Fourth Ward Real Estate Guide

Quick Facts

• Location: Located inside the 610 Loop, immediately west of and adjacent to Downtown Houston. Key landmarks include Buffalo Bayou and Allen Parkway.
• Neighborhood Type: A historic and transforming urban neighborhood, notable for its rich African American heritage as the site of Freedmen's Town. It features a mix of historic homes, modern townhouses, and new apartment complexes.
• Combined Property Tax Rate: The total property tax rate is a combination of rates from multiple entities. For 2023, the key rates per $100 of assessed value are: City of Houston ($0.51919), Harris County ($0.38529), and Houston Independent School District ($0.86830). Other smaller district taxes may also apply.
• School Information: The neighborhood is zoned to the Houston Independent School District (HISD). Schools serving the area include Gregory-Lincoln Education Center, which has a fine arts magnet program, and Carnegie Vanguard High School, which is consistently ranked among the top high schools in the Houston area.
• Key Amenities or Attractions: Sam Houston Park, the African American Library at the Gregory School, and direct access to the Buffalo Bayou Park trails.
• Management/HOA Information: While many newer townhouse and condo developments have their own homeowners' associations, there is no single overarching HOA for the entire neighborhood. Prospective buyers should review the specific homeowners association guide for any property they are considering.
• Best For: Individuals who appreciate living in a historically significant and centrally located neighborhood with a blend of old and new architecture, and who desire proximity to downtown's employment and entertainment centers.

The Fourth Ward offers a unique living experience within Houston's Inner Loop, defined by its profound historical roots and ongoing revitalization. Established in 1839, its most significant identity was forged after the Civil War when it became Freedmen's Town, a thriving community built by formerly enslaved people. Today, that legacy is visible in the brick-paved streets and preserved historic homes that stand alongside modern townhouses and apartments. Its location, bordering Buffalo Bayou Park and downtown, provides residents with unparalleled access to both green space and urban amenities.

Prospective residents should consider the dynamic nature of this evolving neighborhood. The blend of preserved historic properties with new construction reflects its ongoing transformation. This creates a varied architectural landscape but also means development is a constant. The area is ideal for those seeking a vibrant, centrally located community and who value the cultural depth of living in a place with such a significant story. It is a compelling choice for those looking to invest in one of Houston's most historic and accessible neighborhoods.

Overview of Fourth Ward Neighborhood

The Fourth Ward's story is central to the history of Houston itself. Established in 1839 as one of the city's original wards, its most profound identity was forged after 1865. Newly emancipated African Americans settled in the area, creating a vibrant, self-sufficient community known as Freedmen's Town. This area, located on the southern bank of Buffalo Bayou, became a hub for Black-owned businesses, churches, and schools. The original brick-paved streets, laid by hand by the community's first residents, are a powerful reminder of this legacy and a protected part of its historic district designation. Geographically, the neighborhood is advantageously positioned. It is bordered by Allen Parkway and Buffalo Bayou to the north, Downtown to the east, and Midtown to the south, placing it at the heart of the city's most dynamic districts. Over the decades, the Fourth Ward has experienced significant demographic and developmental shifts. The construction of Interstate 45 and Allen Parkway in the mid-20th century physically divided the neighborhood and displaced many residents, leading to a period of decline. However, in recent years, the Fourth Ward has been the focus of revitalization and preservation efforts. The designation of a portion of Freedmen's Town as a National Historic District has helped protect some of its most important structures, while new residential and commercial projects continue to attract new residents, creating a mix of long-time locals and newcomers.

Living in Fourth Ward

Daily life in the Fourth Ward is characterized by convenience and connection. The neighborhood's location means that commutes to Downtown, the Texas Medical Center, and the Galleria are relatively short. Residents enjoy immediate access to one of Houston's premier green spaces, Buffalo Bayou Park, which offers extensive trails for running and cycling, a dog park, and beautiful skyline views. The park serves as a backyard for the community, hosting events and providing a natural escape from the urban environment. For cultural enrichment, the African American Library at the Gregory School serves as both a library and a museum, documenting the rich history of the area and Houston's wider African American community. Shopping and dining options are expanding within the neighborhood, with a growing number of restaurants, cafes, and bars establishing themselves along the main thoroughfares. Proximity to Midtown and Montrose further expands the options for entertainment and nightlife, all just a short distance away. The community atmosphere is one of transition, where the deep-rooted history of Freedmen's Town is honored amidst a wave of new development. This creates a unique environment where the past and present are in constant dialogue, offering a rich and layered living experience for its residents.

