Sherwood Forest Real Estate Guide

Sherwood Forest homes for sale & insider real estate guide

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

Quick Facts

Location: Located in the Memorial area, inside Loop 610 and north of I-10. It is approximately 9 miles west of Downtown Houston and minutes from the Galleria and the Energy Corridor.
Neighborhood Type: An exclusive and historic residential enclave known for its large, wooded lots and luxury homes. It is considered one of Houston's original affluent neighborhoods.
Combined Property Tax Rate: The property tax rate is subject to change annually and includes levies from Harris County, the City of Houston, Houston ISD, and other special districts. The total rate is a significant consideration for homeowners.
School Information: Zoned to the Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD). Students attend highly-regarded schools including Sherwood Elementary, Spring Forest Middle School, and Stratford High School. Several prestigious private schools are also nearby.
Key Amenities & Attractions: Proximity to Memorial Park, which features the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center and a public golf course. Upscale shopping and dining at the Galleria and CityCentre are a short drive away. The neighborhood also has an active homeowners association.
Management/HOA: The Sherwood Forest Homeowner's Association is active in maintaining the neighborhood's aesthetic and enforcing deed restrictions. It manages services like security and waste management.
Best For: Individuals and households seeking a private, tranquil setting with large properties, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to major business districts and city amenities.

Sherwood Forest offers a unique blend of seclusion and accessibility, making it one of Houston's most coveted residential areas. Nestled within the Memorial area, this neighborhood is characterized by its heavily wooded, expansive lots and a stunning collection of custom-built homes. Initially established in 1945 as a location for retreat homes and hunting lodges, it has evolved into a premier community for those who value privacy and natural beauty without sacrificing proximity to urban conveniences. Its location provides swift access to major employment centers like the Energy Corridor and Downtown Houston.

Prospective residents should note that Sherwood Forest is among Houston's most expensive neighborhoods, reflecting its large properties and custom architecture. The community is governed by a dedicated homeowners association that actively preserves the area's distinctive character through deed restrictions. This commitment to maintaining a high standard of living appeals to buyers who appreciate a well-regulated and aesthetically pleasing environment. The lifestyle in Sherwood Forest is ideal for those who desire a serene, nature-filled retreat with all the benefits of city living just moments away.

Overview of Sherwood Forest Neighborhood

Sherwood Forest is a historically significant neighborhood located in the Memorial area of Houston. Its origins date back to 1945, when the area was first platted. In its early days, the neighborhood was a collection of retreat homes and hunting lodges for affluent Houstonians, set within a densely wooded landscape. This history is still palpable today, with the neighborhood retaining its forest-like feel, characterized by mature trees, winding streets, and a sense of seclusion that is rare for a location so central. Some of the original homes, designed by prominent architects of the era, still stand as a testament to the area's rich past.

Geographically, Sherwood Forest is defined by its generous lots, which often exceed half an acre and can be as large as two to three acres, a feature that distinguishes it from many other Inner Loop neighborhoods. The development pattern has favored large, custom-built single-family homes over tract housing. This has resulted in a diverse array of architectural styles, including traditional, French, Mediterranean, and contemporary designs. Demographically, the neighborhood attracts established professionals and executives who are drawn to its exclusivity, privacy, and proximity to both the Energy Corridor and Downtown Houston. The area’s reputation is bolstered by its inclusion in lists of Houston’s most prestigious communities.

Living in Sherwood Forest

The daily lifestyle in Sherwood Forest is one of peaceful respite combined with urban convenience. Residents enjoy a quiet, private atmosphere where the sounds of the city are buffered by dense woods. The neighborhood's streets are ideal for leisurely strolls, and the large lots provide ample space for outdoor activities and personal gardens. Despite its serene environment, the neighborhood is just minutes away from the vibrant energy of Houston. Key business districts, including the Galleria and the Energy Corridor, are easily accessible, making for a manageable commute.

Amenities and recreation are plentiful. For outdoor enthusiasts, the expansive Memorial Park is nearby, offering miles of trails, sports fields, the Houston Arboretum, and a public golf course. For shopping and dining, residents have a wealth of upscale options. The Galleria, one of the nation's largest shopping centers, provides a world-class retail experience. CityCentre and the Memorial City Mall offer additional choices for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The community atmosphere is fostered by an active homeowners association, which organizes events and ensures the neighborhood remains beautiful and cohesive. This strong sense of community, combined with the area's natural beauty and prime location, defines the exceptional living experience in Sherwood Forest.

