Katy

Home Decorating in the Houston Area

I hope you love your new home! As a new resident of the H-Town area, you may be interested in my information on where to look for furniture and more.

Furniture

texas humor 1If you head north on Fondren from I-59, you will find a lot of different furniture stores. I call this section, up to Westheimer, “Furniture Row.” You will also find rug, fabric, and lighting stores in that area. 

There is also a Star Furniture nearby (see map below) which IMHO has the best quality-for-the-price furniture around. There is also a Star Furniture Clearance Outlet where you may get a great deal.

If you like modern/contemporary furniture, then check out Cantoni.

And don’t forget the iconic GALLERY FURNITURE in Houston, which is an awesome furniture buying experience and they can usually deliver on the same day! (Read about owner “Mattress Mack” who is a Houston icon.)

APPLIANCES

I have purchased several appliances (refrigerators, ovens, TVs) online at ABT Electronics. They have different levels of delivery service, depending on what you need. Watch out for large refrigerators and getting them through your door! I had to have a handyman remove my door in order to get my last refrigerator inside, and it’s just a regular refrigerator.

There are also Appliance Outlets all over Houston, just check around on Google Maps.

HOME DECOR

I like to make home decor collections on Amazon (helps with staging). Sometimes you can mix and match, like yellow and gray, or navy and gold:

I also help people with “budget decorating” where you can make your home look great using inexpensive touches and items you already have. You can see a few examples of how I transform homes from my Staging Samples page. Just contact me for help.

Staging: Before and After

If you want home buyers to get excited about purchasing your home, then it needs to look it’s very best!

Most people don’t want to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to buy a “fixer upper” that needs fresh paint and flooring…they want “move in ready.”

But most of us don’t live in a home that looks like a builder’s model! The way you live comfortably in your home is not how you should stage your home for sale. 🙂 

I can provide small-scale staging services for my full-fee clients, as shown in the following examples. If you need premium furniture (for higher-end or luxury homes) then you will probably need to engage a professional home stager.

TRUE Video Tours
To see one of my best video tours (where no staging was necessary) check this out!

 

Staging Project 1

Here’s one example of a home staging project I did for a lovely home owner/client and the professional photography that I arranged. We received multiple offers in 3 days. That’s how you do it! I also helped this home owner save thousands of dollars by using a local flooring company that I recommended ($9000) vs Home Depot or Lowes ($22,000-24,000). This is why you should contact me EARLY…before you spend too much money on your house. 🙂 

You can view all the photos and my virtual tour for this home here.

 

Staging Project 2

Here’s another example of a “lived in” home that I staged using their existing furniture. When I work with occupied homes, I create a Staging Plan for the home owners, showing exactly what items to remove, so they know how to prepare for “Staging Day.” I also helped this home owner get multiple estimates from local painters in order to select the best one for their project.

You can view the video tour here.

 

 

Staging Project 3

While being only one year old, this home needed a few things to make it more “homey.” This house went under contract in less than a week and the buyers told us, at the Closing, that the colors and staging is what sold the house!

By the way, this home was sold to out-of-town buyers who saw my video tour. They didn’t see the house in-person until the day before Closing. I have sold approximately 15 homes to out-of-town/state/country buyers through my TRUE video tours.

You can view the video tour here.

 

Staging Project 4

Here’s an example of a home staging project I did for a vacant home. I used to do my own photography, but now I hire a professional photographer for my listings.

You can view the video tour here.

You can view all the photos and my virtual tour for this home here.

 

Staging Project 5

Here’s another example of a home staging project I did for a vacant home several years ago. I used to do my own photography, but now I hire a professional photographer for my listings.

Confirmation: Thank you!

I hope you find the information that I send you helpful!
Please email me your feedback if you have any suggestions.

 

 

😀

remodel home

Remodeling & Updating Older Homes

The best areas to live in Katy TX are starting to get a bit outdated. If you want to live in an area with the shortest commute downtown, and top-rated schools, with excellent amenities, then understand that those neighborhoods were built in 1990-2010 (or so). So the homes in those areas are starting to need new paint, floors, counters, etc.

You can’t buy a new construction home in these areas…they are “built out,” which means there is no land available on which to build. So you can either move way out west into northwest Katy (zoned to lower-performing schools) or into Fulshear or Brookshire Texas, or you can do some remodeling.

In real estate there are three things you need to know: Location, location, location. 😀   So generally speaking it’s a wiser investment to buy a home in the best location that you can afford and then do some updating to the interior as needed.  You can transform an older home and then have a modern-looking, updated home in the best neighborhoods zoned to the top-rated schools. You just need a great contractor and a budget! ;-D

Updating a home will typically take 2-6 weeks (depending on what you do to the home). That’s a lot shorter time than building a new construction home, which will take 5-8 months. Minor updates can begin as low as $10K and a major update can cost around $60-70K (depending on what you do to the home).

I can help you with a list of contractors in the area, sample colors and material lists, planning checklists, and more. Watch the video below of a home transformation for one of my clients (who hired a contractor that I recommended).

 

Beautiful Example of a Home Transformation 

 
NOTE: Make sure the video Quality setting is 1080p.

By the way, I can provide you with a list of Sarah & Will’s paint colors and other materials! ;-D

BEFORE & AFTER Photos

 

Other samples of beautiful remodels: Look here

What’s the Most Popular Kitchen Cabinet Color?

 

 

Yards Can Be Transformed Too!

 

Sample Paint Colors

 

 

 

Other Cool Ideas

Built-In Doggie Kennels

doggie kennels

 

 

Bar Under the Stairs

bar under the stairs

 

Wine Cellar Under the Stairs

 

 

Timeline for Planning a Home Purchase

Resale Homes

Most people need help with the timeline for planning a home purchase, so here’s my recommendation.

Start with a Deadline. That’s the date you absolutely have to be out of your current home/apartment. This Deadline may be the end of a lease or a move-out date for an existing home that you are selling.

Begin Search. You should begin your search approximately 2.5 to 3 months before your deadline. Keep in mind that most home owners will want you to Close within 5-6 weeks of executing a contract because that’s the typical time it takes for a lender to process your loan. It may take several weeks before you find a home and get an accepted contract. Some people start their search even earlier, to have more cushion, but they must be prepared to Close early and pay two house payments until the end of their current lease or move out date on current home. (Actually, you don’t usually begin paying a new mortgage for at least one month after Closing. So if you Close in the middle of June, your first house payment may not be until August 1.)

Deadline for Executed Contract. You must be “under contract” on your new home at least 6 weeks before your deadline but 8 weeks is preferred. Again…this is to allow time for your lender to process the loan (usually 5-6 weeks). You should allow a 2 week gap between Closing on your new home and moving out of your current home in order to give yourself time to pack, move, and clean. NEVER plan to Close and move out on the same day. Closings don’t always happen on time, as scheduled. There can be delays caused by the lender. You do not want your belongings on a moving van before you have a definite place to put them!

Recommended Close Date. You should Close on your new home about 2 weeks before your Deadline to move out of your existing home. However, this will need to be negotiated with the Seller of the new home. If they have already vacated the property, they will want a quick/short Closing date. If they are still living in the home, they may want a longer date before Closing or they may want a Temporary Lease to live in the home, after Closing, to have time to pack and move.

timeline planning home purchase

New Construction Homes

This timeline is for purchasing a resale home. If you are buying new construction (home being built from “dirt”) then it will take 5-6 months or more. In 2022 there are shortages and supply-chain issues, and some home builders have delays. Rainy weather can also delay a Close date for new construction homes.

sheila cox realtor 22

How To Make Your Offer More Competitive

In a hot real estate market, where homes are getting multiple offers within a few days of being listed,  you need to know how to make your offer to purchase a home more competitive. The more you want the home, the more competitive you will want to make the offer.
 
