My family and I are wanting to move to the Houston area, I need a job?

My family and I are wanting to move to the Houston area, I need a job?

AJ seems old and bitter---not young at all.

Jobs are easy to come by in Houston!

Here's a summary of the different sections of our wonderful city: After you have selected the areas that interest you check out the Houston Association of Relators at: http://www.har.com/ Houston neighborhoods ------------------------------...

At first glance, the variety of choices available in Houston neighborhoods and communities may seem overwhelming. You may choose to live "close in" amidst the charm and character of older homes as well as newly built mansions. High-rises may appeal to those seeking a hassle-free urban lifestyle. If waterfront property is your dream, Houston has communities with boat docks and even swimming beaches. If you yearn for a small town feel, Houston's many suburbs offer an unmatched quality of life. At the city's outskirts, there is still a country atmosphere where ranches and horseboarding farms thrive. Houston is home to residents of many cultures and races, adding charm and diversity to many local neighborhoods.

With all these choices, it's worth the time to explore Houston's neighborhoods. To help in your search for the location that is right for you, Here is Houston offers a brief, informative overview of area neighborhoods and communities. This summary offers a starting point for you in your journey to discover the house that you will make your home. Additional information can be obtained from your Realtor, local school districts and by talking with fellow employees who have lived in the area for an extended time.

Determining the right area for you will require a visit to get acquainted and feel the atmosphere of the neighborhood first-hand. A word to the wise on Houston house-hunting: take the time to drive the distance between your work location and prospective neighborhood during rush hour. Also, check the availability of commuter alternatives such as city buses or van pools.

Inner Loop ------------------------------...

Extreme variety in housing costs and style is available in the area within Loop 610. The area contains some of the city's most desired and high-end neighborhoods because of their proximity to downtown, the Texas Medical Center, Hermann Park and the Museum District. Tree-lined streets are a mainstay and many of the city's finer restaurants are within the inner loop. Homes located in the inner loop range from wood-frame bungalows to stately mansions to a variety of apartments, townhomes and condominiums.

The Heights Just north of Buffalo Bayou and east of Shepherd is an area known as the Heights, a Houstonannexed town recognized for its turn-of-the-century Victorian mansions. Founded more than a century ago, the community has experienced a renovation effort to recapture the Victorian charm that once characterized the neighborhood.

Wood-frame homes with gingerbread trim complement the community's revitalized Main Street District that is home to quaint antique shops and other small stores. Because of its proximity to downtown, the Heights has become an attractive neighborhood to young professionals who want a short commute and are interested in renovating an old home. Homes are being updated to accommodate modern lifestyles -- without destroying the original charm of the home.

Because of its rise in popularity, Heights-area homes are commanding top dollar -- especially those that have been restored. Still, there are many homes to choose from that haven't been restored or fully restored. Hispanic influences add charm and diversity to neighborhoods in the Heights area.

Montrose Buffalo Bayou forms the northern boundary of the Montrose area which enjoys a rich cultural and ethnic diversity.

The Montrose district, bordered also by Highway 59 (south) and Shepherd (west), brushes against a modern downtown (east) and yet many homes retain a flavor of days gone-by.

Homes built here during the early 20th century still stand, so the area is characterized by twobedroom, brick bungalows as well as two-story brick homes. So historic is this area, in one small pocket of homes, Courtlandt Place, all houses are listed in the national historic registry.

Other surrounding neighborhoods are Westmoreland, Avondale and Cherryhurst, all generating a southern, small-town atmosphere.

Generally, single-family home costs range from $125,000 to $350,000. Most townhouses were developed in the early 1970s, and their general price range is $75,000 to $250,000 for two- to threebedrooms. Townhomes are often two stories and square footages measure approximately 1,500 to 1,850. New construction (some, a result of "tear-downs") is limited although vacant land is available for building. One also can find low- and high-rise condominiums and high-rise apartments in the area. A two bedroom apartment may rent for as much as $1,000 a month. Condo purchase prices start near the $50,000 figure.

Residents of Montrose appreciate living "close-in" to downtown. They enjoy easy freeway access to other parts of Houston. For those who aim for this lifestyle, the Montrose area offers the best of both worlds.

River Oaks Exclusive neighborhoods are common to every city, whether it's Highland Park in Dallas, Pacific Heights in San Francisco or Lake Forest in Chicago. Houston's most exclusive neighborhood is River Oaks, replete with white-columned mansions, maids' quarters and manicured gardens. Nestled around the southern edge of Memorial Park, River Oaks was established by Will and Mike Hogg, the sons of former Texas Governor James Hogg.

