williams, completing over $1 Billion in Houston residential real estate sales.
Recent awards include:
– 2022: #1 Residential Real Estate Team by Sales Volume, Houston Business Journal
– 2021: Best Real Estate Teams in America, RealTrends.com
– 2021: Top 100 Women Leaders in Real Estate of 2021
– 2021: America’s Top 100 Real Estate Agents
– 2021: Top Real Estate Team (Houston Properties Team), Houston Business Journal
– 2021: Best Houston Real Estate Team, Best of Reader’s Choice
– 2021: Top Real Estate Team (Houston Properties Team), Houston Business Journal
– 2021: #1 Real Estate Team, Keller Williams Memorial
– 2020: America’s Best Real Estate Teams, Best of America Trends
– 2020: Best Houston Real Estate Team, Best of Reader’s Choice
– 2020: Top Real Estate Team (Houston Properties Team), Houston Business Journal
– 2020: #6 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Worldwide
– 2020: #1 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Texas (Top Keller Williams Realtor)
– 2020: #1 Real Estate Team, Keller Williams Memorial
- 2019: Top Residential Realtors in Houston, Houston Business Journal
- 2019: America’s Best Real Estate Agents, RealTrends.com
- 2019: #5 Individual Agent, KW Worldwide
- 2019: #1 Individual Agent, KW Texas
- 2018: #5 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Worldwide
- 2018: #1 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Texas
- 2018: #1 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Houston
- 2018: America’s Best Real Estate Agents, RealTrends.com
- 2018: Top 25 Residential Realtors in Houston, Houston Business Journal
- 2018: Texas’ Most Influential Realtors
- 2017: #1 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Texas
- 2017: #1 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Houston
- 2017: #10 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Worldwide
- 2017: America’s Best Real Estate Agents, RealTrends.com
- 2017: Top 25 Residential Realtors in Houston, Houston Business Journal
- 2017: Texas’ Most Influential Realtors
- 2016: #1 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Texas
- 2016: #1 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Houston
- 2016: #20 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Worldwide
- 2016: Texas’ Most Influential Realtors
- 2016: Top 25 Residential Realtors in Houston, HBJ
- 2016: Five Star Realtor, Featured in Texas Monthly
- 2016: America’s Best Real Estate Agents, RealTrends.com
- 2015: #9 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, United States
- 2015: #1 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Texas
- 2015: #1 Individual Agent, Keller Williams, Houston
- 2015: America’s Best Real Estate Agents, RealTrends.com
- 2015: Top 25 Residential Realtors in Houston, HBJ
- 2015: Five Star Realtor, Texas Monthly Magazine
- 2014: America’s Best Real Estate Agents, RealTrends.com
- 2014: #1 Individual Agent, Keller Williams Memorial
...in addition to over 318 additional awards.
Paige also serves a variety of non-profits, and civic and community boards. She was appointed by the mayor of Houston to be on the downtown TIRZ board.
Benefits Of Working With The Houston Properties Team
Our team, composed of distinguished and competent Houston luxury realtors, has a well-defined structure based on the individual strengths of each member.
We find the team approach as the most effective way to sell homes. We have dedicated people doing staging, marketing, social media, open houses, and showings. Each Houston Properties Team member is a specialist in their role—which is why our homes sell faster and for more money than average.
The benefits of working with a team include:
- the ability to be in two or three places at one time; a member can handle showings, while another answer calls
- collective time and experience of members
- targeted advice and marketing of agent expert in your area
- competitive advantage by simply having more resources, more ideas, and more perspectives
- a “checks and balances” system; selling and buying a home in Houston is an intensely complex process
- more people addressing field calls and questions from buyers and agents to facilitate a faster, successful sale
- efficient multi-tasking; one agent takes care of inspections and repair work, while another agent focuses on administrative details
- multiple marketing channels using members’ networks
- constant attention: guaranteed focus on your home and your transaction
- lower risk for mistakes. Multiple moving parts increase oversights. A team approach handles these “parts” separately
- flexibility in negotiation and marketing
- better management of document flow
- increased foot traffic through more timely and effective showing schedule coordination; and
- increased sphere of influence and exposure to more potential buyers.
To meet all the award-winning members of the Houston Properties Team, please go here.
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- Houston Texas Zip Code Map | HoustonProperties
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- Copperfield (Master Planned) Homes For Sale & Real Estate Trends