 
Please view my detailed video (50 mins) to learn about our Texas contracts and addendum. You should do this in advance so you are prepared in case we have to write an offer in a hurry. You can download and print the sample docs (which we go through in the video). Please write down your questions, so we can discuss them.
 
The video and sample docs are exclusive to clients only…so sign up!
In my video I explain the following items and more.
 
Contract Item Comment Estimated Cost*
Sales Price

The higher the sales price, the better your offer.

You usually have to offer over list price to win in a multi-offer situation.

  

Termination Option

NOTE: Relocation companies do not allow Termination Options (which are unique to Texas).

Negotiable for 7-10 days and $200-500 fee. Waiving your Termination Option can be a good way to be competitive, and you are still allowed to do inspections. However, you will have little negotiating room for repair requests. In a hot real estate market, most sellers won’t agree to repair requests anyway. (See more about inspections and common issues on homes in this area.)

If you want a Termination Option, but you also want to be competitive, then offer a $1000 fee to show that you are a serious buyer. If you do not “exercise your option to terminate” then your Option fee is applied (credited) to your Sales Price at Closing.

 $200-1000
Requested Non-Realty Items

Do not request excluded items if you want to be competitive.

You can ask for appliances, furniture, etc. and offer to pay for them in a Non-Realty Items Addendum.

 $10 or more
Title Policy Sellers usually pay for the title policy but you should pay for it if you want to be super-competitive.  Calculate cost
Survey Buyers usually pay for a new survey if the sellers do not have an accurate one available. $425 at Closing
Home Warranty

The Seller usually pays for a Home Warranty, but the Buyer  chooses which home warranty company and policy type they want, and the title company orders it and pays for it out of Closing funds.

To be more competitive, pay for the Home Warranty yourself.

 $500-800 (with pool)
Closing Date If the home is vacant, then the sooner the better to Close (for the Seller). Being flexible on a Closing date, to match what the Seller wants, can be a good way to be competitive. Closing time frames are mostly determined by the lender who usually require 5-6 weeks. Cash buyers can usually close in 3-4 weeks as long as their funds are readily available.  
Possession/Temporary Lease Backs If the home is still occupied by the owner, then offering a Temporary Lease Back to the Seller, so they have time to pack and move after the Closing, can be a good way to be competitive.  
Seller’s Contribution to Closing Costs

If you need help with Closing costs, because you do not have a lot of cash available for the purchase, then your offer will not be very competitive. Asking the Seller to pay for anything extra lowers their “net proceeds” from this transaction. 

Sometimes you can offset “Seller’s Contribution to Closing Costs” with a higher sales price, but not often in a multi-offer situation.

  
Type of Financing

A conventional loan from a reputable local lender will make your offer more competitive. If you have a big bank (such as BofA, Wells Fargo, or Chase) then you will not be as competitive (because listing agents don’t like them due to Closing issues).

FHA loans are not competitive because of the stringent inspection process and reputation for low appraisals.

  
Days for Buyer Approval On the Third Party Financing Addendum, we typically put 21 days for Buyer Approval, but if you have all your paperwork turned into the lender, and your lender says it’s OK, then you may want to put 14 days to shorten this contingency (to be more competitive).  
Appraisal Addendum

If you are bidding high on a house and have concerns that it will not appraise, then you should request an Appraisal Addendum (see my detailed article and video about this). This is especially true if you are a cash-rich buyer. However, this makes your offer less competitive than offers who do not make this request.

If you can afford it, do not request an Appraisal Addendum and be prepared to pay the difference between the sales price and the appraised price (plus down payment and Closing costs).

  
Subdivision Info You can usually get the deed restrictions for a neighborhood online. If you want a printed copy, then you may be charged for it and you will have to request it on the HOA addendum. This is very unusual and will make your offer less competitive. 

Cost Varies
$300-500
HOA Transfer Fee The transfer fee should be listed on the MLS, but it may be inaccurate. The Buyer usually pays the transfer fee. There may be other fees $200-400 approximate) charged by the HOA before Closing…each HOA is different. Cost Varies
$200-400
Foundation Fee Johnson Development who runs Cross Creek Ranch, Sienna Plantation, and Riverstone, requires that Buyers pay an extra fee at Closing, usually equal to one year’s HOA maintenance fee. There may be other neighborhoods/developers that require this as well. Make sure you identify “who pays what” in the contract. Usually equal to HOA fee $1100-1300
Capitalization Fee Johnson Development who runs Cross Creek Ranch, Sienna Plantation, and Riverstone, requires that Sellers pay an extra fee at Closing, usually equal to .25% of sales price. There may be other neighborhoods/developers that require this as well. Make sure you identify “who pays what” in the contract. Cost Varies but usually .25% of sales price
*All of the costs listed are ESTIMATES only.
 

To write an offer to purchase a home, I will need the following information:

Full Legal Names (both people): __________________________  and ______________________________
 
Separate email addresses for each of you: __________________________  and ______________________________
(for e-signature system to be legal, they require separate emails)
 
Sales Price: $____________
 
Down payment: $___________ or ____%
 
Loan Type: Conventional
 
Loan Duration: _____ years
 
Loan Interest Rate: ____%
(The rate should be “worst case” scenario, in case you want to use this as a reason to back out of the deal due to financing issues.)
 
Closing Date: _________________
 
Current Address: _________________________
 
Items to include in Non-Realty Items Addendum: Refrigerator?, W&D? 
 
Special permission to do stucco inspection or hydrostatic testing (very uncommon here)
 
texas humor 2

How to Survive Natural Disasters in Katy

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Helpful Disaster Supplies You Need

Regardless if it’s a hurricane, tropical storm, or winter storm, here is a great list of helpful disaster preparation supplies (Amazon list) and hurricane supplies (Amazon list2). Most people will not have a budget to buy all of this at once, so try to buy one or two items every month or so, and within a year you will have a lot of supplies. Store all your emergency supplies in one area. Non-food items can be stored in a large plastic container, in case you need to evacuate and take them with you.

>>See also: Katy Preparedness Guide

Create an Emergency Binder and include this Basic Preparedness document. Also print out your email contacts (online address book) and evacuation route map and put in binder. Keep some emergency cash in the binder as well…in case the electric power goes out, ATMs don’t work, and credit cards can’t be used.

 

What To Do the Week Before a Disaster

For most disasters (hurricanes and winter storms) you will have advance notice. Essential items that you need to survive include: water, food, lighting, cooking gear, and gasoline. Keep in mind that many of these items will not be available AFTER the disaster, so plan ahead.

Before a hurricane, winter storm, or other natural disasters, you should:

 1.   Store as much water as you can. Water may go offline or have a “boil notice” after a disaster, so store water in jugs, such as a 5-gallon collapsible storage jug, and 2 gallon container with spigot (works great as an alternative faucet for washing hands). Bathtubs can be used as a last resort.

2.   Fill up your car with gasoline, whether or not you plan to evacuate. Gasoline is often in shortage after a disaster. If you have a gas generator, get gas for that too. Use Gas Buddy app to find gas after a disaster.

3.   Buy non-perishable supplies at a grocery store at least 3-days in advance. Don’t wait until last-minute when shelves will be empty. Perishable items are not recommended since they will spoil if you lose power for an extended period (and refrigerator doesn’t work). Buy enough to last at least 1-week.

    Other Helpful Shopping Lists:

 

4.   Make sure you have enough prescription medicines on hand.

5.   Charge up all phones and devices. If you have battery backups, or chargeable radio/lanterns, then charge those too.

6.   Familiarize yourself with all evacuation routes and shelters.

7.   Wash clothes—you may not be able to do so after the storm.

8.   Shower and wash hair—you may not be able to do so after the storm.

9.   Download the Gas Buddy and Waze apps.

10.   Sign up for Nextdoor in your neighborhood and all neighborhood Facebook groups. During Hurricane Harvey, social media had information up to 12 hours ahead of the county’s emergency management system.