In 1928, the Hogg brothers promoted lots in the subdivision for $2,200. Deed restrictions required architectural control and prohibited homes priced below $7,500. Restrictions for Kirby Drive allowed homes only of American Colonial or English Tudor style.

Today, this exclusive neighborhood of about 1,600 residents offers properties starting near $400,000. Deed restrictions prohibit "For Sale" signs on the properties. Many of the district's streets are named after famous golf and country clubs in cities such as Chevy Chase, Md., Inverness, Ohio, and Inwood, New York. The River Oaks area is known for its quaint, upscale restaurants as well as its exclusive boutiques and shops.

Characterized by smaller lots, Royden Oaks, Oak Estates and Afton Oaks are located south of River Oaks. Living there are many long-term residents, accompanied by young couples who have purchased homes with renovation plans in mind.

River Oaks residents enjoy easy access to the Southwest Freeway, a main artery southwest from downtown, and Loop 610 around the inner city area. Added attractions for residents are the nearby Galleria, the Museum District, and Lakewood Church.

South Main Houston's Texas Medical Center is the city's largest employer with 51,000 local citizens working within its 41 institutions. It's no wonder that housing in this area is in high demand.

Lying in the southwest corner of the 610 Loop, the South Main corridor is attractive to active residents because of its convenience to the Texas Medical Center, downtown, the Galleria area, museums and Rice University, Houston's oldest institution of higher learning.

Surrounding the city's medical community, as well as being close to these other hubs of activity, has rendered valuable the land in South Main neighborhoods, Boulevard Oaks, Braeswood and Devonshire; and its townships, Bellaire and West University and Southside Place.

The Boulevard Oaks section of the South Main corridor was formed by a group of small neighborhoods: Southampton, Vassar Place, and North and South Blvd. The area is known for its abundant oak trees that, on many streets, form attractive, geometric patterns. The New York Times once called one street in Boulevard Oaks one of the most magnificent residential streets in America.

Another neighborhood is Braeswood, bounded by Holcombe, South Main and Kirby streets, and Brays Bayou. It was developed in the late 1920s by George F. Howard, a lawyer, banker and real estate entrepreneur, with the backing of financier John A. Kirby and former Gov. William Hobby.

Kansas City landscape architects, Hare & Hare, planned Braeswood that was known as Houston's ultimate garden suburb. They designed what was considered during that era "modern" homes, two of which in 1950 attracted national attention for exceptional design. Architecturally well-known homes include two, for instance, on Bluebonnet Street: 2329 (Carl Mulvey, architect, 1929); and 2307 (Bolton & Barnstone, architects, 1954).

Today in Braeswood, one finds many large homes remodeled. Very few are tear-downs. In parts of Braeswood some deed restrictions have expired, creating occasional disputes over property use.

Even so, one can count on this fashionable residential development to please anyone living here.

Devonshire describes a small pocket of homes lying within walking distance of South Main's medical complex.

Close by the South Main area are other points of interest: Hermann Park, the Summit, many fine restaurants, and the Astrodome.

Several multi-family developments are located within the South Main area, many of which are home to an ethnically and internationally diverse population of medical students and health care professionals.

West University Place The city of West University Place was developed by former Tennessee Gov. Ben Hooper in 1917.

Proximity to Rice Institute inspired the name West University. It incorporated in 1925, ironically, because of a reluctance on Houston's part to extend power lines out "that far."

Now, about 13,000 residents live in this city that spans 1,248 residential acres and nearly 20 acres of commercial property. West University maintains strong inspection and permit policies as well as strict zoning regulations.

Because of the high demand for homes in the area, few vacant home lots remain. About five years ago, a trend began in the area. Older homes were razed and replaced with new, multi-story Georgian style homes. In fact, more of this kind of renovating has taken place in the West U. area than elsewhere in Houston. Per square foot home-building costs run $130 to $150, having risen from $104 in April 1989.

Bellaire The West Loop of 610 cuts mid-way through another city, Bellaire. The occupational make-up of Bellaire's 15,000 residents is predominantly professional, as is true of most of the South Main area.

The town experienced a housing boom during 1991-93, with more than 100 homes built per year. Lot prices start at well over $100,000. A large variety of lot sizes is available, many from one-half to one acre.

Housing variety in Bellaire range from 1950s style two- and three-bedroom ranch styles, to the new Georgian mansions built during the past few years. Those with the renovation bug will have much to choose from in this community.

