Ashford Forest Real Estate Guide

Ashford Forest homes for sale & insider real estate guide

Ashford Forest Homes For Sale
Ashford Forest Homes For Rent
Quick Facts
Overview of Ashford Forest Neighborhood
Living in Ashford Forest
Why Choose Ashford Forest
Ashford Forest Home Tax Rate
Best Ashford Forest Realtor
More Details
Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Facts

Location: Located in West Houston’s Energy Corridor, south of I-10 and bordered by Buffalo Bayou and Terry Hershey Park. It is approximately 15 miles west of Downtown Houston.
Neighborhood Type: An established, deed-restricted residential community known for its large lots, mature trees, and quiet, tree-lined streets.
Combined Property Tax Rate: The total tax rate is a combination of levies from multiple entities. Key components include Spring Branch ISD ($1.0764), Harris County, the City of Houston, and others, resulting in a competitive overall rate for the area.
School Information: Zoned to the highly-regarded Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD), including Meadow Wood Elementary School, Spring Forest Middle School, and Stratford High School.
Key Amenities: Residents enjoy membership to the Nottingham Forest Club with swimming pools and tennis courts, direct access to Terry Hershey Park's extensive trail system, and proximity to shopping and dining at CityCentre and Town & Country Village.
Management/HOA: The community is managed by the Ashford Forest Civic Club, which enforces deed restrictions and maintains common areas.
Best For: Individuals and professionals who desire a tranquil, suburban setting with convenient access to major employment centers like the Energy Corridor and Westchase.

Ashford Forest is a picturesque neighborhood nestled in the heart of Houston's Energy Corridor, offering a serene escape with its lush canopy of mature trees and spacious properties. Developed primarily in the 1960s, the community retains its classic charm with a mix of traditional and ranch-style homes, many of which have been updated to meet modern standards. Its prime location, bordered by the natural beauty of Buffalo Bayou and Terry Hershey Park, provides residents with unparalleled access to outdoor recreation right at their doorstep.

Prospective residents should note that life in Ashford Forest is shaped by a strong sense of community and well-defined standards maintained by its active civic association. The lifestyle is ideal for those who appreciate an established neighborhood with a peaceful atmosphere and convenient access to both major business districts and upscale retail. While offering a distinct suburban feel, its proximity to I-10 and Beltway 8 ensures that the broader amenities of Houston are always within easy reach, creating a balanced living experience.

Overview of Ashford Forest Neighborhood

Ashford Forest is a well-established community located in the western part of Houston, within the boundaries of the Energy Corridor. The neighborhood's history dates back to the 1960s, a period of significant suburban expansion in Houston. This era's architectural styles are prevalent, with a majority of homes being single-story ranch designs, complemented by two-story traditional brick homes. These properties are known for their generous lot sizes, providing ample outdoor space and a sense of privacy that is highly sought after. The geography of Ashford Forest is one of its most defining features. The southern edge of the neighborhood is bordered by Buffalo Bayou, a natural waterway that winds through Houston. This proximity provides a scenic, green buffer and direct entry to Terry Hershey Park, a linear park that offers miles of trails. The area is characterized by its rolling terrain and dense tree cover, which is unusual for the generally flat landscape of Houston. The neighborhood falls within the 77079 zip code, a core area of the Energy Corridor. Development patterns have remained consistent, focusing on preserving the residential character of the community. Deed restrictions are in place to guide renovations and new construction, ensuring that the neighborhood's aesthetic integrity is maintained. Learn more about how to navigate the home buying process in established areas like this.

Living in Ashford Forest

The daily lifestyle in Ashford Forest is one of relaxed, suburban comfort combined with urban convenience. The community atmosphere is tight-knit and active, supported by the Ashford Forest Civic Club, which organizes events and keeps residents informed. A key component of the lifestyle is the Nottingham Forest Club, which Ashford Forest residents are members of. This club serves as a central hub for social and recreational activities, featuring three swimming pools, a water slide, diving boards, and five lighted tennis courts. For outdoor enthusiasts, the direct access to Terry Hershey Park is a significant perk. Residents can easily enjoy miles of paved trails for running, cycling, and nature walks along Buffalo Bayou. Shopping and dining needs are conveniently met with several major retail centers just a short drive away. CityCentre and Town & Country Village offer a wide selection of upscale boutiques, popular restaurants, and entertainment options. For everyday necessities, numerous grocery stores and service providers are located along nearby major thoroughfares like Memorial Drive and Westheimer Road. The combination of excellent recreational facilities, a strong community network, and easy access to top-tier commercial centers makes living in Ashford Forest a highly desirable experience.