11.   Freeze plastic bags of water to use for ice after storm.

12.   Sign up for emergency alerts at city, county, and MUD websites.

>>See Katy Road Conditions Map or Houston TranStar

 

How to Prep Home for Hurricanes

The following list will help you prepare for a hurricane:

1.    Get flood insurance by May 1…it takes 30 days to go in effect and hurricane season begins in June.

2.   Purchase Hurricane Supplies in addition to other emergency supplies. The supplies may be on short supply after the disaster.

3.   Know how to turn off the electricity, gas, and water for your home.

4.   Print a list of local emergency shelters.

5.   Put all outdoor lawn furniture, potted plants, and items that may go airborne in high winds, in the garage.

6.   Cover windows with plywood, if possible.

7.   Unplug small appliances and propane tanks (gas grills).

8.   Make sure all dogs and cats are wearing tags, in case they get lost.

9.   Take detailed photos/videos of home and contents (internal and external) for insurance records.

10.   You may want sand bags to seal doorways.

11.   In an emergency, you can store documents and valuables in a dishwasher (which is waterproof when fully closed).

12.   Move valuables upstairs or stack furniture on risers. Get items off the floor if flooding is expected.

13.   Prepare a location under the stairs or inside an interior closet as a safety room during high winds, if you can’t evacuate.

14.   You may need cleanup supplies: heavy duty garbage bags, ax/chainsaw, broom, mop, bleach (which doesn’t kill mold on porous surfaces, as commonly believed), heavy duty gloves, and more (see list).

 

How to Prep Home for Hard Freezes and Winter Storms

The following list will help you prepare for a hard freeze or winter storm:

1.  Do not leave pets outside during a freeze; 40 degrees or below is dangerous for most mammals.

2.  Cover delicate outdoor plants with bed sheets or fabric (better than plastic) and bring potted plants inside.

3.  Disconnect water hoses from outside faucets and cover all faucets with insulators (cheap, easy to use, and available at Home Depot).

4.  Winterize sprinkler system, it’s very easy (see video).

5.  Insulate all outside, exposed pipes. 

6.  Make sure you know how to turn off the “water main” in case a pipe bursts.

7.  Drip water (size of angel hair pasta) at faucets at night, especially for kitchen and bathroom sinks that are on an exterior wall. Open the cabinet doors so warm air can get to pipes. If temperatures will be below freezing for more than 6 hrs then shut off water at the main, and open faucets in bathrooms and kitchen to drain lines. Leave faucets open until you open the water main again (when temperature gets above freezing).

8.  If you have a swimming pool, make sure you set the pump to run during the freezing temperatures…usually from 10 p.m. to 10 a.m. You want to keep that water flowing! If temperatures will be below freezing for more than 6 hours, then you may want to winterize your pool (videos listed below).

9.  If heater goes out due to power loss, “seal” off one room in your house that is near an alternative heat source (fireplace or gas stove in kitchen). Use thumbtacks to hang blankets over doors and hallway entryways to keep cold air out and warm air inside. Keep all family members in one room to retain body heat in one place. Close doors to all other rooms in the house. If you will be using a fireplace*, make sure you have firewood or gel fuel on hand, but always monitor all open flame fires. If using a gas stove in a kitchen, then make sure you have a lighter. Don’t sleep with unattended open-flame fire: fires are silent killers. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector in the room. Dress in warm layers and drink warm tea.

*NOTE: Make sure you have your chimney cleaned at least every 3 years…more often if you frequently use your fireplace. Creosote build-up and other issues can cause dangerous house fires (read more). Be safe!

Helpful Videos 

Learn how to turn off water main, winterize sprinklers and pool, and more. Check out the videos on my playlist here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6I6-5nmCmu-JCR0ye7oGEagpILaOMhk8

Emergency Video Playlist

 

If You Need Emergency Restoration or Plumbing

More checklists: Primal Survivor Website

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appraisals

About Appraisals and What To Do When One Comes in Low

The Problem Regarding Real Estate Appraisals

One troublesome aspect of home buying and selling is how to handle low real estate appraisals. 
A real estate appraisal is an estimate of the market value of a piece of real estate based upon a variety of factors. 
In the definition above, notice the word ESTIMATE. If you ask five different appraisers to give you an appraisal for one home, you will end up with five different prices/values. So never consider an appraisal to be absolutely true, objective, and infallible—it’s an OPINION only. It’s not like 2 + 2 = 4. It’s more like the appraiser chooses the comparable homes (“comps”) and adjustment numbers he wants, to make the home equal to the sales price or less…depending  (in my opinion) on how much down payment the buyer is paying. 
 
 
I’ve seen overpriced houses appraise for the sales price and I’ve seen fairly priced homes NOT appraise for value. What’s the difference? I think at least part of it is how much the buyer is putting down on the home (but I can’t prove that). In my experience, it’s interesting how often homes appraise when the buyer is putting 20 percent down, and how often the appraisal “comes in low” when the buyer is only putting 3 to 5 percent down.
 
I’m a very analytical real estate agent, so I actually review all appraisals that I receive, to see what the appraiser did and how he valued the property. One thing that has always amazed me is how rarely appraisers choose true comparables to the subject home. We’re supposed to choose 3-5 homes sold in the past 6 months that are as near the subject property in size, quality, age, amenities, and proximity as possible. But I’ve seen an appraiser go back a year to find the lowest comps possible, when there are plenty of comps that are within the 6-month preferred window. I’ve seen appraisers use comps in totally different neighborhoods, zoned to different schools and with different amenities, rather than use the comps available in the same neighborhood. I’ve seen appraisers use homes that where larger or smaller than our +/-300sf guideline, even with there are appropriately sized comps available. Trust me when I tell you, the value of a home can be easily manipulated by the types of comps that are chosen. If an appraiser chooses the cheapest comps available, and the subject property is high-end due to it’s location or features, then the appraisal will come in low. If an appraiser chooses the most expensive comps available, and the subject property is priced fairly, then the appraisal may come in a tiny bit over sales price (about $5000).
By the way, home appraisals will almost never come in more than $5,000 over the sales price. Isn’t that magic? ;-D
Another problem is timing. Using 6-month old homes to value the current market is a little absurd. If you are in a hot “sellers market” then the comps 6 months ago won’t reflect the current market situation. Likewise, if you are selling in a “slowing” market, with lots of homes available, then the price you could have received 6 months ago may not be what you will sell for today (when the buyers have more options).
 
So all home buyers need to take these things into consideration and they should not treat an appraisal as an absolute TRUTH.
 
When buying or selling a home, you should keep these things in mind:
  1. In a hot “sellers market” where there are few homes on the market, and most homes have multiple offers within a few weeks of listing, buyers should expect to pay the listing price or more to get a home under contract. The problem with this scenario is that the home may not appraise for value (the sales price).
  2. In a “buyers market,” where there is high inventory (lots of homes available) and buyers have lots of options, then sellers should not expect to receive top-dollar for their property, and it may take longer to find a buyer unless your home is immaculate.

Options for Handling Low Appraisals

If you are a home buyer, and my client, then it’s my job to help you get the home that you want…even if it may at the higher end of the market. If you put a $400,000 contract on a home AND have an appraisal addendum, and then the appraisal comes in at $380,000 (these prices are just examples), then you have four options: 
 
A. Ask Seller to Drop Price to Appraised Value: Send an Amendment asking the seller to agree to change the sales price to match the appraised value. Consequences: If seller agrees, then you get the house at a much lower price. If not, you lose the house and all fees you have already paid, but you get your earnest money back. Sellers do not have to agree to drop the price. If it’s a hot market, then the seller can relist, get another offer, and end up with a different appraisal. (Except FHA appraisals stay for 6 months, but the seller can just refuse FHA offers in the future.)
 
