FORT BEND - Houston Newcomer Guides
Transcription
FORT BEND - Houston Newcomer Guides
1-800-561-WCJC (9252) wcjc.edu Sugar Land Campus Programs Richmond Campus Programs • Administrative Assistant • Computer Science: Cisco Router Networking Computer Programming Computer Simulation & Game Development Digital Media PC Technical Support Network Administration • Early Childhood • Emergency Medical Services • Engineering Design: Architectural Design Computer Aided Drafting • Human Services • Law Enforcement • Office Administration • Paralegal Studies • Police Academy • Texas State Technical College also offers programs at this campus. • Associate Degree Nursing • Conveniently located with Program (ADN) the University of Houston • Early Childhood Sugar Land, making it easy • Computer Science: to take the first two years Computer Simulation of courses with WCJC before & Game Development transferring to UHSL Digital Media or another four-year • Engineering Design: institution. Construction Management • Human Services Academic Transfer Programs WCJC offers core courses and/or associate of arts degrees at all campuses. These courses and degrees are intended for students planning to pursue baccalaureate degrees and enter four-year institutions as juniors. Wharton County Junior College • Offers Programs and Degrees to Fit Every Need including associate of arts degrees (degrees that transfer to four-year universities for those seeking baccalaureate degrees), associate of applied science degrees (technical and career programs), and certificate programs (programs that may be completed in one year or less). • Saves Fort Bend County Residents Time with campuses conveniently located in Sugar Land and Richmond. • Saves Students Money by making tuition affordable and less expensive than a four-year institution. • Makes Receiving An Education Easier by offering personal attention through small class sizes, advising, and financial aid services. • Our Courses Transfer to Four-Year Institutions and offer a great start for your education. • Partnerships at Our Locations with the University of Houston Sugar Land and Texas State Technical College in Richmond give students more choices for their education. Fort Bend County Locations Sugar Land Campus Richmond Campus 14004 University Blvd. 5333 FM 1640 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 Richmond, Texas 77469 281-243-8447 281-239-1500 Serving Sugar Land since 1989 Serving Rosenberg since 1970 and Richmond since 1980. Also available: High School/College Dual Credit Courses • Continuing Education • Kids’ College Summer Program Other campus locations in Wharton and Bay City WCJC is an E.O.E. institution. Live WeLL. PLay Hard. Have Fun. Wellness is important. And that’s why Sienna Plantation is planned around Living Well so your family can Play Hard and Have Fun. Sienna is Living Well... with over 36 parks, miles and miles of walking and jogging trails, 5 ranked FBISD schools and so much more. Sienna is Playing Hard... with a lighted tennis complex, soccer, baseball fields, football fields, volleyball courts, fitness center and so much more. Sienna is Having Fun... with 3 incredible water parks, activities for the whole family, lakes, golf, open spaces to roam and so much more. Greenway Downtown Galleria 2013 GHBA Developer of the Year Be from $200s-Millions Fo rt facebook.com/siennaplantation Sienna Parkway at Hwy. 6 . 281-778-7777 nd Pk w y Med Center siennaplantation.com Avanti . Darling Homes . D. R. Horton . Fairmont Custom Homes Fedrick, Harris Estate Homes . Highland . J. Patrick . Meritage Newmark . Partners in Building . Perry Homes . Plantation Taylor Morrison . Toll Brothers . Trendmaker . Triumph One call for electricity and everything else. One call makes your move easy with TXU Energy Complete Connect. SM We not only connect your electricity, but we can also help set up your water, gas, Internet, TV, phone and home security with one simple call to 1-877-TXU-MOVE. And get a $200 move-in bonus when you make that call. Call or visit txu.com/mover today and get a $200 move-in bonus. Use promo code “MOVE.” Valid for new TXU Energy move-in accounts enrolled at a single-family residential premises through this offer on a qualifying electricity plan. Redemption instructions will be mailed following enrollment. Allow six weeks after TXU Energy has received payment of your first month’s bill to receive the bonus. Card is valid for six months after issuance. Limit one per premises. Offer subject to change or cancellation at any time. Additional eligibility requirements, terms and conditions may apply. iPhone® is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. ©2014 TXU Energy. All rights reserved. REP #10004 I chose MD Anderson in Sugar Land - Michelle Williams When I had breast cancer, the world’s leading care was right here. My team of experts in Sugar Land focused only on me and my cancer. They guided me through advanced MD Anderson treatment options including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and clinical trials. They customized a plan just for me. Having MD Anderson in my community kept me close to my two boys and close to home. I chose MD Anderson in Sugar Land. Find Your MD Anderson today. Facebook.com/MDAndersonSugarLand Appointments Available 713.745.9940 FindYourMDAnderson.com The Woodlands Katy Sugar Land Texas Medical Center Bay Area SPRING/SUMMER 2014 Newcomer and Relocation Guide Featuring Sugar Land, Stafford, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg, City of Meadows Place and Fulshear Contents 18 Welcome to Fort Bend Introduction to life in Fort Bend 24 Neighborhoods & Communities Fort Bend neighborhood profiles, map, and subdivision price trends 36 Housing Options Deciding to buy, build or lease your home, communities, multi-family housing and temporary lodging; choosing a realtor 44 Relocation Information Moving day, utility choices and transportation information 50 Mortgages, Financial 18 Institutions & Insurance Purchase and payment options, loan application documentation and monthly mortgage calculator, bank and credit union information, homeowner’s insurance 54 Education Public and private schools. 62 Health Care Medical facilities, physician referral service and medical tips when moving 69 Business & Community 54 72 Business and industry, major employers and business organizations 72 Entertainment & Events Annual Events, museums, theatre, the arts, golf courses, activities and area attractions 2014 Fort Bend Newcomer & Relocation Guide is published by Post Oak Publishing, Inc. © Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the publisher. Every effort has been made to provide accurate information of the products and services listed here. Listing information, which includes company name, location and phone is constantly changing. Of necessity, Post Oak Publishing, Inc. makes no guarantees concerning the information in this book, as provided by the advertising and listing companies, or the use to which it is put. 4 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE The Avalon: Our newest model at Riverstone in Sugar Land. Homes from the $200s - $1 Million+ 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Design Center the Year Sienna Plantation - Missouri City Riverstone - Sugar Land Cross Creek Ranch - Fulshear Pine Mill Ranch - Katy Towne Lakes- Cypress Cypress Creek Lakes - Cypress Woodforest - Montgomery StoneBrook - NW Houston Shadow Ridge - Pearland (Coming Soon!) 4 YEARS IN A ROW! NewmarkHomes.com WELCOME Tour our award-winning luxury homes by Fedrick, Harris Estate Homes from the $1Million+ featured in: 1. Sienna Plantation in Missouri City 2. Riverstone in Sugar Land Luxury Collection of Homes ©May 2014 Newmark Homes. All rights reserved. All information (including, but not limited to prices, availability, incentives, floor plans, site plans, features, standards and options, assessments and fees, planned amenities, programs, conceptual artists’ renderings and community development plans) is not guaranteed and remains subject to change or delay without notice. Maps and plans are not to scale and all dimensions are approximate. Please see a Newmark Homes sales counselor for details and visit www.newmarkhomes.com 0514 675 Bering Drive, Suite 120 Houston TX 77057 Phone: 713-952-1916 Fax: 713-952-1956 May Valley The Woodlands Fairfield Summer Gate Augusta Pines Spring Cypress Spring 290 ll Rd y To Hard McKenzie Park 45 249 59 • 10-Year Transferable Structural Warranty Wildwood 8 249 • Whole Home energy efficient construction 45 8 • Enclave at RiverPark Opening Soon Waterstone • Homes from the low $200’s 10 10 • Direct access to Grand Parkway BELTWAY Grand Parkw ay Tomball BELTWAY Katy 610 Firethorne Katy Cinco Ranch Katy 59 ay kw ar dP an Gr Richmond BELTWAY Sugar Land Sienna Plantation 288 8 Enclave at RiverPark Shadow Creek Ranch Pearland Missouri City Project Manager Madie James [email protected] Project Manager Jill Roe [email protected] Marketing Cecile Ruffino [email protected] 610 Long Meadow Farms For additional copies or advertising information Michael P. Blalock 713-952-1916 [email protected] 45 visit mihomes.com or call 281-223-1022 for more information and a complete list of communities Houston-157-3-3-14 Newcomer Ad Ft. Bend.indd 1 3/4/14 3:30 PM There are some new savings in town. Get a FREE quote on more than just car insurance. Tom Maler 281-203-6900 Editor and Writer Sherri Charrin [email protected] Contributing Editor and Writer Kristen Jean Langerud Art Department Rebecca L. Cammack Eliud Gonzales [email protected] Special Thanks We would like to thank the following companies and organizations for contributing photographs to this publication: Cross Creek Ranch, Sienna Plantation, Perry Homes, Larry Pullen Photography, George Ranch Historical Park, Eric Pohl, Houston Rockets, Sugar Land Skeeters, Fort Bend EDC, George Hosek, Westin Homes, Ashton Woods Homes and Fluor. 4405 HWY 6 | Sugar Land Cover photo courtesy of Sugar Land Skeeters Affordable Family Fun 70 nights a year with the Sugar Land Skeeters, just minutes from Houston. Photo of Travis Scott, #16 of the Sugar Land Skeeters. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. Boat and PWC coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2013. © 2013 GEICO 6 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Reinventing Tradition Sugar Creek Country Club has earned its reputation as the area’s premier member owned club by providing an intimate experience in a traditional country club setting. And now, the excitement of a $2.5 million renovation of the golf course, clubhouse, swim and fitness facilities reflects the club's vision of improvement for its members. Once completed, the redesigned 27-hole golf course will be bold and challenging while the updated amenities will be appealing for golfers and non-golfers alike. Take part in the reinvention of Sugar Creek Country Club. To arrange a tour of the club and learn about a variety of membership opportunities, contact Nicole Scarbrough, Membership Director, at 281.494.9131 or [email protected]. www.thesugarcreek.com Golf ¦ Tennis ¦ fiTness ¦ Pool ¦ DininG Welcome! Robert E. Hebert County Judge Fort Bend County, Texas Hello! 301 Jackson St., Suite 719 Richmond, TX 77469 281-341-8608 Fax 281-341-8609 It is my pleasure to welcome you to Fort Bend County, a wonderful place to live and work. Our county is located in the Houston metropolitan area just Southwest of Harris County. Its 875 square miles offer a variety of historical, dining, entertainment, and shopping venues with a multitude of activities, events, and points of interest from which to choose year round. Our County consistently ranks as one of the fastest growing counties in America — with good reason. Today, more than 600,000 people make Fort Bend County their home. Not only do we enjoy all that the Greater Houston Metropolitan Area can provide, our County also contains some of the most unique master-planned communities in Texas and has a cadre of wellmanaged, fast growing cities such as Sugar Land, Stafford, Missouri City, Fulshear and Rosenberg. Our cities and our communities all work together to provide our residents with a family oriented life style enjoying high standards for quality of life, safety, and educational opportunities. Just a few of our local events and attractions include the Brazos Bend State Park, the George Observatory, the George Ranch Historical Park, the Rosenberg Railroad Museum, our annual Fort Bend County Fair and Livestock Show, dozens of challenging golf courses, the comprehensive Fort Bend Museum, Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land, the cherished Richmond Historical District, the dazzling Sugar Land Town Square, and the very competitive Sugar Land Skeeters, a minor league baseball team. We are proud of our history, and the community achievements that quality growth has brought to Fort Bend County over the years. We encourage all to visit Fort Bend County and discover why so many find it the place to visit, live and work! Sincerely, Robert E. Hebert Fort Bend County Judge 8 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Welcome to Fort Bend County Dear Fort Bend Newcomer, City of Fulshear 30603 FM 1093, Fulshear, TX 77441 Our cities have so much to offer: sound infrastructure and reliable city services, employment opportunities and job growth, some of the best housing values in the nation, excellent health care with award winning hospitals close to home, and outstanding schools, colleges and universities. The solid foundation that our cities have strived to build secures a quality lifestyle for residents today and in the future. The culturally diverse citizens of the county share in the many benefits our cities provide. Beautiful parks and recreation areas, wonderful museums, libraries and public centers, and a network of fine service organizations enhance everyday life. Our vibrant small cities also offer theatres, sporting events, musical entertainment, great dining, and more. Businesses here have a can-do attitude that reflects our pioneer heritage. With relatively low tax bases, incentives from the public and private sector, and a well-educated workforce, major corporations and entrepreneurs alike are discovering even more reasons to do business in our cities. While growth here is substantial, the small town environment of our cities prevails. The communities across the county embrace the spirit of friendship and camaraderie that has forged strong alliances between neighbors. Texas is a great state and Fort Bend County is among one of the finest places to live – no matter which city you chose! Welcome to your new home and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you personally. Sincerely, Tommy Kuykendall, Mayor City of Fulshear Fabol R. Hughes, Mayor City of Katy Charles Jessup, Mayor City of Meadows Place Allen Owen, Mayor City of Missouri City 10 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Evalyn W. Moore, Mayor City of Richmond Vincent M. Morales, Jr., Mayor City of Rosenberg Leonard Scarcella, Mayor City of Stafford James A. Thompson, Mayor City of Sugar Land right here A top-selling community in the nation. R ight H Ere in F ort B end. Riverstone com wy. wy Ft. Pk LJ i Un B v l v ersit y d. Be n 59 6 Luxurious Waterside Living in Fort Bend 8 d Pk Williams Trace 90 $300sMillions UNIVERSITY BLVD. and SIENNA CONNECTION NOW OPEN! From US-59 in Sugar Land, take Hwy 6 south 3 miles . 281.499.8700 Ashton Woods . Christopher Sims . Coventry . Darling . Fedrick, Harris . Highland . Lespreance Construction Meritage . Newmark . Partners in Building . Perry . Sitterle . Sterling Classic . Taylor Morrison . Teramor Toll Brothers . Trendmaker . Westin . Westport 2013 GHBA Developer of the Year Welcome to Fort Bend Keri Schmidt, IOM President & CEO Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77478 Phone: 281-491-0800 Fax: 281-491-0112 www.FortBendChamber.com The secret to success is just around the Bend…Fort Bend. With a population of over 600,000, Fort Bend County is home to seventeen cities, small to large, each with its own unique flavor and outstanding characteristics. A recent study published by Rice University identifies Fort Bend County as one of the fastest-growing counties in America and as the single most diverse county in the United States. Our local business climate is flourishing from the ground up. At the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, we are proud to partner in this success ensuring that Fort Bend is the foremost location for economic development and business prosperity. Here you can meet the premier business leaders in the County and have access to a multitude of opportunities to network, further your career, hear success stories, stay up to date on community and industry news and socialize. The Fort Bend Chamber is a catalyst between business and community for achievement. As the voice of business in Fort Bend County, the Chamber strives to understand the legislative issues important to our members. Key to this effort is building and maintaining strong relationships with our local, state and federal elected officials. FortBendChamberVotes.com is a valuable resource; one that provides relevant information and serves as a vehicle for grassroots participation and connection to your elected officials. Within these pages, you will find news and tracking on state and Federal issues, voter resources, how to take action and our public policy guide. For over 40 years, the Fort Bend Chamber has diligently fulfilled its mission as the advocate for business excellence in Fort Bend County. We create, enhance and promote the thriving economic environment in which we work and live. Whether it is through the Education Division, Infrastructure Planning, Governmental Relations, Community Resources, Business and Professional Development, Economic Development, Healthcare or Members Services we bring value to our members. Graduates of our sought after Fort Bend Leadership Forum program are serving in leadership positions throughout our community. Its sister program, the Leadership Excellence for Nonprofits builds organizational effectiveness within our philanthropic community. High school students have the unique opportunity to experience how volunteerism and philanthropy coexist to serve the community in our Youth in Philanthropy program. Fort Bend Volunteers provides a county-wide calendar of events and a place for our community to serve. The Chamber Young Professionals Division will ensure that the Chamber is delivering value to the future leaders of Fort Bend County. Through the Fort Bend Convention Visitors Services we provide our visitors and new residents resources that highlight the great amenities and attractions in Fort Bend County. Under the Chamber’s