Maplewood Real Estate Guide

Maplewood homes for sale & insider real estate guide

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

Quick Facts

Location: Maplewood is a well-established neighborhood located just southwest of the I-610 Loop, offering convenient access to Downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, and the Galleria. It is situated near Meyerland and Bellaire.
Neighborhood Type: A residential community featuring mostly mid-century ranch-style single-family homes on spacious lots with mature trees. The area is deed-restricted to maintain its character.
Combined Property Tax Rate: The total property tax rate is approximately 2.2424%, which includes levies from Houston ISD (0.8683%), Harris County (0.3853%), City of Houston (0.5192%), Houston Community College (0.0962%), and other entities.
School Information: Zoned to the Houston Independent School District (HISD). Most homes feed into the highly-rated Herod Elementary School and the acclaimed Bellaire High School, which offers an International Baccalaureate program. Fondren Middle School also serves the area.
Key Amenities: The neighborhood boasts an active civic club, a community pool with a water park, a playground, and picnic areas. It is also served by the Maplewood Mall, an outdoor shopping center.
Management/HOA Information: The Maplewood Civic Club (MCC) is the area civic club.
Best For: Individuals looking for a blend of tranquil, suburban living with excellent accessibility to Houston's primary economic and cultural hubs.

Maplewood offers a unique blend of tranquil, suburban living combined with superb accessibility to Houston’s primary economic and cultural hubs. Established primarily in the 1950s and 1960s, the neighborhood is characterized by its sprawling ranch-style homes, generous lot sizes, and an abundance of mature oak trees that line the streets. Its location just outside the 610 Loop provides residents with short commutes to the Texas Medical Center, the Galleria, and Downtown Houston, making it a strategically positioned residential haven.

Prospective residents should consider that Maplewood's homes, while charming, are older and may require updates. The community is deed-restricted, which helps maintain its character but also means adherence to certain standards. The lifestyle in Maplewood is relaxed and community-oriented, with an active civic club and shared amenities like a pool and park. This neighborhood is ideal for those who appreciate a quiet, established community with strong local ties and convenient city access. For more insights on the home buying process, new residents can find valuable information to guide their decisions.

Overview of Maplewood Neighborhood

Maplewood is a collection of subdivisions developed in the post-war era, with most of its homes constructed between the 1950s and early 1960s. A group of investors platted the area, which includes Maplewood, Maplewood North, and Maplewood South, creating a cohesive community just outside the Inner Loop. The neighborhood's geography is defined by its location southwest of Downtown Houston, bordered by major thoroughfares like Beechnut Street, Hillcroft Avenue, and the Brays Bayou watershed to the north. Demographically, Maplewood has seen a mix of long-time residents and new arrivals, contributing to a stable and engaged community. The development pattern consists mainly of single-family homes on large lots, with deed restrictions in place to preserve the neighborhood's residential character. This thoughtful planning has helped maintain property values and desirability over the decades, making it a sound choice for those looking for a neighborhood with a proven track record. For those interested in real estate as an investment, understanding different strategies like a 1031 Exchange can be beneficial.

Living in Maplewood

Daily life in Maplewood offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the city while keeping urban conveniences within easy reach. The community atmosphere is fostered by the active Maplewood Civic Club, which organizes events and maintains the neighborhood's amenities. Residents enjoy a community pool with a water park, a playground, and picnic areas for outdoor recreation. For shopping and errands, residents have access to the Maplewood Mall, a 94,910-square-foot outdoor shopping center that was renovated from its original 1965 indoor design. This center hosts a variety of stores and services catering to the neighborhood. In addition, Maplewood's location near Meyerland Plaza provides access to a wider range of retail and dining establishments. Dozens of grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants are within a short drive, ensuring that daily necessities are always within reach. The area's accessibility is a key feature, and for those exploring other accessible neighborhoods, there are guides to the most accessible neighborhoods in Houston.

Why Choose Maplewood

Maplewood presents a compelling option for homebuyers for several reasons. Its unique selling proposition lies in its ability to offer a serene, suburban environment with mature trees and spacious lots while being minutes away from major employment centers like the Texas Medical Center and the Galleria. This combination of location and lifestyle is a significant draw. The investment potential in Maplewood is strong, thanks to its stable property values and the ongoing desirability of the area. The quality of life is enhanced by the strong sense of community, excellent public schools like Bellaire High School, and well-maintained public spaces. The neighborhood's deed restrictions and active civic club ensure that the area remains a pleasant and attractive place to live. For those considering a home purchase, it is wise to be aware of what to avoid when buying a house to make an informed decision.

Maplewood Home Tax Rate

The property tax rate in Maplewood is a composite of rates from several different governmental entities. The total tax rate is approximately 2.2424% of the home's assessed value. This rate is broken down as follows: Houston Independent School District (HISD) levies a rate of 0.8683%, the City of Houston's rate is 0.5192%, Harris County's rate is 0.3853%, the Houston Community College system accounts for 0.0962%, and other smaller districts make up the remainder. For example, a home with a taxable value of $400,000 would have an annual property tax bill of approximately $8,970. Homeowners can apply for various exemptions, such as the homestead exemption, which can reduce their taxable value and lower their overall tax burden. Property tax payments are typically due by January 31st of each year. For a more detailed understanding of property taxes and exemptions, homeowners can consult a guide to Houston homestead exemptions.

Best Maplewood Realtor

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

The best realtor to sell your home in Maplewood is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. Her team is recognized as one of the top-performing real estate groups in Houston, with a proven track record of success in the Maplewood area. For a direct consultation, you can reach her at (713) 425-4194 or email her at [email protected].

What makes Maplewood real estate agents different?