B.  Ask Seller to Drop Price Part Way: Send an Amendment asking the seller to agree to change the sales price to meet you somewhere between appraised value and current sales price (such as at $390,000, or any number between $380,000 and $400,000). Consequences: If seller agrees, then you get the house at a lower price than you agreed to in the contract. But again, the seller does not have to agree to this and can always put the house back on the market.
 
C. Buyer Pays Extra for House: Move forward with the transaction and pay the extra money between the appraised value and the sales price. This will be in addition to the down payment and other Closing costs. This is not usually recommended, but sometimes necessary to get the home you really want. Consequences: Buyer pays more than originally intended, but gets the home.
 
D. Terminate Contract: Terminate the contract and get your earnest money back. Consequences: You don’t get the house you want and you lose the fees paid to lender and inspectors.

How Do You Choose the Right Option?

Use the chart below to help find the right option for your situation:
 

How To Price a Home

NOTE: This video is for normal markets and may not apply to “hot” seller’s markets where most homes have multiple offers.

 

Read also:

 
 
katy-tx-la-centerra green featured

Self-Guided Tour of Katy Texas

Some people want a self-guided tour of Katy Texas before looking at houses with a REALTOR, so I created this tour to show you around the area. You will start this tour at LaCenterra which is a great place to find a restaurant. Just click each address in the order listed below and Google maps will take you to the featured places in our top Katy neighborhoods. You can click the neighborhood name to see my complete description of that neighborhood.
 
Try to drive around a neighborhood before moving to the next location on my tour. Remember that Google Maps can get you back on track no matter where you are located in the neighborhood. 😀
 

Order of Tour:
 

    1. La Centerra at  23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Katy, TX 77494
      This is one of our main shopping and dining areas with fun events on a regular basis. 

    2. Cinco Ranch Beach at  3131 S Lake Village Dr, Katy, TX 77450
      This is the original part of Cinco Ranch and one of the 10 swimming pools you would have access to as a resident of this neighborhood.  

      ⇒ Optional: You may also want to visit: Katy Equestrian Center while you are in this area.

    3. Grand Lakes at S Grand Star, Katy, Texas 77450
      Grand Lakes has an interesting “square” design (see diagram/birds eye) and many great amenities. This location takes you past the dog park, to the neighborhood garden, and one of the several splash pads and parks.

    4. Whole Foods at  6601 S Fry Rd, Katy, TX 77494
      While I’m a dedicated HEB-girl, some of my clients like to know that we have a Whole Foods nearby.   
       

      texas humor 1
      About Hurricane Harvey

    5. Seven Meadows at  23610 Seven Meadows Pkwy, Katy, TX 77494  
      One of my top-three favorite neighborhoods! Seven Meadows is a smaller neighborhood but is zoned to the best schools in Katy and has excellent access to both Westpark Tollway and Grand Parkway. 

    6. Cinco Southwest at  25202 Springwood Lake Dr, Katy, TX 77494
      This is a newer section of Cinco Ranch. Very pretty except watch out for the line of high-voltage power lines that run through the middle. This area is zone to excellent schools. As you drive from here to Cross Creek Ranch you will see the newest part of Cinco Ranch. 

    7. Cross Creek Ranch at  6450 Cross Creek Bend Ln, Fulshear, TX 77441
      Another of my top-three favorite neighborhoods, Cross Creek Ranch is resort-style living at its best. Make sure you park at the observation tower (welcome center) and walk around “The Hill.”

    8. Churchill Farms at 27618 Briscoe Park Ct, Fulshear, TX 77441
      Churchill Farms is a small, newer neighborhood with beautiful homes built recently and zoned to great schools. 

    9. Pine Mill Ranch at  26810 Pine Mill Ranch Dr, Katy, TX 77494
      Pine Mill Ranch is another smaller, newer neighborhood with recently built homes zoned to great schools.

    10. Tamarron at 28707 Tamarron Pkwy, Katy, TX 77494
      Tamarron has a gorgeous entrance (fountain) and resort-style community swimming pool, water park, splash pad, with a view of a lake, dog park and playground. This neighborhood is split between Katy ISD and Lamar Consolidated ISD.

    11. Cinco Northwest at Cinco Trace Dr, Katy, TX 77494
      This is part of the newest section of Cinco Ranch and features mostly high-end homes. Even though it is a bit away from “The Beach” and “The Lakehouse,” this neighborhood shares access to ALL of the Cinco Ranch amenities.

    12. Firethorne at 28100 N Firethorne Rd, Katy, TX 77494
      Firethorne is a newish neighborhood with nice amenities and the schools are split between Katy ISD and Lamar Consolidated ISD. On the Katy side, this neighborhood is zoned to Katy High School which is usually a 7 on GreatSchools.org (not one of our top high schools).

    13. Grayson Lakes at 2042 Broken Branch Ct, Katy, TX 77494
      Grayson Lakes is built around a small lake, so it has lots of waterfront homes. This is a smaller neighborhood and is zoned to excellent schools.

    14. Woodcreek Reserve at 26604 Kingsland Blvd, Katy, TX 77494
      Woodcreek Reserve is one of the prettiest neighborhoods in West Katy because it was built along a bayou. It is zoned to excellent elementary and middle schools, but also zoned to Katy High School (only a 7 on GreatSchools.org).

    15. Katy Mills Mall at  5000 Katy Mills Cir, Katy, TX 77494
      This is the largest mall in the area and is surrounded by restaurants and other activities. Drive around and take a look! On the south-side you will see new construction for the Katy Boardwalk taking place.

    16. Typhoon Texas Water Park at 555 Katy Fort Bend Rd, Katy, TX 77494
      Kids are always excited to see this awesome waterpark!

    17. Times Square Entertainment at 402 W Grand Pkwy S #110, Katy, TX 77494
      To bring you back around, I wanted you to see this entertainment center. Katy has MANY Fun Things to Do in Katy.

 
That’s a good self-guided tour of Katy Texas and our top Katy communities and amenities. There’s more of Katy along I-10 heading into town including even more restaurants and shopping. If you want to try some of our famous Tex-Mex and see this portion of Katy, then head to Pappasito’s (at 10409 Interstate 10 Frontage Rd, Houston, TX 77024) over by City Center.
 
If you want to see “Old Katy” (the incorporated part of Katy) then head to Mary Jo Peckham Park at 5597 Gardenia Lane, Katy, Texas 77493 and then drive over to the Katy court house at 5432 Franz Rd, Katy, TX 77493. The famous K-T train car is at 5615 1st St, Katy, TX 77493.
 
⇒ Area golf courses are listed on my website: Katy Golf Courses 
 

⇒ My tour in Google Maps is at: https://goo.gl/maps/ru6AP7o7Y8G2

 

How to Schedule a Home Tour with Me

 
sheila-cox-realtor2-featured

Katy New Construction Homes for Sale (from home builder)

Many people moving to the Houston area decide they want to live in Katy or Sugar Land because of the great schools. However, they are often surprised to find out that there is very limited new construction in these areas, especially Sugar Land. Sugar Land is completely land-locked by Houston, Stafford, Missouri City, and Richmond Texas. If you want a new construction home in that area you will probably have to live in Missouri City, in either the Riverstone or Sienna Plantation neighborhoods. There is new construction in Imperial Sugar Land, but that neighborhood is not zoned to highly-rated schools, is next to a chemical plant, municipal airport, and baseball stadium, and train track. There is some new construction in Riverpark, which is zoned to poorly-rated schools.