banner, the Farmers Market at Imperial operates year round and is the largest certified farmers market in Texas. Not to be outdone and celebrating its eleventh year, the Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair attracts thousands of wine and food aficionados to our area each year. As a Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce member, this is a just a snap shot of what you have access to, all right here in one of America’s most dynamic and fastest growing counties, where success is just around the Bend. Keri Schmidt, IOM President & CEO The Advocate for Business Excellence in Fort Bend County 12 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE We’re growing by leaps and new bounds. COMING SUMMER 2014 new shopping new builders & models new homes new parks & playgrounds All of this is set just off Grand Parkway, only minutes from the Westpark Tollway. Visit LongMeadowFarms.net or call our Welcome Center today at 832.363.2000. Welcome to Fort Bend Jeff Wiley President Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council A Vibrant and Growing Economy Welcome to Fort Bend County! If you don’t know by now, you have just moved to one of the best communities in the nation. In today’s world of uncertainty, fiscal irresponsibility, increased cost of living, and shaky economic outlook, Fort Bend County is an oasis of stability. Our county and cities are fiscally sound, our tax rates are low and stable, our housing market is among the best in the nation, our low crime rates are the envy of most other areas, and our economic climate is the best it has ever been. One Fluor Daniel Drive Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.fortbendcounty.org www.fortbendcounty.com Phone: 281-242-0000 Fax: 866-500-5668 We are blessed to live in a state that understands the foundation of economic growth is an attractive business climate and fiscal responsibility. We are fortunate to live in the greater Houston region, where free enterprise and building successful companies is a way of life. And I am here to tell you that we live in a county that recognizes the best path for our future growth is one based on attracting jobs and capital, keeping our doors open to businesses, and helping them thrive. There is also a strong commitment to attracting and supporting the development of amenityrich, master-planned communities. Fort Bend County has six of the top twenty selling masterplanned communities in the nation and master-planned communities are the foundation that attracts the brightest and best workforce, making Fort Bend the best in the region for high school graduation rates and an educated adult population. Finally, we recognize that the success we have built is open to all. That is why the 2010 U.S. Census found that Fort Bend County is the second fastest-growing county in the state of Texas and the 14th fastest growing county in the nation. Our success today comes from the recognition during the 1980’s oil bust that a community can only thrive with a vibrant and growing economic base. That lesson lives on today in the consistent approach utilized by our community leaders to shape our direction. I pray that the rest of the country can learn from the example provided by our county, region, and state. Until that happens, be thankful you live in Fort Bend County, Greater Houston’s finest address. Welcome to Fort Bend County. Welcome home! Jeffrey C. Wiley President/CEO Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council 14 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Sites to behold S ecluded, spacious and open, this custom estate community offers a sense of privacy with the vibrant warmth of small-town Texas. With oversized homesites, friendly neighbors, and the natural beauty of Texas surrounding you, it’s easy to forget that modern conveniences are just minutes away. Have you heard? Beautiful homesites along the Brazos River and Oxbow Lake are now available. Reserve yours today to begin building the serene lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of. 10 N 99 FM 359 Fulshear 281.346.0027 FulbrookHomes.com FM 1093 Westpark Tollway Welcome to Houston! Chaille Ralph 2014 Chairman Houston Association of REALTORS® Welcome to Greater Houston, one of the fastest growing regions in the country! As you drive around and start to familiarize yourself with the area, you are likely to notice license plates from different states, as the addition of more than 86,000 jobs in 2013 has drawn people here from all across the U.S. Houston is one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse cities in America, with a low cost of living, world-renowned Texas Medical Center, dining that pleases every palette, and countless arts, entertainment, sports and recreation venues. HAR Central 3693 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77027 713- 629-1900 Fax 713- 961-4869 Bay Area Branch 16903 Buccaneer Lane Suite 110 Houston, TX 77058 713-629-1900 ext. 750 Fax 281-486-7530 Montgomery County Branch 19075 I-45 South Suite 210 Conroe, TX 77385 713-629-1900 ext. 760 Fax 936-273-0344 Fort Bend Branch 6680 Greatwood Pkwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-629-1900 ext. 700 Fax 281-343-9557 While we’re delighted that the nation as a whole has seen a dramatic improvement in the housing market, we’re especially proud that the Houston area has just experienced one of its best years on record. And home construction and home buying are poised to maintain a healthy pace in 2014. Our area offers a wide selection of communities and properties to suit every lifestyle, whether you plan to rent or own. Each day, the 27,000 members of the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR) help make American Dream come true for individuals and families. HAR is the nation’s second largest local REALTOR® organization and our members understand that a home is one of the biggest and most significant investments you will ever make. More than one million consumers begin searching for their dream home every month on HAR’s award-winning website, HAR.com. The site offers dozens of user-friendly tools to explore specific properties and their amenities as well as to find detailed information about neighborhoods, schools, businesses and much more. Those same features are available through the free HAR.com app for iOS and Android platforms, making your property search convenient while on the go. You can download the app from the iTunes Store and Android Market. Just search for “HAR.com.” HAR and the City of Houston also recently introduced the free Houston Living app, which provides instant access to information about elected Houston city officials, city services and amenities, local events, neighborhood associations and more. On behalf of HAR, welcome to Greater Houston. We hope you’ll take advantage of everything our incredible community has to offer. Sincerely, Chaille Ralph 16 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Life is Your Canvas. Live in a Masterpiece Beautiful Communities Conveniently Located Throughout the Greater Houston Area With over 35 years of experience, we are resourceful, knowledgeable and well equipped to help make your vision of a bright future in the home and community of your dreams a reality. Finally, you can create the life you and your family deserve. BUSH INTERCONTINENTAL AIRPORT Lake Houston HOBBY AIRPORT Contact Us Today! 832.948.4676 (North of I-10) 832.585.2297 (South of I-10) Prices, plans, features, options and co-broke are subject to change without notice. Furnishings and decorative items not included. Additional restrictions may apply. Sq. ft. are approximate. 12/2013 emeraldhomes.com drhorton.com/Houston FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Welcometo Fort Bend County F Credit: Cross Creek Ranch The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newcomer & Relocation Guide is the premier resource for information about the communities around the county. Important contact information, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses for a variety of agencies, businesses and services are listed throughout this guide. Helpful on-line links for housing, neighborhood resources, financing and mortgage information, education, health care, utilities and more can be accessed at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides. com 18 | WWW.HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM ort Bend County is one of the most beautiful parts of Texas with wonderful communities situated on the rolling prairie or nestled into the banks of the Brazos River. There is a great amount of diversity in the area, with more than 627,000 people residing within the 879-square mile area that is inseparably linked to Houston and Harris County. Fort Bend County has a pro-business climate, which promotes opportunity for major corporations, growing companies, and entrepreneurs alike. Some of the many benefits for companies and residents include real estate prices that are comparable with the national average, low-cost utilities, a young and educated workforce, competitive wages and no personal or state income tax. U.S. Highway 59 is the major thoroughfare that traverses through the central part of Fort Bend County. Major corporations have chosen to build their headquarters along this route because of its accessibility to Metropolitan Houston and Richmond-Rosenberg, the gateway to South Texas. The bustling intersection of Highway 6 and U.S. 59 marks the heart of Fort Bend County’s business center. Sugar Land’s Town Center, First Colony, and a variety of other outstanding professional buildings, commercial and retail developments line these corridors. Other notable business districts are clustered along U. S. Highway 90 and State Highway 6. Housing options in Fort Bend County are endless. New homes by quality builders in wonderful neighborhoods, resale houses in traditional subdivisions, award winning master-planned communities, and beautiful estates surrounded by acreage are found throughout the county. Townhouses, apartments and rentals are also on the market. Waterfront properties inhabited by permanent residents along with vacation homes line the banks of the Brazos River, San Bernard River, Oyster Creek and other small streams and lakes. Golfing communities where residents can enjoy the greens almost year-round are another popular housing option. Home prices range from the mid-$70,000s for smaller, resale homes while new houses start in the low $100,000s. Luxury houses range upwards into the millions. Rental homes lease for about $2,000 per month and up while monthly apartment rent generally begins at $850. You can spend the day relaxing or daydreaming, or enjoying world class amenities, parks, and miles and miles of hike and bike trails— a veritable playground for family fun, even for Fido. Homes for every lifestyle on Texas-sized homesites. Naturally. Naturally. crosscreektexas.com HigHland . lennar . newmark . Perry Homes sitterle . trendmaker . Village Builders Luxury Builders: aVanti . darling Huntington . Partners in Building 2013 GHBA Developer of the Year KATY Katy Freeway 1463 359 Grand Parkway facebook.com/crosscreektexas . 281.344.9882 from $200s-Millions k Westpar 1093 FULSHEAR Tollway 99 359 Sugar Land Sugar Land Population 78,800 Trivia: 92.85% of the workforce is employed in white-collar jobs, well above the national average. The City of Sugar Land, because of its close proximity to Houston, was the first to flourish. Sugar Land was built upon the sugar cane plantations in the region, then adopted by the Imperial Sugar Company and continued to grow around the plant and rail yards. The heart of Sugar Land is now at U.S. 59 and Highway 6 and occupied by exclusive commercial centers and the fashionable mixed-use development where City Hall is located. Upscale neighborhoods, schools and parks fan out into masterplanned communities and into the adjacent small towns. The recent median price for a single-family home is $182,000. Sugar Land is leading progress in Fort Bend County. Its great success is evident - from the lovely neighborhoods to the impressive commercial developments. Richmond – Rosenberg Credit: George Hosek Great public parks are located throughout the county with the most famous being Brazos Bend State Park; the George Observatory and the Fort Bend Challenger Center are on the grounds, too. The Fort Bend Museum and the George Ranch Historical Park give the public a historical perspective of the county’s western heritage. The lakes and rivers have recreational facilities for fishing, camping, boating, water skiing, and bird watching. Residents can also partake of the world-class performances and hundreds of festivals and events in Houston, only a short drive away. Six public school districts are ranked among the best in the nation. School ratings from the Texas Education Agency are listed in Chapter Six - Education. Excellent private schools offer challenging curriculum and rewarding extended day activities. Wharton County Junior College, the University of Houston System at Sugar Land, the University of Houston System at Cinco Ranch, Houston Community College, and Texas State Technical College are conveniently located across Fort Bend County; Houston also has many outstanding colleges and universities. Sugar Land, Richmond – Rosenberg, Needville, Katy and Fulshear are the better-known cities in Fort Bend County and each has its own special character but they all reflect the pioneer spirit and retain their deep-rooted Texas traditions. Much has changed from the time when sleepy farm-to-market roads traversed the county. By the late 1950s, these rural towns experienced a new wave of growth as Houston rapidly emerged as one of the country’s super-cities, dominant in the petroleum industry and destined to become the aerospace capital of the world. 20 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Population 42,000 Richmond Trivia - The historic Fort Bend County Court House has been used to film court scenes in numerous movies. Rosenberg Trivia - Historic Downtown Rosenberg is home to a vibrant cultural arts scene and the first and only state-designated Cultral District in Fort Bend County. The sister cities of Richmond-Rosenberg are historically important towns. Richmond’s central streets are lined with restored office buildings and beautiful homes surround the famous Fort Bend County Courthouse. The Rosenberg Antique District is the core of the small city. Traditional homes and business districts are now interspersed with new shopping centers and residential developments, while parts of Richmond-Rosenberg have retained their rural lifestyle. Current pre-owned home asking prices in Richmond and Rosenberg are $142,400 and $165,000 respectively according to Trulia.com. Needville Population 2,800 Trivia – “Needmore” was the name originally selected, but it was already in use. Needville is located on state Highway 36, about ten miles south of US 59. Residents, primarily of European descent, live in this small city that is growing steadily. New housing developments and commercial enterprises are rapidly changing the face of Needville. The central downtown district is being supplemented by suburban development along U.S. 59. Housing varies dramatically with prices beginning around $75,000 for a modest home and climbing to $500,000 plus. Welcome Home Our relocation specialists will bring you home to Houston Our world-class relocation services focus on your real estate needs, eliminating the worry and streamlining the home-finding process. Let us show you how simple your move can be. Call today for your complimentary Relocation Guide. 713.558.3266 | 800.927.2774 marthaturner.com WE SERVICE THE GREATER HOUSTON AREA INCLUDING: Bay Area | Clear Lake | Conroe | Cypress | Cy-Fair Fort Bend | Friendswood | Galveston | Katy Kingwood | League City | Magnolia | Pearland HOUSTON’S AWARD-WINNING RELOCATION LEADER Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty Spring | Sugar Land | Tomball | The Woodlands Katy is uniquely located in Fort Bend, Harris and Waller Counties. The Brazos River meanders through the prairie while the wetlands provide an important natural habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. The population of the Katy area is approximately 170,000 people while only an estimated 15,000 reside within the 10.7 square-mile city giving the small city the ability to maintain a warm, friendly, smalltown atmosphere. The single-family median home value stands at $157,500. Fulshear, Orchard and Simonton Katy Population 15,100 Trivia –More Katy residents work in computers and math than 95% of other cities in the US. Fulshear: population 2,000 Orchard: population 352 Simonton: population 718 Fulshear, Orchard and Simonton are all small, rural communities a few miles apart in far northwest Fort Bend. A network of Farm-to-Market Roads connects the communities leading to Interstate 10 and into Katy and Houston. Residents enjoy a slow-paced lifestyle and most are involved in farming and ranching activities. Fulshear is a fast growing community just a few miles southwest of Katy. Only a few years ago, Fulshear had a population of 750 and is expected to reach 15,000 people by 2015. Apartment Directions, Inc. ADI will get you started on the right path... • With over 30 years experience we offer “FREE” apartment locating services • 3 month, 6 month & 12 month leases available • Furnished & Unfurnished units • Ask us about amenities, school information, driving time, & neighborhoods • Ask us about no deposits & discounted rates CALL TODAY! 713-789-3777 3300 Chimney Rock #104, Houston, TX 77056 www.houston-apartments.com [email protected] FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 21 Chesmar Homes offers a unique choice new home M P G [Modern Design Performance Guaranteed Green Certified]. It means a highly-efficient home that will save you money on energy costs every month in neighborhoods all around Houston: Lakes of Bella Terra Via Privato $290s-$330s - 281.382.8072 Mirandola $350s-$390s - 281.253.3501 Lakecrest Park Lakecrest Park Grand Parkway The Fortunata Collection $180s-$220s The Motif Collection Coming Soon 281.391.0044 or 832.457.8952 Westpark Tollway FM 1093 d an y G r rkwa Pa Lakes of Bella Terra Expand your ideas about the cost of owning a home with new home History In the 1820s, Stephen F. Austin brought settlers to claim giant parcels of fertile land and hardy immigrants rushed to stake their claims in the region. The first colonists were known as the “Old Three Hundred” when they established Fort Settlement in 1822, an encampment at a bend in the Brazos River. The Karankawa Indians inhabited land adjoining the new colonial settlements resulting in a few minor skirmishes with the first settlers. As the colonies grew and more settlers arrived, the Karankawa moved out of the area, and by the 1850s, most of the tribe had migrated south and into Mexico. In 1837, Richmond (named after Richmond, England) was the first city to be incorporated in the Republic of Texas and soon became the Fort Bend County seat. By the late 1850s, Richmond grew into a thriving center for regional agricultural products and a prosperous shipping point largely due to the rail line that was constructed in the 1850s to the Port of Galveston. Richmond’s and Fort Bend County’s architectural jewel is the handsome courthouse built in 1908. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the famous building with it’s much admired silver dome sits in the middle of the town square and is a great source of pride for the city and the county. Rosenberg came about in 1880 when Richmond refused to give the railroads access through the city. Thus, the line was laid three miles to the south and the town began to grow around the depot. The population steadily increased as Czechs, Germans, and Polish settlers moved to the small town, and eventually, Rosenberg melded into Richmond. Following the Civil War, new settlers migrated to Fort Bend County to found family farms and ranches. One new town was established along the rail lines in 1883 and promoted in St. Louis, Missouri, thus, the name “Missouri City.” William Stafford settled Stafford’s Point, later shortened to “Stafford,” in 1822 and built a horsepowered cotton gin to process crops. In 1836, Santa Anna and his troops made camp in the town on their way to the Battle of San Jacinto. Most of the buildings were destroyed when the army departed but Stafford quickly rebounded. The city’s resilience is evident today and it continues to blossom. South of Stafford and Missouri City, sits the Blue Ridge Oil Field. In 1919, oil was discovered, with a gusher and new drilling spread throughout the county during the 1920s. Significant production continues there today. Katy began developing around 1872, and was first known as “Cane Island” and once a major producer of sugar cane. The area is now better known for its rice crops and its natural gas fields. Fulshear is Katy’s close western neighbor. The small town sprang up in the 1890s along yet another rail line that ran through the old Fulshear Plantation. Fort Bend County’s history is amongst the richest in Texas. Explore the local libraries, museums and parks to learn about the heritage of cities, towns and communities around the County. 22 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE 3/31/14 1:49 PM CH_PostOakP_FB_32814.indd 1 Credit: George Ranch Historical Park Hotels&Motels W H E R E V E R L I F E TA K E S Y O U CALL ON US Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Members Credit: Sugar Land Marriott Town Square Best Western............................................................. 281-232-0680.6330 East Riverpark Drive, Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.bestwesternsugarland.com Hyatt Place Houston.......................281-491-0300 16730 Creek Bend Drive, Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.HyattPlace.com Comfort Suites.................................281-565-5566 4820 Techniplex Drive, Stafford, TX 77477 www.comfortsuitessugarland.com La Quinta Inn and Suites ...............281-969-1990 5719 Highway 6, Missouri City, TX 77459 www.lq.com Courtyard by Marriott....................281-491-7700 12655 SW Freeway, Stafford, TX 77477 www.marriott.com/housw La Quinta Inn Stafford ...................281-240-2300 12727 Southwest Freeway, Stafford, TX 77477 www.LQ.com Crowne Plaza Suites........................713-995-0123 9090 SW Freeway, Houston, TX 77074 www.crowneplazasuites.com Drury Inn & Suites .........................281-277-9700 13770 SW Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.druryhotels.com Hampton Inn & Suites....................281-208-7901 4909 Highway 6, Missouri City, TX 77459 hamptoninn.com Hampton Inn...................................281-565-0559 4714 Techniplex Drive, Stafford, TX 77477 www.houstonstafford.hamptoninn.com Hilton Garden Inn Houston..........281-491-7777 722 Bonaventure Way, Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.houstonsugarland.hgi.com Homewood Suites ...........................281-265-2760 4520 Techniplex Drive, Stafford, TX 77477 www.houstonstafford.homewoodsuites.com Marriott Town Square.....................281-275-8400 16090 City Walk, Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.slmarriott.com Residence Inn by Marriott.............281-277-0770 12703 SW Freeway, Stafford, TX 77477 www.marriott.com Sleep Inn & Suites............................281-494-2900 4810 Alpine Drive, Stafford, TX 77477 www.choicehotels.com Staybridge Suites..............................281-302-6535 11101 Fountain Lake Drive, Stafford, TX 77477 www.staybridge.com/sugarlandtx SIXTEEN OFFICES STRONG TO BETTER SERVE YOU Fort Bend Location: 281.240.8800 Studio 6.............................................281-240-6900 12827 Southwest Freeway, Stafford, TX 77477 Symphony Inn & Suites..................281-933-5550 11744 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77031 www.symphonyinn.com heritagetexas.com FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 23 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Neighborhoods &Communities Credit: Riverstone “We are so elated about the prodigious growth in the Fort Bend Community. There is incredible potential and continuous progress in this área with the extention of the Grand Parkway and the construction of so many new neighborhoods and schools. Fort Bend is a place where people know their neighbors, and families can blossom in this family-friendly environment for many years to come.” Keri Schmidt, IOM - President & CEO Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce N ow is a great time to move to Fort Bend County. The housing selection is even more inviting than ever before with new masterplanned communities, traditional neighborhoods, and exciting mixed-use developments. Sugar Land, Stafford, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg and Katy offer homes in every size for every budget. Sugar Land Sugar Land’s quality lifestyle is well known. The master-planned communities, excellent schools, strong economy, and friendly reputation consistently earn Sugar Land high marks and national awards. Ranked by CNN/Money Magazine, Sugar Land was named the third best city in the U.S. on their places to live list. The guidebook, Best Places to Raise Your 24 | WWW.HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM Family – The Top 100 Affordable Communities in the U.S., put Sugar Land at #8. The city has also accumulated numerous prestigious state and local awards for clean air, a tree and forestry program, and their regional airport. Located about 20 miles southwest of downtown Houston, Sugar Land began as a sugar plantation and mill. Until 1959 when Sugar Land incorporated, it was a typical company town. The Imperial Sugar Co. provided housing, schools, health care, and other support to their work force. During the 1960s, housing developments sprang up as a result of Houston’s growth, and the first master-planned community of Sugar Creek was built. The company town grew rapidly along U.S. 59 and U.S. Alternate 90, and is now the fastest growing city in Texas with an estimated 84,000-plus residents. Home Featured: Aliana - PB67 t Trendmaker, we pride ourselves on offering a superior home-buying experience. We want each step in the process to be easy and stressfree. That experience starts in our model homes where what you see is what you get. While you can certainly add a bevy of bells and whistles to your new home, at Trendmaker most upgrades are already included in the price! PRESIDENT, TRENDMAKER HOMES For more information on this community, product & features please visit: Located in the heart of Missouri City, Quail Valley is home to the municipal Quail Valley Golf Course featuring 36 holes of championship golf. The El Dorado course was named as the “Best Value under $50” by Avid Golfer Magazine, December, 2012. The community is also home to the brand new City Centre at Quail Valley and Tennis and Recreation Center. Enjoy the benefits of golf course community living with: Missouri City was featured • Affordable Custom Homes on the Golf Courses and Lakes • Low Tax Rates • Convenient access to Houston via the Fort Bend Toll Road • Over 100 acres of parks and greenbelts in the neighborhood • Top Rated Fort Bend ISD Schools in as one of the “Best 100 Places to Live” including “Most Affordable Housing” QUAIL VALLEY HOME OWNER ASSOCIATION / 3603 Glenn Lakes / Missouri City / TX 77459 / www.quailvalleyfund.org PennyWise Resale Centers Benefiting the Fort Bend County Women’s Center Your Donations Help Save Lives Every Day Donations Accepted 7 Days a Week • Furniture • Appliances • Clothing • Household Items • Cars To schedule large item pick-ups or for more information please call 281-344-5777 or email [email protected] Missouri City Donation Center 4737 Hwy 6 @ Dulles Richmond 501 Highway 90A East Stafford 13645 Murphy Road Mission Bend 6808 Hwy 6 @ Bellaire Assisting Survivors of Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault and their Children 26 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE First Colony, one of the early residential developments, has grown to more than 60 neighborhoods and 400+ commercial businesses. The First Colony Community Association (FCCA) set innovative guidelines for the community and Half page Horizontal maintains beautifully landscaped streets, lakes 4.875 and parks. FCCA keeps the 7.5 sense x of community strong through monthly newsletters and events Fort Bend Newcome for the residents. In addition, the association is currently updating the recreational amenities. FCCA is located at 4350 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77479. For information call 281-6349500 or www.firstcolony.org. Sugar Land’s master-planned communities are extremely popular and in demand. In fact, Sugar Land has more master-planned communities than any other city in the country. Several communities are now adding sections where houses are under construction. At the heart of Sugar Land is Town Square, a pedestrian-friendly, 32-acre mixed-use development. Luxury condominiums and multi-family residences are within walking distance of the blocks of upscale retail, mid-rise office buildings, restaurants and cafes, and City Hall. The smartly appointed storefronts and landscaped sidewalks invite visitors to stroll from block to block. The Fort Bend Independent School District and several excellent, private schools educate the Sugar Land area children. A small section of the city is zoned to the Lamar Consolidated School District. Wharton County Junior College and the University of Houston System at Sugar Land offer classes for adult learners. Great recreational opportunities are close by. Diverse live performances at the Lakeview Auditorium, the oldest venue in Sugar Land and a designated Texas Historic Landmark, make for special outings. Oyster Creek Park brings residents together in a scenic setting along its creek banks. The Sugar Land Skeeters are a minor league baseball team that plays at Constellation Field. Stafford Stafford is situated in Fort Bend County along U.S. Highway 59 and U.S. Alternate 90 between Sugar Land and Houston. The Wall Street Journal described Stafford as “a Shangri-La for property owners” because the city’s 20,000 residents pay no property taxes. Racial and cultural diversity is valued in the community and no single ethnic group is a majority. The median home price in the Stafford area is approximately $110,000. Smaller houses are priced from the $70,000s while spacious new homes can cost upwards of $500,000. Stafford is the only city in Texas to operate its own school district, the Stafford Municipal School District, and only children living in the city are zoned to the district’s schools. For adult education and other certifications and degrees, the Houston Community College Applied Tech- nology Center and the Houston Community College Stafford Campus are both excellent. Residents enjoy 35-acres of green space and six city parks. While each facility is different, most have playground equipment, picnic areas, gazebos, jogging trails and well-maintained fields for sports. Citizens and the City Council work together on these popular recreational areas for the enjoyment of residents. The city promotes a sense of community pride among its citizens by hosting the Town Hall meeting, Citywide Pride Spring Clean Up, Independence Day Celebration and the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. Neighborhood shopping centers are anchored by national chain stores along with a variety of businesses and restaurants; several upscale malls are a short drive away. Missouri City Missouri City was named to CNN Money Magazine’s list of best places to live in the U.S. – a major endorsement for any city. Missouri City adjoins Sugar Land along U.S. Highway 59, and seamlessly shares Highway 6 just south of Stafford. It also has close borders with Houston and is considered one of its “burbs.” Sam Houston Tollway (Beltway 8) and the Fort Bend Parkway have made the city even more accessible to all parts of the Greater Houston area. METRO operates the Missouri City Park and Ride at Beltway 8 to ferry commuters Cindy Lang “I’ve been in your shoes! My goal is to help you feel at home quickly.” Cell: 832.720.2850 [email protected] www.cindylanhomesforsale.com Keller Williams Premier Katy, TX 2013 Platinum Award winner FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 27 Everything, right here, in one location Brazos Town Center offers great shopping, family entertainment and dining in one location. Convenient. Local. Fun. US 59 & FM 762 / Reading Road | Rosenberg, Texas www.brazostowncenter.com Brazos Bend State Park is in Fort Bend County near Needville and Richmond/Rosenberg and about 28 miles southwest of Houston. to various destinations in Houston. Like most of Fort Bend County, the city’s 70,000 residents represent an ethnically diverse population. A unique, planned community where zoning ordinances are enforced, commercial establishments flourish alongside well-kept neighborhoods. Quail Valley was the first master planned community built in Missouri City. Located off Highway 6 South and the Fort Bend Toll Road, Quail Valley is just minutes from the Texas Medical Center, the Galleria, downtown Houston, and Greenway Plaza. Streets are lined with beautiful, mature trees and quiet waterways flow through the neighborhood. Open spaces along with 36 holes of championship golf at the city owned Quail Valley Golf Course create a relaxing environment in the heart of 28 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE the residential area. The architectural mix of homes is a refreshing alternative to conventional houses that often comprise area neighborhoods. Wonderful city parks, premier retail stores and restaurants are close by. For additional information, contact the Quail Valley Fund at 281-4998371 or visit www.quailvalleyfund.org. Riverstone is an award-winning masterplanned community with well-appointed houses priced from the $280,000s to over $3 million. Homes from many well-respected builders are surrounded by 750-acres of lakes and parks. Open spaces take full advantage of the outstanding natural beauty of the land. Designed for 18,000 residents, the 3,700-acre community blends townhomes, luxury patio homes, single family and custom homes with resort-style features designed around waterside living. Sienna Plantation, located off Highway 6, was once a prosperous plantation supplying sugar cane and cotton to the Gulf Coast region. Its rich history is reflected in the fine family homes, the luxury residences lining the golf course and the impressive array of amenities. Named “Best Development in Texas” by the CNBC Americas Property Awards, Sienna Plantation gives buyers an extensive number of housing choices and pricing options. Miles of walking trails, playgrounds, three pools, Sienna Stables and lakes for fishing and kayaking are reminiscent of outdoor life at the original plantation. But state-of-the-art technology has not been overlooked as the development was built with an extensive network of underground cable and advanced wiring systems built into most homes. Houses are priced from the $250,000s to over $1 million. Children living in Missouri City attend schools in the Fort Bend Independent School District; and Houston Community College operates a new campus in Sienna Plantation. First-rate shopping areas along Highway 6 feature nationally known retailers, service businesses and restaurants. New commercial properties are underway as companies are continuing to move to the Fort Bend Parkway and Beltway 8 neighborhoods. Recreation is easy to find in Missouri City. Community Park on Glenn Lakes Boulevard is a green space complex with little league fields, a disc golf course and pavilions for outdoor entertainment. There’s also Mosely Park, a lovely gathering spot on the banks of Oyster Creek. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department stocks lakes and waterways with game fish to draw fishing enthusiasts while Independence Park has the added feature of a public boat ramp. Buffalo Run Park is Missouri City’s newest green “jewel,” a 95-acre nature preserve surrounded by large lakes, walking trails, boat piers, and an observation tower. Richmond-Rosenberg The sister cities, Richmond and Rosenberg, were settled by the “Old Three Hundred,” the original members of Stephen F. Austin’s colony. Today, more than 14,000 people live in Richmond, and Rosenberg has an estimated 31,000 residents. The cities have grown steadily into one mini-metropolis yet they retain a friendly atmosphere that is rich in Texas history and culture. Located in the heart of Fort Bend County, the cities are less than an hour’s drive from downtown Houston. Access to Richmond from U.S. Highway Alternate 90 makes travel through the area easy while U. S. Highway 59 runs through the center of Rosenberg. Both thoroughfares and the Grand Parkway (State Highway 99) give motorists alternate routes to the Greater Houston area. Resale home prices start around $75,000 and are priced upwards to $800,000s. New home pricing starts in the $120,000s. Estate properties can sell for millions of dollars more. Farm and ranch acreage is another option for those seeking a rural lifestyle. Pecan Grove Plantation is Richmond’s first master-planned community. The development began in 1977 around a golf course. River Forest and Grand River are two newer communities, and both are equestrian oriented featuring large home sites and strict deed restrictions. Full of Texas charm and picturesque scenery, Long Meadow Farms is a community located 3 minutes south of the Westpark Tollway on the Grand Parkway. Long Meadow Farms was designed with attention to detail and visionary planning. The scenic lakes and waterfalls, pecan trees and native wildflowers surround homes built in the style of traditional Texas architecture. The lifestyle recalls the nostalgic pioneer days and sets the tone for comfort and casual luxury. Home prices begin in the low $200,000s. Rosenberg’s two new developments are Bonbrook Plantation and The Oaks of Rosenberg where lovely single-family homes are priced from the $150,000s. Richmond-Rosenberg has a number of city parks in addition to the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds in Rosenberg. Children living in the two cities and the nearby master-planned communities attend schools in the Lamar Consolidated Independent School District. Outstanding private and parochial schools are in both Richmond and Rosenberg. Wharton County Junior College in conjunction with the Texas State Technical College offers many innovative classes for adult learners in Richmond. ROSENBERG CULTURAL DISTRICT Arts In Historic Downtown Houston’s newest Cultural District has something for everyone. Where History Meets Opportunity Katy Katy is located where three counties converge: Fort Bend, Harris, and Waller Counties. Katy’s unique location links the small city to Houston via Interstate 10, a major East-West highway, while Grand Parkway traverses NorthSouth to Sugar Land. The population of the Katy area is approximately 170,000 people but only an estimated 15,000 reside within the city limits. Katy has it all when it comes to housing. A few original cottages and historical homes still exist in downtown. Suburban family housing www.ci.richmond.tx.us • 281-342-5456 402 Morton Street, Richmond, Texas 77469 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 29 developments surround the city with established neighborhoods south of Interstate 10 and new subdivisions are underway towards Fulshear. Pre-owned homes in neighborhoods like Falcon Rock and Pin Oak Village offer a wide range of houses priced from around $150,000. Acreage devoted to farming and ranching, and especially equestrian pursuits, occasionally come on the market. The Katy Mills Mall with over 200 preferred manufacturers’ outlet stores, a themed restaurant, and a 20-screen movie theatre is a destination shopping mall for consumers. The city has six parks variously equipped with pavilions, meeting facilities, pools, sports fields and picnic areas. The Katy Independent School District is one of the best districts in Texas providing excellent educational opportunities for children. The University of Houston and Houston Community College both have campuses in Katy. Even though this area is one of the fastest growing in the County, residents still enjoy wideopen spaces, natural habitats and a simpler way of life. Katy maintains a warm, friendly, smalltown atmosphere. The Grand Parkway & West Park Toll Road Communities The Grand Parkway (State Highway 99) and the Westpark Toll Road are newly constructed major thoroughfares where a series of communities and commercial centers have rapidly 30 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE developed. These roadways are an important part of the infrastructure of Fort Bend County and West Houston. Public transportation, operated by METRO, along the Interstate 10 corridor and HOV lanes make commuting easy for residents who work in Houston. The recent expansion of I-10 contributes significantly to the popularity of the master-planned communities and more major residential and commercial developments are on the drawing board. In contrast to the new construction, horses and cattle can be seen on the gently rolling prairie where pioneers settled almost 200 years ago. Excellent deed restrictions were enacted early on and created pristine neighborhoods reflecting the community pride settlers first brought to the region. The appropriately named Cinco Ranch is one of the largest master-planned communities along the Grand Parkway. A nature trail through 70-acres of wooded habitat and La Centerra, an upscale Texas-style market and mixed-use development contributes to the popularity of the Cinco Ranch area. Other retail centers with restaurants, banks, grocery and drug stores have been constructed to support the burgeoning neighborhoods. Where the Westpark Toll Road intersects the Grand Parkway is the outstanding Parkway Lakes development with winding streets, secluded cul-de-sacs and five lakes with fountains. Other fine developments stretch along the Grand Parkway corridor from Interstate 10 south to U.S. Highway 59, and offer exceptional values in housing options. Most all of the master-planned communities feature their own clubhouses, pools, tennis courts, golf courses and more. Numerous parks and greenbelts are open to the public for their enjoyment. The Fort Bend Independent School District and several private schools offer children in the corridor excellent educational opportunities. The University of Houston - West Houston Institute is a great asset for adult students, and a number of certifications, four-year degrees and masters’ programs are offered by area colleges and technical schools. Fulshear, Simonton, and Orchard Fulshear, Simonton and Orchard are lovely rural towns in the northwest part of the county. A network of Farm-to-Market Roads connects the communities and leads to Interstate 10. Katy is a close neighbor, and the beautiful countryside with farms and ranches make this a very popular area for those desiring country living. Fulshear was incorporated in the early 1980s and remains a largely rural area. Almost 2,000 people live in Fulshear, and the town is rapidly increasing in residents. Cross Creek Ranch is Fulshear’s 3,200-acre premier mixed-use, master-planned community with easy access to Katy, Sugar Land and Houston. Homes from fine builders start in the $250,000s. The natural habitat surrounding the new development promotes a relaxed lifestyle centered on Flewellen Creek Park. Flewellen Creek winds through approximately 150 acres in the heart of Cross Creek Ranch and is being restored to support a balanced eco-system for birds and wildlife as well as a natural backdrop for hike-and-bike trails and a disc golf course. Resale home pricing varies widely. An example of a median appraised value in the aptly named subdivision of Fulshear is $55,000. Simonton, with only 700 residents, is 14 miles from Richmond, and a country community with only two subdivisions. This small town maintains a simple lifestyle with deep roots back to the 1850s when it was founded. Orchard has an estimated population of 400 residents. Like Simonton, it is also a farm and ranch community that was settled largely by Europeans in the late 1800s. Resale homes in Orchard and Simonton are considerably different, and pricing depends upon the construction, age, and location of each home. The Lamar Independent School District serves Fulshear and Simonton while the Brazos Independent School Districts operates an elementary school in Orchard. Needville, Fairchild, Beasley, Kendleton, and Thompsons The rural towns of Needville, Fairchild, Beasley, Kendleton, and Thompsons are located in the southern portion of Fort Bend County. Many of the homes in and around these small towns are situated on acreage or outside of traditional neighborhoods. A listing of the larger subdivisions is included in the Subdivision Price Trends Chart in this chapter. Resale housing choices differ dramatically. New homes are under construction in Needville. A network of creeks and several small lakes are scattered through this area, and create recreational opportunities for those who enjoy watersports. Several school districts serve the educational needs of children living in these towns and surrounding areas. The City of Meadows Place Only one square mile in size, the City of Meadows Place is perfectly situated between Sugar Land, Stafford and Houston. U. S. Highway 59 is the main artery and connects with the other major thoroughfares - Dairy Ashford, Kirkwood and Airport Blvd. The highway runs north to The Galleria, downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center and south to other destinations in the county. The City’s motto, “Your Place for Life,” says it all. Residents enjoy the best of both worlds: small town character and big city convenience. Incorporated in 1983, Meadows Place has its own Police Department that is responsible for the city being recognized as the safest small city in Fort Bend County. No MUD taxes or Home Owners Association fees are assessed yet the City continues to make improvements to the infrastructure and beautification projects in the parks. Zoning ordinances, deed restrictions and commercial property regulations are enforced, keeping the appearance of the neighborhoods and property values strong. The Meadows Elementary School is rated “Exemplary” and has an estimated 450 students. Students move on to Dulles Middle School and Dulles High School. All schools are part of the award-winning Fort Bend ISD. Outstanding shopping and excellent medical care is close by. With one of the youngest populations in Fort Bend County, a rising per capita income level, and an active community, the City of Meadows Place welcomes new residents. For more information about the City of Meadows Place, contact City Hall at 281-9832950 or visit www.cityofmeadowsplace.org. Living And Working In The Neighborhood Hamilton Real Estate’s mission is to provide innovative real estate strategies and solutions with exceptional service results. Hamilton represents Buyers and Sellers in both the residential and corporate communities. Hamilton Real Estate Company Michael T. Hamilton Credit: Fulbrook Broker 1041 South Lane, Houston, Texas 77088 [email protected] 832-631-0500 www.hredc.net FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 31 Sugar Land Credit: Cross Creek Ranch SUBDIVISION PRICE TRENDS Subdivision Appraised Value Avg Sq Ft Year Subdivision Built Richmond/Rosenberg Bonbrook Plantation North $165,280 2,272 2007 Bonbrook Plantation South $172,390 2,473 2007 Bradford Park $104,370 2,217 2006 Brazos Gardens $116,080 2,254 2003 Brazos Lakes $311,600 3,343 2004 Brazos Village $104,280 1,437 2003 Bridlewood Estates $372,870 3,638 2001 Brynmawr Lake R/P $383,410 3,900 1992 Canyon Gate At The Brazos $174,530 2,751 2002 Canyon Lakes At The Brazos $199,870 3,315 2004 Canyon Lakes At Westheimer$160,810 2,308 2007 Canyon Springs At Westheimer $168,890 2,308 2007 Canyon Village At Westheimer $149,220 1,891 2007 Country Club Estates $132,070 2,176 1973 Estates Of Brazoswood $383,880 3,622 2003 Gaston-Fulshear Corp $273,760 2,476 1991 Grand Meadow $157,110 2,314 2006 Grand Mission $159,320 2,260 2006 Grand River $585,120 4,288 2004 Ironwood Forest $204,420 2,395 2004 Lake Creek $152,850 1,975 1992 Lakemont $148,240 2,330 2004 Lakemont Cove $225,910 3,534 2008 Lakemont Meadows $156,730 2,330 2006 Lakemont Terrace $137,420 2,055 2006 Lakemont Trace $192,410 3,187 2006 Lakes Of Mission Grove $459,810 3,950 2007 Laurel Oaks $103,710 1,883 1970 Laurel Oaks Manor $119,320 1,837 1983 Long Meadow Farms $235,680 3,069 2006 Long Woods $117,850 2,012 1976 Lost Creek $157,440 2,169 2007 Meadow Forest $198,190 2,482 1981 Meadows Of Parkway Lakes $154,620 2,074 2003 Mission Oaks $106,940 1,884 2005 Parkway Lakes $206,320 3,368 2006 Pecan Lakes $168,710 2,162 2000 River Run At The Brazos $146,170 2,108 2009 Riverpark West $208,240 3,016 2005 Rivers Edge $188,240 2,683 2006 Rivers Mist $226,020 3,620 2008 Riverside Ranch $355,530 3,218 2005 Rolling Oaks $537,280 4,936 1991 Rose Ranch $126,090 1,882 2007 Rosehaven $129,450 1,772 2008 Royal Estates $189,290 2,472 1979 32 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Appraised Value Avg Sq Ft Year Built Royal Lake Estates $389,180 4,065 2002 Royal Lakes Manor $632,790 5,090 2007 Shadow Grove Estates $382,990 4,184 2001 Summer Lakes $156,250 2,469 2007 Tara Colony $128,100 2,018 2001 Texana Plantation $488,760 4,235 2003 The Greens At Pecan Grove $218,800 2,801 1990 The Grove $128,520 2,002 1984 Twin Oaks Village $123,270 2,036 2004 Villas At Westheimer Lakes $132,390 2,105 2006 Walnut Creek $110,240 1,675 2010 Waterside Estates $220,650 2,950 2003 Waterside Village $147,250 2,141 2002 Waterview Estates $158,900 2,265 2006 West Oaks Village $125,980 2,165 1997 Westpark Lakes $124,430 2,246 2000 Withers Ridge $114,910 2,110 2006 Alamo S/D $105,200 1,740 1971 Bayou Crossing $139,880 1,831 2007 Bayou Park $164,740 2,738 1978 Cottonwood $114,920 2,090 2006 Fairpark Village $125,810 2,384 2009 Kingdom Heights $164,300 2,330 2009 Lamar Estates $113,890 1,972 1975 Los Pinos $137,560 1,906 2005 Piney Post S/D $159,120 2,217 1970 Seabourne Meadows $115,620 1,729 2007 Shady Oaks Estates $208,650 2,338 1995 The Oaks Of Rosenberg $171,040 2,359 2008 The Reserve At Brazos Town Center $241,990 3,344 2010 City Of Meadows Place/Stafford Applecreek Bend Arcott Place Colony Lake Estates Enclave At Stafford Grove West Kingsway Meadow Park Meadowglen Southmeadow Stafford Colony The Meadows The Promenade at Stafford Run Vaccaro Manor West Bend S/D R/P $187,570 2,461 2005 $120,910 2,307 2004 $208,840 2,941 2005 $185,000 2,608 2001 $210,790 2,528 1998 $116,820 1,916 1981 $109,960 2,033 1977 $143,950 2,142 1984 $130,560 2,049 1986 $152,670 2,392 1999 $128,670 1,919 1973 $164,040 2,563 1998 $107,660 1,712 1978 $103,030 1,732 1967 Alcorn Bend $671,500 4,660 1995 Ashford Lakes $246,660 3,603 2002 Austin Meadow $328,240 3,304 1989 Austin Park $246,780 2,590 1985 Autumn Ridge $163,320 2,554 1995 Avalon - Enclave At Waters $959,820 5,448 2002 Avalon - Gardens Of Avalon $434,060 3,894 2000 Avalon - Meadows Of Avalon $577,230 4,323 2003 Avalon - Villages Of Avalon $363,630 3,295 1999 Avalon - Waters Of Avalon $843,100 4,964 1999 Barrington Place $134,390 1,904 1986 Baybridge At Sugar Lakes $385,000 2,775 1996 Blakely Bend $285,260 3,292 1992 Bonbrook Plantation North $165,280 2,272 2007 Bonbrook Plantation South $172,390 2,473 2007 Bradford Park $104,370 2,217 2006 Brazos Landing $370,950 3,737 2000 Bridgewater $318,170 3,125 1993 Bridlewood Estates $372,870 3,638 2001 Brookside Addn $172,510 1,935 1969 Brookside At Riverstone $464,510 4,379 2007 Brynmawr Lake R/P $383,410 3,900 1992 Chelsea Harbour $277,410 3,369 2004 Chimneystone $128,400 1,271 1982 Clayton’s Bend $301,920 3,546 1992 Colony Bend $188,940 2,288 1981 Colony Creek $418,260 3,508 1991 Colony Grant $205,020 2,595 1982 Colony Meadows $279,390 2,851 1989 Colony Park $438,680 3,646 1988 Colony Woods $510,700 4,072 1989 Commonwealth Estates $501,580 4,923 1991 Commonwealth Park $329,400 3,647 1989 Country Club Estates $132,070 2,176 1973 Covington West $124,960 1,696 1977 Covington Woods $124,170 1,735 1975 Creekshire $167,370 1,749 1985 Creekstone Village-Riverstone $262,110 2,914 2008 Crescent Lakes $353,890 3,343 1994 Crescents On The Green $375,660 3,211 1990 Crossing Cove At Riverstone $359,560 3,923 2006 Edgewater $275,460 2,971 1996 Eldridge Lake $244,860 3,154 2003 Eldridge Park Village $125,530 2,166 1999 Englewood Place Estates $212,250 2,477 1997 First Colony Mud #5 $506,230 3,814 1993 Foster Creek Estates $398,230 3,383 1995 Foster’s Green $346,290 3,722 1994 Fountains At Jane Long Farms $139,250 2,494 2007 Gannoway Lake Estates $251,260 3,260 2004 Greatwood Arbor $353,680 3,606 1997 Greatwood Bend $227,820 2,639 1996 Greatwood Brooks Mill $270,470 3,128 2002 Greatwood Crossing $191,620 2,300 1995 Greatwood Fairview $277,180 2,896 2002 Greatwood Forest $301,750 3,598 1996 Greatwood Glen $227,230 2,628 1993 Greatwood Highland Park $330,330 3,436 2003 Greatwood Knoll $184,670 2,302 1992 Greatwood Manor $292,910 3,578 1998 Greatwood Shores $409,200 3,989 1995 Greatwood Stonebridge $205,680 2,451 2001 Greatwood Terrace $193,610 2,356 1996 Greatwood Trails $259,340 3,166 1992 Greatwood Tuscany Place $348,340 3,796 2001 Greatwood Village $206,780 2,466 1990 Greatwood Wood Creek $271,240 3,450 2000 Greatwood $419,040 4,337 2004 Hall Lake R/P $270,380 3,599 1989 Kingsbridge Place $165,890 2,844 2000 Lake Pointe $308,610 3,216 1994 Lakefield $145,030 1,721 1984 Lakes Of Austin Park $268,390 2,929 1987 Lakes Of Bella Terra $243,290 2,922 2008 Lakes Of Edgewater $242,720 2,811 1989 Magnolia Plantation $241,220 3,016 1994 Meadow Lakes $321,040 3,599 1998 New Territory $236,230 2,909 1997 A sense of connection. We know how important it is for your family to connect at the end of the day. In a Highland home, the gourmet kitchen is the perfect spot. With an oversized island, a built-in command center and a casual dining area, the kitchen really is the heart of every Highland home. And it’s just one of the features that means Highland Homes makes perfect sense. Over 22 Houston Area Communities From the $170s to the $800s Fulbrook on Fulshear Creek (Coming Soon) Summer Lakes From the $180s 281-239-3553 Aliana 55s From the $270s 281-207-6874 Summer Park From the $260s 281-489-1611 Aliana 70s From the $380s 281-207-6851 Riverstone From the $390s 281-778-1488 Long Meadow Farms 50s From the $250s 832-595-0950 Sienna Plantation From the $360s 281-778-9970 Long Meadow Farms 70s From the $350s 832-222-9305 Lakes of Savannah From the $210s 281-489-1966 HighlandHomes.com Prices and availability are subject to change without notice. Oak Hollow Oak Lake Court Oak Lake Estates Oaks Of Alcorn Orchard Lake Estates Oxford Oyster Point Park Pointe Pheasant Creek Plantation Bend Plantation Colony Point Royale Ragus Lake Estates Riverbend North Riverpark Riverpark West Robinson’s Landing Sanders Glen At Riverstone Settlers Grove Settlers Park Stonehaven Stratford Park Village Sugar Creek Sugar Crossing Sugar Grove Sugar Lakes Sugarfield Sugarmill Sugarwood Summerfield Sutton Forest Sweetwater Tealbriar Telfair The Highlands The Lakes The Landing At Greatwood The Reserve-Glen Laurel Venetian Estates $184,630 2,737 $136,840 1,800 $170,910 2,378 $346,120 3,304 $263,170 3,351 $300,730 3,252 $400,000 3,758 $147,930 2,535 $100,420 1,510 $245,800 2,917 $218,340 2,577 $454,610 4,180 $121,510 1,516 $218,420 2,808 $188,300 3,058 $212,320 3,008 $170,620 2,448 $362,780 4,064 $165,560 1,932 $147,250 1,812 $179,050 1,988 $154,380 2,182 $251,090 2,914 $285,000 3,320 $146,100 2,251 $291,200 3,271 $166,200 1,927 $212,550 2,423 $273,540 3,077 $147,020 2,177 $405,490 4,080 $659,510 5,013 $190,300 3,147 $357,770 3,504 $142,560 1,823 $291,700 3,130 $227,220 2,382 $227,110 2,636 $456,120 2,722 1999 2005 1996 1990 2003 1988 1991 1999 1983 1994 1992 1995 1983 1988 2001 2005 1990 2009 1983 1981 1985 1999 1977 1989 2004 1987 2005 1986 1982 1997 1993 1989 1992 2008 1981 1996 1996 2005 1969 Village Of Oak Lake Waterford Wilkins