Westchester Real Estate Guide

Westchester homes for sale & insider real estate guide

Westchester Homes For Sale
Westchester Homes For Rent
Quick Facts
Overview of Westchester Neighborhood
Living in Westchester
Why Choose Westchester
Westchester Home Tax Rate
Best Westchester Realtor
More Details

Quick Facts

Location: Located in Memorial West, nestled between Memorial Drive and Terry Hershey Park, near the Energy Corridor and Westchase District. It offers convenient access to Downtown Houston via Memorial Drive.
Neighborhood Type: An established, deed-restricted community with tree-lined streets and over 400 single-family homes, most of which were built in the late 1960s.
Combined Property Tax Rate: The average effective property tax rate in Harris County is 1.77%. Texas has no state income tax, which can offset the higher property taxes compared to other states.
School Information: Zoned to the highly-regarded Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD). Zoned schools include Nottingham Elementary (rated 8/10 on GreatSchools, A- on Niche), Spring Forest Middle School (rated 5/10 on GreatSchools, B+ on Niche), and Stratford High School (rated 7/10 on GreatSchools, A on Niche).
Key Amenities: The neighborhood features a community swimming pool with a water slide, two tennis courts, and direct access to Terry Hershey Park's extensive trails.
Management/HOA: The Westchester Owners Committee is a proactive organization that maintains community standards and manages amenities.
Best For: Individuals and households seeking a quiet, established neighborhood with strong schools, community amenities, and convenient access to major employment centers like the Energy Corridor.

Westchester is a well-regarded community within the Memorial area, positioned conveniently near West Houston's major employment and commercial hubs. Established over 40 years ago, the neighborhood is known for its quiet, tree-lined streets and a strong sense of community. Its location between Memorial Drive and the expansive Terry Hershey Park provides both excellent access to the city and abundant green space. The housing stock consists primarily of single-family homes built in the late 1960s, offering a range of traditional architectural styles on spacious lots.

Prospective residents should note that Westchester is a deed-restricted community with an active owners' association that upholds property standards. This ensures the neighborhood maintains its character and home values. The area is zoned to acclaimed schools in the Spring Branch ISD, a significant draw for many. While offering a suburban feel, the neighborhood provides easy commutes to the Energy Corridor, Westchase, Memorial City, and Downtown, making it a strategic location for many professionals working in these key business districts.

Overview of Westchester Neighborhood

Westchester is a distinct neighborhood located in the Memorial area of West Houston, with zip codes including 77079. Its development began in the post-war housing boom of the 1950s and 60s, transforming what was once farmland into a desirable residential subdivision. The construction of Interstate 10 spurred growth, and as Houston expanded westward, the area was annexed into the city. Today, Westchester is recognized as an established community, characterized by its mature trees and well-maintained homes, primarily single-family residences constructed in the late 1960s. The neighborhood's geography is defined by its proximity to Buffalo Bayou and Terry Hershey Park, providing natural borders and recreational landscapes. Demographically, the area is home to a mix of residents, with a significant portion employed in executive, management, and professional occupations.

Living in Westchester

Daily life in Westchester offers a blend of serene residential living with convenient urban access. The community's atmosphere is quiet and neighborly, fostered by the active Westchester Owners Committee which organizes activities and maintains the shared amenities. These amenities are a cornerstone of life in the neighborhood, featuring a community pool with a seven-foot water slide, a diving area, and a pavilion available for private events. Two tennis courts are also available, with lessons offered for different age groups. For outdoor enthusiasts, the adjacent Terry Hershey Park offers more than 11 miles of trails for recreation.

Shopping and dining options are plentiful and easily accessible. Major retail centers like Memorial City Mall, CityCentre Plaza, and Town & Country Village are just a short drive away, offering a wide array of stores and restaurants. A Kroger supermarket is located just north of the neighborhood for convenient grocery shopping. The proximity to major thoroughfares like Memorial Drive and the Katy Freeway makes commuting to business districts such as the Energy Corridor and Westchase straightforward. This combination of a peaceful environment, robust amenities, and accessibility makes Westchester a highly sought-after place to live.