NOTE Richmond Texas is adjacent to Sugar Land and there are new construction homes available in Aliana and a few other neighborhoods that I do not recommend. Aliana is adjacent to a large county dump and the other new construction neighborhoods are not zoned to highly rated schools.

Katy New Construction Neighborhoods

If you want Katy new construction homes for sale, especially a new construction home from a builder, then you will have to look northwest or southwest (and have a longer commute to downtown). Katy is “built out” on the northeast and southeast sides, closest to downtown Houston. The largest area of new construction homes will be on the northwest side of Katy (77493) where the schools are only Average (usually rated 5-7). If you want highly-rated schools, then look on the southwest side, including Fulshear TX (77441) because most of 77494 is built out.

katy new constructionSource: https://www.katyisd.org/

 

One thing to watch out for with Katy new construction homes for sale: High-risk flood zones. Some of the new construction neighborhoods are in 100-year and 500-year flood plains! Check out my Katy Flood Zone Report for more details and flood maps.

cross creek ranch featured

Cross Creek Ranch

Price Range: Home prices range from $335K to $1.7M Description Cross Creek Ranch is located on the ...
firethorne featured

Firethorne

Price Range: Home prices range from $303K to $1M Description Firethorne Katy is located on the far-west ...
tamarron featured

Tamarron

Price Range: Home prices range from $250K to $700K Tamarron Katy is located on the far-west side ...
Camillo Lakes

Camillo Lakes

Price Range: Home prices range from $287K to $430K Description Camillo Lakes Katy is located on the ...
Cane Island

Cane Island

Price Range: Home prices range from $585K to $2.45M Description Cane Island Katy is located on the ...
Elyson

Elyson

Price Range: Home prices range from $287K to $958K Description Elyson Katy is a “new construction” neighborhood ...
Fulbrook on Fulshear Creek

Fulbrook on Fulshear Creek

Price Range: Home prices range from $400K to $860K Description Fulbrook on Fulshear Creek Katy is located ...
Jordan Ranch

Jordan Ranch

Price Range: Home prices range from $272K to $800K Description Jordan Ranch is located on the southwest ...
polo ranch

Polo Ranch

Price Range: Home prices range from $249K to $539K Description Polo Ranch Katy is located on the ...
Young Ranch

Young Ranch

Price Range: Home prices range from $369K to $731K Description Young Ranch Katy is located on the ...

 

NOTE: There is also a major new development in Cypress (north of Katy) called Bridgeland.

 

Do Your Research!

>> Read Buying New Vs. Resale Home

>> Read What To Expect When You Buy A New Construction Home

>> Read How to Choose the Best Neighborhood

 

 

Katy New Construction Homes for Sale

Updated Daily – Sorted by Newest Listings

 

 

 

Katy Real Estate Market

Real Estate Terminology

Buyer’s Market vs. Seller’s Market

The  real estate market is constantly changing. The way we determine the type of real estate market we’re in (Buyer’s Market vs. Seller’s Market) is based on the amount of Inventory (homes available for sale) currently available. Six months of inventory is usually considered “equilibrium” —neither a Seller’s or Buyer’s Market. A Buyer’s Market is considered to be 7 months or more of inventory. This is where the demand for homes is somewhat less than the supply of homes and when Buyers may have more control over house prices than Sellers. A Seller’s Market is considered to be 5 months or less of inventory.  This is where the demand for homes is somewhat greater than the supply of homes and when Sellers may have more control over house prices than Buyers.

Months of Inventory

Months of Inventory refers to the number of months it would take to sell all of the currently listed homes on the market, with no new homes being added. This may also be called the “Absorption Rate” because it is the rate in which houses are “absorbed” in the current market. Generally speaking, if Inventory is greater than 6 months, then it is a “Buyers Market,” and if Inventory is less than 6 months, then it is a “Sellers Market.”

Months of Inventory =

# Active on the Market

(# Sold in Past 12 mths  ¸ 12 mths)

Cumulative Days On Market

How long it takes to sell homes can be a good indicator for “how’s the market”? The longer it takes to sell homes, on average, the slower the market. So if the cumulative number of Days on Market is increasing, then the market may be slowing down, and if CDOM is decreasing, then the market may be speeding up.

“Days on Market” refers to the days a specific home listing has been on the MLS. If the real estate agent Terminates the listing and then relists it with a new MLS number, then the DOM resets. However, the Cumulative Days On Market should show the total Days on Market for that particular home, regardless of the number of time it is terminated and relisted by one or more real estate agents.

Keep in mind that areas with lower-priced homes will usually sell faster than luxury-priced areas, because the more affordable the home’s price, the larger the number of potential buyers, and the quicker it can sell.

Median Price

Median Price is not the same as the Average Price; it is the middle point for real estate prices. The Median Price is the price in the middle of all the sales prices for a certain time-period, with exactly half of the houses priced for less and half priced for more.

It is generally believed that the Median Price is the best indicator for market activity because it is less affected by abnormally low prices or high prices (which skew the Average Price).

Overall Real Estate Market Data for 2021

The following data is for single-family properties Sold from January 1 to December 31, 2021. Keep in mind that # Active fluctuates daily and this report was put together in January 2022. The CDOM is the Median “Cumulative Days on Market.”

 

Area

ZIP

# Active

# Sold

CDOM

Median Price

Lowest Price

Highest Price

Months of Inventory*

Southwest 77494

77494

80

2755

6

$404,000

$150,000

$1,700,000

0.3

Northwest 77493

77493

142

1941

10

$325,000

$136,000

$1,350,000

0.9

Southeast 77450

77450

40

1208

7

$340,000

$134,000

$2,100,000

0.4

Southwest 77441

77441

133

888

14

$474,000

$205,000

$2,400,000

1.8

Northeast 77449

77449

33

861

6

$252,000

$120,000

$646,000

0.5

Southwest 77423

77423

66

540

14

$326,000

$85,000

$760,000

1.5

Northeast 77084

77084

53

513

6

$240,000

$125,000

$1,000,000

1.2

Southeast 77094

77094

6

162

11

$450,000

$221,000

$1,850,000

0.4

*Severe Housing Shortage: We should have 3-6 Months of Inventory in most of our Katy neighborhoods. With less than 1 Month of Inventory, we are is a HOT “Sellers Market” and buyers will have to pay top-dollar and request very little extra costs in order to “win” in a multi-offer situations. Make sure you line up a Strong Pre-APPROVAL letter with a good lender as part of your offer package.

Katy Real Estate Market Report 2022

The Katy Real Estate Market changes every month. To see recent data on the 10-year price trends, Days on Market, sales volume, months of inventory, and more, then DOWNLOAD the FREE  Katy Real Estate Market Report!

This information is not available on this website. 

Last update: January 2022

Download the FREE Report

Sales & Price Trends per
ZIP Code and Neighborhood

katy real estate market report
 

Includes Real Estate Market Data That You Won’t Find Anywhere Else!

What’s Included

  • Ten-year trend of median sales prices by ZIP Code and neighborhood…so you have a baseline in determining a home value.
  • Ten-year trend of sales volume by ZIP Code and neighborhood…so you can see which are the most popular neighborhoods.
  • Ten-year trend of median Days on Market by ZIP Code and neighborhood…so you can see how long it takes to sell a home in each area.
  • List of the most popular neighborhoods in the Katy area…see what neighborhoods are HOT!
  • List of the neighborhoods by price (high to low) in the Katy area.
  • Detailed market data on the most popular Katy neighborhoods

 

 

 

Sienna Plantation golfcourse3 scaled

Katy Golf Courses & Country Clubs

The following Katy golf courses and country clubs are nearby.