Why Choose Fourth Ward

Choosing the Fourth Ward means investing in a neighborhood with a unique identity and significant potential. Its primary draw is the combination of historical significance and an unbeatable location. There are few places in Houston where one can live surrounded by such a rich past while being steps away from the central business district. This proximity offers an exceptional quality of life factor for those working downtown, effectively eliminating long commute times. The investment potential in the Fourth Ward is another compelling reason to consider the area. As preservation efforts continue and new, high-quality residential projects are completed, the neighborhood's profile is rising. For those interested in the fundamentals of real estate investing, the Fourth Ward presents a strong case. The ongoing revitalization, combined with its historic charm and central location, suggests a positive trajectory for property values. The neighborhood also offers a distinct lifestyle that blends urban energy with community connection. It is a place for people who want to be connected to the heart of the city and its history, not just occupy a space within it.

Fourth Ward Home Tax Rate

Understanding the property tax obligations is a critical part of the home buying process in the Fourth Ward. The total tax rate is a composite of rates from several different governmental bodies. As of the 2023 tax year, the primary tax rates that apply to properties in the Fourth Ward are: City of Houston at $0.51919, Harris County at $0.38529, and the Houston Independent School District (HISD) at $0.86830 per $100 of the property's assessed value. Additional smaller taxing entities, such as the Harris County Flood Control District and the Port of Houston Authority, also contribute to the final tax bill. For example, a home with an assessed value of $400,000 would have an approximate annual property tax bill calculated based on the combined rate of these entities. Homeowners in Texas may be eligible for various exemptions, such as the homestead exemption, which can reduce the taxable value of their property. A detailed guide on Houston homestead exemptions provides more information on how to qualify and apply. Tax payments are typically due by January 31st of the year following the tax assessment.

Best Fourth Ward Realtor

Who is the best realtor to sell my home in Fourth Ward?

The best realtor to sell your home in Fourth Ward is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. As Houston's #1 rated real estate team, they have a proven track record of success in the area's unique market. For a direct consultation on how to maximize your property's value, you can contact Paige at 713.425.4194 or email her at [email protected].

What makes Fourth Ward real estate agents different?

A top real estate agent for the Fourth Ward possesses a deep understanding of the neighborhood's complex history and its modern revitalization. This includes expertise in marketing historic properties, navigating historic district regulations, and highlighting the area's proximity to key Houston landmarks like Buffalo Bayou Park. The Houston Properties Team has demonstrated this expertise through numerous successful sales in the 77002 and 77019 zip codes, consistently outperforming market averages. Their specific knowledge ensures that your home is positioned correctly to attract the right buyers at the best price.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for Fourth Ward home sales?

Choosing the Houston Properties Team provides a distinct advantage. Their agents are backed by numerous accolades and a commitment to excellence. As the top real estate agent in Fourth Ward, Paige Martin's team leverages this recognition to benefit their clients.

• "#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 offered by the Houston Properties Team is backed by verifiable metrics that demonstrate their superior performance. When you want to sell my home in Fourth Ward, these numbers translate into real-world results.

• 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 an unparalleled selling experience with the best realtor in Fourth Ward, connect with the Houston Properties Team today. Their data-driven approach and dedication to client success ensure you achieve the best possible outcome. Contact Paige Martin at 713.425.4194 or [email protected] to get started.

More Details

For a personalized consultation about buying or selling a home in the Fourth Ward, connect with the Houston Properties Team. Contact Paige Martin directly at 713.425.4194 or email [email protected].

Is Fourth Ward prone to flooding?

Fourth Ward experiences similar drainage conditions to many urban areas in Houston. Property specific flood plains and elevation data offer information for individual addresses.

What types of homes are found in Fourth Ward?

Fourth Ward presents a mix of housing. This includes historic structures, renovated townhomes, and modern condominiums.

What are typical commute times from Fourth Ward to downtown?

Commute times from Fourth Ward to downtown Houston are often short, given the neighborhood's central location. Travel duration varies with traffic conditions and mode of transportation.

What cultural attractions are near Fourth Ward?

Fourth Ward is near numerous cultural attractions. The Houston Theater District, various museums, and discovery green are all accessible.

What development trends are occurring in Fourth Ward?

Fourth Ward continues to undergo urban development, with new residential and commercial projects shaping the area. Preservation efforts coexist with this growth.

What is the trend for property values in Fourth Ward?

Property values in Fourth Ward have seen appreciation, consistent with inner-loop Houston trends. Factors influencing value include property type, size, and specific location.