Home to one of the most diverse, culturally rich, and economically successful populations in Texas – Houston is also home to some master-planned communities that stand out above all others.
As we have so many of them, it becomes difficult to choose the right one. Below are the three top criteria for what you might be looking for in a planned community amenity, location, or sense of community) and how to look to find your best master planned communities in Houston.
1. Define Your Priorities
Before you get overwhelmed with all the types of credit cards available, identify what is most important to you. Do you need good schools for your kids, somewhere near work to save time-strapped commuting hours, or is access to a large recreational area at the top of your agenda?
Your priorities will help you filter the selection and allow for more focused engagement with communities that match your lifestyle.
2. Research the Amenities
At the heart of any master-planned community is a multitude of included amenities. Find areas with lots of parks, pools, fitness centers, and walking trails along with community buildings. These resources contribute to both the quality of life and recreation/ socialization opportunities.
3. Location and Access to Offer
Think of how far it is from other amenities like your work, the schools for children with hospitals and pharmacies also including malls or shopping centers such as the city center. Make sure to go through the information about individual developments and any upcoming infrastructure projects that can impact accessibility, as well as property prices.
4. Read the Quality of Schools
The quality of schools – especially if you have kids who are in school (or getting close to it) is an important consideration for families. Look into the school ratings, curriculum offerings, and extracurricular activities so you know those details before moving to any of the new master-planned communities.
Distance to highly-ranked schools could make your children receive a better education and may also raise the resale value of our property.
5. Consider Aesthetics and Community Design
Master-planned communities contain specific architectural standards to create harmony and a visually pleasing environment. Look at the building, yard, and general feel of the neighborhood. Some active adult communities emphasize green spaces and conservation, while others strive for a more traditional suburban setting. Would you like to create a community that looks just the way you desire? Choose one with style.
6. Research On-Chain Governance & Laws
Master-planned communities have their own set of rules and governance structures specific to the community, typically backed by a homeowners’ association (HOA).
Read your community’s CC&R (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions) regarding improvements to be made on the property as well as what you can do or have done in terms of appearance in the exterior surroundings. Make sure that the rules of the community suit your lifestyle and preferences.
7. Examine Long Term Investment Potential
Buying a home in a master-planned community is an investment. Learn about the community’s historic property value trends, new conditions surrounding markets, and their future development plans.
A good subdivision that serves a growing area and has kept up its infrastructure will keep your property from deteriorating in value if you are not using it and could garner more interest whenever given time to sell.
8. Measure Sense of Community and Participation
The community feeling and neighborly spirit can improve your living experience. The only way to get a feel for how engaged and happy people are with their neighborhood is by going to community events or researching online forums/ social media groups. Join a community that promotes inclusivity and supports socializing with others, or engages the local inhabitants as well.
9. Seek Professional Guidance
Finding the right master-planned community in Houston can be complicated. Maybe get some advice from a local master planned community real estate agent?
When it comes to selecting the right master-planned community in Houston, there are many factors you will need to weigh such as your priorities, amenities offered by each MPC & surrounding areas, location, and community dynamics.
With research and site visits to discover the best community for you, there will be no question of whether or not your new neighborhood fits into what matters most in life. Houston has a great mix of options for whatever you prioritize in life: education, recreation, and community spirit.