Bellaire's shopping district enjoys a "neighborly" atmosphere.

North ------------------------------...

North Houston intrigues many newcomers because of the value and the variety available in this area that contains a mixture of cultural influences, new and older housing. With the completion of the Hardy Toll Road, North Houston residents can enjoy a hassle-free commute. The area offers restful suburban/rural living as well as immense shopping and recreational opportunities.

Along 1-45 North from Loop 610, newcomers will find old, smaller neighborhoods built in the late 1930s and 1940s. Many of these older neighborhoods, including Garden Oaks, Oak Forest and Inwood Forest, are attracting professional couples who are intrigued by the tree-lined streets and easy commute to downtown. These homes are popular with residents who have caught the renovation bug and are interested in restoring the simple charm these neighborhoods offer.

Shopping centers and malls abound, with the Greenspoint Mall anchoring a large area of shopping centers and restaurants. Northline and Northwest malls also are convenient to residents in North Houston.

Spring In the 1800s, Spring was a bustling railroad town. Today, the community offers a suburban quality of life for those who want to live near the city but yearn for a hometown feel. The community is home to one of the region's most popular attractions, Old Town Spring, a quaint shopping area of restored buildings that sell fine art, handmade gifts and crafts, woodworks, antiques, clothing and the like.

Old Town Spring is the site of many annual festivals, including the Heritage Festival in October and the Crawfish Festival in April.

Spring offers a variety of housing, from the 1950s and 1960s one-story ranch style homes to the large, two-story colonials. The area has several townhome and apartment communities. Spring residents draw from several employment centers, including Houston Intercontinental Airport, The Woodlands and even downtown.

The Woodlands Making up the area north of Spring along 1-45 is The Woodlands, which enjoys the serenity offered by the greenery of forest pines and silver lakes. Fifty miles of hike and bike trails are an amenity that close to 30,000 residents appreciate about the Woodlands.

Residents refer to The Woodlands as the "new home town." The community sits off 1-45 North, 27 miles north of Houston's downtown and 16 miles north of Houston Intercontinental Airport. The four villages of The Woodlands are 20 years old, although new houses are still available.

Nestled in a forest habitat are The Woodlands' commercial enterprises. George P. Mitchell, Woodlands founder and chairman of Mitchell Energy and Development Corp., headquarters his company here. Also here is The Woodlands Business Complex, composed of three development zones: the Metro Center (The Woodlands downtown); the Trade Center for light manufacturing; and the 1,000-acre Research Forest for academic and nonprofit research institutes and industry. Located in the Research Forest, for example, are product development laboratories and centers for medical and biotechnology research.

Reflecting the flora and fauna of The Woodlands environment are its street names: Moon Vine, Wally Bucket, Muskmellow and Doe Run. The man-made Lake Woodlands is graced with a gazebo at the water's edge. Guarding the lake is a sculpted dragon, donated by the Mitchell family.

The Woodlands' villages present a mixture of home styles. Most houses are brick and are priced from the upper $90,000s to $1 million and more. Some estate homes sit on one to two acres.

Available are golf course and lake front properties as well as townhomes and patio homes.

Apartments are enjoying a high occupancy rate and rent from $400 to $1,000.

The Hardy Toll Road, stretching from The Woodlands to the North Loop, provides commuters with comfortable access to the metropolis.

Most alluring to residents of both The Woodlands and Conroe is the quiet, forested atmosphere that makes living in the north a pleasure.

Conroe Conroe lies on the east side of 1-45 North some 35 miles from Houston. The town has a population of 22,000. Simply put, Conroe residents appreciate quiet, country-like living.

In the late 1800s, Isaac Conroe built a sawmill in this locale and in 1903, Conroe became a county seat. The railroad followed as did the discovery in the early '30s of "black gold" by oilman George Strake.

What distinguishes Conroe real estate from that of other areas is its availability of country properties. Many homes sit on multi-acre plots, allowing residents to keep horses or other livestock on the premises. One also can enjoy ranch-style living on ranch properties of 60 to 100 acres or more. Homes are wood frame and brick, a mixture of one and two stories. Cost of homes runs from $40,000 to a million dollars plus. Multi-family units rent for $300 to $600 a month, and condominiums are available for rent or purchase.

Many Conroe residents commute to Houston jobs. During leisure time they may boat on the 21,000 acre Lake Conroe, near which is the Del Lago Conference Center. Servicing air travelers is Montgomery County Airport where the FAA bases a regional flight service. Also located in Conroe is the U.S. Army Reserve Medi-Vac and the Helicopter Attack Group which trains helicopter pilots.

