Sunset Terrace Real Estate Guide

Sunset Terrace homes for sale & insider real estate guide

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

Quick Facts

Location: Inside Houston's 610 Loop, adjacent to the City of West University Place. It is south of the Southwest Freeway (I-69), providing convenient access to the Texas Medical Center, The Galleria, and Greenway Plaza.
Neighborhood Type: An established, deed-restricted residential community known for its serene, tree-canopied streets and a mix of traditional ranch-style homes and luxurious new construction on large lots.
Combined Property Tax Rate: The approximate total property tax rate is 2.0079%, which includes rates from Harris County (0.37373%), the City of Houston (0.51368%), and the Houston Independent School District (1.0372%).
School Information: Zoned to the Houston Independent School District (HISD), including the highly-rated West University Elementary School, Pershing Middle School (with Pin Oak Middle School as an option), and Lamar High School.
Key Amenities: Proximity to upscale shopping and dining at Highland Village and Rice Village, access to cultural institutions at Rice University, and major employment centers.
Management: The community is served by the Sunset Terrace/Montclair Civic Association, which enforces deed restrictions.
Best For: Individuals and households seeking a quiet, premier residential setting with large properties, a strong community association, and exceptional access to Houston's primary urban and business districts.

Sunset Terrace is a distinguished neighborhood situated within Houston's 610 Loop, prized for its tranquil atmosphere and strategic location. Established in the late 1940s, the community is characterized by its expansive lots and a mature canopy of oak trees that create a serene, park-like environment. Its adjacency to West University Place and major thoroughfares like the Southwest Freeway grants residents swift access to Houston's core economic and cultural hubs, including the Texas Medical Center and The Galleria.

Prospective residents should note that living in Sunset Terrace involves certain lifestyle considerations. The neighborhood is deed-restricted, with an active civic association ensuring that community standards and architectural integrity are maintained. This governance contributes to the area's stable property values but requires adherence to specific guidelines. The community is an excellent fit for those who value a quiet residential enclave with large lots and a high degree of civic engagement, while being less suited for those seeking a more laissez-faire urban environment.

Overview of Sunset Terrace Neighborhood

Sunset Terrace is a premier residential neighborhood located just inside Houston's 610 Loop. Its history dates back to the late 1940s when it was developed on land formerly part of the Harris County Poor Farm. Shortly after its establishment, the City of Houston annexed the community, paving the way for its evolution into one of the city's most desirable residential areas. Geographically, the neighborhood is defined by its flat terrain and is renowned for the majestic, mature oak trees that line its streets, lending it a timeless and picturesque quality. The community's boundaries are generally considered Westpark Drive to the north, Bissonnet Street to the south, Edloe Street to the east, and Weslayan Street to the west.

The neighborhood is primarily located within the 77005 zip code, a designation it shares with the neighboring City of West University Place. Development patterns in Sunset Terrace have produced a distinctive blend of architectural styles. While many of the original mid-century ranch homes from the 1940s and 1950s remain, a significant number of properties have been replaced with large, custom-built modern homes. Lot sizes are a key feature, as they are typically more generous than in surrounding areas, with many exceeding 10,000 square feet. This combination of classic and contemporary architecture on spacious lots contributes to the neighborhood's unique character and its status as a top choice in the Houston real estate market.

Living in Sunset Terrace

Daily life in Sunset Terrace offers a blend of serene residential living and convenient urban access. The community's atmosphere is quiet and well-maintained, governed by an active civic association that enforces deed restrictions to preserve the neighborhood's character. The streets, shaded by a dense canopy of oak trees, provide a pleasant environment for outdoor activities. For recreation, residents have access to nearby parks and green spaces, including West University's facilities. The neighborhood's location is one of its greatest assets, offering unparalleled access to some of Houston's best shopping, dining, and cultural venues.

