Colonial Terrace Real Estate Guide

Colonial Terrace homes for sale & insider real estate guide

Colonial Terrace Homes For Sale
Colonial Terrace Homes For Rent
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: Located within the city of West University Place, east of Bellaire. It offers excellent accessibility to Downtown Houston, The Galleria, and the Texas Medical Center via Loop 610 and the Southwest Freeway.
Neighborhood Type: An established and affluent residential neighborhood composed of roughly 550 single-family homes. It is known for its quiet, tree-lined streets and strong community atmosphere.
Combined Property Tax Rate: The total tax rate is a combination of rates from Harris County, the City of West University Place, and the Houston Independent School District (HISD). The 2023 HISD rate is $0.8683, the City of Houston rate is $0.51919, and the Harris County rate is $0.38529 per $100 of assessed value.
School Information: Zoned to the highly-rated Houston Independent School District. West University Elementary School is a top-ranked elementary school serving the neighborhood. Lamar High School, an IB World School, is the designated high school.
Key Amenities: The neighborhood's centerpiece is Colonial Park, a 3-acre park featuring a swimming pool, tennis courts, a jogging track, and a playground. It is also minutes from the upscale shopping and dining of Rice Village and The Galleria.
Management/HOA: There are no mandatory association fees for the neighborhood itself, which is a distinct feature for a community of this caliber.
Best For: Professionals and individuals seeking a tranquil, residential setting with premier access to top schools, major employment hubs, and high-end city amenities.

Colonial Terrace is a distinguished neighborhood within the sought-after "city-within-a-city," West University Place. Its character is defined by a blend of original homes from the 1930s and 1940s alongside newer, grander constructions on spacious lots. This creates a visually appealing streetscape under a canopy of mature trees. The neighborhood's prime location offers residents a peaceful retreat with the convenience of being just minutes from Houston’s economic and cultural centers, including the Texas Medical Center and Downtown.

Prospective residents should note that Colonial Terrace is among Houston's more high-end real estate markets. The lifestyle here is geared toward those who appreciate a serene environment combined with superb urban accessibility. While it lacks a formal HOA, the area is governed by the city of West University Place, ensuring high community standards are maintained. It is an ideal fit for those prioritizing excellent public schools and convenient access to parks and retail.

Overview of Colonial Terrace Neighborhood

Colonial Terrace’s history is intertwined with the development of West University Place, which began in 1917 as a suburban community near the newly established Rice Institute. "West U," as it's locally known, was incorporated in 1924 and developed in sections, with Colonial Terrace being one of its 26 subdivisions. Some of the area’s original homes, dating back to the 1930s, still stand as a testament to its origins, though many have been replaced by larger, more modern residences reflecting the area's continued desirability and investment potential. This evolution in architecture provides a unique blend of historical charm and modern luxury.

Geographically, Colonial Terrace is strategically positioned to the east of Bellaire, bordered by key thoroughfares that provide excellent connectivity. Its proximity to Loop 610 and the Southwest Freeway (I-69) makes commuting to major employment centers like The Galleria, Greenway Plaza, and the world-renowned Texas Medical Center exceptionally convenient. The neighborhood's layout promotes a quiet, residential feel, with about 550 homes set along tree-lined streets. Demographically, the area attracts established professionals and those who value a high-quality living environment, premium school access, and a strong sense of community within a major metropolitan area.

Living in Colonial Terrace

Daily life in Colonial Terrace offers a balance of peaceful residential living and vibrant city access. The community's heart is Colonial Park, a sprawling 3-acre green space that serves as a central hub for recreation and social gatherings. The park features a swimming pool, lighted tennis courts, a sand volleyball court, a playground, and a jogging path, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activity. The neighborhood is self-contained and quiet, yet its location means residents are never far from world-class amenities.

