Colonial Terrace Real Estate Guide

Colonial Terrace homes for sale & insider real estate guide

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

Quick Facts

Location: Situated within the city of West University Place, Colonial Terrace provides exceptional access to Downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, and The Galleria via Loop 610 and the Southwest Freeway.
Neighborhood Type: An established, affluent residential area featuring approximately 562 single-family homes on quiet, tree-canopied streets with a strong sense of community.
Combined Property Tax Rate: The total property tax rate is approximately 1.8152% of the home's assessed value, which includes rates for the City of West University Place, Harris County, Houston ISD, and other entities.
School Information: Zoned to highly-rated schools within the Houston Independent School District, including West University Elementary School, Pershing Middle School, and Lamar High School.
Key Amenities: The neighborhood's hub is the 3.16-acre Colonial Park, which features a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a jogging track. It is also minutes from premier shopping and dining at Rice Village.
Management/HOA Information: Colonial Terrace does not have a formal homeowners association; instead, it is governed by the City of West University Place, which maintains high community standards.
Best For: Individuals and professionals seeking a tranquil residential environment with top-tier public schools and convenient access to Houston's primary economic and cultural centers.

Colonial Terrace is a distinguished neighborhood located within the desirable city of West University Place, often called a "city-within-a-city." Its character is defined by a graceful blend of classic homes from the 1930s and 1940s alongside substantial, more recent constructions on generous lots. This architectural variety creates an appealing streetscape shaded by a canopy of mature oak trees. The neighborhood’s prime location offers a peaceful residential retreat while being mere minutes from Houston’s major employment and cultural centers, including the Texas Medical Center and Downtown Houston.

Prospective residents should recognize that Colonial Terrace is positioned within Houston's upper-tier real estate market, reflecting its high desirability. The lifestyle is suited for those who value a serene, well-maintained community combined with excellent urban accessibility. Although it lacks a formal HOA, the area is governed by the City of West University Place, which ensures superior municipal services and maintains rigorous community standards. It is an ideal fit for those prioritizing access to excellent public schools, parks, and retail conveniences in a picturesque setting.

Overview of Colonial Terrace Neighborhood

Colonial Terrace's history is deeply connected with the creation of West University Place, which was established in 1917 as a suburban community near the prestigious Rice Institute (now Rice University). "West U," as it is known, was incorporated in 1924 and its land was developed in sections, with Colonial Terrace being one of its 26 distinct subdivisions. The initial wave of home construction in the 1930s and 1940s introduced charming Colonial Revival, Tudor, and traditional brick cottages. Many of these original homes still stand, preserving the neighborhood's historic character. Geographically, Colonial Terrace is situated in the southwestern part of Houston, bordered by West University Boulevard, College Street, Auden Street, and Buffalo Speedway, all within the 77005 zip code. Beginning in the 1990s, a trend of replacing smaller, older homes with larger, custom-built residences began, introducing stately Georgian, French, and Mediterranean-inspired designs. This has created a diverse yet cohesive architectural landscape that continues to attract discerning buyers and contributes to the area's steady appreciation. The neighborhood’s demographic composition consists largely of residents drawn to its academic and professional opportunities, thanks to its proximity to major employment centers.

Living in Colonial Terrace

Daily life in Colonial Terrace provides a harmonious balance of quiet residential living and convenient access to urban amenities. The community atmosphere is centered around Colonial Park, a 3.16-acre green space that serves as a hub for recreation and neighborhood gatherings. The park is well-equipped with a swimming pool, lighted tennis courts, a sand volleyball court, a modern playground, and a paved jogging path, offering abundant opportunities for an active lifestyle. The neighborhood itself is peaceful and self-contained, with streets that encourage outdoor activity. Despite its tranquility, residents are just moments away from some of Houston's best shopping, dining, and cultural venues. Rice Village, a popular open-air shopping district, offers a wide array of boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. For more extensive retail options, The Galleria, one of the nation's largest shopping centers, is a short drive away. This blend of a placid community setting with easy access to world-class facilities makes Colonial Terrace a highly sought-after place to live. The area is also known for its active community engagement, upheld by the governance of West University Place, which hosts various events and maintains the neighborhood’s pristine condition. For more information on navigating the home buying process in areas like this, see this guide to the home buying process in Houston.