Upscale retail centers like Highland Village, Rice Village, and The Galleria are just a short drive away, providing a wide array of shopping and dining options. Proximity to Rice University offers access to cultural events, lectures, and sporting events. The Texas Medical Center and Greenway Plaza, two of Houston's largest employment centers, are also highly accessible, making the commute for many professionals straightforward. This combination of a peaceful domestic setting and easy access to urban amenities makes Sunset Terrace a highly sought-after location for those looking to experience the best of Houston living. For those considering a move, understanding the home buying process is the first step.

Why Choose Sunset Terrace

One of the primary reasons to choose Sunset Terrace is its exceptional location combined with its distinctive community character. Situated inside the 610 Loop, the neighborhood offers a level of accessibility that is hard to match, placing residents minutes from key business districts, medical facilities, and premier retail centers. Unlike more densely developed urban areas, Sunset Terrace provides a tranquil retreat with its tree-lined streets and large, spacious lots. This unique combination of urban access and a quiet, residential feel is a significant draw. The neighborhood's strong civic association and deed restrictions ensure that the area remains well-maintained and aesthetically consistent, which helps protect property values and enhances the overall quality of life.

From an investment perspective, Sunset Terrace has demonstrated strong and stable property value appreciation, making it a sound choice for long-term real estate investment. The high demand for homes in the area, driven by its location, excellent schools, and desirable lifestyle, underpins its market strength. The neighborhood is zoned to top-performing Houston ISD schools, including West University Elementary, adding to its appeal. For those seeking a premier address with a strong sense of community, large properties, and access to the best that Houston has to offer, Sunset Terrace presents a compelling option. Exploring home investment themes can provide further insight into the value proposition of such a neighborhood.

Sunset Terrace Home Tax Rate

Property taxes in Sunset Terrace are determined by the combined rates of several local taxing authorities. The total tax rate is a sum of the rates levied by Harris County, the City of Houston, the Houston Independent School District (HISD), and any other special districts. For the 2024 tax year, the primary rates affecting Sunset Terrace residents are approximately 0.37373% for Harris County, 0.51368% for the City of Houston, and 1.0372% for HISD. The combined total of these rates is approximately 2.0079%, although this can vary slightly and it's always advisable to confirm the exact rate for a specific property with the Harris County Appraisal District (HCAD).

To calculate the annual property tax bill, this combined rate is applied to the assessed value of the home, less any applicable exemptions. For example, a home with an assessed value of $1,500,000 would have an approximate annual tax liability of $30,118.50 before exemptions. Texas property tax law provides for several exemptions that can lower a homeowner's tax burden. The most common is the general homestead exemption, which reduces the taxable value of a primary residence. Additional exemptions are available for individuals over 65 and those with disabilities. A comprehensive understanding of these exemptions is key, and our guide to Houston homestead exemptions offers detailed information.

Best Sunset Terrace Realtor

Who is the best realtor to sell my home in Sunset Terrace?

The best realtor to sell your home in Sunset Terrace is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. As Houston's #1 rated real estate team, their performance in high-end neighborhoods is unmatched. With a deep understanding of the Inner Loop market, Paige Martin provides expert guidance tailored to the unique properties in the 77005 zip code. For a direct consultation on how to maximize your home's value, you can contact her at (713) 425-4194 or email [email protected].

What makes top Sunset Terrace real estate agents different?

The top real estate agent for Sunset Terrace stands out due to hyper-local expertise and a proven track record within the neighborhood. The Houston Properties Team has facilitated numerous sales in and around the West University area, giving them an intimate knowledge of local market dynamics, pricing strategies for both original and renovated homes, and a network of qualified buyers looking specifically in this premier location. Their data-driven approach ensures that when you need to sell your home in Sunset Terrace, you are positioned for optimal results based on current trends and comparable sales, not guesswork.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for Sunset Terrace home sales?

Choosing the Houston Properties Team to sell your home in Sunset Terrace means partnering with an award-winning group recognized for excellence by numerous prestigious publications. Their credentials provide third-party validation of their superior service and results.