For shopping and dining, residents have premier options nearby. Rice Village, a historic open-air shopping district, is just over a mile away and offers a diverse collection of boutiques, restaurants, and bars. For a more extensive luxury retail experience, The Galleria, Texas's largest shopping center, is a short drive away with over 300 stores. The community atmosphere in Colonial Terrace is strong, fostered by shared amenities and the top-tier local schools that draw residents together, creating a cohesive and welcoming environment. Many find the area's accessibility to be one of the best in Houston.

Why Choose Colonial Terrace

Choosing Colonial Terrace means investing in a lifestyle that combines location, luxury, and quality of life. The neighborhood is a key part of West University Place, which has been nationally recognized as a "Top Urban Enclave" by Forbes. This distinction highlights its unique position as a tranquil, well-maintained city with its own services, nestled within the larger metropolis of Houston. The area's real estate has shown strong performance, making a home here not just a residence but a sound investment. You can find more information about home investment themes here.

The primary draws are tangible and significant. Access to some of Houston's best public schools, including the highly-rated West University Elementary, is a major factor. The exceptional accessibility to the city’s most important business and medical centers reduces commute times and enhances work-life balance. Furthermore, the absence of a mandatory HOA fee is a rare benefit in a neighborhood of this stature. For those who seek a premier address, a serene environment, and the convenience of city living, Colonial Terrace presents a compelling and valuable proposition.

Colonial Terrace Home Tax Rate

Property taxes in Colonial Terrace are determined by the combined rates of several jurisdictions, including the Houston Independent School District (HISD), the City of West University Place, Harris County, and others. Understanding Houston property taxes is a key part of homeownership. The total tax rate is applied to the assessed value of a property, which is determined annually by the Harris County Appraisal District (HCAD).

As an example, if a home in Colonial Terrace has an assessed value of $1,500,000, the property tax bill is calculated by multiplying this value by the combined tax rate. For instance, using the 2023 rates, the HISD tax rate is $0.8683, the City of Houston rate is $0.51919, and the Harris County rate is $0.38529 (all per $100 of valuation). Homeowners may be eligible for exemptions, such as the homestead exemption, which can reduce the taxable value of their property. Payments are typically due by January 31 of the following year. For a complete guide on exemptions, you can review this article on Houston homestead exemptions.

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 team and possesses unparalleled expertise in the West University Place market. With a deep understanding of the unique qualities of Colonial Terrace, Paige Martin provides a tailored and effective sales approach. For a direct consultation, you can contact her at 713.425.4194 or email [email protected].

What makes Colonial Terrace real estate agents different?

The top real estate agent for Colonial Terrace stands apart through verifiable performance and deep local knowledge. Paige Martin’s team has a proven track record of success within the 77005 zip code, backed by extensive sales data. This includes a comprehensive understanding of architectural styles, lot values, and the subtle market dynamics that influence property values in the area. Their specific expertise ensures your home is positioned correctly to attract the right buyers and achieve a premium price, a key differentiator when you want to sell my home in Colonial Terrace.

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 an award-winning group that consistently delivers exceptional results. Their accolades serve as a testament to their commitment to excellence.

"#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 backed by hard data that showcases their ability to outperform the market. They are not just the best realtor Colonial Terrace has to offer; they are statistically proven to be.

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 for the top real estate agent in Colonial Terrace, the choice is clear. The Houston Properties Team provides a data-driven, client-focused experience designed to secure the best possible outcome for your sale. Start the process today by calling 713.425.4194 or emailing [email protected] for a personalized consultation. Following a structured home buying process is also crucial for success.

More Details

Detailed Market Analysis and Investment Trends

Colonial Terrace, as part of West University Place, represents one of the most stable and appreciating real estate markets in Houston. The neighborhood has consistently demonstrated strong land value appreciation. This is driven by its prime location, exceptional school zoning, and high quality of life. Investment trends show a consistent pattern of older, smaller homes being replaced by larger, new-construction properties, which elevates the neighborhood's overall value. The market is characterized by high demand and limited inventory, which supports strong pricing. Properties in Colonial Terrace are viewed as a secure long-term investment due to these enduring factors.