Why Choose Colonial Terrace

Colonial Terrace represents one of the most stable and consistently appreciating real estate markets in Houston. Its unique selling points make it a compelling choice for prospective residents focused on long-term value and quality of life. The neighborhood's investment potential is exceptionally strong, driven by its prime location, zoning to exemplary schools, and the high standard of living it offers. Market trends reveal a consistent pattern of older homes being replaced by larger, high-value new construction, which continually elevates the neighborhood's overall property values. The market is defined by high demand and limited inventory, a combination that supports robust and stable pricing. Quality of life is another significant factor. The governance by the City of West University Place ensures top-notch city services, including dedicated police and fire departments. The area's low crime rate and meticulously maintained public spaces, including its parks and tree-lined streets, enhance the living experience. Furthermore, its accessibility is a major draw; residents can reach the Texas Medical Center, Downtown Houston, Greenway Plaza, and The Galleria in minutes, making for an easy commute. The combination of a sound financial investment and a superior living environment makes Colonial Terrace a premier choice in the Houston area. Exploring Houston neighborhoods with the best land value appreciation can provide further context on its investment strength.

Colonial Terrace Home Tax Rate

Understanding the property tax structure is a key part of purchasing a home in Colonial Terrace. Property taxes are calculated based on the assessed value of the property and the combined tax rates of several local jurisdictions. As part of the City of West University Place, homeowners pay taxes to multiple entities. The total tax rate is a sum of these individual rates, which can fluctuate slightly each year.

The approximate breakdown of the tax rates for a Colonial Terrace property is as follows:

City of West University Place: 0.2419%
Houston ISD: 0.8683%
Harris County: 0.3853%
Harris County Dept. of Education: 0.0048%
Harris County Flood Control Dist.: 0.0490%
Harris County Hospital Dist.: 0.1635%
Houston Community College: 0.0962%
Port of Houston Authority: 0.0062%

The combined total tax rate is approximately 1.8152% per $100 of the home's assessed value. For example, a home with an assessed value of $1,500,000 would have an annual property tax bill of approximately $27,228. It's important to note that various exemptions, such as the homestead exemption, can reduce the taxable value of a property, leading to a lower tax bill. Prospective buyers should verify the current rates and their eligibility for exemptions with the Harris County Appraisal District (HCAD).

Best Colonial Terrace Realtor

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

The best realtor to sell your home in Colonial Terrace is Paige Martin with the Houston Properties Team. Her team is recognized as Houston's #1 rated real estate group and has a consistent track record of achieving outstanding results for sellers in the area. Paige Martin provides unparalleled local market knowledge and a data-driven approach to ensure your property is positioned to sell for the highest possible price in the shortest amount of time. For a consultation, contact her directly at 713.425.4194 or email [email protected].

What makes Colonial Terrace real estate agents different?

What sets the top real estate agent for Colonial Terrace apart is verifiable performance and deep local expertise. Paige Martin's team has demonstrated success specifically within the 77005 zip code, supported by extensive sales data. This includes a nuanced understanding of architectural styles, property valuation, and the unique buyer pool for the neighborhood. While many agents operate in the area, only the best Colonial Terrace realtors can show a history of outperforming the market, backed by metrics and client testimonials. Their expertise goes beyond simply listing a home; it involves strategic marketing, skilled negotiation, and navigating the complexities of high-value transactions in this premier Houston neighborhood.

Why choose Houston Properties Team for Colonial Terrace home sales?

