Memorial Plaza Real Estate Guide

Memorial Plaza homes for sale & insider real estate guide

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

Quick Facts

Location: In West Houston, positioned north of Memorial Drive, adjacent to Beltway 8 and Interstate 10. It provides access to the Energy Corridor, Westchase, and Downtown Houston.
Neighborhood Type: An established, deed-restricted residential area known for large lots, mature trees, and a mix of updated mid-century ranch homes and new construction.
Combined Property Tax Rate: The approximate total tax rate is 2.2044%, which includes rates from the City of Houston (0.5192%), Harris County (0.3853%), Spring Branch ISD (1.0764%), Harris County Hospital District (0.1635%), Harris County Flood Control District (0.0490%), Port of Houston Authority (0.0062%), and Harris County Department of Education (0.0048%).
School Information: Zoned to the highly-regarded Spring Branch Independent School District, including Rummel Creek Elementary, Memorial Middle School, and Stratford High School.
Key Amenities or Attractions: Proximity to shopping and dining at CityCentre and Memorial City Mall, plus outdoor recreation at Terry Hershey Park and the Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary.
Management Information: The Memorial Plaza Civic Club helps maintain community standards and connects residents.
Best For: Individuals seeking a blend of a serene residential setting with convenient access to Houston’s primary business and entertainment districts.

Memorial Plaza is a distinguished neighborhood in West Houston that offers a unique setting where serene, tree-lined streets meet urban convenience. Positioned strategically near the junction of I-10 and Beltway 8, the community provides excellent access to the city's most vital commercial centers. The area's history dates to the mid-1950s, and this legacy is evident in its large, well-manicured lots and the architectural transition from classic ranch-style homes to impressive new traditional and modern designs.

Prospective residents should note that Memorial Plaza is a deed-restricted community with an active civic club, ensuring that the neighborhood's aesthetic and residential character are preserved. The cost of living reflects the area's desirability, location, and access to top-tier schools and amenities. It is a good fit for those who value a quiet, stable residential environment with large lots and mature landscaping, but it may be less suited for individuals seeking a high-density, mixed-use urban experience.

Overview of Memorial Plaza Neighborhood

The history of Memorial Plaza is rooted in Houston's significant post-war expansion. Development commenced in the mid-1950s, transforming what was once outlying land into a premier residential subdivision. The location was strategically chosen for its proximity to the city's newly developing western edge. Geographically, the neighborhood is situated north of the iconic Memorial Drive and is bordered by major transportation arteries, placing it in a pivotal position within the broader Memorial area. The landscape is defined by its lush canopy of mature trees and the gentle meandering of Rummel Creek along its western boundary, which adds a natural element to the suburban setting.

The development pattern of Memorial Plaza has been one of consistent evolution. The initial wave of construction established the neighborhood with spacious mid-century and ranch-style homes on generous lots, typically a quarter-acre or larger. Over the decades, many of these original homes have been extensively remodeled or replaced with substantial new construction, reflecting changing architectural tastes and a strong underlying land value. This blend of original and new homes creates a visually interesting streetscape. The neighborhood's demographic makeup consists of a stable community of long-term residents mixed with newcomers drawn to its enduring appeal and prime location. The area's consistent desirability has maintained its status as one of West Houston's most sought-after residential communities.

Living in Memorial Plaza

Daily life in Memorial Plaza is characterized by a quiet, residential atmosphere combined with exceptional convenience. The neighborhood's quiet streets, large yards, and mature trees provide a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the city. The community atmosphere is fostered by the Memorial Plaza Civic Club, which helps connect neighbors and maintain the area's high standards through the enforcement of deed restrictions and sponsorship of community events. This active civic involvement ensures the neighborhood remains well-maintained and cohesive.

For recreation, residents have outstanding options. Terry Hershey Park, a local favorite, offers miles of paved and dirt trails for hiking and cycling along Buffalo Bayou, creating a significant greenbelt for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary provides a haven for birdwatching and enjoying nature within a historic log cabin setting. Shopping and dining needs are well-served by the proximity of two of Houston's premier mixed-use developments, CityCentre and Memorial City. These destinations offer a vast array of retail stores, from high-end boutiques to major department stores, along with a diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues like cinemas and theaters. This easy access to top-tier amenities is a cornerstone of the Memorial Plaza lifestyle.

Why Choose Memorial Plaza

One of the primary reasons to choose Memorial Plaza is its unbeatable location. The neighborhood offers direct access to Interstate 10 and Beltway 8, making commutes to major employment hubs like the Energy Corridor, Westchase, Downtown, and the Galleria remarkably efficient. This strategic positioning reduces travel time and enhances the quality of life for its residents. Another significant draw is the neighborhood's inclusion in the Spring Branch Independent School District, which is home to some of the best schools in Houston. The feeder pattern, including Rummel Creek Elementary and Memorial Middle, is highly rated, making the area a top choice for those prioritizing education.