Northeast ------------------------------...

Houston's northeast is made up of a triangle of communities: Kingwood, Humble and Atascocita.

They share an area abundant with natural beauty and friendly folks. These three communities lie within about a 10-mile radius from where Highway 59 and FM 1960 intersect. Recreation buffs will enjoy this area because of its proximity to several golf courses and to Lake Houston.

Humble Humble was first known New Condos Chevy Chase MD as Hunter's Paradise to early settlers.

Pronounced "Umble," the city was named after P.S. Humble, a settler who operated the ferry across the San Jacinto River in the mid 1800s. The city's "humble" beginnings as oil field country trace back to Charles F. Barret who started oil operations there in 1903 that ultimately led to Harris County's first oil field.

Humble residents enjoy life in a small town -- downright rural living -- that is just minutes away from a major metropolitan center. Intercontinental Airport provides Humble residents with jobs as does other commercial areas along Highway 59 and in nearby Kingwood. Humble is another area that offers "more for your money" in terms of housing. Many Humble homes are built on large, wooded lots.

Kingwood Four miles north of Humble lies Kingwood, developed by King Ranch Inc. and Friendswood Development Co. in the late 1960s. Kingwood is a planned community with 40,000 residents who make up a self-contained community.

Kingwood covers 13,000 acres divided into 14 villages, each with its own neighborhood association

and each with a varying home price scale. One can find homes from $60,000 to more than $1 million.

Humble ISD serves more than 18,000 students in its 18 schools that cover a 90 square mile area.

Residents of all three areas can take advantage of the fishing and boating opportunities that Lake Houston and the San Jacinto River create. These amenities attract many home buyers as increased home sales point out.

Proximity to Houston's downtown (22 miles) and Houston Intercontinental Airport (five miles) contributes to the northeast district's drawing power. Residents appreciate these advantages and the peaceful woods-and-water atmosphere in which they live.

Atascocita Six miles east of Humble is Atascocita, (Spanish for "obstruction") sitting on heavily wooded territory that was once a Spanish government possession and served as a stronghold against the French. Atascocita and its neighboring community of Walden fringe Lake Houston, a man-made lake.

Concentrated home-building began in 1975. Prices range from the $50,000s to the low $100,000s.

The suburban community offers large, country-club style homes as well as smaller homes in wellplanned subdivisions.

East ------------------------------...

Near the Port of Houston, the east area of Houston has always been important as a trade and industrial region. This was especially true after World War II when the area took a growth spurt. The industry-based communities of Galena Park, Channelview and Jacinto City lie outside 610 Loop East.

East Houston residents appreciate proximity to the University of Houston downtown and San Jacinto College in Pasadena. An added attraction to newcomers is the wide variety of cultural and ethnic influences that shape many of east Houston's communities.

Galena Park/Jacinto City/Channelview Low taxes and moderately prices homes characterize these three communities, many of whose residents work at the nearby Port of Houston and petrochemical plants. Older, wood frame houses and 1960s-built brick tract homes are available for reasonable prices. The areas offer moderately priced apartments.

Southeast ------------------------------...

The center of the local petrochemical, manufacturing and shipping industries, the area of southeast Houston encompasses the Houston Ship Channel that is lined with oil and chemical plants. The region provides a quality lifestyle for the thousands of skilled laborers and managers.

Farther south, below the Ship Channel is Pasadena, about 18 miles from downtown Houston. This city offers homes from 40 years old to new. Prices range from the $40,000s to more than $1 million.

South of Pasadena lies the Sagemont district, characterized mostly by single-family residences.

Homes can be found from the $50,000s to the $150,000s. Green Tee Terrace, an adjoining country club addition, offers custom homes from the $150,000s to $350,000s. Pasadena has a population near 150,000.

Deer Park Deer Park, with a population of approximately 30,000, offers very affordably priced, single-family homes. Taxes are lower than in other areas due to local industry support of the school systems.

Multi-family units are not as plentiful here as they are in other communities. Deer Park offers average to expensive homes -- many within planned subdivisions. Good schools, small town atmosphere and families characterize the atmosphere.

La Porte Farther east is La Porte, considered for years as a vacation-home community. Morgan's Point is nearby. As might be expected, weekend beach homes contribute to the interesting variety of residences here. One can find homes priced from the $30,000s to multi-million dollar estates. To LaPorte's south is Bayport where more than 60 companies, including chemical and petrochemical manufacturers, are located.