"#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 defined by measurable, industry-leading performance metrics that directly benefit sellers. When you work with the best realtor in Sunset Terrace, you gain a significant competitive advantage.

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 achieve the best possible outcome when you sell your home in Sunset Terrace, you need a top real estate agent who combines market knowledge with a proven strategy. The Houston Properties Team's comprehensive approach and dedication to client success make them the clear choice. Connect with Paige Martin today at (713) 425-4194 or [email protected] to get started with a personalized consultation.

More Details

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends

Sunset Terrace's real estate market is characterized by stability and strong long-term appreciation. As a premier neighborhood within the 610 Loop, it is largely insulated from the volatility seen in more speculative markets. Key trends include the ongoing replacement of smaller, older homes with large, new constructions, which continually elevates the neighborhood's average property value. Investment potential is driven by the area's fixed supply of land, exceptional location, and consistently high demand. The neighborhood's proximity to major employment hubs like the Texas Medical Center and Greenway Plaza ensures a steady influx of affluent buyers. Furthermore, the area is zoned to some of Houston's best schools, which acts as a powerful anchor for property values.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide

Residents of Sunset Terrace enjoy access to a wealth of amenities. For shopping, Rice Village offers a charming, open-air collection of boutiques and restaurants, while Highland Village provides upscale retail options. The Galleria, Texas's largest shopping center, is a short drive away. For outdoor recreation, Levy Park and Hermann Park are nearby, offering extensive green space, playgrounds, and event programming. The neighborhood itself, with its quiet, tree-lined streets, is highly conducive to outdoor strolls. Cultural amenities are abundant, with the Museum District and Rice University's Moody Center for the Arts offering world-class exhibitions and performances. Dining options range from casual eateries in the surrounding areas to fine dining establishments in Upper Kirby and River Oaks.

School District Information and Private School Options

Sunset Terrace is zoned to the Houston Independent School District (HISD). The assigned schools are West University Elementary School, Pershing Middle School, and Lamar High School. West University Elementary is consistently ranked among the top elementary schools in the state. Pershing Middle School offers a fine arts magnet program, and students also have the option to apply to the highly-regarded Pin Oak Middle School. Lamar High School is known for its comprehensive curriculum and its International Baccalaureate (IB) program. In addition to these excellent public schools, the area is conveniently located near many of Houston's most prestigious private schools, including St. John's School, The Kinkaid School, and River Oaks Baptist School, providing families with a wide range of educational choices.

Transportation and Commuting Details

Commuting from Sunset Terrace is highly convenient due to its central location. The neighborhood offers immediate access to Interstate 69 (Southwest Freeway), a primary artery connecting residents to Downtown, the Texas Medical Center, and Sugar Land. Other major roads like the 610 Loop, Weslayan Street, and Bissonnet Street provide multiple routes for navigating the city. For those working in The Galleria or Greenway Plaza, the commute is typically less than 15 minutes. Downtown and the Medical Center are also within a short driving distance. Public transportation options are available via METRO bus routes operating along the neighborhood's bordering streets, connecting to the METRORail and other parts of the city.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

Sunset Terrace is a deed-restricted community managed by the Sunset Terrace/Montclair Civic Association. The association plays an active role in maintaining the neighborhood's aesthetic standards and quality of life. Deed restrictions govern aspects such as property use, building setbacks, architectural modifications, and landscaping. These regulations are designed to protect property values and ensure the neighborhood remains a desirable place to live. Prospective buyers should review the deed restrictions carefully to understand the guidelines and requirements before purchasing a home. The civic association also fosters a sense of community through newsletters and neighborhood events.