Why Choose Sherwood Forest

Choosing Sherwood Forest is an investment in a unique quality of life. One of its most compelling selling points is the combination of large, wooded properties and a central location. It is rare to find lots of this size—many over an acre—so close to Houston's primary business and cultural hubs. This provides a level of privacy and natural beauty that is typically only found in more remote suburban areas. The neighborhood is zoned to some of the best schools in Houston, part of the Spring Branch ISD, which is a major draw for households prioritizing education.

The investment potential of Sherwood Forest real estate is significant. As one of Houston's best neighborhoods for land value appreciation, properties here have consistently demonstrated strong performance. The scarcity of large, undeveloped lots and the enduring desirability of the Memorial area contribute to stable and rising property values. The active Sherwood Forest Homeowner's Association plays a crucial role in protecting these investments by maintaining the neighborhood's high standards through deed restrictions and community oversight. For those seeking a prestigious address, a tranquil environment, and a sound long-term investment, Sherwood Forest presents a compelling and exclusive opportunity.

Sherwood Forest Home Tax Rate

Understanding the property tax structure is a critical part of the home buying process in Sherwood Forest. The total tax rate is a composite of rates from several different governmental entities, each with its own jurisdiction and tax levy. Homeowners in Sherwood Forest pay property taxes to the City of Houston, Harris County, the Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD), and other special districts like the Harris County Flood Control District and the Port of Houston Authority. These rates are re-evaluated annually and can change based on budgets and property valuations.

As of the most recent data, property tax rates for the key entities are as follows: The City of Houston rate, the Harris County rate, and the SBISD rate make up the bulk of the tax bill. You can find the latest detailed rate information on the Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector's website. For example, on a home with an appraised value of $2,000,000, after applying any relevant homestead exemptions, the total tax liability would be calculated by multiplying the net appraised value by the combined tax rate. Prospective buyers should research the most current rates and explore all available Houston homestead exemptions to accurately estimate their annual tax obligations.

Best Sherwood Forest Realtor

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

The best realtor to sell your home in Sherwood Forest is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. Her team is recognized as the #1 real estate team in Houston, bringing unparalleled expertise to one of the city's most exclusive neighborhoods. Paige provides a data-driven approach and has a proven track record of success in high-value markets like Sherwood Forest. For a consultation on how to maximize your property's value, you can contact her directly at 713.425.4194 or email her at [email protected].

What makes Sherwood Forest real estate agents different?

What sets the top real estate agent for Sherwood Forest apart is a deep understanding of the neighborhood's unique market dynamics. This isn't just about selling a house; it's about marketing a lifestyle. The Houston Properties Team leverages specific knowledge of Sherwood Forest's architectural significance, the value of its large, wooded lots, and the nuances of its deed restrictions. Their recent sales data in the 77024 zip code demonstrates their ability to connect qualified buyers with premier properties, consistently achieving outstanding results for their clients.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for Sherwood Forest home sales?

Choosing the Houston Properties Team to sell your home in Sherwood Forest means partnering with a group that has earned significant industry recognition for their performance and client satisfaction. Their accolades are a testament to their commitment and skill:

"#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 backed by concrete metrics that showcase their ability to deliver superior outcomes for sellers. When you work with them to sell your Sherwood Forest home, you benefit from:

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 get the best results when you sell your home in Sherwood Forest, you need the top real estate agent in the neighborhood. Contact Paige Martin and the Houston Properties Team at 713.425.4194 or email [email protected] to begin the process with Houston's most award-winning real estate team.