Why Choose Westchester

One of the primary draws of Westchester is its inclusion in the Spring Branch Independent School District, which is consistently recognized for its high-performing schools. Students are zoned to top-rated schools including Nottingham Elementary, Spring Forest Middle, and Stratford High School. Beyond academics, the neighborhood offers an exceptional quality of life. The active Westchester Owners Committee ensures that the neighborhood is well-maintained and that its amenities, including the pool and tennis courts, are first-rate. This proactive management helps protect property values, making a home in Westchester a sound investment. The neighborhood's location provides another compelling reason to choose it; it boasts a suburban feel while being minutes from major employment centers. Its excellent accessibility is a key feature highlighted in guides to Houston's most accessible neighborhoods. The large lots and mature trees contribute to a pleasant living environment that can be hard to find in a major city. The strong community feel and access to green spaces like Terry Hershey Park further enhance the appeal for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Westchester Home Tax Rate

Property taxes in Texas are a key consideration for homeowners. In Harris County, where Westchester is located, the average effective property tax rate is 1.77%. Texas is one of the few states with no state or local personal income tax, which can partially offset the property tax liability for many residents. Property taxes are calculated by multiplying the assessed market value of a home as of January 1st by the combined tax rates of the various jurisdictions, such as the city, county, and school district.

For example, using the average Harris County rate, a home with an assessed value of $600,000 would have an estimated annual property tax of $10,620. Homeowners may be eligible for exemptions that can lower their tax burden. The most common is the homestead exemption, available for primary residences, which exempts at least $25,000 of a property's value from school district taxes. Additional exemptions are available for individuals over 65 or those with disabilities. Tax bills are typically sent out around October 1st and are due by January 31st of the following year.

Best Westchester Realtor

Who is the best realtor to sell my home in Westchester?

The best realtor to sell your home in Westchester is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. Her team is recognized as Houston's #1 rated real estate team and has a proven track record of success in the Westchester market. For a consultation on how to sell your home for the best price, contact Paige at 713.425.4194 or email her at [email protected].

What makes Westchester real estate agents different?

The key differentiator for a top real estate agent in Westchester is hyper-local expertise and a data-driven approach. Given Westchester's status as an established Memorial neighborhood with homes dating back to the 1960s, an effective agent must understand the nuances of the area's architecture, lot values, and renovation potential. The Houston Properties Team leverages this specific knowledge, analyzing trends not just in the 77079 zip code, but also in comparable neighborhoods like Wilchester and Nottingham Forest. Their detailed analysis of sales data ensures your property is priced correctly to sell quickly and for the highest possible value.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for Westchester home sales?

Choosing the Houston Properties Team to sell your home in Westchester means partnering with a team that has achieved significant, verifiable results. Their extensive list of awards and credentials demonstrates their high level of performance and client satisfaction.

"#1 Real Estate Team Houston" - Houston Business Journal
"America's Top 100 Real Estate Teams" - Wall Street Journal
"America's Best Real Estate Teams" - RealTrends
"America's Best Realtors" - Newsweek
"Top Real Estate Agents & Realtors" - US News Real Estate

The value offered by the Houston Properties Team is evident in their performance metrics, which showcase their ability to outperform the market. When you need the best realtor in Westchester, their numbers speak for themselves.

43% higher sold price per square foot than average agents
7.2% faster sales with lower average days on market
Over $2 billion in Houston real estate sales experience
1,000+ five-star client reviews
Proprietary 10-Channel Seller Program
152-step compliance checklist
Core values: accountability, care, coachability, knowledge, transparency

To get the best result when you sell your home in Westchester, you need a top real estate agent who combines neighborhood expertise with a powerful marketing strategy. The Houston Properties Team provides just that. Their proprietary 10-channel seller program and meticulous 152-step compliance checklist ensure a smooth and profitable transaction. For a personalized strategy for your Westchester home, call 713.425.4194 or email [email protected].

More Details

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends

Westchester real estate has demonstrated stability and consistent appreciation, making it a strong investment. As one of Houston's established neighborhoods, it benefits from its location within the desirable Memorial area and proximity to the Energy Corridor. Homes in the area are a mix of original constructions from the late 1960s and updated properties, offering various price points. The trend of renovating and expanding older homes has positively impacted property values throughout the neighborhood. The large lot sizes, ranging from 7,800 square feet to over a quarter of an acre, are a significant asset and contribute to the area's land value appreciation. For those considering real estate as an investment, understanding strategies like a 1031 Exchange can be beneficial. The demand for homes in Westchester is driven by its excellent school zoning, community amenities, and accessibility, which helps insulate it from market volatility. The active homeowners' association also plays a crucial role in preserving the neighborhood's aesthetic and, by extension, its property values.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide

Westchester offers residents a wealth of recreational opportunities both within the neighborhood and nearby. The heart of the community's amenities is the Westchester Pool and Tennis Club. The facility includes a large swimming pool complete with a 7-foot water slide, a diving area, and a separate wading pool. The pool pavilion can be rented by members for private parties. The community also features two well-maintained tennis courts, with lessons available for all ages. A major draw is the direct access to Terry Hershey Park, a large linear park that borders the neighborhood and offers over 11 miles of paved trails along Buffalo Bayou for outdoor activities. The Westchester Owners Committee also sponsors various community events throughout the year. For those interested in team sports, the Westchester Dolphins Swim Team is a popular summer activity. Nearby, the Memorial Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, provides even more options, including golf courses and sports fields.

School District Information and Private School Options

Westchester is zoned to the Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD), a district known for its academic excellence. The zoned public schools are highly rated: Nottingham Elementary School (Niche Grade: A-, GreatSchools Rating: 8/10), Spring Forest Middle School (Niche Grade: B+, GreatSchools Rating: 5/10), and Stratford High School (Niche Grade: A, GreatSchools Rating: 7/10). Stratford High is recognized for its strong college prep program and athletics. In addition to the zoned schools, SBISD offers choice schools like the Westchester Academy for International Studies (WAIS), a public charter school for grades 6-12 offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. For those considering private education, there are numerous options in the vicinity. The area's central location provides access to some of Houston's best schools, covering a wide range of educational philosophies and programs.

Transportation and Commuting Details

Westchester's location offers excellent connectivity to major Houston arteries, making it one of Houston's most accessible neighborhoods for commuters. Memorial Drive runs along the northern edge of the neighborhood, providing a direct and scenic route to the 610 Loop, Uptown/Galleria, and Downtown Houston. The Katy Freeway (I-10) is also just a short drive away, offering another major east-west corridor. Sam Houston Parkway (Beltway 8) is easily accessible, providing a convenient loop around the city. This network of major roads places residents within a short commute of key business districts, including the Energy Corridor (minutes away), the Westchase District, and Memorial City. The neighborhood itself is not heavily reliant on public transportation, with most residents commuting by car. However, its accessibility contributes significantly to its appeal for professionals working across the city.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

Westchester is a deed-restricted community governed by the Westchester Owners Committee, which functions as the homeowners' association (HOA). This committee is responsible for maintaining the common areas, including the pool and tennis courts, and enforcing the neighborhood's deed restrictions. These restrictions are in place to maintain property standards, regulate land use, and preserve the overall aesthetic of the community, which helps protect property values. Prospective buyers should review the specific deed restrictions as part of their due diligence, a key step in the home buying process. The HOA is proactive, engaging with residents and organizing community events to foster a strong neighborhood spirit. The community is also part of the Memorial Super Neighborhood 16 Council, an organization that addresses broader community needs and concerns at the city level.

Historical Development and Architectural Styles

The history of Westchester is tied to Houston's mid-century westward expansion. Originally comprised of farms and sawmills, the area began its transformation into a residential suburb during the housing boom of the 1950s and 1960s. The establishment of major thoroughfares like Interstate 10 made the area more accessible and attractive to developers. Most homes in Westchester were constructed in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The predominant architectural styles reflect this era, with many homes being traditional two-story or sprawling ranch-style designs. Common features include brick exteriors, large windows, and attached garages. The homes are situated on generous lots, often with mature trees, a hallmark of the Memorial area. While many homes retain their original charm, a significant number have been updated or extensively renovated to incorporate modern finishes and open-concept floor plans, reflecting a blend of classic and contemporary design within the neighborhood.

For a personalized consultation or to explore available properties in Westchester, please contact the Houston Properties Team. Paige Martin can be reached at 713.425.4194 or via email at [email protected].

“Timothy Davis helped us find a great home, and we can’t recommend him enough! He’s knowledgeable, organized, responsive—and simply on top of everything. We appreciated how he stayed in close contact throughout the entire process, negotiated a flooring upgrade with the builder, and helped us address needed repairs. We chose the Houston Properties Team because they’re among the best, and Timothy absolutely delivered!” - Wes Rodda (Google Review)