Crossing Williams Glen Woodbridge Estates Woodbridge Fbc Woodstream $152,080 $204,480 $242,040 $384,890 $335,320 $195,010 $193,620 2,422 3,301 2,710 3,779 4,298 2,705 2,281 1993 1989 1991 1991 2002 2001 1983 Needville/Fairchild/Beasley/ Kendleton Aggieland Ark Acres Big Creek Rural Estate Blue Jay Brazos Bend Oaks Fall Wood Highland Pointe Meadow Grove Meadowgreen Estates Morgan Acres Northgate Estates Park Point Quail Park Rosemeadow Teal Landing Williams School Estates $109,830 1,762 1975 $203,350 2,150 1992 $118,990 2,063 1990 $139,090 1,705 1995 $201,720 2,503 1997 $176,480 2,018 2001 $174,730 1,954 2005 $192,840 2,510 1984 $43,600 1,464 1994 $197,320 2,950 2004 $130,820 1,527 2003 $104,500 1,662 1970 $192,610 2,220 2001 $133,960 1,781 2004 $127,740 1,737 2004 $144,330 1,847 1987 Fulshear/Orchard/Simonton Bradford On The Bend $266,330 2,654 2001 Creekside Cross Creek Ranch $270,500 3,032 2010 Eagle Nest Acres $145,910 1,854 1990 Fairway Villas $248,780 2,555 2008 Fulbrook $528,100 3,671 2003 Fulshear $129,340 1,458 1955 Fulshear Creek Crossing $394,590 3,575 2010 Lakeside Cross Creek Ranch $524,850 4,917 2009 Legacy Cross Creek Ranch $380,980 4,142 2009 North Fulshear Est $234,250 2,112 1995 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 33 MONTGOMERY COUNTY FORT BEND & HOUSTON MAP LAKE CONROE N l W CONROE SHENANDOAH MAGNOLIA E OAK RIDGE NORTH S THE WOODLANDS 45 59 TOMBALL SPRINGWOODS VILLAGE 249 KINGWOOD KLEIN CY-FAIR JERSEY VILLAGE WEST HOUSTON 1960 HUMBLE 8 HUFFMAN 1960 CROSBY LAKE HOUSTON 90 6 10 610 FULSHEAR Grand Parkway 10 ENERGY CORRIDOR KATY MEADOWS PLACE SUGAR LAND 225 288 8 CLEAR CLEAR LAKE SEABROOK LAKE PEARLAND NASSAU BAY KEMAH AREA WEBSTER FRIENDSWOOD MANVEL LEAGUE CITY MISSOURI CITY 59 NEEDVILLE BAYTOWN LA PORTE STAFFORD RICHMOND 146 MEDICAL CENTER 610 Westpark Tollway ORCHARD ROSENBERG MEMORIAL FORT BEND 45 6 DICKINSON ALVIN KENDLETON TEXAS 288 SOUTH CHOCOLATE BAYOU TEXAS CITY 288 ANGLETON GALVESTON BRAZOSPORT AREA Penny Lake Riverwood Forest At Weston Lakes Weston Lakes Weston Lakes Village $141,730 1,961 1985 $398,440 3,754 2005 $363,060 3,559 2001 $224,220 2,268 1990 Katy Avalon At Seven Meadows $564,900 4,233 2006 Avalon At Seven Meadows $595,060 4,233 2006 Cascade Creek $119,774 1,806 2004 Cinco Ranch Cinco Forest $380,950 3,913 2001 Cinco Ranch Greenway Village $256,590 2,996 1997 Cinco Ranch Meadow Place $181,000 2,456 1995 34 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Cinco Ranch Southwest $300,100 3,253 2009 Cinco Ranch Town Center $195,600 2,222 1997 Cinco Ranch West $254,270 2,760 2004 Cinco West Seven Meadows $206,950 2,402 2006 Country Lakes $326,060 3,520 2003 Country Lakes Grayson Lakes $275,090 3,392 2006 Falcon Landing $178,810 2,330 1999 Falcon Point $279,797 3,710 2000 Falcon Ranch $200,230 2,756 2005 Falcon Rock $141,299 2,048 2005 Firethorne $260,460 3,098 2008 Grand Lakes $242,250 2,852 2000 Grand Lakes Phase Four $472,010 4,331 2006 Heritage Square $161,362 2,528 1994 Hickory Creek Katy Creek Ranch Katy Townsite U/R King Lakes Lake Pointe Estates Lakes At Grand Harbor Mills Pointe Parkway Oaks Pin Oak Village Pine Mill Ranch Rose Dale Subd U/R Seven Meadows Silver Ranch Westheimer Lakes North $138,370 1,913 1987 $150,600 2,199 2008 $131,000 1,776 1950 $216,110 2,695 2010 $603,950 4,979 2003 $161,849 3,013 2006 $150,990 2,092 2005 $162,620 2,204 2006 $252,000 3,395 1991 $229,900 3,195 2009 $362,820 2,815 1996 $280,160 3,113 2006 $202,650 2,832 2009 $175,260 2,477 2008 Source: University of Houston’s Institute for Regional Forecasting in conjunction with Crawford Realty Advisors with permission of HAR. 290 SPRING llway oposed Grand Parkway Pr Hardy To NORTHWEST HOUSTON NORTHEAST HOUSTON passion New Homes from the mid $200s Passion is the source of our finest moments and greatest creations. At Westin Homes, we feel that a home is more than a place to live. A home means family and friends, and is the place where we provide the warmth of our heart and generosity of our spirit. Building elegant homes is certainly our expertise, but making people delighted is our true passion. Visit any one of our beautiful Houston area communities to find the Westin home of your dreams. MODELS OPEN DAILY IN: Cardiff Ranch · Lakemont · Riverstone · The Reserve at Brazos Town Center River Run/Rivers Mist · Willow Creek Farms · Grand Mission Estates Estates at Promenade · Woodcreek Reserve Westin-Homes.com Due to Builder’s continual efforts to improve its plans and design, we reserve the right to change features, specifications and prices without notice. Tax rate information is subject to change and should be independently verified. 4/14 Whispering Pines Woodcreek Reserve Woodlake Estates Missouri City $201,530 2,882 1974 $358,470 3,930 2006 $660,000 4,788 2004 Black Creek Village $399,680 3,694 1999 Bolton Estates $122,090 2,290 1992 Bradford Village $129,470 2,184 2005 Brightwater Estates $339,540 4,305 1995 Brightwater Point Estates $345,890 4,450 1996 Colony Crossing Village Of Talbots Mill $190,600 2,625 1994 Colony Lakes $215,450 2,852 2000 Craven Village $118,550 1,986 1969 Crescent Oak Village At Lake Olympia $168,560 3,031 2002 Estates Of Silver Ridge $422,060 5,307 2005 Fieldcrest $102,050 1,474 1971 Flamingo Estates At Lake Olympia $735,950 6,317 2000 Flamingo Island At Lake Olympia $311,920 2,794 2000 Fondren Grove $122,967 2,458 1991 Garden Park Village $139,940 2,129 2009 Glen Park $123,890 1,917 2003 Harbor View Village At Lake Olympia $231,860 3,302 1990 Heritage Colony $219,150 2,650 1999 Jade Island At Lake Olympia $282,490 3,351 2003 Knanaya Homes $163,780 2,081 2009 Lake Colony $185,360 2,482 1987 Lake Shore Harbour $233,210 3,521 2007 Lakeshore At Brightwater $235,150 3,292 1991 Lakeshore Forest At Lake Olympia $197,580 2,328 1994 Lakeshore Forest Estates At Lake Olympia $271,180 3,599 1999 Lakeshore Park At Brightwater $265,510 3,322 1997 Lakeshore Point Brightwater $263,540 3,258 1995 Lakeside Meadow $220,490 2,976 1996 Lakeside Village At Lake Olympia $279,110 3,488 1992 Lantern Lane Addition $119,490 1,422 2000 Lexington Colony $164,880 2,218 1990 Lexington Place $142,950 2,313 2004 Lexington Point $169,130 2,448 1989 Lexington Settlement $132,520 2,099 1991 Lexington Square $144,370 2,439 2003 Meadowcreek $119,520 2,212 1978 Missouri City $156,160 2,284 1945 Mustang Crossing At Lake Olympia $163,680 2,442 2000 Olympia Estates $136,940 2,174 2005 Olympia Estates Phase 1 $128,770 2,244 2007 Oyster Creek Place At Lake Olympia $162,150 2,464 1991 Oyster Creek Plantation $188,720 2,490 1997 Oyster Creek Village At Lake Olympia $190,560 2,844 1991 Palmer Plantation At Lake Olympia $144,840 2,420 1988 Parkside At Riverstone $333,950 3,982 2003 Parkview Village At Lake Olympia $191,400 2,803 1993 Parkway Trails $113,940 2,053 2008 Pearl Pointe At Lake Olympia $176,220 2,564 1998 Pebble Beach $135,130 1,810 1993 Peninsulas At Lake Olympia $276,720 3,709 1995 Plantation Creek $191,720 2,363 1993 Plantation Park $206,060 2,729 1994 Plantation Settlement At First Colony $215,230 3,068 2006 Plantation Trails At First Colony $191,770 2,872 2002 Quail Green South $115,450 2,546 2003 Quail Park Patio Homes $132,000 2,222 1992 Quail Valley Cottages $124,530 1,734 1972 Quail Valley Eldorado $179,740 2,700 1972 Quail Valley Glenn Lakes $156,750 2,616 1977 Quail Valley La Quinta $161,200 2,708 1973 Quail Valley North $127,120 2,122 1973 Quail Valley Patio Homes $124,190 2,234 1974 Quail Valley Thunderbird $177,890 2,787 1978 Rustlers Crossing $418,800 4,324 2000 Sedona Creek $137,440 2,849 2003 Sienna - Steep Bank Village $198,410 2,684 2002 Sienna Acreage Estates $634,250 4,986 2004 Sienna Point $488,670 4,496 2004 Sienna Village Of Anderson Springs $199,260 2,586 2007 Sienna Village Of Bees Creek $675,250 5,229 2007 Sienna Village Of Shipman’s Landing $233,060 2,854 2003 Sienna Village Of Waters Lake $350,620 3,971 2006 Silver Ridge $385,640 3,781 1998 Southshore At Brightwater $303,720 4,040 1990 Southwest Crossing $129,460 2,101 1987 Stonebrook At Riverstone $245,010 2,868 2010 Sunrise Bay At Lake Olympia $177,260 2,417 1996 Swan Isle At Lake Olympia $386,940 4,394 2000 The Crossing At Riverstone $433,570 4,303 2005 The Enclave $170,040 2,414 2000 The Point At Riverstone $439,320 4,150 2002 The Reserve At Riverstone $632,960 5,174 2002 The Terrace At Riverstone $318,410 3,903 2003 Vicksburg Village Of Cumberland $129,410 2,565 1990 Vicksburg Village Of Shiloh $161,840 2,920 1990 Villa Del Lago At Lake Olympia $209,800 3,424 2001 Village Of Sawyers Crossing Colony Crossing $130,905 2,660 1995 Water’s Edge At Colony Lakes $212,040 2,920 1998 Waterbrook $425,470 4,455 2001 Waterbrook West $237,820 3,139 1996 Waters Cove At Riverstone $843,710 5,481 2005 Westpoint Estates $567,100 5,108 1995 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 35 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Housing Options F ort Bend neighborhoods can accommodate most every housing budget, and with so much to choose from, it is worthwhile to consider both home ownership and leasing. Prospective buyers of single-family homes have countless choices: historic wood frame bungalows, eco-friendly contemporary designs, new homes in master-planned communities, luxury residences in gated enclaves or resale homes in traditional neighborhoods. Condominiums, town houses, and lofts in mixed-use developments are other popular housing options and are usually offered for lease. Most residential property on the market and some rental apartments in Fort Bend County can be viewed by linking to the Real Estate section at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com. Temporary Lodging Many types of interim housing with differing rental terms are available. Hotels, motels, and basic efficiencies at moderate costs to fully appointed, luxury suites are concentrated close to business districts in Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg and Katy. Exercise Rooms, DSL or Wi-Fi, Jacuzzis, and mini-kitchens are typical amenities offered by most of the national lodging chains. Short-term rentals are cost-effective and the conveniences are a big plus, especially during a move. Texas hotel guests are considered permanent residents if they occupy a room for 30 consecutive days. Such a classification will qualify for an exemption from the state’s six percent hotel tax. Be sure to inform the hotel of your intentions to stay for 30 days or more upon your arrival to qualify for the exemption. The exemption certificate is available at www.cpa. state.tx.us/taxinfo/taxforms/12-302.pdf. Renting / Leasing “Houston home prices have risen steadily over the past several years, but without the extreme peaks and valleys that other cities around the country have experienced. Interest rates are still extremely low and continue to create an excellent opportunity for homebuyers to enter the market. We expect to see further price appreciation going forward, and with lots of new home construction underway, 2014 is an ideal time to purchase a home.” Houston Association of REALTORS® Chair Chaille Ralph 36 | WWW.HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM A convenient location, freedom from home maintenance, and affordability are the main reasons one in four American households live in multifamily housing. People who move frequently are especially attracted to leasing while others chose to rent because the complex is zoned to preferred schools or located close to their workplace. Former homeowners can lease for an interim period while they shop for a new home. Renting is also a good option for those who want to explore the different communities in Fort Bend County before purchasing a home. Expect to find rental rates starting at $850.00 per month. Renters can select from one-room efficiencies to spacious three-bedroom luxury apartments at most complexes. Pools, fitness centers, private balconies and / or patios, fireplaces, oversized closets, updated or new kitchen appliances, washer and dryer connections, cable TV and DSL or Wi-Fi are standard. Some apartments come with outside storage, a garage, and door-to-door trash pick-up. Attractive landscaping and common green areas create an inviting, outdoor environment. Virtual tours and the ability to check apartment homes and their floor plans 24 / 7 are published online by select properties. Apartment locators or leasing agents at the complexes are ready to answer questions, assist with move-in details and help new residents become familiar with the neighborhood. Prospective residents must submit an application for Over 250 Homes Available in the Houston Area! Building Quality Homes from the $190s up to the $890s Over 20 Communities in the Houston Area! TOP REASONS TO CHOOSE PERRY HOMES: BETTER VALUE Homes starting at $87 per sq. ft.* SPACIOUS DESIGNS Get a larger home for your money DESIGN CHOICES Over 100 designs to choose from SUPERIOR QUALITY Numerous 3rd Party and internal inspections ensure high quality standards GREAT LOCATIONS Over 20 Hand Crafted Communities strategically located for your convenience 1.800.247.3779 UNSURPASSED WARRANTY 2-year workmanship warranty and 10-year structural warranty ENERGY EFFICIENCY Perry Homes continuously looks for ways to maximize energy savings and improve the indoor air quality of every home for the comfort of your family DESIGN CENTER Professional Designers will help you personalize your home Visit any of our Perry Homes communities to compare the quality and value for yourself. PERRYHOMES.com *Offers, plans, prices and availability are subject to change without notice. (01/14) expect more.... expect more. Its time to expect more... w w w.room122.com •Professional •Professional Service Service •Market •Market Knowledge Knowledge •Integrity •Integrity •Results •Results KRISTI KRISTI BAJJALI BAJJALI 281.433.4462 www.kristibajjali.com Email:[email protected] 4500 Highway Sugar Land, TX, 77478 Custom Decor6,Solutions Provide very Season. 45% FIT ades can ough windows f Hunter Douglas. 7746 Highway 6 Missouri City TX 8-5 CDuette® U S T Architella® O M D ETrielle C Ó™RHoneycomb ... SShades I M PProvide LIFIED Energy Efficiency in Every Climate, Every Season. 281-778-4680 45% SUMMER BENEFIT WINTER BENEFIT Duette® Architella® shades can reduce unwanted solar heat through windows by up to 80%. Duette Architella shades can Active Adult ChooseChooseChooseChoose reduce heat loss through windows by up to 45%. Seals Seals Seals Seals 2 3 4 1 FollowSocial Us At Media Facebook or Twitter Name RETIREMENT COMMUNITY © 2014 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas. 43186 Gated Patio Homes From the $240s Exclusively Marketed KRISTI BAJJALI 281.433.4462 Conveniently located in Missouri City, near the corner of FM 1092 and Hampton Road. w wOFF w.Tali 40% ALLaHomes.com products when you mention this ad. 7746 HWY. 6 SUITE H Missouri City, TX 77459 www.customdecorsolutions.com Office: 281.778.4680 Cell: 281.787.6598 SHUTTERS • BLINDS • SHADES • DRAPERY • UV FILM • FLOORING • UPHOLSTERY • CREATIVE CROWN MOLDING 38 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE TIPS FOR RENTERS Newcomers should expect to sign a lease on any rental property and should carefully read their lease for: • How much advance notice must you give before moving. • Refunds of security deposit restrictions. • Maintenance and repairs policy. • Move out cleaning requirements. • Subletting policy. • Pet policy After you sign the lease: • Any oral agreements or changes must be written into the lease and signed. Custom Solutions • KeepDecor a signed copy. The lease is the most im7746 Highway 6 portant set of Missouri City TXrules if you have a disagreement. • Make 8-5 a checklist of the property condition 281-778-4680 upon move-in. Sign it, have the manager sign it and keep a dated copy. This will be your best defense in any dispute over deductions for repairs when you move out. • Keep your rent payment current as required by the lease. You should not withhold rent, since that could make you subject to eviction and liability for payment of the remaining rent.Texas Apartment Association offers sample lease forms www.taa.org / 512-479- 6252 Houston Apartment Association www.haaonline.org / 713-595-0300 approval. While you cannot be denied on the basis of race, religion or sex, you can be denied for other ChooseChooseChooseChoose reasons. Typically, involve a credit check and references. You will need to provide names and Seals applications Seals Seals Seals 2 3 4 1 addresses of previous landlords, your employer and other credit information. FollowSocial Us At Media Facebook or Twitter Name Complexes have different plans for utilities, cable and Internet service, and additional deposits and activation fees may be required. Discuss any special housing needs you may have with the leasing agent and be sure that the terms are written into the lease. Rental houses and townhouses are listed on HAR.com and Realtors are the best source for leasing a single-family home. Deposits are usually equal to one month’s rent and additional fees for pets, utility installations and service charges may be incurred when renting a house. 