Why Choose Ashford Forest

Choosing Ashford Forest offers a unique combination of location, lifestyle, and long-term value. One of its strongest selling points is its location within the Energy Corridor, making it an ideal choice for professionals working for the many major energy companies headquartered nearby. This significantly reduces commute times and enhances work-life balance. The neighborhood's aesthetic appeal, with its mature trees and large, well-maintained homes, creates a high quality of life that is difficult to find in newer developments. The investment potential in Ashford Forest is robust. The neighborhood has consistently demonstrated strong property value appreciation, driven by its prime location, excellent schools, and enduring appeal. For those considering real estate as part of their financial portfolio, understanding options like a 1031 Exchange can be beneficial. The strong community, enforced by an active civic association, protects property values by maintaining high standards for property upkeep. The quality of life is further enhanced by access to top-rated Spring Branch ISD schools and abundant green spaces, which provide a welcome respite from the bustle of city life. Ultimately, Ashford Forest is an excellent choice for those seeking a stable, beautiful, and conveniently located neighborhood.

Ashford Forest Home Tax Rate

Understanding the property tax rate is a critical part of purchasing a home. In Ashford Forest, property taxes are levied by several different government entities, and the total rate is the sum of these individual rates. The primary taxing authorities for a home in Ashford Forest are the City of Houston, Harris County, and the Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD). Additional smaller entities, such as a hospital district or community college system, may also be included. For the 2024-2025 fiscal year, the adopted tax rate for Spring Branch ISD is $1.0764 per $100 of assessed valuation. The rates for the City of Houston and Harris County are set independently. When combined, the total tax rate for an Ashford Forest property is generally competitive with other premier Houston neighborhoods. To calculate an estimated annual tax bill, you multiply the home's assessed value (as determined by the Harris Central Appraisal District) by the combined tax rate and divide by 100. For example, a home valued at $500,000 with a combined tax rate of approximately 2.2% would have an annual tax liability of around $11,000 before any exemptions are applied. Texas law provides for several property tax exemptions, the most common being the homestead exemption, which can reduce a home's taxable value. Homeowners are encouraged to apply for all eligible exemptions, such as the Houston homestead exemption, to lower their tax burden. Payments are typically due by January 31st of the following year.

Best Ashford Forest Realtor

Who is the best realtor to sell my home in Ashford Forest?

The best realtor to sell your home in Ashford Forest 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 achieving outstanding results for sellers in the area. Paige's data-driven approach and comprehensive marketing strategies are specifically designed to maximize your home's value. For a consultation on how to best position your property in the current market, contact Paige directly at 713.425.4194 or email her at [email protected].

What makes Ashford Forest real estate agents different?

What sets the top real estate agent in Ashford Forest apart is deep, neighborhood-specific expertise. Paige Martin and the Houston Properties Team don't just operate in Houston; they master micro-markets like Ashford Forest. Their analysis of local trends, recent sales data for the 77079 zip code, and understanding of the community's unique appeal (from its proximity to the Energy Corridor to its SBISD schools) allows for precise pricing and targeted marketing. This hyperlocal focus ensures that every aspect of your home's story is told effectively to the right buyers, a key reason they consistently outperform competitors and are considered the best realtor to sell my home in Ashford Forest.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for Ashford Forest home sales?

Choosing the Houston Properties Team provides a distinct advantage, backed by industry-leading recognition and a commitment to excellence. Their numerous accolades are a testament to their skill and dedication:

"#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 team's value proposition is further defined by clear, measurable results that directly benefit sellers. When you work with the top real estate agent in Ashford Forest, you gain access to a proven system for success:

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

If you're ready to sell your home in Ashford Forest and want to ensure you get the best possible outcome, the choice is clear. The Houston Properties Team offers the expertise, marketing power, and proven results necessary to navigate the market successfully. Don't leave money on the table; partner with the best. Contact Paige Martin at 713.425.4194 or [email protected] to get started today.

More Details

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends

The real estate market in Ashford Forest is closely tied to the health of the energy sector due to its location in the Energy Corridor. This results in a market that can be cyclical but has strong long-term fundamentals. Properties in Ashford Forest have shown consistent appreciation over time, making it a sound investment. The demand is driven by the neighborhood's desirable characteristics: excellent schools, large lots, and proximity to major employment hubs. Renovated homes command premium prices, indicating a strong return on investment for homeowners willing to update their properties. The area is also compared favorably to other neighborhoods with high land value appreciation, suggesting that the underlying asset—the land itself—is a significant part of the investment.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide

Ashford Forest offers a rich array of amenities. The Nottingham Forest Club is the centerpiece of community life, featuring a large clubhouse, three swimming pools including a 25-yard 6-lane pool and a baby pool, a competitive swim team (the Sharks), and five lighted tennis courts with year-round league play. Beyond the club, the neighborhood's southern border provides direct access to Terry Hershey Park, a premier destination for outdoor activities. The park contains over 10 miles of trails that are perfect for cycling, running, and nature walks along Buffalo Bayou. For shopping and entertainment, residents are minutes away from CityCentre, a high-end development with fine dining, retail stores, a movie theater, and a central plaza that hosts events. Town & Country Village offers additional shopping and restaurant options. Proximity to these amenities provides a lifestyle that balances suburban tranquility with urban conveniences.