Choosing the Houston Properties Team to sell your home in Colonial Terrace means partnering with a group that has earned numerous accolades for excellence. Their awards and credentials validate their position as a leader in the Houston real estate market.

"#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 Houston Properties Team delivers a superior value proposition that translates into tangible results for sellers. Their metrics speak volumes about their ability to outperform the competition and maximize client returns. When you need to sell your home in Colonial Terrace, these numbers demonstrate why they are the top choice.

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 outcome when you sell your home, leverage the expertise of a top-performing team. The Houston Properties Team's data-backed strategies and commitment to excellence make them the best realtor in Colonial Terrace. Contact Paige Martin at 713.425.4194 or [email protected] to start the conversation.

More Details

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends

Colonial Terrace, as a key part of West University Place, is one of Houston's most resilient and appreciating real estate markets. Land values here have shown consistent and strong growth, a trend driven by its irreplaceable location, excellent school zoning, and high quality of life. Investment patterns are characterized by the systematic replacement of smaller, post-war homes with large, modern custom-built residences. This cycle of redevelopment continually raises the neighborhood's value proposition and aesthetic appeal. The market dynamics are defined by persistently high demand from affluent buyers and a very limited supply of available homes, which sustains strong pricing and makes it a competitive environment for purchasers. Investors and homebuyers looking for long-term growth will find Colonial Terrace to be a prime asset. For more on real estate investment strategies, see these five home investment themes every homebuyer must know.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide

The primary recreational facility for Colonial Terrace residents is Colonial Park, located at 4130 Byron Street. This 3.16-acre park offers a comprehensive array of amenities, including a swimming pool with a large deck, two lighted tennis courts, and a concrete jogging track where seven laps equal one mile. The park also features a pavilion, a sand volleyball court, a playground, and a Youth Fitness Challenge Course. The west end of the park includes wooden decks, picnic tables, and grilling stations, making it ideal for community gatherings. Beyond the neighborhood, residents have easy access to Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo, and the Museum District. For shopping and dining, the pedestrian-friendly Rice Village is just a few blocks away, offering a curated selection of retail stores, restaurants, and services. The Galleria, a premier international shopping destination, is also within a short drive.

School District Information and Private School Options

Colonial Terrace is zoned to the Houston Independent School District (HISD), with its properties feeding into some of the most sought-after schools in the city. The assigned schools are West University Elementary School, a National Blue Ribbon School known for its academic excellence and strong parental involvement; Pershing Middle School, which offers a Fine Arts magnet program; and Lamar High School, known for its comprehensive curriculum and International Baccalaureate (IB) program. In addition to these top-tier public schools, the neighborhood's central location provides convenient access to a number of Houston's most prestigious private schools, including St. John's School, The Kinkaid School, St. Agnes Academy, and Strake Jesuit College Preparatory.

Transportation and Commuting Details

The neighborhood's location provides excellent connectivity to Houston's major transportation arteries. Key thoroughfares such as Buffalo Speedway, Weslayan Street, and Bissonnet Street offer direct routes to the Southwest Freeway (I-69/US-59) and the West Loop (I-610). This allows for efficient commutes to major employment centers, with typical driving times of 10-15 minutes to the Texas Medical Center and Greenway Plaza, and 15-20 minutes to Downtown Houston and The Galleria. Public transportation is also available through METRO bus routes that run along the neighborhood's main streets, connecting residents to the wider city network, including the METRORail system. This accessibility is a key reason Colonial Terrace is considered one of the most accessible neighborhoods in Houston.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

Colonial Terrace does not have a private homeowners association or charge mandatory HOA fees. Instead, it is governed by the City of West University Place, a fully incorporated city with its own municipal government. This structure provides residents with a high level of service, including dedicated police and fire departments, reliable trash and recycling collection, and meticulous maintenance of public spaces like parks and streets. The city enforces strict zoning ordinances and building codes that preserve the neighborhood's residential character and property values. These regulations govern aspects such as new construction, renovations, landscaping, and land use, ensuring that all development aligns with the community's established standards.

