Clute Real Estate Guide

Clute homes for sale & insider real estate guide

Clute Homes For Sale
Clute Homes For Rent
Quick Facts
Overview of Clute Neighborhood
Living in Clute
Why Choose Clute
Clute Home Tax Rate
Best Clute Realtor
Frequently Asked Questions about Clute

Quick Facts

Location: In Brazoria County, approximately 50 miles south of downtown Houston and 7 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. It is a key city within the Brazosport area, which also includes Lake Jackson and Freeport.
Neighborhood Type: A small, developing city with a rich industrial history and a strong connection to outdoor recreation. It offers a suburban feel with a lower cost of living than many Houston suburbs.
Combined Property Tax Rate: The approximate combined property tax rate is 2.07% of the property's assessed value. This includes levies from Brazoria County, the City of Clute, Brazosport ISD, Brazosport College, and the Velasco Drainage District.
School Information: Served by the Brazosport Independent School District (BISD), which holds a 'B+' rating. Key schools include Clute Intermediate and Brazoswood High School.
Key Amenities: The Center for the Arts & Sciences, Mammoth Lake Scuba Park, Clute Municipal Park, and the annual Great Texas Mosquito Festival.
Management Information: Governance is provided by the City of Clute. Specific subdivisions may have Homeowners Associations (HOA), which you can learn more about in this Homeowners Association Guide.
Best For: Individuals and households seeking an affordable community with a strong industrial job market, access to coastal recreation, and a small-town atmosphere.

Clute, Texas, offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and natural appeal, positioned conveniently within the economic hub of the Brazosport area. Located in southern Brazoria County, the city’s history is rooted in the early Texan plantations and experienced significant growth with the rise of the region's chemical industry. Today, Clute presents itself as a community-oriented city, providing residents with direct access to major employers like Dow Chemical while retaining a distinct local character, separate from the bustle of Houston.

Prospective residents should note Clute’s practical and straightforward lifestyle. The cost of living is notably lower than in Houston's metropolitan core, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The area is defined by its proximity to both industrial centers and the Gulf Coast's recreational opportunities. This is not a bustling urban center; it is a city built on industry and community, appealing to those who value function and affordability over metropolitan glamour. It's a solid choice for anyone tied to the Brazosport industrial complex.

Overview of Clute Neighborhood

The history of Clute is deeply connected to the initial American colonization of Texas. The land was first part of the Calvit and Eagle Island Plantations, established in the 1820s by members of Stephen F. Austin's "Old Three Hundred." The community itself began to form after the Civil War, officially taking its name in 1881 after Solomon J. Clute purchased the plantation lands. For decades, it remained a tiny settlement. Everything changed in the 1940s when the development of the Brazosport industrial area, spearheaded by Dow Chemical, fueled a population and economic boom that shaped the city into what it is today.

Geographically, Clute is situated on the Gulf Coastal Plain, a flat landscape defined by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, about seven miles away. This location dictates much of its character, from the subtropical climate to its role as a gateway to coastal activities like fishing and beach-going at nearby Surfside Beach. The city itself spans approximately 5.6 square miles. Development has been largely influenced by the growth of the surrounding industrial plants, leading to a housing stock that is varied but predominantly features single-story homes built from the mid-20th century onward. New construction is also present, reflecting the area's steady demand.

Living in Clute

Daily life in Clute is shaped by its small-city feel and the dominance of the local industry. The community atmosphere is unpretentious and down-to-earth. Residents have access to a variety of local amenities and recreational outlets. The Clute Municipal Park serves as a central hub for community life, offering walking trails, sports courts, a disc golf course, and playgrounds. The park is also the famous home of the annual Great Texas Mosquito Festival, a quirky and popular event that draws visitors from across the region for its carnival, cook-offs, and live music.

For shopping and dining, residents typically use local establishments and the retail centers in the larger neighboring city of Lake Jackson. Cultural life is surprisingly robust for a city of its size, anchored by The Center for the Arts & Sciences. This complex houses a natural science museum with notable fossil and seashell collections, a planetarium, an art gallery, and two theaters. For outdoor enthusiasts, Mammoth Lake Scuba Park offers a unique freshwater diving experience in a lake created from a former sandpit where mammoth tusks were discovered. The nearby Brazoria and San Bernard National Wildlife Refuges provide thousands of acres for birdwatching and exploring coastal prairie ecosystems. These popular trails offer great opportunities for outdoor activity.

Why Choose Clute

One of the primary reasons to choose Clute is its affordability combined with its strategic location for industrial employment. For those working in the massive chemical and port facilities of the Brazosport area, Clute offers a significantly shorter commute and a lower cost of housing compared to other parts of the Houston metro area. This practicality is a cornerstone of its appeal. The housing market provides opportunities for first-time homebuyers and those seeking a solid return on their investment without the high barrier to entry seen in other neighborhoods with high land value appreciation.