School District Information and Private School Options

Ashford Forest is zoned to the Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD), a district recognized for its strong academic programs. The zoned schools are Meadow Wood Elementary, Spring Forest Middle School, and Stratford High School. All three schools are well-regarded and contribute significantly to the neighborhood's appeal. Stratford High School is particularly known for its competitive academic and athletic programs. SBISD offers various specialized programs, including language immersion and gifted and talented tracks, providing diverse educational opportunities. For those considering private education, a number of prestigious private schools are located within a short driving distance, including The Kinkaid School, St. John's School, and The Awty International School. This abundance of quality educational choices is a major draw for residents. Explore a comprehensive list of the best schools in Houston to see how SBISD compares.

Transportation and Commuting Details

One of Ashford Forest's key advantages is its accessibility. The neighborhood is ideally situated for commuting, particularly to the Energy Corridor, which is just minutes away. It is located south of Interstate 10 (the Katy Freeway), a major east-west artery through Houston, providing a direct route to Downtown Houston (approximately a 25-30 minute drive in typical traffic) and other business centers. Sam Houston Tollway (Beltway 8) is also easily accessible, offering a convenient loop around the city to reach destinations like the Galleria or the two major airports. Major surface streets like Memorial Drive, Westheimer Road, and Dairy Ashford Road provide alternative routes and access to local amenities. This excellent transportation network makes Ashford Forest one of the most accessible neighborhoods in West Houston.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

Ashford Forest is a deed-restricted community governed by the Ashford Forest Civic Club. The civic club is responsible for maintaining the neighborhood's aesthetic standards and enforcing deed restrictions. These restrictions cover various aspects of property maintenance, landscaping, and architectural modifications, ensuring that the community remains attractive and property values are protected. Before undertaking any exterior renovations or new construction, homeowners are typically required to submit plans for architectural review and approval. The active governance helps foster a strong sense of community pride and ensures a consistent, high-quality living environment. Residents pay a modest annual fee to the civic club to fund the maintenance of common areas and community initiatives.

Historical Development and Architectural Styles

The development of Ashford Forest began in the early 1960s, a time of rapid growth for Houston as the city expanded westward. The neighborhood was designed to cater to professionals and their households, offering spacious homes and a suburban lifestyle. The predominant architectural styles reflect this era, with a large number of single-story ranch-style homes and traditional two-story brick residences. These homes were built with quality craftsmanship and are set on generously sized lots, often a quarter-acre or larger, which is a rare feature in more modern developments. Many of these mid-century homes have been thoughtfully updated and expanded over the years, blending modern amenities with classic design. The result is a charming and diverse streetscape that maintains a cohesive and timeless appeal.

Local Area Zip Codes and Neighborhood Boundaries

Ashford Forest is located almost entirely within the 77079 zip code. This zip code is synonymous with the Energy Corridor and is one of the most desirable in West Houston. The neighborhood's geographical boundaries are clearly defined by major local landmarks and thoroughfares. The northern boundary runs along Memorial Drive, while the southern boundary is naturally formed by Buffalo Bayou. The western edge of the neighborhood is South Dairy Ashford Road, and the eastern edge extends towards the Sam Houston Tollway. These clear boundaries give Ashford Forest a distinct identity and contribute to its cohesive community feel.

For a personalized consultation or to learn more about available properties in Ashford Forest, connect with the Houston Properties Team at 713.425.4194 or email [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ashford Forest prone to flooding?

Ashford Forest experiences varying degrees of flood risk. Some sections have a lower flood plain designation than others. Prospective owners should review individual property flood maps and elevation certificates.

What are the commute times from Ashford Forest to downtown Houston?

Commute times from Ashford Forest to downtown Houston typically range from 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic patterns and specific routes utilized. Access to major thoroughfares expedites travel.

What architectural styles are prevalent in Ashford Forest?

Ashford Forest showcases primarily traditional architectural styles, with numerous homes built in the 1960s and 1970s. Many residences feature brick exteriors and spacious layouts.

How have property values in Ashford Forest performed recently?

Property values in Ashford Forest have shown consistent appreciation, reflecting demand for residences in the area. Market conditions influence annual growth rates.

What neighborhood amenities are near Ashford Forest?

Ashford Forest benefits from its location near numerous amenities, including Westheimer Road's retail and dining options. Local green spaces offer recreational opportunities.

Does Ashford Forest have deed restrictions or a homeowners association?

Ashford Forest maintains deed restrictions to uphold neighborhood standards. An active homeowners association oversees their enforcement and neighborhood enhancement initiatives.

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