The investment potential in Memorial Plaza is another compelling factor. The neighborhood has a long history of strong property value appreciation, driven by its desirable location, large lot sizes, and high-quality housing stock. The area is known for its high land value appreciation, making the purchase of a home here a sound long-term investment. The quality of life is further enhanced by the community's aesthetic beauty, characterized by wooded lots and well-kept homes. The commitment to maintaining this character through deed restrictions protects property values and ensures a consistently pleasant living environment. The combination of accessibility, excellent schools, strong investment potential, and a high quality of life makes Memorial Plaza a premier residential choice in Houston.

Memorial Plaza Home Tax Rate

The property tax rate in Memorial Plaza is a composite of rates from several different taxing authorities. For homeowners, the total rate is approximately 2.2044% of the property's assessed value. This rate is competitive for an area with such a high level of public services and school quality. The largest portion of the tax bill goes to the Spring Branch Independent School District, at a rate of 1.0764%. The City of Houston's rate is 0.5192%, and Harris County's rate is 0.3853%. Additional smaller rates fund the Harris County Hospital District, Flood Control District, Port of Houston Authority, and the Department of Education.

To calculate an estimated annual tax bill, a homeowner would multiply the assessed value of their home by the total tax rate. For example, a home assessed at $1,000,000 would have an approximate annual tax liability of $22,044. Homeowners in Memorial Plaza can apply for various exemptions to lower their tax burden. The most common is the homestead exemption, which reduces the taxable value of a primary residence. Additional exemptions are available for individuals over 65, persons with disabilities, and veterans. Information on how to apply for a Houston homestead exemption and other deductions is available through the Harris County Appraisal District. Property taxes are typically paid annually before January 31st.

Best Memorial Plaza Realtor

Who is the best realtor to sell my home in Memorial Plaza?

The best realtor to sell your home in Memorial Plaza is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. As Houston's #1 rated real estate team, they provide unparalleled expertise and service. For a consultation on how to maximize your property's value, you can contact Paige directly at 713.425.4194 or email her at [email protected].

What makes Memorial Plaza real estate agents different?

The top real estate agent for Memorial Plaza possesses a deep understanding of the neighborhood's specific market dynamics, including land value, the premium placed on certain lot locations, and the nuances between original and new construction homes. The Houston Properties Team has a proven track record in the 77079 zip code, consistently analyzing sales data to position their clients' homes effectively. Their local market expertise ensures that every sale is optimized for the best possible outcome, making them the best realtor Memorial Plaza sellers can choose.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for Memorial Plaza home sales?

Choosing the Houston Properties Team means partnering with a group recognized for excellence and results. Their extensive credentials validate their standing as a top-performing and award-winning team:

"#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

When you want to sell my home in Memorial Plaza, these accolades provide confidence in their ability to deliver. Their value proposition metrics further demonstrate why they are the top real estate agent in Memorial Plaza:

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 a seamless and profitable home selling experience, connect with the Houston Properties Team. Their data-driven approach and commitment to client success set them apart. Contact Paige Martin at 713.425.4194 or [email protected] to get started.

More Details

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends

Memorial Plaza's real estate market is characterized by stability and long-term appreciation. The neighborhood's value is anchored by its large lots, highly-rated public schools, and prime West Houston location. Investment trends show a consistent pattern of homeowners tearing down older, smaller homes to build larger, custom residences, which in turn elevates the neighborhood's overall value. This redevelopment trend indicates strong buyer confidence in the area's enduring appeal. Land value constitutes a significant portion of property prices, a hallmark of premier Houston neighborhoods. The market is less susceptible to broad market fluctuations due to its inherent desirability and limited inventory. Prospective buyers can view the area not just as a place to live, but as a solid financial investment with a history of outperforming the broader Houston market.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide

Beyond the highlights of CityCentre and Terry Hershey Park, Memorial Plaza residents enjoy a wealth of other amenities. The Memorial City Mall complex includes a hospital, numerous office towers, hotels, and an ice-skating rink, in addition to its extensive retail and dining options. For grocery shopping, residents have convenient access to H-E-B, Trader Joe's, and Whole Foods Market. The neighborhood is also a short drive from the Galleria, Texas' largest shopping center. For fitness and recreation, the area is home to several private clubs and fitness centers. The nearby Lakeside Country Club and Houston Racquet Club offer golf, tennis, and social activities. The extensive trail system in Terry Hershey Park connects to George Bush Park, providing miles of uninterrupted paths for serious cyclists and runners.