South ------------------------------...

Running southeast toward Galveston is I-45 South, nicknamed the Gulf Freeway. Several diverse neighborhoods and communities border the freeway, which was the first freeway in the city Gulfgate Mall, built at the intersection of the Gulf Freeway and Loop 610 South, was Houston's first shopping mall. The south Houston area settlement grew around orange and fig orchards and rice farms. Later, as oil fields developed in the late 1930s, many residents worked in refineries in Texas City.

Parts of south Houston are among the fastest growing in the entire region, and newcomers will find a variety of lifestyle options on the southside of Houston. One can find relatively new homes in the Clear Lake area, while there's an ample supply of quality, older homes in neighborhoods along I-45 South. The proximity to downtown, Hobby Airport and NASA Johnson Space Center contribute to the popularity of South Houston.

Clear Lake/NASA As a community that is home to NASA Johnson Space Center, as well as to the third largest boating center in the United States, Clear Lake has a great deal to offer.

Clear Lake describes an area built near the bay water that empties into the Gulf of Mexico. It lies about halfway between downtown Houston and Galveston on I-45 South.

The city of Houston annexed Clear Lake City in 1976. But eight surrounding communities comprise the area: Clear Lake Shores, El Lago, Kemah, League City, Nassau Bay, Seabrook, Taylor Lake Village and Webster. The population of Clear Lake and the eight townships totals approximately 156,000.

Clear Lake originally was a fishing and agricultural community. NASA's decision in the 1960s to

locate the Johnson Space Center there gave a strong impetus to the area's development. Today, aerospace related companies employ about 27 percent of the area's population.

Contributing significantly to the area's economy also are the petrochemical and computer industries.

As a result, housing in Clear Lake is in demand and the area offers a variety of housing options. For example, South Shore Harbourin League City offers homes with boat slips and touts their new resort and conference center. In seaside communities near NASA Road 1, one can set sail from townhomes, apartments and homes as well.

For those who like planned-community living, Friendswood Development Co. has created more than 10 single-family subdivisions.

Generally, ages of homes range from brand new to 25 years old. New construction is constant.

Purchase prices span from $80,000 to $600,000, with some custom homes even higher.

The apartment and townhome rental market is thriving with occupancy rates close to 100 percent.

The high demand has recently created a shortage of available units, creating waiting lists in some cases. Rents average more than 75 cents per square foot. Newcomers who need short-term interim housing, however, will find it available through suite hotels and corporate apartment rental companies.

High-flying types will appreciate Hobby Airport just 10 miles away. Even non-flyers will occasionally have the chance to greet astronauts or U.S. presidents and other VIPs as they wing in to Ellington Field.

In October 1992, Space Center Houston -- a $70 million, 40-acre visitor center complex, opened in the area. A visual time line depicting the history and future of manned space flight illustrates America's space accomplishments. Walt Disney Imagineering created hands-on exhibits and programs, allowing visitors to experience the inner workings of the manned space program.

Boating, recreation and tourism industries employ more than a quarter of Clear Lake's work force, so many chances exist for participating in boating, wind surfing, or other water sports. Boaters can choose from 19 marinas offering more than 6,000 boat slips.

For those who would enjoy living in a community built on dreams pointed upward to the sky and downward to the sea, Clear Lake is certainly worth exploring.

Friendswood The city of Friendswood lies farther south, on the west side of the Gulf Freeway. It is a rural community founded in 1895 by members of the Society of Friends (Quakers).

These days, the 28,000 residents enjoy a heavily-wooded, rural atmosphere. Some homes sit on several acres, others on smaller subdivision lots. Creek front properties are available, and one subdivision offers a private landing strip as an amenity. Prices range from the mid-$70,000s to $300,000 or more.

Easily accessible to all these communities is Hobby Airport, named for the late William P. Hobby, former Texas governor. Close by, too, is Ellington Air Base, a training base used by NASA, the U.S. Army Reserve, and the Coast Guard. Also on the base is a cargo facility for United Parcel Service.

Galveston/Galveston County Many newcomers are surprised to learn that Galveston, an island on the Texas Gulf Coast, is just a little more than a one-hour drive from Houston. Galveston is home to many residents who work in or on the fringes of Houston. In addition, many Houstonians own weekend and vacation property in nearby Galveston or on Galveston Bay. Galveston is a growing housing market and residential sales are up more than 50 percent in the last two years.