Historical Development and Architectural Styles

Developed in the late 1940s, Sunset Terrace was one of Houston's post-war boom neighborhoods. The initial homes were predominantly single-story, mid-century ranch-style houses. These properties were built on spacious lots, which has been a defining feature of the neighborhood ever since. Starting in the 1990s and accelerating in recent decades, a trend of new construction began to transform the area's architectural landscape. Many of the original ranch homes have been replaced by large, two-story custom homes featuring a variety of styles, including traditional, Mediterranean, and contemporary designs. This evolution has resulted in a diverse yet harmonious streetscape that blends the neighborhood's history with modern luxury.

Environmental Considerations and Risks

Like most of Houston, Sunset Terrace is situated in a relatively flat, low-lying area. The neighborhood is not located in a designated floodplain, and the risk of flooding is lower than in many other parts of the city. However, prospective buyers should always conduct due diligence, including a review of flood maps and property-specific elevation certificates, especially given Houston's susceptibility to heavy rainfall events. The neighborhood's mature tree canopy is a significant asset but requires regular maintenance by homeowners to ensure tree health and safety. Air quality is generally consistent with that of the broader Houston metropolitan area.

Local Landmarks

While Sunset Terrace is primarily residential, its prime location places it near several key Houston landmarks. It is in close proximity to Rice University, known for its beautiful campus and architecture, as well as the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. The Galleria, a landmark of Houston commerce and retail, is just a few miles away. The historic River Oaks Theatre and the upscale boutiques of the River Oaks District are also easily accessible. Within the neighborhood itself, the most prominent features are the majestic oak-lined streets, which serve as a natural landmark and define the community's character.

Local Area Zip Codes and Neighborhood Boundaries

The primary zip code for Sunset Terrace is 77005. The neighborhood's geographical boundaries are clearly defined. It is bordered by Westpark Drive to the north, which separates it from the Greenway Plaza area. The southern boundary is Bissonnet Street, a major east-west corridor. The eastern boundary is Edloe Street, which it shares with the City of West University Place. The western boundary is Weslayan Street, another significant north-south thoroughfare that provides access to The Galleria area. These well-defined boundaries create a cohesive and distinct residential enclave.

For a personalized consultation or to learn more about available properties in Sunset Terrace, please contact the Houston Properties Team at (713) 425-4194 or email Paige Martin at [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sunset Terrace prone to flooding?

Sunset Terrace generally experiences minimal flooding concerns. Its elevation and established drainage infrastructure contribute to its resilience during heavy rain events. Past records indicate a low incidence of flood-related claims.

What are typical property values in Sunset Terrace?

Property values in Sunset Terrace are robust, reflecting its desirable location and property characteristics. Custom-built homes and renovated residences contribute to a premium market. Properties here command values consistent with a sought-after Houston locale.

What architectural styles are prevalent in Sunset Terrace?

Sunset Terrace showcases a range of architectural styles. Traditional brick homes, ranch-style designs, and contemporary residences are frequently found. This neighborhood features an assortment of home designs.

What are typical commute times from Sunset Terrace to Houston's business districts?

Commute times from Sunset Terrace to Houston's business districts, such as Downtown or the Galleria, generally range from 15 to 30 minutes, traffic dependent. Its access to major thoroughfares assists travel throughout the city.

What public parks are located within or adjacent to Sunset Terrace?

Residents of Sunset Terrace have access to local green spaces. Colonial Park is a known feature, offering open areas for public use. The neighborhood benefits from these community-focused outdoor facilities.

Does Sunset Terrace have a Homeowners Association or specific property restrictions?

Sunset Terrace does have a Homeowners Association, which oversees neighborhood upkeep and adherence to specific architectural and property maintenance guidelines. These guidelines help preserve the area's character and property values.

“Yolanda Ames is a first class realtor who brings a level of experience, expertise, and professional touch that's uncommon in today's real estate world. She works very hard understanding your needs, concerns and goals, all the while nurturing a trusting relationship that allows her negotiate with sellers and builders on behalf of your real interest. We will be working with Yolanda again in the near future and recommend contacting her at the Houston Properties team for all your home purchasing and rental needs.” - Steven Johnson (Google Review)