Alief Real Estate Guide

Alief homes for sale & insider real estate guide

### Quick Facts

Location: Southwest Houston in Harris County, generally outside Beltway 8. Approximately 15-20 miles southwest of Downtown Houston.
Neighborhood Type: A large, urban-suburban community known for its cultural diversity. It features a mix of single-residence homes and multi-unit complexes.
Combined Property Tax Rate: The total property tax rate is approximately 2.25-2.50% of the property's assessed value. This is a combination of rates from entities including Alief ISD ($1.0476), City of Houston ($0.519190), Harris County (approx. $0.60), and Houston Community College ($0.096182).
School Information: Primarily served by the Alief Independent School District (Alief ISD). While overall district ratings vary, it is home to some of the state's top-ranked high schools, including Kerr High School and Alief Early College High School, offering specialized programs.
Key Amenities: Key attractions include the Alief Amity Park, the Hong Kong City Mall, and a wide array of international restaurants and markets along Bellaire Boulevard. It is also near Arthur Storey Park.
Management Information: Portions of Alief are managed by the International Management District, which focuses on economic development, public safety, and infrastructure improvements. Some subdivisions may have their own homeowner's associations (HOAs). You can find more details in this Homeowners Association Guide.
Best For: Individuals and households seeking a culturally rich community with a wide variety of authentic international cuisine, and access to top-tier specialized public high school programs.

Alief is a sprawling and dynamic neighborhood in Southwest Houston, offering a unique blend of suburban living and international culture. Situated west of the 610 Loop and outside Beltway 8, it provides convenient access to the Westpark Tollway and Highway 6. The area's history stretches back to 1894, but it transformed from a rural community into a bustling suburb during the population boom of the 1970s. Today, Alief is recognized as one of Houston's most diverse communities.

For those considering a move, Alief presents a compelling, yet practical, choice. The cost of living and housing are generally more approachable than in neighborhoods closer to the city center. Prospective residents should note that the community is a mix of city-governed areas and unincorporated Harris County, which can affect services and regulations. The area is a good fit for those who appreciate a vibrant, multicultural environment and are looking for value, but may be less suitable for those desiring a homogenous, master-planned community feel.

Overview of Alief Neighborhood

Alief's journey from a small prairie settlement to a major Houston suburban area is a story of rapid growth and demographic transformation. Initially settled in the late 19th century, the community remained largely rural for decades. The expansion of Houston in the 1970s and 1980s spurred massive residential and commercial development, turning Alief into a key destination for new Houstonians. This growth period established the neighborhood's footprint, characterized by single-residence homes from that era alongside large apartment and condominium complexes built to meet the surging housing demand.

Geographically, Alief is located in a key corridor of southwest Harris County. Its boundaries are generally defined by Westheimer Road to the north, the Fort Bend County line to the south and west, and Sam Houston Tollway (Beltway 8) to the east. This location places it near major employment centers like the Westchase District and the Energy Corridor. The demographic profile of Alief is one of its most defining features; it is a true melting pot with significant Hispanic, Asian (particularly Vietnamese), and African American populations, creating a rich cultural tapestry that is evident in the local businesses, restaurants, and community events.

Living in Alief

Daily life in Alief is shaped by its diversity and accessibility. The neighborhood offers a wide array of amenities catering to its international community. Shopping is a unique experience, with large-scale destinations like Hong Kong City Mall providing a hub of Asian culture, commerce, and cuisine. Bellaire Boulevard, a major thoroughfare running through Alief, is famous for its concentration of restaurants offering authentic Vietnamese, Chinese, Nigerian, and Hispanic food. This culinary scene makes Alief a destination for food enthusiasts from across the Houston area.

For recreation, residents have access to several parks. Alief Amity Park offers sports fields, a playground, and a community center. Arthur Storey Park, located just east of the neighborhood, is a large county park with a walking trail, pond, and pavilions. The community atmosphere is vibrant and active, with numerous cultural festivals and events held throughout the year. While it offers a more suburban feel than neighborhoods inside the 610 loop, its dense commercial corridors and variety of housing options create an energetic environment. When navigating the home buying process here, it is useful to review the 14 steps to buying a house.