Housing options in Galveston range from stately Victorian-era mansions along Broadway Boulevard to beach-front villas and bungalows. Several high-rise condominiums dot the Gulf Coast shoreline as well as apartment complexes. Subdivisions of single-family dwellings offer more traditional homes within the city while resort water-front properties often are built on stilts. Along the coast, the hottest segment of the market is upper-end homes priced at $200,000 or more.

New developments along the canal and bay that feature recently constructed resort homes are an attractive option for newcomers to the area. Pirates' Cove is a new development nestled around the Galveston Country Club that offers views of the bay and the golf course from each home. Laffite's Cove is a new community in the canal area that is being developed by The Woodlands Corp.

Southwest/Fort Bend County ------------------------------...

One of the most expansive areas in Houston is the southwest region -- encompassing part of Harris County and Fort Bend County. The far western part of the area is dotted with ranches and horseboarding farms. Several high quality master-planned communities, combined with consistently top rated school districts, make this area popular with newcomers. %20Kenwood Comprising the southwest are the cities that cluster near the Southwest Freeway and cross the Harris County line into Fort Bend County, designated one of the fastest growing regions in the country. Incorporated townships of Fort Bend are Arcola, Meadows, Missouri City, Stafford, Sugar Land, Richmond and Rosenberg.

Fort Bend County is home to several electronics and manufacturing firms.

Residents on the southwest side enjoy convenient proximity to downtown Houston and the Galleria area via U.S. 59. Testament to its growth, the populations of Fort Bend County increased by more than 50 percent from 1980 to 1990. In 1994, the county was ranked among the top 10 fastest growing counties in the nation.

A wide variety of home styles and prices are available in this area, from affordable patio homes to multi-acreage country home lots.

Meyerland At the outer southwest corner of the Loop 610 sits Meyerland, a residential district developed in the mid-1950s by Leota Hess whose father ranched the area. This might be termed Houston's first "planned community" in that Hess held to strict regulations and strong architectural controls for the development. Homes were required to have copper plumbing, for instance. Covenants prohibited

apartments and commercial enterprises. Characteristic of Meyerland are brick, contemporary-styled homes, three and four bedrooms and two baths, an uncommon feature when built.

Renovation is taking place in several pockets.

Alief/Sharpstown A large part of west and southwest Houston comprises the communities of Alief and Sharpstown.

While these communities experienced their major growth spurts in the 1960s and 1970s, they continue to offer comfortable living for a range of lifestyle considerations. Many cultural and ethnic influences are evident in neighborhoods in the Alief/Sharpstown area, including Asian, Hispanic and African American.

Multi-family living options are widely available in these areas, with apartment, condominium, townhome and duplexes available for rent in several clusters. Small and mid-size brick tract homes are prevalent in this area. Prices range from $50,000 to $200,000. Expansive shopping centers and restaurants make this an attractive, accessible area of town.

Sugar Land The state's oldest company, Imperial Sugar, is located in Sugar Land, hence its name. The sugar refinery still operates in the city's old business district. While its heritage is important, Sugar Land planners have their eye on the future.

The community has been built with extreme care, taking into consideration many lifestyle considerations. Residents of Sugar Land and the surrounding communities are recreation-oriented with three highly regarded golf courses. Also located nearby are the Brazos Bend State Park and the George Observatory (the largest observatory in the country devoted primarily to public use).

Homebuilders throughout the area build in the region, with homes starting from $100,000 upwards to $500,000. Among the newest developments in this community is Sugar Lakes.

First Colony Three hundred colonists, led by William B. Travis, first settled on the banks of the Brazos River north of what is now Richmond. It was the first Anglo settlement in Hispanic Texas, hence the name for First Colony. The territory's fertile soil historically was the basis of sugar cane, rice and cattle production.

The master-planned community of First Colony is among the leading areas in housing starts over the past three years. Most of the homes are new, less than 10 years old in many cases. New tract, semicustom and custom homes are available, many within a country club setting.

Stafford Stafford is home to a cluster of technology firms. The community offers affordable housing and the high standard of living common to all residents of Fort Bend County.

Eight major subdivisions in Stafford, including Crestmont, Dove Country, Kingsway and South Meadows offer a variety of housing options that range from $70,000 to more than $1 million. New housing as well as an ample stock of pre-owned homes are available.

Missouri City Incorporated in 1956, Missouri City is a growing community of 43,000 residents. Approximately 80 percent of the city lies in Ft. Bend County and 10 percent lies in Harris County. The city is served by the Fort Bend Independent School District.

Homes in the community are priced from $50,000 to $250,000. Two golf courses and many city and county parks provide recreational opportunities for residents. New home construction is available throughout subdivisions in Missouri City.