Name

Website

Phone Number

Cinco Ranch Golf Course

23030 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Katy, TX 77450

https://www.golfclubatcincoranch.com

281-395-4653

Falcon Point Golf Course

24503 Falcon Point Dr, Katy, TX 77494

https://www.clubcorp.com/Clubs/The-Club-at-Falcon-Point/Amenities/Golf

281-392-7888

Meadowbrook Farms Golf Course

23230 Meadowbrook Farms Club Dr, Katy, TX 77494

https://www.meadowbrookfarmsgolfclub.com

281-693-4653

Willow Fork Country Club

21055 Westheimer Pkwy, Katy, TX 77450

https://www.willowforkclub.com

281-579-6262

Shadow Hawk Golf Course

4100 Shadow Hawk Drive, Richmond, TX 77407

https://shadowhawkgolfclub.com/contact

281-340-7205

 

Katy Golf Course Homes for Sale

Here is an up-to-date list of Katy  Golf Course Homes for Sale for people who want a home located on a golf course lot (great view). These homes are located in the East and West sides of Katy (77450, 77094, 77494, 77441) only. The schools located in this part of Katy are the highest-rated Katy schools. The further west you go in Katy, the newer the homes (but the longer the commute ). In fact, you can find Katy new construction homes on the far west side of Katy. The east side of Katy is older and more beautiful with mature trees.

 

cross creek ranch baseball field4

Katy Parks and Recreation

Katy Parks and Recreation

Katy has multiple parks and recreation spots including:

  • Dog Park
  • Mary Jo Peckham Park
  • Mary Jo Peckham Aquatic & Fitness Center
  • Harvest Plaza
  • Katy City Park
  • Katy Arboretum
  • Katy Heritage Park
  • Thomas Park
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Park
  • Woodsland Park and Community Center

These facilities are described in detail below.

>> Online Reservations

 

Dog Park

5414 Franz, Katy TX 77493

“Opened in March 2007, this off-leash park for canines of all sizes and is open everyday from dawn to dusk and is one of the city’s most popular attractions. The 14 acre park offer lots of grass and trees with a third of a mile length walking path, a wading pool for dogs, custom dog showers and fountains accessible for both the four legged friend and their owners. Stop by and enjoy our newest attraction- the agility course! Located on the west side of the park, this course was designed for dogs to train or exercise along with their owners with ease. The park is divided into two parts for small and large breed dogs and has public restrooms.” (Source: Website)

 

Mary Jo Peckham Park

5597 Gardenia Ln, Katy, TX 77493

This is a 32-acre park featuring a lake with ducks, fish, and wildlife, playground, miniature golf, picnic pavilion, gazebo, walking trail, restrooms, picnic tables and grills.

 

Mary Jo Peckham Aquatic & Fitness Center

5597 Gardenia Ln, Katy, TX 77493

Open 7am-7pm (M-F), 8am-5:30pm (Sat), and 10am-5pm (Sun)

Fitness center for residents of Harris County (northern portion of Katy) that offers free swim lessons, water exercise, American Red Cross lessons, and other workshops. Fitness classes include yoga, Karate, Qigong, fitness machines, and cardio training.

>> See the Activity Calendar

 

Harvest Plaza

5701 Third Street, Katy TX 77493

“In the heart of downtown Historic Katy, Harvest Plaza is set aside to pay tribute to Katy’s beginnings as a rice-farming community. The beautifully landscaped plaza offers a shade structure with night lighting, benches, a water feature and commemorative brick paving. ” (Source: Website)

 

Katy City Park

5720 Franz Road, Katy TX 77493

“This sports facility is home to 2 baseball fields, 2 softball fields, a state of the art sports lighting system, soccer field/multipurpose field, a covered three court basketball pavilion, six ADA accessible tennis courts and many picnic tables for year round use. All athletic fields are available for rentals Monday through Sunday 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Incudes the Katy Play Station and Pavilion, “The state’s largest innovative playground for multiple-impaired and profoundly deaf children, is also located within Katy City Park. The all-inclusive 13,000 square foot playground, custom designed as a tribute to Katy’s name sake the MKT Rail line. This play facility is a one-of-a-kind attraction for both able and disabled bodied children and has quickly become a destination within the community for family fun recreation. Katy Play Station was featured in Today’s Playground Magazine and has received several awards for its design and contribution to the Katy community.

The Play Station Pavilion is equipped with permanent picnic tables and benches. Seats approximately 50 and is available on a daily basis for rental.” (Source: Website)

 

Katy Arboretum

2046 Katy City Park Road, Katy TX 77493

“The Katy Arboretum was developed as a joint venture with the City of Katy, CenterPoint Energy and Keep Katy Beautiful. The three-acre park was designed as an educational green space to promote CenterPoint Energy’s Right Tree Right Place initiative. The Arboretum features various species of trees with educational plaques and is a popular location for families, scout groups and tourists. Inside the park area is The Arboretum Building that can be rented for parties, baby and bridal showers and other events. The park features a play structure, outdoor BBQ grill, patio with picnic style seating and a tranquil walking path. The Arboretum Building is equipped with tables and chairs, can accommodate approximately 50 people and is available on a daily basis for rental.” (Source: Website)

 

Katy Heritage Park

5990 George Bush Drive, Katy TX 77493

“Established in 2003 as a joint project with the City of Katy and the Katy Heritage Society, Heritage Park is best known for its restored historic buildings, beautiful landscaping, the Tradition Bank bandstand pavilion and brick paved patio. To rent or tour the historic homes, please contact the Heritage Society at (281)391-2550.” (Source: Website)

 

Thomas Park

5919 Fourth Street, Katy TX 77493

“A small, historic facility located at the edge of Historic Downtown Katy, Thomas Park is the location of the tri-county marker where the borders of Harris, Waller and Fort Bend Counties intersect. Thomas Park attracts visitors to its tranquil environment, paved walking path, benches, playground and gazebo. Thomas Park is a popular location for photographers, small weddings and family gatherings.” (Source: Website)

 

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Park

6202 George Bush Drive, Katy TX 77493

“Centrally located within the City of Katy, this wooded park offers an exciting children’s playground, with a large pyramid rope climber, two picnic pavilions with tables, a walking path and public restrooms. This park is the location for the bi-annual Community Campouts and Katy Summer Nights.

VFW Park’s large outdoor pavilion (30′ x 60′) is equipped with permanent concrete tables and benches. Seats approximately 96 and is available on a daily basis for rentals.” (Source: Website)

 

Woodsland Park and Community Center

443 Danover Road, Katy TX 77494

“True to its name, Woodsland Park is a heavily wooded 8 acre park with amenities that cater to individuals and groups looking for a park with a more secluded atmosphere. The park features a covered basketball pavilion, picnic tables, playground, an outdoor pavilion with large barbecue pit and a community building. Woodsland Park is home to the city’s senior services day activities and community fitness classes.

This Community Center may be rented out on an hourly basis for weddings, parties or other related events. The Community Center is 1,333 square feet (31′ x 43′) and is equipped with a full kitchen, indoor restrooms, tables and chairs. Maximum occupancy is 100.” (Source: Website)

 

Golf Courses & Country Clubs

The following golf courses and country clubs are nearby.


Golf Courses & Country Clubs

Name

Website

Phone Number

Cinco Ranch Golf Course

https://www.golfclubatcincoranch.com

281-395-4653

Falcon Point Golf Course

https://www.clubcorp.com/Clubs/The-Club-at-Falcon-Point/Amenities/Golf

281-392-7888

Meadowbrook Farms Golf Course

https://www.meadowbrookfarmsgolfclub.com

281-693-4653

Willow Fork Golf Course

https://www.willowforkclub.com

281-579-6262

Shadow Hawk Golf Course

https://shadowhawkgolfclub.com/contact

281-340-7205

 

> See also: Things to Do in Katy TX

 

strike plate

Katy Home Security

Katy Home Security: Tips for Securing Your Home That Are Not Well Known

If you are interested in Katy home security, then let me tell you my story…

A while back I had the unfortunate experience of having my home burglarized.