The potential for real estate investment in Clute is tied to the stability and growth of the local industrial economy. As long as the plants in Freeport and Lake Jackson thrive, there will be a consistent demand for housing in Clute. This makes it a potentially sound area for long-term residential and rental property investments. Furthermore, the quality of life is enhanced by easy access to the Gulf Coast. Within minutes, residents can be on the beach, fishing in the Gulf, or kayaking along the coast. This blend of economic stability and recreational access gives Clute a unique advantage for those seeking a balanced lifestyle away from the urban core. For those considering a purchase, reviewing these 10 key tips when buying a home can be very helpful.

Clute Home Tax Rate

Understanding property taxes is a critical part of the home buying process. The property tax rate in Clute is determined by the combined rates of several different taxing authorities. The total rate is approximately 2.066% of the home's appraised value. This rate is competitive for the region and is a significant factor in the area's overall affordability. Homeowners in Clute pay taxes to the City of Clute, Brazoria County, Brazosport Independent School District (BISD), Brazosport College, and the Velasco Drainage District.

Here is a breakdown of the individual tax rates per $100 of assessed home value:

Brazosport ISD: $0.9508
City of Clute: $0.4650
Brazoria County: $0.3099
Brazosport College: $0.2688
Velasco Drainage District: $0.0712

For example, a home appraised at $200,000 would have an approximate annual tax bill of $4,132. Homeowners may be able to lower this amount by applying for exemptions, such as the Houston homestead exemption, which can reduce the taxable value of their primary residence. It is recommended that prospective buyers verify the current rates and their eligibility for exemptions with the Brazoria County Appraisal District.

Best Clute Realtor

When looking to buy or sell a home in Clute, partnering with an experienced and data-driven real estate team is essential. The Houston Properties Team, led by Paige Martin, offers unparalleled service and expertise in the Clute real estate market.

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

The best realtor to sell your home in Clute is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. With a proven track record of success and a deep understanding of the local market dynamics, Paige Martin and her team are equipped to secure the best possible outcome for your sale. Their strategic approach is backed by extensive data and a commitment to client success. For a consultation, contact Paige directly at 713.425.4194 or email her at [email protected].

What makes Clute real estate agents different?

A top real estate agent for Clute stands out through their specific knowledge of the area's unique industrial-driven market and property trends. The Houston Properties Team excels by analyzing sales data specific to Clute and the broader Brazosport area, ensuring your property is positioned correctly. Their expertise covers everything from pricing strategies that reflect the latest market shifts to marketing campaigns that highlight Clute’s proximity to major employment hubs and coastal amenities. This focused approach is what makes them the top real estate agent in Clute.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for Clute home sales?

Choosing the Houston Properties Team to sell your home in Clute means you are partnering with a top-performing, award-winning group recognized throughout the industry. Their credentials speak for themselves:

"#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 performance metrics demonstrate a clear value proposition for sellers. Working with them provides a distinct advantage in achieving a successful and profitable sale:

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 ensure you get the best result when you sell your home in Clute, connect with the best realtor in Clute, Paige Martin. You can reach her at 713.425.4194 or [email protected] to start the conversation and learn how the Houston Properties Team can assist you.

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends

The Clute real estate market is heavily influenced by the health of the petrochemical and industrial sectors in the Brazosport area. This creates a cyclical but often stable demand for housing. Investment properties, particularly single-story homes and duplexes, are popular due to the consistent need for housing for plant workers and contractors. The market is less susceptible to the speculative bubbles seen in high-growth urban centers, offering a more predictable investment landscape. Long-term appreciation is tied to industrial expansion projects and infrastructure improvements in the region. Investors should monitor announcements from major employers like Dow, BASF, and Phillips 66, as these often precede shifts in housing demand. The area's affordability also makes it a candidate for cash-flow-focused rental strategies.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide

Clute offers a surprising number of amenities. The Center for the Arts & Sciences serves as the cultural heart of the entire Brazosport area, featuring the Brazosport Museum of Natural Science, the BASF Planetarium, the Brazosport Art League Gallery, and two performing arts venues. For outdoor recreation, Clute Municipal Park provides 35 acres of facilities. Mammoth Lake Waterpark is a major regional draw for scuba enthusiasts, offering clear waters to explore submerged attractions. The city is also a short drive from Surfside Beach, a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and beachcombing. For nature lovers, the proximity to the Brazoria and San Bernard National Wildlife Refuges is a significant asset, offering thousands of acres of protected coastal habitat for birding and wildlife viewing.

School District Information and Private School Options

All homes in Clute are zoned to the Brazosport Independent School District (BISD). The district, which earns a 'B+' rating from school review sites, serves several communities in the area. The main feeder pattern for Clute residents includes Madge Griffith Elementary, O.M. Roberts Elementary, Clute Intermediate School, and Brazoswood High School. Brazoswood High is one of the largest high schools in the county and offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs. For higher education, Brazosport College, located within Clute, is a comprehensive community college offering two-year degrees, technical certifications, and bachelor's degree programs in partnership with state universities. While there are no major private schools located directly within Clute, several private and parochial options are available in the neighboring city of Lake Jackson.