Subdivisions include Quail Valley, Lake Olympia, Brightwater and Hunter's Glen A new planned community is being developed in Missouri City that has the potential to double the size of the community. The new Sienna Plantation, which is planned to have 15,000 single-family homes and town homes when complete, opened in 1996.

Richmond/Rosenberg On the banks of the Brazos River are the cities of Richmond and Rosenberg. Originally a Spanish ranch, these small farm communities attract people who enjoy small town values and desire tremendous value for their housing dollar. Small, starter homes start at $40,000 and new homes can be purchased in master-planned subdivisions for about $75,000.

West ------------------------------...

Over the past several years, Houston's west side has been experiencing immense growth. New and pre-owned home sales have been brisk. Housing values continue to increase as demand has increased. West Houston offers high quality living, good schools, excellent freeway access and a range of shopping and recreational activity.

West Loop/Galleria At the mention of the West Loop, one envisions the Galleria complex that features shopping, offices, a hotel and indoor ice rink. Vivid also are images of high-rise buildings (including Transco Tower with its 64 stories), a concentration of fine restaurants and luxury hotels..

The West Loop area, in short, is Houston's second downtown, or "uptown" as it's called. This uptown area boasts the city's second skyline. Residences "close to the Loop" are always in demand.

Tanglewood/Broadoaks Embracing the Loop's west side is the Tanglewood/Broadoaks district. Only a few vacant lots north of Woodway are available, so most new construction is a result of rebuilding on lots where an older home has been razed. Architectural style is frequently Colonial or Georgian, with some examples of French and contemporary. "Empty nest" couples occupy many residences as do younger,

professional couples. Prices ranges from the high $200,000s to almost $2 million.

Two small Luxury Condos Chevy Chase MD subdivisions are Del Monte and Briarcroft. The number of homes for sale is somewhat limited due to a lack of new construction. One can find homes ranging from the $150,000s to $300,000s. Larchmont is also a small subdivision wherein live many single and married young professionals. Here one finds homes spanning a $70,000 to $180,000 price range.

A good inventory of townhomes exists also. A very "executive set" resides in these homes that are extremely popular with retired couples, singles or former owners of large homes. They appreciate the security and privacy offered by townhome living. Prices range from $200,000 to $1 million.

Demand has exceeded supply of many Loop residences because of the location's proximity to freeways, the Galleria complex, and the appeal of a wooded, established neighborhood.

The Villages/Memorial Clustering near west Memorial Drive (a former Indian trail) and near 1-10 (the Katy Freeway), are the "Villages." This term refers to the incorporated municipalities of Bunker Hill, Hedwig, Hunter's Creek and Piney Point, all located south of 1-10 West, and Spring Valley and Hilshire Village, north of the freeway. Many homes found in this area fringe Buffalo Bayou.

Older homes built in the 1960s as well as more modern homes can be found here. Homes prices in the villages begin at $300,000. For the most part, residents are professionals, independent business owners, and oil and energy executives. This area also is home to some of Houston's finest private schools such as Kinkaid and Duchesne Academy.

West Memorial Traveling farther west on Memorial past Wilcrest Drive, one finds subdivision after subdivision of homes built in the late 1960s and early 1970s. These areas present private, secluded, near-bayou living. Cost of homes closer to Memorial spans $150,000 to $750,000. In neighboring Nottingham, home prices hover at $250,000.

Memorial Thicket, Fleetwood and Barker's Landing near the east side of Highway 6, are newer subdivisions built within the last 20 years. Home styles are typically New Orleans Colonial, Cape Cod, traditional and contemporary. Far west of Highway 6 is Weston Lakes, a private masterplanned community featuring custom homes rivaling those of River Oaks and Memorial.

Townhomes in the west Houston area are more often leased than purchased. A good availability exists. Retirement communities include Tarrytowne, an assisted living complex at Briar Forest and Dairy Ashford.

West Houston has attracted professional business people and is a wide-based employment center.

The Energy Corridor, comprising a number of international energy-related companies, is nearby along I-10 between Gessner and Highway 6.

In addition is Memorial City Medical Center at Gessner and the Katy Freeway. It is composed of five major institutions that include a medical plaza, psychiatric and rehabilitation hospitals, and a residential nursing care facility.

Recreational activities abound such as the Westside Tennnis Club, selected by World Tennis magazine and the U.S. Tennis Association as one of the top 20 tennis clubs in the nation. For its residents, west Houston provides a wide mix of housing and lifestyle opportunities.