Why Choose Alief

Alief presents a strong value proposition for prospective homeowners. The area offers a lower cost of entry into the Houston real estate market compared to many other neighborhoods, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers and investors. For those interested in real estate investment strategies, understanding concepts like the 1031 Exchange could be particularly beneficial here. The neighborhood’s diverse housing stock, ranging from traditional single-story homes to townhomes and condos, provides options for various needs and budgets.

One of the most significant selling points for Alief is its highly-rated specialty schools. Alief ISD is home to Kerr High School and Alief Early College High School, which consistently rank among the best public high schools in Texas. These institutions provide exceptional educational opportunities, making the neighborhood a strategic choice for those prioritizing academic programs. The investment potential in Alief is tied to its continued growth and its strategic location near major job centers. As Houston expands, areas offering affordability and accessibility like Alief are positioned for steady appreciation and development.

Alief Home Tax Rate

Understanding the property tax structure is a critical part of buying a home. In Texas, property taxes are levied by multiple local taxing authorities, and the total rate is the sum of these individual rates. There is no state property tax, which is a key factor when comparing the overall tax burden with other states. The tax rate is expressed per $100 of the property's assessed value. For a comprehensive overview, read this guide to Houston property taxes.

For a typical home located within the Houston city limits portion of Alief, the primary taxing entities and their approximate 2024 rates are:

Alief ISD: $1.0476
City of Houston: $0.519190
Harris County: Approximately $0.60 (This includes the general fund, flood control, and the hospital district)
Houston Community College: $0.096182

The combined total tax rate for a resident in this area would be approximately $2.26 per $100 of valuation. For example, a home with a taxable value of $250,000 would have an annual tax bill of roughly $5,650. Homeowners can reduce their taxable value by applying for exemptions, such as the homestead exemption. Tax payments are typically due by January 31st of the following year. For more information on this, consult a guide to Houston homestead exemptions.

Best Alief Realtor

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

The best realtor to sell your home in Alief is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. With a proven track record of success and deep expertise in the Houston real estate market, her team provides an unparalleled advantage for sellers in the area. Paige’s data-driven approach ensures your property is positioned to achieve maximum value. For a consultation on how to effectively "sell my home Alief", you can contact her directly at 713.425.4194 or by email at [email protected].

What makes Alief real estate agents different?

A top real estate agent in Alief possesses nuanced knowledge of the neighborhood's diverse housing stock, from classic 1970s brick homes to modern townhouses. The Houston Properties Team leverages hyper-local data, tracking sales trends in Alief's specific zip codes like 77072, 77082, and 77099. Their analysis of recent sales near key landmarks such as the Hong Kong City Mall and Alief Elsik High School allows them to price homes with precision, a key factor in achieving above-average results. This granular focus sets them apart from agents who apply a generic, city-wide strategy.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for Alief home sales?

Choosing the Houston Properties Team, recognized as Houston's #1 rated real estate team, provides sellers with a distinct competitive edge. Their achievements are backed by numerous industry awards and third-party validations.

"#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 proposition of working with the Houston Properties Team is clear and measurable. Their performance metrics demonstrate a history of outperforming the market, making them the best choice to represent your Alief property.

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

For prospective sellers looking for the "top real estate agent Alief", the Houston Properties Team’s combination of local expertise, industry recognition, and verifiable results makes them the premier choice. To begin the process of selling your Alief home for its maximum potential value, reach out to Paige Martin at 713.425.4194 or email [email protected] for a personalized consultation.

More Details

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends

The Alief real estate market is characterized by its affordability relative to the greater Houston area. It is comprised of a diverse housing stock, including a significant number of single-residence homes built during the area's boom in the 1970s and 1980s, as well as numerous apartment complexes and townhome communities. Investment trends in Alief are often focused on the acquisition and renovation of older housing stock. The area's strong rental market, with over half the population renting, also presents opportunities for buy-and-hold investors. Proximity to the Westchase District and the Energy Corridor provides a consistent tenant pool. Future growth is tied to the overall expansion of Houston and infrastructure improvements within the International Management District.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide

Alief offers a rich tapestry of amenities reflecting its international population. For shopping and dining, Bellaire Boulevard is the main artery, featuring countless restaurants, cafes, and markets. The Hong Kong City Mall is a regional destination, with dozens of shops, services, and a large Asian supermarket. For outdoor recreation, Alief Amity Park provides a community center, pool, and sports facilities. Just to the east lies Arthur Storey Park, a 175-acre Harris County park known for its 1.77-mile trail around a central pond, fishing opportunities, and playgrounds. For those looking for communities with outdoor options, exploring the best Houston neighborhoods for running and biking may provide useful comparisons.