I thought my home was pretty safe:

  • It’s in a low-crime neighborhood with active police patrols.
  • I have an alarm which I always activate when I leave.
  • I had good quality, double-key locks on all my doors.
  • I have two, small, barky dogs.

But in spite of all that, my front, side door (next to the garage, but on the front of the house) was kicked in at 2:25 p.m. on a school day…in the middle of the afternoon! I always thought break-ins happened at night! But here’s what I found out when I researched home security.

Your Door Is Easy to Kick In

When I researched how to prevent break-ins, I came across some interesting facts that I did not know. One of the best articles on home security  that I read was “Home Security: Burglary Prevention Advice” by Chris E McGoey, CPP, CSP, CAM at  http://www.crimedoctor.com/home.htm

That article points out:

“The most common way used to force entry through a door with a wooden jamb is to simply kick it open. The weakest point is almost always the lock strike plate that holds the latch or lock bolt in place followed by a glass paneled door. The average door strike plate is secured only by the soft-wood doorjamb molding. These lightweight moldings are often tacked on to the door frame and can be torn away with a firm kick. Because of this construction flaw, it makes sense to upgrade to a four-screw, heavy-duty, high security strike plate. They are available in most quality hardware stores and home improvement centers and are definitely worth the extra expense. Install this heavy-duty strike plate using 3-inch wood screws to cut deep into the door frame stud. Use these longer screws in the knob lock strike plate as well and use at least one long screw in each door hinge. This one step alone will deter or prevent most through-the-door forced entries. You and your family will sleep safer in the future.”

So now I tell all my friends, family, clients–EVERYONE!–that they need to secure their strike plates with 3.5 inch screws. It doesn’t matter how good your lock is, if all a thief has to do is kick in the door and bust the doorjamb! These screws are inexpensive and easy to install no matter how “tool challenged” you may be. (Read Consumer Reports article)

katy home security

 

You Need Better Locks

The second thing that I did to improve home security, was to replace my double-key locks with The Ultimate Lock which was designed by a former Houston police officer and are made right here in Fort Bend County! These things are incredible. They have a safety pin which, when pushed in, prevents even a person with a key from unlocking the door. You can buy them at Lowes for about $180 each.

NOTE: The only thing that I don’t like about these locks is that they are not double-key locks…so if your door has glass around it, you will need security film to prevent a thief from breaking the glass to unlock the door (see below).

Watch the demonstration video 

 

Even if you don’t install the Ultimate locks, you should at least add a “landlord lock” to your exterior doors. These are locks without keys that protect you when you are inside the home…so they are used for preventing home invasions. I buy these off of Amazon and install with 3.5″ screws.

Buy on Amazon

 

Security Film for Windows Is Incredible

Another thing that I learned about home security is that if they can’t kick your door in, then they will probably “smash and grab” a window…most likely a master bath or master bedroom window, because most people keep their valuables and prescription medication in the master bathroom or closet. I am good friends with two police officers who have security film on their windows to prevent this. Plus, I asked a Fort Bend Sheriff’s deputy to give my house a security audit, and he too has security film on his home windows. That’s 3 out of 3 police officers that I know who have security film on their own homes. So I contacted Steve Meyer, at SunTech Glass Tinting, to install security film on my windows too…especially all the windows next to my doors and locks!

There are many different brands of security film, but you have to check out a video demonstration to believe it.

You can search on YouTube for “security film for windows” and see lots of different demonstration videos. The cool thing about this stuff, is not only does it improve the security of your home, it’s also a layer of protect from flying debris…say, during a hurricane. I think…that’s good…one less thing.

 

katy video tour e1586619937491

Katy Videos

Katy videos of top neighborhoods and helpful buying and selling information on my YouTube Channel:

http://www.youtube.com/user/SheilaKCox

The drive-through Katy videos will help you to “test drive” our most popular neighborhoods online. See all neighborhood amenities like swimming pools, tennis courts, parks, playgrounds, schools, and more. 

 

 

katy old1

Katy Shopping

Katy Shopping

There are many Katy shopping stores throughout the city, but the primary shopping centers include:

Plus, there is a Wholefoods Grocery Store available and HEB Grocery stores offer health food sections and organic produce as well.

There is a “downtown” or “old Katy” shopping area as well, featuring antique shops and other fun things to do.

katy typhoon texas3

Katy Activities & Fun Things To Do

One of the best things about Katy Texas is that there are so many activities and fun things to do around here! 

Parks and Recreation

There are multiple parks and recreation facilities in Katy including:

⇒ See detailed list of Katy Parks and Recreation below

⇒ See a long list of parks and recreation in the area

Get In-Depth Information
Download These Reports
— Written by Sheila Cox —

Get access to school ratings and demographics as well as detailed market data for Katy neighborhoods.

Shopping

There are many shopping stores throughout Katy, but the primary shopping centers include:

Plus, there is a Wholefoods Grocery Store available and HEB Grocery stores offer health food sections and organic produce as well.

 

Amusement Parks and Activities

There are so many fun things to do around Katy! 

Movie Theaters

Nearby movie theaters include:

Equestrian

Katy even has the Great Southwest Equestrian Park!

Equestrian Center

Water Park

Typhoon Texas Waterpark

Museums

Katy museums include:

There are more museums in Houston.

>> See Houston Museums

Entertainment and Fine Arts

Houston has a rich theatre and fine arts community. For more information, go to Theatre and Fine Arts.

Observatory

George Ranch Observatory is located  about 39 miles (60 mins) from Cross Creek Ranch at the Brazos Bend State Park.

Zoo & Aquarium

Houston has both:

Plus, there is an even better Aquarium at Moody Gardens in Galveston, about 1.5 hours away.

Live Music & Concerts

If you enjoy live music and concerts, then you will want to know about:

wildcatter saloon

Sports Teams

The main sports teams in Houston include:

Lake/Beach

The primary lakes and beaches in the Houston area are:

Katy Parks and Recreation

Katy has multiple parks and recreation spots including:

  • Dog Park
  • Mary Jo Peckham Park
  • Mary Jo Peckham Aquatic & Fitness Center
  • Harvest Plaza
  • Katy City Park
  • Katy Arboretum
  • Katy Heritage Park
  • Thomas Park
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Park
  • Woodsland Park and Community Center

These facilities are described in detail below.

>> Learn about Online Reservations for these facilities

Dog Park

5414 Franz, Katy TX 77493

“Opened in March 2007, this off-leash park for canines of all sizes and is open everyday from dawn to dusk and is one of the city’s most popular attractions. The 14 acre park offer lots of grass and trees with a third of a mile length walking path, a wading pool for dogs, custom dog showers and fountains accessible for both the four legged friend and their owners. Stop by and enjoy our newest attraction- the agility course! Located on the west side of the park, this course was designed for dogs to train or exercise along with their owners with ease. The park is divided into two parts for small and large breed dogs and has public restrooms.” (Source: Website)

Mary Jo Peckham Park

5597 Gardenia Ln, Katy, TX 77493

This is a 32-acre park featuring a lake with ducks, fish, and wildlife, playground, miniature golf, picnic pavilion, gazebo, walking trail, restrooms, picnic tables and grills.

Mary Jo Peckham Aquatic & Fitness Center

5597 Gardenia Ln, Katy, TX 77493

Open 7am-7pm (M-F), 8am-5:30pm (Sat), and 10am-5pm (Sun)

Fitness center for residents of Harris County (northern portion of Katy) that offers free swim lessons, water exercise, American Red Cross lessons, and other workshops. Fitness classes include yoga, Karate, Qigong, fitness machines, and cardio training.