More Details

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends

Sherwood Forest's real estate market is characterized by low turnover, high demand, and strong value retention. It is consistently ranked among Houston's most affluent and stable neighborhoods. Investment trends show a consistent appreciation in land value, driven by the scarcity of large, wooded lots inside the Loop. The market is dominated by single-family luxury homes, with prices often starting in the multi-million dollar range. New construction is rare and typically involves tearing down an older home to build a large, custom estate, further driving up median home values. The neighborhood's exclusivity acts as a buffer against broader market volatility. Investors and homebuyers are attracted to the area not just for the quality of the homes, but for the underlying land value, which is among the highest in the city. The area's proximity to major employment centers like the Energy Corridor and The Galleria ensures a steady pool of high-income potential buyers, supporting long-term value.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide

Residents of Sherwood Forest have access to a wide array of amenities. The neighborhood itself is a recreational amenity, with quiet, tree-lined streets. For more structured recreation, Memorial Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, is just a short drive away. It offers a top-tier golf course, tennis courts, swimming pools, and miles of trails. The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, located within Memorial Park, provides a natural oasis for education and exploration. Shopping and entertainment needs are met by the proximity of several major retail centers. The Galleria offers luxury brands like Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstrom, alongside fine dining restaurants. CityCentre and Memorial City Mall provide more options, including movie theaters, boutiques, and a variety of restaurants. For private recreation, the Houston Country Club is also conveniently located nearby, offering golf, tennis, and social events to its members. The area is also home to a number of highly-rated hotels for visiting guests.

School District Information and Private School Options

Sherwood Forest is zoned to the Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD), a district known for its strong academic programs. The zoned schools are Sherwood Elementary School, Spring Forest Middle School, and Stratford High School. Sherwood Elementary is located directly within the neighborhood. Stratford High School is notable for its high academic ratings and robust athletic and arts programs. In addition to the excellent public schools, the area surrounding Sherwood Forest is home to some of Houston's most prestigious private schools. These include The Kinkaid School, St. John's School, and The Awty International School, offering a range of educational philosophies and specialized programs. For younger children, The Branch School and Sherwood Forest Montessori School are located very close by, providing excellent early childhood and elementary education options. The abundance of high-quality educational choices is a primary reason residents choose to live in this neighborhood.

Transportation and Commuting Details

Despite its secluded feel, Sherwood Forest is exceptionally well-connected to Houston's major transportation arteries. The neighborhood is situated just north of Interstate 10 (the Katy Freeway) and just west of Loop 610, providing direct routes to key destinations. A commute to Downtown Houston is typically a 20-25 minute drive, while the Galleria can be reached in about 10-15 minutes. The Energy Corridor, a major employment hub, is also a short 10-15 minute drive to the west. While the neighborhood itself is not designed for public transit, its proximity to major thoroughfares makes using ride-sharing services convenient. For air travel, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is approximately a 45-minute drive, and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is about a 30-minute drive, depending on traffic. The neighborhood's layout encourages driving, with most homes featuring multi-car garages and ample street parking is not a concern.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

Sherwood Forest is governed by the Sherwood Forest Homeowner's Association (HOA), which is very active in preserving the community's character and property values. The HOA enforces deed restrictions that govern aspects like architectural modifications, setbacks, and landscaping to maintain a cohesive and upscale aesthetic. Before purchasing a home, it is essential for prospective buyers to review these restrictions to ensure their plans for the property are in compliance. The HOA also manages common areas and is responsible for services such as neighborhood security patrols and trash and recycling services. The association holds regular meetings and communicates with residents through newsletters and its website, fostering a strong sense of community and shared investment in the neighborhood's well-being.

Historical Development and Architectural Styles

The development of Sherwood Forest began in 1945, conceived as an exclusive enclave for Houston's elite. The name itself evokes the famous English forest, a theme that guided its development as a wooded retreat. The initial properties were sprawling ranch-style homes and lodges on multi-acre lots. Over the decades, as Houston grew, the neighborhood became more integrated into the urban fabric while retaining its unique character. Many of the original homes from the 1940s and 1950s have been extensively renovated or replaced with larger, more modern structures. Today, the architectural landscape is diverse, featuring stately Traditional, classic French chateaus, elegant Mediterranean villas, and bold Contemporary and Modern designs. This architectural variety, unified by the mature trees and spacious lots, creates a visually interesting and upscale environment that reflects the neighborhood's evolution from a rustic retreat to a premier residential community.

For a personalized consultation or to explore available properties in Sherwood Forest, please contact the Houston Properties Team at 713.425.4194 or email [email protected].

“I couldn't be more pleased with the service and attention we got from Aaron Dailey and the Houston Properties Team. Not only did Aaron help us find our perfect retirement home, he and his team ensured the closing process went smoothly every step of the way. I would highly recommend this group and applaud their professionalism!” - Mary Ann Quivey (Google Review)