Katy Katy, once a small farm community, has thrived from the "go west" syndrome caught by many Houstonians. The city, just 20 miles from downtown on I-10 (Katy Freeway) is home to many upscale subdivisions populated by oil and gas professionals who work at Shell, Amoco, Arco, Exxon Chemical and other companies in the Energy Corridor along the freeway. Green Trails, Kelliwood and Nottingham Country are among the developments along Fry Road and Mason Road.

While home prices in the region have firmed considerably over the past few years, home builders still boast 1970s prices. Homes with 2,500 to 5,000 square feet abound, and prospective buyers can contract to buy a home being built on spec or they can start from scratch with their own plans. The area still boasts quite a value for your housing dollar.

Cinco Ranch is among Katy's most talked-about communities. The master-planned community is one of the fastest growing areas of the region, known for good schools, quality housing and a serene lifestyle.

Northwest ------------------------------...

The Northwest section of Houston is also a high growth area. Homes ranging in price from the mid$70,000s to $450,000 are being built to accommodate those pursuing the value and quality of life offered by master-planning. The completion of the Sam Houston Toll Road, the upgrading of Highway 6 and FM 1960 and improvements to Highway 290 have opened up accessibility to the region. This area is attractive to employees of local energy and chemical companies located on the west side.

Bear Creek/Highway 6 In the last two decades, as Houston became increasingly more urban, many residents sought a country living environment. One place they found it is in the expanse of land northwest of Houston.

As a result, the region has experienced significant residential development as well as major office and industrial activity.

The area between the Katy Freeway and Highway 290 is referred to as Bear Creek and is one of the three distinct areas that make up Houston's northwest sector. Master-planned communities in Bear Creek include Fairfield and Deerfield Village. Neighborhood homes are priced from the $60,000s to the $160,000s. Other subdivisions include Glencairn, Bear Creek Plantation and Pine Forest.

Copperfield, a second master-planned community north of the Bear Creek area, is composed of villages that span 1,800 acres. Each village has its own recreational facilities. Home prices range from the $80,000s to the $400,000s. Both Copperfield and Fairfield are products of Friendswood Development Co., which has developed other such master-planned communities throughout Houston. Copperfield and Fairfield are popular among young professionals.

Cypress-Fairbanks The second major area of the northwest is Cypress-Fairbanks (Cy-Fair), demarcated by Highways 249 and 290. Here sits Lakewood Forest, a bedroom community of mainly single-family homes. It sprouted up around Compaq Computer Corp., which was founded in 1982 and is now one of the world's leading manufacturers of personal computers.

Living in Lakewood Forest are many young families who are part of Compaq's 9,000 member work force. The community expects continued growth as Compaq expands.

Lakewood Forest home prices range from the low $100,000s to $350,000 and more. Many two-story brick homes sit on wooded lots that offer quiet havens. Multi-family housing is limited.

Champions/FM 1960 Making up the third area of the northwest is the land between Highways 249 and I-45. The "Champions" was the northwest's first subdivision 25 years ago and the area retains the name.

Giving impetus to growth were Houston's Intercontinental Airport, the Champions Gold Club and the Beltway 8 Sam Houston Tollway. Other subdivisions followed, including Olde Oaks and Champions Forest with homes priced from the $100,000s to $1 million or more. Also is Northgate Forest, a neighborhood of custom estate homes starting in the $400,000s. Country clubs and golf courses abound in the Champions area, and the shopping is excellent, with Willowbrook Mall and the Greenspoint Mall just minutes away. Much of the new building in the area is attributable to the nearby location of Houston-based Compaq Computer Corp.

Northwest residents appreciate the present and future freeway improvements aimed at facilitating this high growth region. U.S. Highway 290 has been extended from Little York to Highway 6.

But as much as these amenities, residents enjoy a safe, serene environment that contributes to their relaxed style of living.

Again, once you have narrowed down your selection you can go to the Houston Police website and click on crime statistics to check out crime rates in those particular neighborhoods at: http://www.houstontx.gov/police/cs/beatp...

Check out exemplary schools on the Texas Education Association website at: http://www.tea.state.tx.us/cgi/sas/broke...

Houston neighborhoods tend to be ethnically diverse. If you can afford to live in an area; then you do, it's basically as simple as that.

Housing in Houston is MUCH more afforable than in other areas of the country. So don't be put off by the lower prices as you'll get a lot more house for your money here.

I hope this information helps you in making your decision.

Welcome to Houston!