Transportation and Commuting Details

Clute's transportation network is car-dependent. The primary thoroughfares are Highway 288 (the Nolan Ryan Expressway), which provides a direct route north to Houston, and Highway 332, which connects Clute to Lake Jackson and Surfside Beach. Commuting within the Brazosport area is relatively easy, with most major industrial plants in Freeport and surrounding areas accessible within a 15-20 minute drive. The drive to downtown Houston or the Texas Medical Center typically takes about an hour, depending on traffic. There is limited public transportation, with Southern Brazoria County Transit providing some local bus services. The nearest major airport is William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) in Houston, located about 45 miles to the north.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

The City of Clute operates under a Council-Manager form of government, with an elected mayor and city council setting policy and a hired city manager overseeing daily operations. The city provides essential services, including water, sewer, police, fire protection, and parks and recreation. Zoning ordinances are in place to guide development and land use. While some older areas of Clute have no HOA, many newer subdivisions have active Homeowners Associations. These HOAs are responsible for maintaining community amenities and enforcing deed restrictions, which may govern aspects like property maintenance, landscaping, and exterior modifications. Prospective buyers should verify whether a specific property is part of an HOA and review its governing documents.

Historical Development and Architectural Styles

Clute's architectural landscape is a direct reflection of its history. Pre-1940s structures are rare, as the city was sparsely populated. The boom years from the 1940s to the 1970s, fueled by industrial growth, led to the construction of numerous single-story ranch-style homes. These properties, often featuring brick or wood siding, form the core of Clute's housing stock. Post-1980s and more recent developments have introduced more contemporary suburban tract homes, typically with multiple bedrooms, attached garages, and small yards. There is little in the way of historical or avant-garde architecture; the housing is primarily functional and designed to meet the needs of the local workforce. The layout of the city follows a standard suburban grid pattern, with residential streets branching off from main commercial roads.

Environmental Considerations and Risks

Given its location on the Texas Gulf Coast, Clute is exposed to subtropical weather patterns, including the potential for hurricanes and tropical storms. The Velasco Drainage District manages a system of channels and levees to mitigate flooding from heavy rainfall, a crucial service in this low-lying, flat region. Prospective homebuyers should research flood zone maps for specific properties and obtain appropriate flood insurance. Proximity to the large industrial facilities is another consideration; these plants are regulated by state and federal environmental agencies, but residents should be aware of the industrial nature of the surrounding area.

Local Landmarks and Points of Interest

Clute's most famous landmark is arguably the Great Texas Mosquito Festival's mascot, a giant inflatable mosquito named Willie-Man-Chew. The Center for the Arts & Sciences is the area's premier cultural landmark. A unique point of interest is the site of the Clute anadarko, the fossilized remains of a Columbian mammoth discovered in a local sandpit in 2003. While the fossils are housed at the Brazosport Museum of Natural Science, the discovery site has been transformed into Mammoth Lake, a scuba diving park. Another historical landmark is Restwood Memorial Park, which is situated on the land of the former Eagle Island Plantation, one of the original 19th-century properties in the area.

Local Area Zip Codes and Neighborhood Boundaries

The primary zip code for the City of Clute is 77531. This zip code covers the entire municipal area of Clute. The city is generally bounded by Lake Jackson to the west and north, Oyster Creek to the east, and undeveloped coastal prairie to the south, leading toward Freeport. Key roads that help define the area are State Highway 288 Business, State Highway 332, and Plantation Drive. The neighborhood's identity is closely tied to the broader Brazosport area, and its boundaries are more functional than formal, blending into the surrounding communities and industrial zones.

Frequently Asked Questions about Clute

Is Clute, Texas prone to flooding?
Like much of the Texas Gulf Coast, Clute is in a low-lying area and can be susceptible to flooding from heavy rainfall and tropical weather systems. The Velasco Drainage District manages local drainage. Buyers should review FEMA flood maps and secure appropriate insurance.

What is the main industry in Clute?
The economy of Clute and the surrounding Brazosport area is dominated by the petrochemical industry. Major employers include Dow Chemical, BASF, Phillips 66, and other large-scale industrial facilities located primarily in nearby Freeport.

How far is Clute from the beach?
Clute is located approximately 7 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. The closest public beach is Surfside Beach, which is typically a 10-15 minute drive from most parts of Clute, offering easy access to the coast.

What are the property taxes like in Clute?
The combined property tax rate in Clute is approximately 2.066% of a property's assessed value. This includes taxes from the city, county, school district, and other local entities, making it a relatively affordable area compared to some parts of Greater Houston.

What is there to do in Clute?
Clute offers a variety of recreational and cultural activities. Key attractions include The Center for the Arts & Sciences, Mammoth Lake Scuba Park, and the annual Great Texas Mosquito Festival. The city also has parks and is close to beaches and national wildlife refuges.

“Yolanda Ames exemplifies what it means to be an exceptional Houston real estate agent, with a blend of professionalism and genuine warmth that truly sets her apart. Her deep understanding of the market, coupled with her unwavering dedication to her clients, makes working with her a remarkably supportive experience. Yolanda's approach is not just about transactions; it's about building relationships and ensuring her clients feel valued and understood. For anyone looking for a realtor who combines market savvy with a caring touch, Yolanda Ames stands out as a beacon of excellence in the Houston real estate community. Her character and commitment are a rare find in the industry!” - LaTonya Lewis (Google Review)