43186 Home Ownership Home ownership has a number of advantages. Fort Bend County home prices afford buyers the opportunity to own a quality home and take advantage of the historically low mortgage rates. Tax laws are favorable to property owners, too and should be taken into consideration when evaluating leasing versus owning. When considering buying or building a house, there are several questions to ask prior to purchasing. Do you prefer a new housing development or an established neighborhood? If you have children, you will want to thoroughly investigate area schools to decide which ones best suits your child’s educational needs. Homebuyers should also become familiar with deed restrictions and homeowners association regulations that might be in effect in prospective neighborhoods. Property taxes are another consideration, and will vary by the county, school district and MUD where the property is located. Mortgage interest and property taxes can be deducted from your federal income tax. Realtors are trained to take prospective homebuyers through the process of purchasing the property that is right for them. From researching housing prices to successfully closing on a home, rely on a real estate professional when purchasing a home. Buy or Build? The value pricing of a home in Fort Bend County combined with the low interest rates available is an unbeatable combination. New custom homes, production-builder homes and resale homes each have distinct advantages and are found throughout the different communities. It’s not moving away when you find yourself home. FULSHEAR Cross Creek Ranch from the $330s Richmond Aliana from the $410s Long Meadow Farms from the $340s The Trace at Meadow Farms from the $240s Sugar Land Imperial from the $520s Riverstone from the $340s When it comes to finding a home that reflects your style, in an area of town that fits your life, Darling Homes delivers. Our award-winning designs offer unprecedented quality and luxury. Plus, they reside in some of Fort Bend County’s most desirable neighborhoods. What you want, where you want it. Definitely Darling. darlinghomes.com 713-401-2008 Offer void where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. All pricing, availability, home features and plans subject to change or delay without notice. Please see a Darling Homes Sales Manager for details and visit www.darlinghomes.com for additional disclaimers. © April 2014. Darling Homes of Texas, LLC. All rights reserved. DARHO-052 FB NewcomerGuide Ad 7.5x4.875 MECH.indd 1 4/1/14 2:47 PM FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 39 Specialists in Highway 6 communities, Texas Medical Center and Eastern Fort Bend “There are wonderful and diverse housing options available through out Fort Bend county. Homes, rental homes and apartment complexes are emerging all across this area. Fort Bend is the place to be. Here, you’ll find just what you’ve been looking for.” Shelley J. Naiser Michael P. Blalock, publisher of the Houston Newcomer Guides Managing Broker & Owner Pre-owned Homes [email protected] Pre-owned homes may have many of the desired features already in place or give the buyer the chance to remodel, update, and redecorate. These homes may also have unique features like a premium home site on a golf course, a lake or wooded setting in a desirable neighborhood. Some locations are zoned to a preferable school or close to an employer. Residents are usually involved in community activities, local schools, churches and civic organizations. Most re-sale houses on the market are structurally sound with a good foundation and roof. It is important to know if a property is located in a floodplain. Deed restrictions, homeowners associations and zoning ordinances are also important considerations when purchasing a home. Some older houses may require renovation or remodeling. The changes can be simple, or they can be complex and the services of a remodeling company should be considered for a complete home makeover. When dealing with contractors, three estimates for the cost of the project are ShelleyNaiserProperties.com O: 281-809-3719 • M: 832-654-1262 Mary Jennings - 281-608-1303 [email protected] Beautiful new-home neighborhood in a rural setting Near recreation and entertainment for the whole family Build a world around you with the things you love. And create a uniquely you home that’s Built to Order ™. recommended. The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce is an excellent resource for a list of reputable home improvement companies. Other good sources for referrals is the Fort Bend Better Business Bureau, www.bbbhou.org/fortbend and the Greater Houston Builders Association, www.ghba.org. New Homes Visiting model homes in new communities is an excellent first step to become familiar with the many fine features that builders offer. The architectural styles, floor plans, interior finishes, appliances and other options vary, and visiting the different model homes is time well spent when purchasing a new house. Designers can help select packages and upgrades to complete a home quickly and on budget. Some builders work with the homebuyers to customize rooms, adjust the square footage of the house, add detail to interiors, and offer energy saving features. Production and “spec” houses in most price ranges from fine builders give buyers move-in ready housing or the ability to choose colors, styles and amenities that specifically suit the family’s needs and taste. Production homes can typically be completed in 90 to 120 days, and most builders have homes in various stages of construction for newcomers needing to move quickly. Custom homes from original architectural plans and built from the ground up afford homeowners the freedom to tailor every detail of their residence to their individual tastes. Custom homes require planning, and top-notch builders are ready to work closely with clients to build the new home of their dreams. The outstanding, one of a kind home built to order is well worth the wait so it is never too early to talk with builders. Look at the portfolio of houses the builder has previously built. Master-planned Communities Briscoe Falls in Richmond From the $200s 25115 Easton Ramsey Way, Richmond, TX 77406 (832) 969-5915 Surround yourself with the things that matter most. Broker Cooperation Welcome. ©2014 KB Home (KBH). See Built to Order™ options and upgrades offered at KB Home Studio. All options/upgrades require additional charges and ordering at predetermined stages of construction, and are subject to change/discontinuation anytime by KB Home. KB Home is not a custom homebuilder. Plans, pricing, financing, terms, availability and specifications subject to change/prior sale without notice and may vary by neighborhood, lot location and home series. Buyer responsible for all taxes, insurance and other fees. Photo may depict upgraded landscaping/options and may not represent lowest-priced homes. Photo does not depict racial preference. See sales representative for details. HOU-118282 40 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Fort Bend County’s master-planned communities are among the best in the U.S. when it comes to planning, consideration of the environment, quality construction, and the attraction of businesses for the continued success of the area’s economic development Designed for convenience, master-planned communities offer homes built by several different builders in a variety of price ranges. Apartment homes are usually a housing option, too. Large parcels of land for several hundred home sites and tracts for commercial development are carefully laid out to create schools, parks, shopping, health care, and other services close to Contracting with Your Builder Before signing a contract, ask questions such as: • How long has the builder been in business? • How many homes has the builder completed? • Will the builder provide references? • Is financing available through the builder? • What type of insurance does the builder carry? Find Your New Home in Fort Bend Visit our model homes at: home. Consideration for the environment, quality construction and homeowners associations keep the property values from declining. Golf courses with well-appointed clubhouses and recreation centers, community centers, sponsored special events and a variety of entertainment in and around the communities add to their draw. The easy accessibility to major roadways and public transportation is another advantage that most master-planned communities offer. Choosing a Realtor The housing market is booming, and using the services of a real estate professional for buying, selling or leasing a home should be strongly considered. Choosing the right Realtor is very important, too. Real estate law, title policies, home warranties, mortgages, appraisals, homeowner’s insurance, surveys, and many other factors that affect property sales are complex issues and require the expertise of a professional. Realtors also understand the local market and know the community, schools, zoning, deed restrictions, homeowners associations and other important details associated with home ownership. A Realtor can quickly identify houses on the market that meet a buyer’s WoodCreek Reserve In Richmond from $210s In Richmond from $300s Riverstone In Katy from $360s Lakes of Bella Terra In Sugar Land from $440s Fieldstone In Richmond from $250s Sienna Plantation - close out In Richmond from $260s Summer Lakes In Missouri City from $280s Firethorne In Katy from $230s After choosing a builder, review the contract carefully before signing it. • What is included in the contract? • Is the final price guaranteed? • Does the contract guarantee a move-in date? • Will the builder give you timely progress reports? • How are change orders or upgrades handled after ground-breaking? RiverPark West - close out Aliana In Rosenberg from $200s Willow Creek Farms In Katy/Brookshire from $190s ashtonwoods.com/houston © 2014 Ashton Woods Homes. Plans, specifications, prices, and available items are subject to change without prior notice or obligation, and may vary by elevation. Square footage is approximate, and subject to change without prior notice or obligation. Images are an artist’s conception, and not a guarantee of final specifications. Please contact an Ashton Woods Homes Sales Agent for details and additional information. HOU14_007_FortBend_Relo_Guide.indd 1 2/18/14 9:20 AM For hassle free information on any home listed in Fort Bend County 1800 899 9134 x 100 Katy • Sugar Land • Richmond-Rosenberg • Missouri City • Experience • Commitment • Local Expert 832-878-4833 www.KimbraV.com Each office is independently owned and operated. FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 41 put, deed restrictions specify what can or cannot be done with a property. Newcomers need to understand deed restrictions and how they are enforced. Restrictions are often set up by a subdivision developer and are recorded in county records. Prospective homeowners need to inquire about the deed restrictions governing homes they might purchase. Most restrictions are incorporated into a deed and are binding on all property owners. Homeowners will also need to check deeds before making improvements or additions to their property. Some master-planned communities have stricter deed restrictions to ensure the continued success of the development. 1-866-237-5658 8787 Sienna Springs Boulevard Missouri City, TX 77459 www.centurysiennaplantation.com Call Us Today! www.century-apartments.com Community/Homeowner Associations needs, saving time and money, especially for people who are relocating from another city. Choosing the right Realtor is also very important. There is a difference between a REALTOR® and a real estate agent. Only professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTOR®s (and other local associations of REALTOR®s) can use the term “REALTOR®.” Members must agree to abide by a strict code of ethics based on values of competency, fairness, and high integrity, and they cannot discriminate against a person or persons based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. Some real estate agents represent buyers exclusively. The designation CBR® (Certified Buyer Representative) readily identifies a buyer’s agent whose services include ethical representation in a non-adversarial fashion. Agents who have acquired this designation are exclusively committed to providing excellent buyer representation, and are very knowledgeable of current forms, checklists, disclosure documents and mortgage options. Some real estate agents may attempt to practice buyer agency without acquiring the skills necessary to thoroughly perform professional representation, so when selecting an agent, ask about their certifications and training. When selecting a Realtor, always ask about their credentials, training and experience. More information is available online at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com in the Real Estate section and at www.HAR.com. 42 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Deed Restrictions Deed Restrictions protect the homeowner’s property value and are written land-use and building-type agreements that prevent homes and lots from being converted to commercial establishments, apartments and the like. Simply In many neighborhoods, community and homeowners associations establish and enforce deed restrictions, and all property owners are required to be members. Most community associations organize as non-profit corporations and are comprised of property owners within the development (including single-family home subdivisions, condominium projects and townhouse communities). Purchasers become automatic members of the association when they acquire title to property in the neighborhood. They are bound by the rules and enforcement power of that association. Most homeowner associations require residents to pay annual maintenance fees so be sure to ask your Realtor about the cost. Some questions to ask WHEN CHOOSING A REALTOR: • Do you work with newcomers? • Do you have any designations, certifications or special training? • Do you prefer to work with buyers or sellers? • How long have you worked in real estate? • Is real estate your full-time job? • Do you specialize in a particular area or neighborhood? • What is the average price of properties you close? • How many closings do you have each year? • Do you work on a team? Move? Making a Choose the Preferred Real Estate Broker . . . Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene! Contact us when you are ready to take the next step and begin working with friendly, knowledgeable, award winning Hometown Realtors ... focused on your success. Call or click today! 2 8 1 . 9 8 0 . 5 0 5 0 | w w w. G a r y G r e e n e . c o m ©2012 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. A Realogy Company. All Rights Reserved. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Better Homes and Gardens, the Better Homes and Garden Real Estate logo are registered service marks owned by Meredith Corporation and licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. NURSERIES • GIFT SHOPS • LANDSCAPES Landscaping & Gardening Gardening is much more than a hobby because it adds value to property and enhances homes and neighborhoods. A beautiful yard in Houston requires an understanding of the area’s plants and climate. Summers are typically hot and dry while winters tend to be cool and damp. Spring and fall bring the most pleasant weather of the year, and these are ideal seasons for planting a small garden or an entire new landscape. Good gardening starts with consulting area professionals for the right combination of soil, sun and plants. An investment in a landscaping company’s planning expertise from an experienced staff can guide newcomers through the process. Local nurseries are particularly helpful in selecting plants and products and are a reliable source for healthy stock. May you be inspired to bring the peace and beauty of nature to your home and garden. w w w. m y e n c h a n t e d . c o m Enchanted Forest Enchanted Gardens Enchanted Landscapes 10611 FM 2759 6420 FM 359 10611 FM 2759 Richmond, TX 77469 Richmond, TX 77406 Richmond, TX 77469 281-937-9449 281-341-1206 281-937-0646 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 43 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Moving Company versus “Do-It-Yourself” Relocation Information Relocation Specialists and moving-related services are available on-line at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com. Will your moving company put moves on you? Confirm your moving company’s license at www.protectyourmove.gov or www.dmv.state.tx.us/apps/cms_dmv/. The Better Business Bureau tallies complaints. www.houston.bbb.org or call 713-868-9500. The Southwest Movers Association is another resource for information at www.southwestmovers.org or call 512- 476-0107. 44 | WWW.HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM If you are moving from out of state, it may be necessary to hire a moving company; however, if the move to Fort Bend County is less than 250 miles away, consider making the move yourself. The best time to move is the middle of the month and avoid the busiest months of June, July and August. Most companies give free estimates based on distance and the weight of household contents. Some moving companies include the costs of supplies in their bid while others break out materials separately. Packing services, fuel charges, wait time and temporary storage costs may vary considerably so be sure to ask questions about all charges. Moving companies offer three different types of estimates: the binding estimate, the nonbinding estimate and the not-to-exceed binding estimate. The binding estimate lists all items to be shipped and all required services on the estimate form, and the price quoted is the binding price. Every charge is itemized, so that if an item is added or deleted, it is easy to re-calculate the cost. The moving company must also specify the length of time the price quote is in effect, which is usually 60 days. This type of estimate does not require additional payment over the amount of the estimate. The non-binding estimate, which is the only type of estimate offered in some intrastate situations, is not guaranteed. The real cost of services is determined after the truck is loaded and weighed, and charges above the estimate can run more than 20 percent. Be sure to attend the truck weigh-ins both before and after furniture and household items are loaded to accurately calculate the total weight. The estimated amount of your move should be entered on each form that is prepared by the mover, including orders for special services and bills of lading. If the amounts are not included, do not sign or accept the document. The third type of estimate, called the not-toexceed estimate, is usually the best of all worlds. The mover gives a binding estimate, then weighs the vehicle, and reduces the price if the weight is less than anticipated. Ask all movers if they offer this type of service. Be aware that many moving companies fall behind schedule. It is in your best interest to hire a moving company that will guarantee a pickup and delivery date. Make sure those dates are in the contract. Pick-up and delivery dates should not be open ended. Additional insurance is another important consideration. Although moving companies provide liability insurance on household belongings by the pound, it is wise to purchase extra insurance that provides additional coverage, especially for those items that are more valuable. The loss of a flat screen television is much more costly than Give your new home the best in TV, Internet, Voice and Home Security, only with XFINITY® Making your new house feel like home takes time. But with XFINITY, you can have advanced entertainment and home security at your convenience — all you have to do is call us. When you do, be sure to ask how to get a Visa® Prepaid Card worth up to $200! Get connected in no time and rest easy with XFINITY, featuring: • The all-new X1 PlatformTM, an entertainment experience like no other • The fastest Internet and in-home WiFi • Readable Voicemail and Text Messaging from your home phone • Home security with 24/7 professional monitoring You’ll get the best home entertainment, security and control available, all from the same great company. Call 1-877-500-6828 today! BEST EQUIPMENT75X4875.indd 1 damage to a used vacuum cleaner even though their weight may be about the same. Before the moving company arrives, begin making preparations. Take an inventory of your belongings and note their condition. If the moving company performs their own inventory, check it carefully against your own before signing anything. Should any of your belongings arrive with scratches, dents or other damages, photographs will help verify a claim so consider taking pictures of valuable items or making a video inventory before the movers arrive. It is important to be sure you will be at your new home on the date the moving company is scheduled to deliver. If no one is home to receive the delivery, your belongings will go into storage, and the moving company may require payment in cash before unloading. Select a moving company carefully by getting recommendations from former customers, and checking prices. SERVICES, AGENCIES AND OTHER IMPORTANT CONTACTS Electricity Houstonians have the “power to choose” an electric provider. Retail Electric Providers (REPs) compete to sell electricity to homes and businesses, and competing REPs may offer lower prices, options for renewable energy, added customer services, and incentives or promotions. Visit www.powertochoose. org to compare pricing. The Public Utility Commission recommends the three “C’s” before selecting a provider: contact, compare and choose. The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) certifies all REPs. To learn more, visit www.puc.state. tx.us. Be sure to allow several days for the order processing so electricity can be turned on 1/15/14 4:32 for PM before the move-in date. If establishing service a new home or building, a permit or inspection may be required. TXU Energy Choose TXU Energy as you make your next move. They offer straightforward plans with low fixed rates, plus be sure to ask about the special movers sign-up bonus. Just mention the promo code “Movers” when you call. Don’t forget to take advantage of average monthly billing where you’ll pay about the same every month even during those hot Texas summer months. For more information call 1-877-TXU-MOVE or visit txu.com/movers. Water and Sewer Water is typically provided by the public works department in each city or a municipal utility district (MUD). Please see the listings in this chapter for telephone information. Gas CenterPoint Energy is the primary provider for natural gas in the Fort Bend County. For information visit www.CenterPointEnergy.com. Telephone Service The Fort Bend County and Southwest Houston area has four area codes—713, 281, 832, and 979. When placing calls, 10-digit dialing is required. FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 45 Stafford........................ www.cityofstafford.com City Hall.............................................. 281-261-3900 2610 South Main Stafford, TX 77477 Fire Department................................ 281-261-3977 Police Department............................ 281-261-3950 Public Works Department................ 281-261-3921 Stafford Centre................................... 281-208-6900 Stafford Municipal School District.......................................... 281-261-9200 1625 Staffordshire Road Stafford, TX 77477 www.stafford.mds.esc4.net Connect FOR EMERGENCIES DIAL 911 Kendleton..................................... 979-532-8240 Fort Bend County..........www.co.fort-bend.tx.us County Courthouse.......................... 281-342-3411 301 Jackson Street Richmond, TX 77469 Animal Control.................................. 281-342-1512 Central Appraisal District................ 281-344-8623 Child Support..................................... 281-342-6222 County Attorney................................ 281-341-4555 County Clerk...................................... 281-341-8685 County Judge..................................... 281-341-8608 District Attorney................................ 281-341-4460 District Clerk..................................... 281-341-4515 Drainage District............................... 281-342-2863 Engineering........................................ 281-633-7500 Extension Service.............................. 281-342-3034 Fairgrounds........................................ 281-762-8818 Health Department........................... 281-238-3233 Human Resources............................. 281-341-8615 Medical Non-Emergency................. 281-342-7233 Parks Department............................. 281-835-9419 Post Office........................................... 800-275-8777 Public Transportation....................... 281-633-7433 Sheriff ’s Department......................... 281-342-6116 Social Services.................................... 281-342-7300 Tax Assessor....................................... 281-238-1490 Vehicle Registration.......................... 281-341-3710 Veterans Services............................... 281-341-4550 Voter Registration............................. 281-341-8670 Lamar Consolidated ISD.............. 281-341-3229 3911 Avenue I Rosenberg, TX 77471 www.lcisd.org Fort Bend ISD............................... 281-634-1000 16431 Lexington Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.fortbendk12.tx.us Pleak............................................. 281-239-8504 Arcola............................................ 281-431-0606 Beasley.......................................... 979-387-2775 Fairchilds...................................... 979-793-6610 Fulshear........................................ 979-346-1796 City of Meadows Place.................... www.cityofmeadowsplace.org City Hall ............................................. 281-983-2950 One Troyan Drive Meadows Place, TX 77477 Fire Department................................ 281-261-3995 Police Department............................. 281-983-2900 Public Works Department................ 281-983-2961 Missouri City.................... www.missouri.tx.gov City Hall.............................................. 281-403-8500 1522 Texas Parkway Missouri City, TX 77489 Fire Department................................ 281-403-4300 Police Department ............................ 281-403-8700 Public Works...................................... 281-403-8570 Needville....................................... 979-793-4253 Needville ISD................................ 979-793-4158 100 Fritzella Street Needville, TX 77461 www.needvilleisd.com Orchard......................................... 979-478-6893 Richmond......................www.ci.richmond.tx.us City Hall.............................................. 281-342-5456 402 Morton Street Richmond, TX 77469 Fire Department................................ 281-232-6871 Police Department............................. 281-342-2849 Public Works Department................ 281-342-0559 Katy..........................................www.ci.katy.tx.us City Hall ............................................. 281-391-4800 910 Ave C Katy, TX 774943 Fire Department................................ 281-391-3500 Police Department............................. 281-391-4848 Public Works Department................ 281-391-4820 Rosenberg......................www.ci.rosenberg.tx.us City Hall.............................................. 832-595-3300 2110 Fourth Street Rosenberg, TX 77471 Civic Center....................................... 832-595-3520 Fire Department................................ 832-595-3600 Police Department............................. 832-595-3700 Public Works Department................ 832-595-3960 Katy ISD........................................ 281-396-6000 6301 South Stadium Lane Katy, TX 77494 www.katyisd.org Simonton..................... www.simontontexas.org City Hall.............................................. 281-533-9809 35011 FM 1093 Simonton, TX 77476 46 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Sugar Land........................www.sugarlandtx.gov City Hall.............................................. 281-275-2700 2700 Town Center Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479 Fire Department................................ 281-275-2873 Police Department............................. 281-275-2500 Public Works Department................ 281-275-2450 Thompsons ................................... 281-343-9929 Harris County......................www.co.harris.tx.us County Courthouse.......................... 713-755-5000 1201 Franklin St. Houston, TX 77002 County Clerk...................................... 713-755-6411 District Attorney................................ 713-755-5800 Fire Marshal....................................... 281-436-8000 Health Department........................... 713-439-6016 Sheriff ’s Department......................... 713-755-6044 Vehicle Registration.......................... 713-368-2000 Voter Registration............................. 713-368-2000 Houston...............................www.houstontx.gov City Hall.............................................. 832-393-1100 900 Bagby Houston, TX 77002 Fire Department................................ 832-394-6700 General Information........................................... 311 Police Department............................. 713-884-3131 Public Works Department................ 832-395-2511 BUSINESS RESOURCES Better Business Bureau..................... 713-868-9500 Fort Bend Chamber.......................... 281-491-0800 Internal Revenue Service.................. 800-829-1040 Small Business Administration....... 713-773-6500 State Comptroller of Public Accounts................................. 281-371-5500 Texas Dept. of Economics................ 512-936-0101 Texas Railroad Commission ........... 877-228-5740 Social Security Administration........ 800-772-1213 U.S. Customs ..................................... 713-387-7200 U.S. Dept. of Commerce................... 202-482-2000 CONSUMER RESOURCES Texas Taxpayers and Research Association........................ 512-472-8838 U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission............................ 800-638-2772 U.S. Consumer Information............. 800-688-9889 DO NOT CALL REGISTRY To end robo-calls to your home or cell phone go to www.donotcall.gov or call 1-888-3821222. It make take up to a month for the block to go into effect but your phone numbers will remain on the list for five years. Unifying Your Home Technology from Floor to Ceiling. 713.977.5887 ConnectOneSecurity.com TSL B13660 Since 1989, Connect One has provided entertainment and safety to over 200,000 Texas Families. Whatever your home technology needs, Connect One is the name you can trust. There are several telephone service providers to choose from in Fort Bend. Comcast & AT&T offer local and long distance service packages along with high-speed Internet connection. Visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuide.com for other service providers. Cable Television and Internet Several providers in Fort Bend County offer satellite and cable television services. Satellite companies include DirecTV and Dish Network. Comcast is the primary cable television company in the area. Comcast / XFINITY IT’S EASY TO GET XFINITY IN YOUR NEW HOME. CALL 1-877-500-6828 TODAY! Get connected to XFINITY – TV, Internet, and Voice service made possible by Comcast’s network upgrade to an all-digital platform. They will set up your new home in no time. You can even choose your own convenient two-hour appointment window. Also ask about Xfinity Home – Security – Control –Energy – Peace of Mind At Your Fingertips. For more information visit www.comcast. com/moversedge. Trash Pickup The cities and municipalities in Fort Bend County provide trash pick-up. Call the Solid Waste Management Department to find out when garbage and light trash are collected in your area. Security & Monitoring Solutions Interactive Home Control Home Audio & Theater packages Energy Management Some subdivisions opt to contract with local garbage collection companies, and fees for these services are typically included in the homeowner’s association dues. Contact the homeowner’s association for more information. Curbside recycling is offered in most areas, and drop-off recycling centers are located throughout Southwest Houston and Fort Bend County. Commuter Services Fort Bend Express offers service runs Mon. – Fri. from three locations in Fort Bend County to the Texas Medical Center main campus, Greenway Plaza and the Galleria/Uptown area. A Guaranteed Ride Home service is available for registered passengers so in the event of a midday emergency, passengers can return to home. Route and schedules call 1-866-751-TRIP (8747) or visit www.FBCTransit.org. PUBLIC AND PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION Fort Bend Transit Fort Bend County currently offers shared ride bus services. The scheduled ride service provides trips within Fort Bend County. In order to schedule or cancel a ride, you may call 866-751TRIP between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm M - F to make reservations. For additional information call 1-866-751-TRIP (8747) or visit www.FBCTransit.org. METRO Houston’s Metropolitan Transit Authority, also known as METRO, is recognized as one of the best and safest bus systems in the nation offering an extensive system of bus routes with over 1,200 buses and 18 light-rail cars. Express service is available to the central business district in downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, and to select shopping centers and business districts. For commuting alternatives, METRO provides Park and Ride services from the Kingsland facility in Katy, the Mission Bend facility in the Alief area, and the West Bellfort facility on U. S. Highway 59, also referred to as the Southwest Freeway. Visit www.ridemetro.org or call 713-6354000. Harris County Toll Road Authority The system consists of approximately 120 miles of roadway in the Houston / Harris County area and Ft. Bend County. The Westpark Tollway, Katy Managed Lanes and the Northeast section of the Sam Houston Tollway are all-electronic tolling - no toll booths, and no cash payment is accepted. An EZ TAG or other interoperable Texas toll payment tag is required. Sam Houston Tollway is the outer-most loop encompassing the City of Houston and surrounding areas within Harris County. Non-tolled Beltway 8 is between IH 45 North and just east of US 59 North. FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 47 The Westpark Tollway spans approximately 19 miles through Harris and Fort Bend Counties, an all-electronic roadway providing a barrier-free drive between Houston’s Galleria and Katy, TX. Harris County’s segment of the Westpark Tollway (13 miles) begins at I-610 on the east and extends to the Fort Bend County line near FM 1464. The Fort Bend County Parkway is a six-mile stretch that parallels FM 1093 from FM 1464 to west of SH 99 (the Grand Parkway). Owning a Vehicle Driver License MOVING LIST Four to six weeks prior to moving: • Consider having a garage sale or donating unwanted items to charity. • Begin to use up all frozen and canned food. • Make a list of friends, relatives and businesses that need to be notified of your move. • Fill out change of address cards. If you don’t know your permanent address the post office will hold your mail for you. • Contact moving companies for estimates. Two to three weeks prior to moving: • Begin to pre-register your children in their new school. • Collect all medical, dental and veterinary records. • Determine what moving expenses are tax deductible. • Contact an insurance agent in the area so your new home, automobiles and personal possessions will be covered when you move. • Have automobiles serviced before the move. • Take pets to the veterinarian and obtain health and rabies certificates. Make arrangements to transport family pets. • Log on to HoustonNewcomerGuides.com for telephone, internet and utility services. • Transfer bills, bank statements, financial documents, etc. to your new address. • Donate any food items that you do not want to move to a local foodbank. • Schedule the moving company. One week prior to moving: • Pack everything that will not be packed by the mover. • Discontinue newspaper service. • Collect all valuables and personal documents from safe deposit box. • Reconcile and then close checking accounts. Get cash or traveler’s checks for the move. • Withdraw and/or transfer savings accounts. Three days prior to moving: • Confirm moving company on date to arrive. • Pack for the move. • Make sure you double-check your inventory and check all paperwork before signing. 