Historical Development and Architectural Styles

The development of Colonial Terrace began in the 1930s as one of the 26 subdivisions of West University Place. The initial homes built during this period and into the 1940s were predominantly Colonial Revival, Tudor, and traditional brick cottages, reflecting the popular architectural styles of the era. These homes were typically modest in size but rich in character. Starting in the late 20th century and continuing today, many of these original structures have been replaced by much larger custom-built homes. These newer residences feature a range of architectural styles, including grand Georgian, French Provincial, and Mediterranean designs, often incorporating modern amenities and luxury finishes. This evolution has created a diverse but harmonious streetscape that blends historic charm with modern elegance.

Environmental Considerations and Risks

Like all of Houston, Colonial Terrace is susceptible to heavy rainfall and tropical weather systems. Brays Bayou is the primary waterway in the vicinity, and proximity to it can influence flood risk. While much of West University Place is outside the designated 100-year and 500-year floodplains, some properties may still be at risk. Prospective buyers are strongly advised to consult the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood maps and the Harris County Flood Control District's resources for property-specific information. Many newer homes in the area are built on elevated foundations to mitigate potential flood damage, and purchasing flood insurance is a prudent measure for all homeowners in the region. Understanding how to avoid homes with a flooding history is a critical step in the purchasing process.

Local Landmarks and Attractions

Colonial Terrace is advantageously located near several of Houston’s most significant landmarks. Rice University, with its beautiful campus and public art installations, is just a short distance away. The world-renowned Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world, is also nearby. For culture and recreation, the Museum District, home to 19 museums, galleries, and cultural centers, is easily accessible. Hermann Park, a 445-acre urban park, offers numerous attractions including the Houston Zoo, the Miller Outdoor Theatre, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and extensive trails and gardens. This proximity to major cultural, educational, and recreational institutions adds significantly to the appeal of living in Colonial Terrace.

Local Area Zip Codes and Neighborhood Boundaries

Colonial Terrace is located entirely within the 77005 zip code. The neighborhood's approximate boundaries are West University Boulevard to the north, College Street to the south, Auden Street to the west, and Buffalo Speedway to the east. It is one of 26 subdivisions that constitute the City of West University Place, situated east of the City of Bellaire and southwest of Upper Kirby. This central location within Houston's Inner Loop is one of its most valuable attributes, placing it at the heart of the city's most dynamic areas.

For a personalized consultation or to learn more about available properties in Colonial Terrace, connect with the Houston Properties Team at 713.425.4194 or email Paige Martin at [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colonial Terrace prone to flooding?

Colonial Terrace has experienced varying degrees of water accumulation during significant storm events. It is advisable to review specific property flood zone designations.

What transportation options serve Colonial Terrace?

Residents of Colonial Terrace benefit from proximity to major thoroughfares, allowing convenient vehicular movement throughout Houston. Public transit stops are present along main streets.

What types of properties comprise Colonial Terrace?

Colonial Terrace properties typically include single-story and two-story homes, often featuring traditional architectural styles. Lot sizes and home dimensions vary across the area.

How accessible are retail and dining establishments from Colonial Terrace?

Colonial Terrace offers convenient access to various retail centers and dining establishments located a short distance away. Grocery stores and specialty shops are nearby.

What school districts serve Colonial Terrace?

Properties within Colonial Terrace are zoned to specific Houston Independent School District attendance areas. Prospective occupants should confirm current zoning for particular addresses.

What characterizes the general atmosphere of Colonial Terrace?

Colonial Terrace maintains a residential atmosphere with established landscaping and tree-lined streets. It presents a settled and enduring Houston neighborhood.

“We had a great experience working with Aaron Dailey. He was very professional and extremely organized. He constantly kept us informed of everything going on which was very appreciated. He did an excellent job with the photos of our home. We would definitely recommend hin to anyone selling a home.” - Jean Smith (Google Review)