>> See the Activity Calendar

Harvest Plaza

5701 Third Street, Katy TX 77493

“In the heart of downtown Historic Katy, Harvest Plaza is set aside to pay tribute to Katy’s beginnings as a rice-farming community. The beautifully landscaped plaza offers a shade structure with night lighting, benches, a water feature and commemorative brick paving. ” (Source: Website)

Katy City Park

5720 Franz Road, Katy TX 77493

“This sports facility is home to 2 baseball fields, 2 softball fields, a state of the art sports lighting system, soccer field/multipurpose field, a covered three court basketball pavilion, six ADA accessible tennis courts and many picnic tables for year round use. All athletic fields are available for rentals Monday through Sunday 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Incudes the Katy Play Station and Pavilion, “The state’s largest innovative playground for multiple-impaired and profoundly deaf children, is also located within Katy City Park. The all-inclusive 13,000 square foot playground, custom designed as a tribute to Katy’s name sake the MKT Rail line. This play facility is a one-of-a-kind attraction for both able and disabled bodied children and has quickly become a destination within the community for family fun recreation. Katy Play Station was featured in Today’s Playground Magazine and has received several awards for its design and contribution to the Katy community.

The Play Station Pavilion is equipped with permanent picnic tables and benches. Seats approximately 50 and is available on a daily basis for rental.” (Source: Website)

Katy Arboretum

2046 Katy City Park Road, Katy TX 77493

“The Katy Arboretum was developed as a joint venture with the City of Katy, CenterPoint Energy and Keep Katy Beautiful. The three-acre park was designed as an educational green space to promote CenterPoint Energy’s Right Tree Right Place initiative. The Arboretum features various species of trees with educational plaques and is a popular location for families, scout groups and tourists. Inside the park area is The Arboretum Building that can be rented for parties, baby and bridal showers and other events. The park features a play structure, outdoor BBQ grill, patio with picnic style seating and a tranquil walking path. The Arboretum Building is equipped with tables and chairs, can accommodate approximately 50 people and is available on a daily basis for rental.” (Source: Website)

Katy Heritage Park

5990 George Bush Drive, Katy TX 77493

“Established in 2003 as a joint project with the City of Katy and the Katy Heritage Society, Heritage Park is best known for its restored historic buildings, beautiful landscaping, the Tradition Bank bandstand pavilion and brick paved patio. To rent or tour the historic homes, please contact the Heritage Society at (281)391-2550.” (Source: Website)

Thomas Park

5919 Fourth Street, Katy TX 77493

“A small, historic facility located at the edge of Historic Downtown Katy, Thomas Park is the location of the tri-county marker where the borders of Harris, Waller and Fort Bend Counties intersect. Thomas Park attracts visitors to its tranquil environment, paved walking path, benches, playground and gazebo. Thomas Park is a popular location for photographers, small weddings and family gatherings.” (Source: Website)

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Park

6202 George Bush Drive, Katy TX 77493

“Centrally located within the City of Katy, this wooded park offers an exciting children’s playground, with a large pyramid rope climber, two picnic pavilions with tables, a walking path and public restrooms. This park is the location for the bi-annual Community Campouts and Katy Summer Nights.

VFW Park’s large outdoor pavilion (30′ x 60′) is equipped with permanent concrete tables and benches. Seats approximately 96 and is available on a daily basis for rentals.” (Source: Website)

Woodsland Park and Community Center

443 Danover Road, Katy TX 77494

“True to its name, Woodsland Park is a heavily wooded 8 acre park with amenities that cater to individuals and groups looking for a park with a more secluded atmosphere. The park features a covered basketball pavilion, picnic tables, playground, an outdoor pavilion with large barbecue pit and a community building. Woodsland Park is home to the city’s senior services day activities and community fitness classes.

This Community Center may be rented out on an hourly basis for weddings, parties or other related events. The Community Center is 1,333 square feet (31′ x 43′) and is equipped with a full kitchen, indoor restrooms, tables and chairs. Maximum occupancy is 100.” (Source: Website)

Katy Golf Courses & Country Clubs

The following golf courses and country clubs are nearby.

Name

Website

Phone Number

Cinco Ranch Golf Course

https://www.golfclubatcincoranch.com

281-395-4653

Falcon Point Golf Course

https://www.clubcorp.com/Clubs/The-Club-at-Falcon-Point/Amenities/Golf

281-392-7888

Meadowbrook Farms Golf Course

https://www.meadowbrookfarmsgolfclub.com

281-693-4653

Willow Fork Golf Course

https://www.willowforkclub.com

281-579-6262

Shadow Hawk Golf Course

https://shadowhawkgolfclub.com/contact

281-340-7205

Houston Fun

Plus Houston area has:

map windsor park estates

Katy Commute Times

Katy Commute Times and Traffic

Katy is so large that commute times may vary drastically depending on where you live in Katy…and where you are commuting. You can use Google Maps to estimate drive times from various locations.

Katy has two park and ride locations if you are commuting to Houston:

  • 21669 Kingsland Blvd
  • 1030 W Grand Parkway

Visit www.ridemetro.org for more information about other options such as ride matching, ride sharing, METRO lift, and the HOV system.

Highway Nicknames

Katy Freeway = I-10

Grand Parkway = Hwy 99

Westpark Tollway = FM 1093

The Loop = I-610

Southwest Frwy = I-59/I-69

Northwest Frwy = Hwy 290

 

Commute Times

The following tables shows the estimated commute times from Katy to important places of interest. Times vary depending on route, traffic, wrecks, etc.

Place

Miles Away

Peak
Travel Time*

Off-Peak
Travel Time

George Bush Intercontinental Airport

44

55 mins

44 mins

Hobby Airport

38

54 mins

43 mins

Texas Medical Center

28

46 mins

35 mins

Downtown Houston

30

42 mins

32 mins

Galleria

23

38 mins

26 mins

Energy Corridor

13

22 mins

17 mins

Kemah

61

1 hr

55 mins

NASA

55

62 mins

50 mins

Galveston

79

1 hr 30 mins

1 hr 20 mins

*Peak Travel Time is general  7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. Travel routes vary. LaCenterra address was used as the starting point.

 

The best way to estimate your commute time is to use Google Maps at the time you commute. Simply enter your work address and the address of the house you are interested in, and Google Maps will estimate your commute time. This time is based on the actual time you perform the search, so use it during your expected commute times.

 

Windsor park estates map 1

Katy Crime

Crime is a neighborhood, rather than city-wide issue. Crime in one part of town may be completely different than crime in another part of town. According to Sperling’s Best Places, “Katy, Texas, violent crime, on a scale from 1 (low crime) to 100, is 20. Violent crime is composed of four offenses: murder and non-negligent manslaughter, forcible rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. The US average is 31.1.

Katy, Texas, property crime, on a scale from 1 (low) to 100, is 53. Property crime includes the offenses of burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. The object of the theft-type offenses is the taking of money or property, but there is no force or threat of force against the victims. The US average is 38.1.”

Source: https://www.bestplaces.net/crime/city/texas/katy

katy-crime

BEWARE! Most online data for crime reports in the Katy area is not accurate. Katy is divided into two counties (Harris and Fort Bend). Some crime report sites report only on Harris county (making the side that is in Fort Bend county look virtually crime free) and other sites report only on Fort Bend county (making the Harris county side look crime free).

Being a local area expert, I think you can get a better idea of our higher crime areas by looking at sex offender map locations. Generally speaking, the more sex offenders in the area, the higher the crime rate.

See these articles for more information about how sex offenders effect real estate:

The following graphs show the concentration of sex offenders in the area, according to https://www.familywatchdog.us as of April 2018. If you can’t tell, the areas with the best schools have the lowest number of sex offenders…another reason why school ratings are something to consider when purchasing a home.

North Katy

katy-sex-offenders2

 

East and West Katy

katy-sex-offenders1