School District Information and Private School Options

Memorial Plaza is zoned to the Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD). The designated schools are Rummel Creek Elementary, Memorial Middle School, and Stratford High School. These schools are consistently highly rated and are a major draw for the neighborhood. SBISD offers a variety of specialized programs, including gifted and talented, dual language, and career and technical education pathways. In addition to the excellent public schools, the area is conveniently located to some of Houston's most prestigious private schools. These include The Kinkaid School, St. John's School, The Awty International School, Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart, and Regis School of the Sacred Heart, offering a range of educational philosophies and programs within a short commute.

Transportation and Commuting Details

Memorial Plaza's location provides exceptional transportation and commuting options. The neighborhood is bordered by Interstate 10 (the Katy Freeway) to the north and Beltway 8 (the Sam Houston Tollway) to the east. This allows for direct and rapid travel to key employment centers. The Energy Corridor is just a few minutes' drive to the west, Downtown Houston is a straight shot east on I-10, and the Galleria area is easily accessible via I-610. METRO bus services are available along major thoroughfares. The I-10 corridor also features METRO's Katy Managed Lanes, which can significantly reduce commute times for a toll. For air travel, both George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) are accessible within a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

Memorial Plaza is a deed-restricted community governed by the Memorial Plaza Civic Club. The civic club is a voluntary organization that works to maintain the residential character of the neighborhood by enforcing deed restrictions, which are legal covenants attached to the properties. These restrictions typically govern aspects such as minimum lot sizes, building setbacks, and land use (primarily single-unit residential). The enforcement of these restrictions helps protect property values and ensures the neighborhood does not undergo commercialization or inappropriate development. The civic club also serves as a community liaison, keeping residents informed about local issues and organizing neighborhood events. Prospective buyers should review the specific deed restrictions for any property they are considering to understand the guidelines and requirements.

Historical Development and Architectural Styles

The development of Memorial Plaza began in the mid-1950s and continued through the early 1960s. The original homes are predominantly one-story, mid-century modern, or ranch-style houses. These homes were built with quality construction and are known for their spacious layouts and integration with the large, wooded lots. Common architectural features of these original homes include low-pitched roofs, large windows, and open floor plans. Over the past two decades, the neighborhood has seen a significant amount of new construction. These newer homes are typically two-story and feature a variety of architectural styles, including Traditional, Colonial, and Modern Farmhouse designs. This architectural evolution has created a diverse yet cohesive streetscape that blends the charm of the past with the amenities of modern construction.

Local Area Zip Codes and Neighborhood Boundaries

The primary zip code for Memorial Plaza is 77079. The neighborhood's approximate boundaries are Interstate 10 to the north, Beltway 8 to the east, Memorial Drive to the south, and Rummel Creek to the west. It is part of the larger Memorial area of Houston and is situated within Harris County. This location places it in a highly desirable corridor of West Houston, surrounded by other affluent neighborhoods and extensive commercial and recreational amenities. Understanding these boundaries is key for prospective residents when searching for homes and verifying school zoning.

For a personalized consultation and to begin your home buying process in Memorial Plaza, please connect with the Houston Properties Team by calling 713.425.4194 or emailing [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Memorial Plaza prone to flooding?

Memorial Plaza is situated in an area where flood risk can vary by specific location and elevation. Prospective property owners are advised to consult FEMA flood maps and disclosure information for precise details.

What are typical commute times from Memorial Plaza to downtown Houston?

Commute times from Memorial Plaza to downtown Houston typically range from 20 to 40 minutes, contingent on traffic conditions and chosen routes. Major thoroughfares nearby facilitate movement.

What kinds of properties are found in Memorial Plaza?

Memorial Plaza features a selection of property types, primarily consisting of single-story and multi-story homes. Some residences showcase traditional designs, while others present contemporary styles.

What dining and shopping options are available near Memorial Plaza?

Residents of Memorial Plaza find numerous dining and shopping options nearby. Upscale restaurants, casual eateries, and various retail centers are accessible along Memorial Drive and in surrounding districts.

What educational institutions serve the Memorial Plaza area?

Public educational institutions serving Memorial Plaza are part of the Houston Independent School District. Information regarding specific school assignments and performance data is obtainable from the district.

What architectural styles are prevalent in Memorial Plaza?

The architectural landscape of Memorial Plaza presents a mix of styles. Ranch-style homes, traditional brick residences, and updated contemporary designs are common throughout the community.

“Brittney Coyle was with me every step of the way through not one, but two condo deals. When unusual complications arose, Brittney engaged the right people at the right time to make things happen and guide me safely through some perilous waters. I cannot count the times that I called or texted Brittney with a concern or question, only to find she had anticipated it and had already taken action. I could not have asked for more from Brittney and her team. Thanks also to Paige for being there with experienced guidance when the unexpected happened. The Houston Properties Team could have delivered less, and I still would have been completely satisfied. But they performed beyond expectations. Engage them with complete confidence.” - Reid McTaggart (Google Review)