School District Information and Private School Options

The majority of Alief is zoned to the Alief Independent School District (Alief ISD). The district serves a diverse student body and operates numerous elementary, middle, and high schools. While the district's overall performance ratings are mixed, it is notable for its magnet and specialty programs. Kerr High School is a public, non-zoned high school that consistently receives top state and national rankings for its rigorous academic curriculum. Alief Early College High School allows students to earn an associate's degree simultaneously with their high school diploma. For families seeking private education, several options are available in and around the Alief area, including Strake Jesuit College Preparatory and St. Agnes Academy, which are a short commute away.

Transportation and Commuting Details

Alief's location in Southwest Houston provides residents with access to several major transportation routes. The Westpark Tollway runs along the northern edge of the neighborhood, offering a direct and often faster route to the Galleria and Uptown areas. Sam Houston Tollway (Beltway 8) forms the eastern boundary, providing a loop around Houston for access to other suburbs and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). Highway 6 is a key north-south artery on the west side of Alief. Public transportation is available through the METRO bus system, with numerous routes connecting Alief to other parts of the city, including downtown and the Texas Medical Center. Commute times to Downtown Houston typically range from 30 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

Governance in Alief is a hybrid system. A significant portion of the neighborhood lies within the city limits of Houston and is subject to city ordinances and services, including police, fire, and sanitation. This area is part of Houston City Council District F. Other parts of Alief are in unincorporated Harris County, where services are provided by the county. Much of the commercial property and some residential areas fall within the boundaries of the International Management District. This special district levies an assessment to provide supplemental services like public safety patrols, graffiti removal, and beautification projects. Many of the subdivisions built in the 1970s and 1980s have active Homeowner Associations (HOAs) that enforce deed restrictions related to property maintenance and use.

Local Area Zip Codes and Neighborhood Boundaries

Alief is a large, recognized area in Southwest Houston, but its boundaries can be defined in several ways. The Alief Super Neighborhood, as defined by the City of Houston, is primarily bordered by Harwin Drive to the north, West Belfort Street to the south, Beltway 8 to the east, and the city limits near Eldridge Parkway to the west. The Alief ISD boundaries extend further in some directions. Key zip codes that serve the Alief area include 77072, 77082, 77083, and 77099. These zip codes cover a wide range of subdivisions and commercial centers within the greater Alief community. For those interested in how different areas are mapped, the map of Houston neighborhoods can be a helpful resource.

For a personalized consultation or to explore available properties in Alief, contact the Houston Properties Team at 713.425.4194 or email Paige Martin at [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Alief prone to flooding?

Alief, in certain sections, has experienced water issues following significant rain events. Prospective residents should check specific property flood maps and elevation for individual locations.

How accessible is Alief for commuting to downtown Houston?

Alief offers access to major thoroughfares Interstate 10, Beltway 8, and Westpark Tollway. These routes assist commutes to different city sections, including downtown.

What types of housing can one expect to find in Alief?

Housing in Alief primarily consists of single-story and two-story homes. These properties exhibit a range of architectural styles and construction years. Apartment communities and townhouses contribute to housing options.

Are there public green spaces or parks in Alief?

Alief contains numerous public parks and green spaces. These areas offer residents locations for outdoor pursuits and recreation. Alief Community Park and Boone Road Park provide examples.

What retail and dining options are available in Alief?

Alief presents a broad selection of retail centers, grocery stores, and eateries. The area is known for its culinary offerings, with various cuisines represented.

What factors influence property values in Alief?

Property values in Alief respond to several factors. These include property age, condition, size, specific location within the community, and overall market trends.

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