Complete Amenities and Recreation Guide

The primary recreational amenity for Colonial Terrace is Colonial Park, located at 4130 Byron Street. This 3.16-acre park offers a wide array of facilities: a swimming pool with a large deck and recreational features, two lighted tennis courts, a concrete jogging track where seven laps equal one mile, a pavilion, and a Youth Fitness Challenge Course. The West End of the park includes wooden decks, picnic tables, and grilling stations. Beyond the neighborhood, residents have easy access to the numerous cultural institutions in the Museum District and Hermann Park, which offers a golf course, Miller Outdoor Theatre, and the Houston Zoo.

School District Information and Private School Options

Colonial Terrace is zoned to the Houston Independent School District (HISD). The assigned public 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. Lamar High School is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, offering a rigorous academic program. In addition to the excellent public schools, there are numerous prestigious private schools in close proximity, including St. John's School, St. Mark's Episcopal School, and The Post Oak School, providing residents with a variety of educational choices.

Transportation and Commuting Details

Commuting from Colonial Terrace is highly efficient due to its strategic location. The neighborhood has immediate access to major arteries such as Bissonnet Street, Buffalo Speedway, the Southwest Freeway (I-69), and the 610 Loop. This allows for convenient travel to Houston's largest employment hubs. A typical commute to the Texas Medical Center is under 10 minutes, while Downtown Houston and The Galleria can be reached in approximately 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Public transportation options are available via METRO bus routes along the main bordering streets.

Neighborhood Governance and Restrictions

Colonial Terrace is governed by the City of West University Place, which provides municipal services including police, fire, sanitation, and parks and recreation. The city has its own zoning ordinances and building codes that are typically stricter than those of the City of Houston, ensuring a high standard of development and maintenance. While there is no overarching homeowners association for Colonial Terrace itself, some individual blocks or streets may have voluntary civic clubs or deed restrictions that aim to preserve the neighborhood's character.

Historical Development and Architectural Styles

The development of Colonial Terrace began in the 1930s, and its initial wave of construction continued into the 1940s. The predominant architectural styles from this era are Colonial Revival, Tudor, and traditional brick cottages. Over the decades, particularly from the 1990s onward, many of the original smaller homes have been replaced by much larger custom-built residences. These newer homes often feature Georgian, French, or Mediterranean-inspired designs, creating a diverse but harmonious architectural landscape. The consistent presence of mature trees and well-kept lawns unifies the varied home styles.

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 the 26 subdivisions that make up the city of West University Place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colonial Terrace prone to flooding?

Like many parts of Houston, some areas can be susceptible to street flooding during exceptionally heavy rainfall. However, West University Place has invested in infrastructure improvements. Prospective buyers should always perform due diligence, including reviewing flood maps and property-specific history. For more information, read about how to avoid homes with flooding history.

What is the community atmosphere like in Colonial Terrace?

The community atmosphere is often described as quiet, established, and welcoming. The presence of Colonial Park as a central gathering point and the highly-rated local elementary school fosters a strong sense of community among residents.

Are there any HOA fees in Colonial Terrace?

No, Colonial Terrace does not have a mandatory homeowners association or associated fees. The neighborhood is maintained and regulated by the City of West University Place.

How is the access to healthcare facilities?

Access to healthcare is outstanding. Colonial Terrace is located just a few minutes' drive from the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world, which houses over 60 medical institutions.

What are the main shopping and dining options nearby?

Residents have easy access to high-end shopping and dining. Rice Village, with its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, is very close. The Galleria, a premier upscale shopping destination, is also just a short drive away, offering luxury retail and fine dining.

“Courtney, Dani, and the entire Houston Properties team were attentive, knowledgeable, caring, timely, and all around wonderful. Can’t imagine a better experience buying and selling a home! 10/10 would recommend!” - Mitchell Greco (Google Review)