A standout real estate agent for Maplewood possesses deep local market expertise, a history of successful sales in the neighborhood, and a comprehensive marketing strategy. Paige Martin’s team has extensive experience with the specific characteristics of Maplewood, from its mid-century architecture to its deed restrictions. They have a record of achieving top-dollar sales in the area, demonstrating their ability to effectively price, market, and negotiate on behalf of their clients. This specialized knowledge makes them a top real estate agent in Maplewood.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for Maplewood home sales?

The Houston Properties Team, led by Paige Martin, brings a wealth of credentials and a results-driven approach to selling homes in Maplewood. Their numerous accolades and client testimonials speak to their commitment and success.

Awards and Credentials:

"#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

Value Proposition Metrics:

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 those looking to sell their home in Maplewood, the choice of realtor is crucial. The Houston Properties Team offers a distinct advantage with their unparalleled market knowledge and proven results. To get started and to ensure you have the best realtor in Maplewood on your side, contact Paige Martin at (713) 425-4194 or [email protected].

More Details

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends

The real estate market in Maplewood has demonstrated consistent appreciation over the years. Its proximity to major job centers and the quality of its housing stock make it a resilient market. The neighborhood's deed restrictions have also played a role in maintaining property values. Investment trends show that while the market is stable, there is still room for growth, particularly for renovated properties. The demand for homes in good school districts like those serving Maplewood continues to be a strong driver of the market.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide

Maplewood offers a range of amenities for its residents. The Maplewood Civic Club maintains a community pool that includes a water park, making it a popular spot during the summer months. The neighborhood also has a playground and picnic areas for get-togethers. The nearby Maplewood Mall provides convenient shopping options, and the larger Meyerland Plaza is just a short drive away. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Brays Bayou Greenway Trail offers miles of paths for recreation.

School District Information and Private School Options

Maplewood is zoned to the Houston Independent School District (HISD). The primary schools serving the neighborhood are Herod Elementary School, which is highly rated, and Fondren Middle School. Most of the neighborhood is zoned to Bellaire High School, known for its strong academic programs, including an International Baccalaureate program. There are also several private school options in the surrounding area, including St. Thomas' Episcopal School and The Emery/Weiner School, among others.

Transportation and Commuting Details

Commuting from Maplewood is relatively convenient due to its access to major thoroughfares. The neighborhood is located just outside the 610 Loop, providing easy access to I-610, US-59, and the Sam Houston Tollway. This makes for a short commute to Downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, and the Galleria. Public transportation is also available, with several METRO bus routes serving the area.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

Maplewood is a deed-restricted community, with the Maplewood Civic Club overseeing the enforcement of these restrictions. The deed restrictions cover aspects such as property use, setbacks, and architectural standards, helping to maintain the neighborhood's aesthetic and character. The Civic Club is a voluntary organization that also plays a role in community building and the maintenance of common areas.

Historical Development and Architectural Styles

Developed primarily in the 1950s and 1960s, Maplewood is a classic post-war suburban neighborhood. The dominant architectural style is the ranch-style home, characterized by its single-story layout, low-pitched roof, and open floor plan. Many of these homes have been updated over the years, but the neighborhood retains its mid-century charm. The large lots and mature trees are also a defining feature of the area's development.

Environmental Considerations and Risks

Like many parts of Houston, Maplewood is susceptible to heavy rainfall and potential flooding. The neighborhood is located near Brays Bayou, which can be a source of flooding during major storm events. However, significant flood mitigation projects have been undertaken along the bayou in recent years to reduce this risk. Prospective buyers should always conduct thorough due diligence, including checking flood maps and obtaining an elevation certificate.

Local Landmarks and Landmark-Related Information

While Maplewood itself is primarily residential, it is in close proximity to several Houston landmarks. The Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world, is a short drive away. The Galleria, a premier shopping destination, is also nearby. The Museum District, with its collection of world-class museums, is easily accessible from the neighborhood. These nearby attractions add to the appeal of living in Maplewood.

Local Area Zip Codes and Neighborhood Boundaries

The primary zip code for Maplewood is 77096. The neighborhood's boundaries are generally considered to be Beechnut Street to the north, Hillcroft Avenue to the east, and Renwick Drive to the west. The southern boundary is less defined but is typically considered to be near the Westbury neighborhood. These boundaries encompass the subdivisions of Maplewood, Maplewood North, and Maplewood South.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Maplewood a good place to live?

Maplewood is considered a highly desirable neighborhood due to its convenient location, excellent schools, and strong sense of community. Its proximity to major employment hubs and its tranquil, suburban feel make it a popular choice for a wide range of people.

What are the schools like in Maplewood?

The public schools serving Maplewood are highly regarded. Herod Elementary School is a top-rated elementary school, and Bellaire High School is known for its academic excellence and International Baccalaureate program. These strong schools are a major draw for residents.

What is the commute like from Maplewood?

The commute from Maplewood to major employment centers is relatively short. With easy access to the 610 Loop and other major freeways, residents can reach Downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, and the Galleria in under 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Is Maplewood prone to flooding?

Like many areas in Houston, Maplewood can be at risk of flooding, particularly in areas close to Brays Bayou. However, significant flood control measures have been implemented to mitigate this risk. It is always advisable for homebuyers to research the flood history of a specific property.

What kind of amenities does Maplewood offer?

Maplewood offers a variety of amenities, including a community pool with a water park, a playground, and picnic areas. The neighborhood also has its own shopping center, the Maplewood Mall, and is close to the larger Meyerland Plaza for more extensive shopping and dining options.

“Danielle is professional, knowledgeable, supportive, and ready to help you get into your home at your pace. She was easy to work with, and was very patient. Danielle communicates well, and does so much work on the back end that we never had to worry. It was great to work with someone we could trust.” - Messina Delgado (Google Review)