48 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE New residents must obtain a Texas driver’s license within 90 days of establishing residency. Texas residents moving to a new address within the state must update their license, too. To obtain a Texas drivers license, take proof of registration, proof of insurance, a Social Security card or a current W-2 form, and a valid out-of-state license to the nearest Department of Public Safety office. For license requirements including fees and additional information, visit www.txdps.state.tx.us. Vehicle Registration Vehicles may be registered for license plates at district field offices in the county of residence. The cost is based on the model and year for cars and gross weight for trucks. Subsequent registration may be handled by mail or in person. To register a vehicle, present the automobile title and pay a new resident fee, a title fee, and the cost of new license plates. All out-of-state vehicles are required to have the following for registry in the state of Texas: (1) proof of safety inspection, (2) your out-of-state title, (3) payment of a new resident fee, a title fee, the license plates cost, and (4) proof of liability insurance. Harris County Tax Office 1001 Preston, Houston 77002 713-224-1919 / www.tax.co.harris.tx.us. Fort Bend County Tax Office 1317 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond 77469 281-341-3710 / www.co.fort-bend.tx.us. Texas Motor Vehicle Laws Two important state laws to know are that the driver and front-seat passenger wear seat belts. Children eight years of age or younger or less than 4 feet nine inches tall must be secured in an approved car seat. A copy of the Texas Motor Vehicle Laws is available from the Texas Department of Public Safety General Services Department, P.O. Box 15999, Austin, TX, 78761-5999, 512-424-2000 or at http://www.txdps.state.tx.us. Auto Insurance Texas has a mandatory automobile liability insurance law, and if a driver is stopped for any reason, proof of liability insurance coverage will be necessary. The insurance required must provide $30,000 bodily injury, $60,000 per person per accident and $25,000 property damage. Proof of insurance is required any time it is requested by a law enforcement officer, your car is involved in an accident, to register an auto, obtaining or renewing your driver’s license and for vehicle safety inspections. There are penalties for violations: a first conviction will result in a fine between $175 and $350, and subsequent convictions could result in fines of $350 to $1,000, suspension of your driver’s license, and impoundment of your automobile. Consumer assistance is available at www.tdi. state.tx.us/consumer/index.html or by calling the Texas Department of Insurance Consumer Helpline at 800-252-3439. Airports For complete information about both airports go to www.fly2houston.com William P. Hobby Airport 7800 Airport Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77061 713-640-3000 Hobby was Houston’s first commercial airport. About 30 minutes south of the Northeast Houston area, the airport serves more than 10 million domestic passengers each year. International flights to Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean are also fly out of Hobby. The 32nd busiest airport in the U.S. for total passengers, Hobby will continue to be a major public airport and corporate aviation center for years to come. Bush Intercontinental Airport 2800 North Terminal Road, Houston, Texas 77032 281-230-3100 Located in north Houston, Bush Intercontinental offers nonstop or direct service to hundreds of cities throughout the U.S. and around the world. It serves more than 40 million passengers annually, including about 10 million international passengers. TEXAS GOVERNMENT Voter Registration You must be at least 18 years of age, a resident of the county, and a U.S. citizen to vote. A Voter Registration Application can be obtained at www. votexas.org or by calling 1- 800-252-VOTE. Voting Texas voters must be 18 years old and register at least 30 days prior to an election. Those already registered to vote but who change precincts need to file an address change. For additional information, call Fort Bend County at 281-341-8670 or the Secretary of State at 1-800-252-VOTE. www.FortBendVotes.com Legal Records Legal records maintained by Fort Bend and Harris counties include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, automobile licenses, fees and inspections, divorce proceedings, DBAs, taxes and more. Liquor Laws The minimum age to buy or order liquor is 21 years of age. Liquor store hours are open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday, with no sales on Christmas, New Year’s or Thanksgiving. Drivers are prohibited from consuming alcoholic beverages while operating a vehicle. DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and also known as DUI (Driving Under the Influence) laws are strictly enforced and carry a sentence of jail time and a fine, even for first offenders. Pet Licensing/Leash Laws Dogs and cats in Texas must be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age. Boosters are given one year after the initial vaccination, and pets will need to be vaccinated at one to threeyear intervals depending on local requirements. Any vet can administer vaccinations and provide license tags. In most jurisdictions, pets not wearing licenses and/or on a leash can be impounded. Household Recyclables Accepted Drop-Off Site Locations Fort Bend County Recycling Center 1200 Blume Road Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-633-7581 Material Accepted: Paper Plastics Cans Glass Scrap Metal Tires Electronics Appliances Batteries Oil Latex Paint Antifreeze FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 49 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Mortgages, Financial Institutions and Insurance According to the Real Estate Center at Texas A & M, the median price for a single-family home in Fort Bend was $233,900 in February 2014 while the National Association of REALTORS® reported the U.S median sales price for a single-family home to be $196,900 in the Fourth Quarter of 2013. Mortgage Matters Determining an affordable purchase price for a home is the essential first step to ownership. Typically, 28 percent of a household budget is allocated to housing. Household expenses should not exceed 43 percent of gross personal income before taxes. The mortgage payment, insurance, credit card balances, utilities, food, and health care expenses as well as any payments on outstanding loans and leases are classified as expenses while household income includes salary and other declared income such as dividends and royalties. The THAI (Texas Housing Affordability Index) is the ratio of median household income required to buy a median-priced home using currently available mortgage financing. Standard financing is considered to be a 30-year mortgage covering 80 percent of the purchase price of a home. For example, a THAI of 1.00 indicates that the median household income is just enough to qualify for a loan to purchase the median-priced home. Fort Bend’s 2013 Fourth Quarter THAI was an impressive 2.05 according to the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University. Mortgages Types To obtain the best mortgage possible, assemble the required loan documents and consult with banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies. Many lenders can pre-approve mortgage applications which makes it easier to negotiate the purchase contract. O ne of Fort Bend County’s considerable strengths is the affordability of quality housing and this factor has undoubtedly contributed to the area’s sustained growth. Greater Houston’s home prices have steadily increased rather than rapidly accelerate only to deflate as other real estate markets across the country have done. Analysts also found that Fort Bend County residents had a healthy growth rate in their income, too, during the last decade and the trend is expected to continue. These findings, along with some of the lowest interest rates in 40-plus years, are generating an unprecedented number of home sales. Newcomers along with area residents are purchasing houses at a record rate. The number of mortgage applications across Fort Bend County is surging as the demand for quality housing is climbing. 50 | WWW.HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM A standard 30-year fixed rate mortgage is the most common way to finance a home. 15-year fixed rate mortgages are another option. The amount of the mortgage payment, the interest rate and the term of the loan are fixed and fully self-amortizing, which means at the end of the term, the principal has been repaid. Alternative Mortgage Instruments (AMI) are loans in which at least one of the four components varies. The most common AMI is the Adjustable Rate Mortgage with a variable interest rate. Customarily, the ARM interest rate begins low and periodically adjusts either up or down within limits based on a pre-specified index. The initial low rate, and therefore, the lower monthly payment, enables the buyer to meet the income and debt-ratio requirement. Low down payments may also be associated with AMIs. Down Payment The down payment is the cash committed toward the purchase of a home. For most loans, a down payment of 20 percent of the purchase price is required to avoid Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). If a down payment is less than 20 percent of the home’s purchase price, and the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio is more than 80 percent, the mortgage lender estimates the monthly amount for private mortgage insurance. Monthly Mortgage Payment The purchase price less the down payment is the principal of the mortgage. Dividing the principal by the number of payments in a 30year or 15-year mortgage and adding the interest determines the monthly house payment. Escrow money for taxes and insurance is added to the payments according to the terms of the lender, and the amounts are recalculated annually. Since the amount of the monthly loan payment plays such a vital part in determining the size of the loan for which you qualify, consider paying down or asking the seller to share some discount or buy-down points to lower the interest rate. Closing costs can be significant but can be added to the total amount of the mortgage to avoid additional cash outlay. Some of these costs are negotiable, so be sure to discuss this with your real estate agent and lender. Real estate agents can suggest reputable lenders. It is always advisable to interview several lenders to compare rates and terms. Teachers, police officers, firefighters, government employees and first-time homebuyers may qualify for select mortgage programs, and not all lenders can offer discounted rates. Interest Rates Interest rates fluctuate frequently and vary from lender to lender. Interest on a 30-year fixed rate mortgage is likely to be different from that of a 15-year, and adjustable rate mortgages reset according to the terms of the lender. First-time Home Buyers HUD – or Housing and Urban Development – oversees the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans that can often be obtained by firsttime buyers. The down payment requirement is three and one-half (3.5) percent, and closing costs can be added to the mortgage to avoid additional out-of-pocket expenses. The maximum amount of an FHA standard mortgage is $271,050.00 for a single-family residence in Fort Bend County and does not have an income cap qualification. Applicant’s credit scores must be acceptable, and their income must be sufficient to pay the mortgage and other debts they have incurred. Contact www.answers.hud.gov or www.houstontx.gov/housing. Some buyers may qualify for designated assistance programs. To find out more, contact www.homeloans.va.gov/www.tdhca.state.tx.us. SCORE BIG! APPLY ONLINE TODAY – FCCU.org AUTO LOANS Low rate New or Used – Purchases or Refinances Skip-A-Payment up to two times per year+ Certain credit criteria applies. Minimum $5 savings account must be established for membership. +Skip-A-Pay adds $15 to the loan each time the loan payment is skipped. FCCU refinances not eligible. FCCU welcomes all Texans fans who live or work in Harris, Fort Bend or Montgomery County to drive with FCCU! Your savings federally insured to at least $100,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government NCUA National Credit Union Administration, a U.S. Government Agency MOBILE BANKING. ONLINE BANKING. AND GOOD OL’ FACE-TO-FACE BANKING. Frost is here whenever and wherever you need us, with the technology you want and the service you deserve. frostbank.com Sugar Land 620 Hwy 6, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Missouri City 3600 FM 1092, Missouri City, TX 77459 Stafford 3531 S Main, Stafford, TX 77477 MEMBER FDIC FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 51 Credit Report Monthly Mortgage Calculator Estimated monthly mortgage (P&I) payments based on 30 year fixed amortization Loan Amount 3.5 % interest 4.0 % interest 4.5 % interest 5.0 % interest 5.5 % interest $150,000 $170,000 $190,000 $200,000 $220,000 $240,000 $260,000 $280,000 $300,000 $320,000 $340,000 $360,000 $380,000 $400,000 $420,000 $440,000 $460,000 $480,000 $500,000 $ 673.57 $763.38 $853.18 $898.09 $987.90 $1,077.71 $1,167.52 $1,257.33 $1,347.13 $1,436.94 $1,526.75 $1,616.56 $1,706.37 $1,796.18 $1,885.99 $1,975.80 $2,065.61 $2,155.41 $2,245.22 $716.12 $811.61 $907.09 $954.83 $1,050.31 $1,145.80 $1,241.28 $1,336.76 $1,432.25 $1,527.73 $1,623.21 $1,718.70 $1,814.18 $1,909.66 $2,005.14 $2,100.63 $2,196.11 $2,291.59 $2,387.08 $760.03 $861.37 $962.70 $1,013.37 $1,114.71 $1,216.04 $1,317.38 $1,418.72 $1,520.06 $1,621.39 $1,722.73 $1,824.07 $1,925.40 $2,026.74 $2,128.08 $2,229.42 $2,330.75 $2,432.09 $2,533.43 $805.23 $912.60 $1,019.96 $1,073.64 $1,181.01 $1,288.37 $1,395.74 $1,503.10 $1,610.46 $1,717.83 $1,825.19 $1,932.56 $2,039.92 $2,147.29 $2,254.65 $2,362.02 $2,469.38 $2,576.74 $2,684.11 $851.68 $965.24 $1,078.80 $1,135.58 $1,249.14 $1,362.69 $1,476.25 $1,769.79 $1,703.37 $1,816.92 $1,930.48 $2,044.04 $2,157.60 $2,271.16 $2,384.71 $2,498.27 $2,611.83 $2,725.39 $2,838.95 Mortgage Application Documents The following items are required when applying for a loan: • Copy of accepted earnest money contract. • Copy of social security card. • Copy of driver’s license or military ID. • History of residences with addresses and the landlord’s contact information if you were renting for the past two years. • W-2 and 1099 forms for the past two years and contact information for employer. • Pay stubs for the most recent two pay periods showing monthly salary and deductions. • If self-employed, two years of tax returns with all schedules, year-to-date P&L statement, and balance sheet from a CPA. • If a corporation or partnership is the applicant, all of the above information for the corporation or partners. • Names, addresses, account numbers, and balances of all checking and savings accounts. • The last two statements of all checking and savings accounts investment or brokerage funds, IRAs, and other financial assets. • Names, addresses, account numbers, balances, and monthly payment information on all open charge accounts. • Addresses, loan information and lease agreements, if applicable, on all real estate owned. • Estimated value of all furniture, clothing, jewelry, and other personal property. • Face value of life insurance, retirement accounts, and profit sharing accounts with cash values. • Certification of eligibility and/or DD214 and/ or statement of service for VA loans. • Cashier’s Check or certified funds for property appraisal and credit report. Regardless of the lending institution you decide to use, consider investing a few hundred dollars for a qualified attorney to review your mortgage documents and to answer any questions you may have about purchasing your home. 52 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Lenders will require a credit report from the credit bureau that has collected your credit history for the past seven to 10 years. The report also includes the name of your employer and the number of years of employment along with previous credit history listing account types, outstanding balances, payment status, collection information and other inquiries. Traditional mortgage lenders require an established credit history, but some lenders may offer more flexible mortgage programs for people with limited or no established credit record. (If this is the first home you have purchased, lenders should take this into consideration.) Reporting laws vary from state to state. Credit reports document your financial history and reflect the amount of credit you have, the timeliness with which you pay your bills, if you have declared bankruptcy and other factors that give the lender a financial snapshot. To avoid delay or problems obtaining a mortgage, order a copy of your credit report before submitting your mortgage application. If you discover inaccuracies, contact the credit bureau and take steps to correct the errors immediately. Credit reports also carry your credit score, a numeric ranking between 300 and 850 that many lenders use. It is calculated using five factors: payment history, amount of outstanding debt, length of credit history, new credit and the sources of credit in use. In addition to informing lenders of credit-worthiness, your credit score can also determine the interest rate you pay. The better the credit score, the lower the interest rate. Pre-approval vs. Pre-qualification Receiving pre-approval is a real plus for homebuyers because it gives sellers a level of assurance that the prospective buyer can obtain a mortgage. Pre-approval requires the completion of a loan application and sometimes a fee. A pre-qualification is only an estimate of a mortgage that a prospective buyer might qualify for. Tax Deductions Some home purchase costs are deductible if you itemize deductions. These costs may include mortgage interest, real estate taxes and PMI payments. Tax information for Homeowners from the IRS can be downloaded at www.irs.gov or by calling 800-829-3676. Financial Institutions Banks Banks in Fort Bend offer a full range of services that usually include mortgages at extremely competitive rates. In addition to checking and savings accounts, their mortgage lending is another option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about fees associated with the bank’s services, different accounts, minimum balance requirements, ATM charges, Availability of Funds Policy, direct deposit and other options to maximize your finances. All banks issue debit cards for use in 24-hour automatic teller machines (ATM). The cards may CREDITSCORE TIPS The higher your Credit Score the lower your monthly payment. Order a copy of your credit report and review for errors. Stop applying for new credit for up to a year in advance of making a mortgage application if possible. The “rapid rescore” tool is helpful if your credit score is in doubt. A rapid rescore quickly corrects and updates your credit history so that lenders can then request a revised credit score. Equifax® www.equifax.com 1-800-685-1111 Experian® www.experian.com 1-888-397-3742 TransUnion® www.transunion.com 877-322-8228 Credit Score Rating What this could mean to buyers 580 - 640 Poor Work with lenders to improve credit score. 640 - 660 Marginal Varies from lender to lender 660 – 680 Acceptable Higher fees Larger down payment Higher interest rate 700 – 720 Negotiable fees and terms Good 750 and above Excellent have additional fees associated with transactions made through another bank. Drive-in windows for quick transactions are common at many banks and often open earlier and close later than the lobbies. Many banks have extended hours on Fridays and on Saturday mornings for customer convenience. On-line banking is offered by the major banks and has become an expected service by consumers. The ability to make direct deposits, check balances instantly, and pay bills with a few keystrokes is essential. The security of a bank’s on-line access should be a top consideration for consumers when choosing a bank. Contact the Texas Department of Banking toll free 877-276-5554 or visit their Web site to learn more about banking regulations at www.banking. state.tx.us. Credit Unions Credit unions have existed for over 150 years. Their mission, then and now, has the same basic core value - the belief that people come first. Historically, credit unions have been employer-based financial institutions but today it is common for credit unions to be community based. This means that anyone can utilize a credit union as a primary financial institution. Many consumers wonder if their funds are as secure in credit unions as in banks insured by the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation). Credit unions are insured for up to $250,000 per Best terms and interest rates account by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), and can assist you in structuring your accounts (i.e., single ownership, joint ownership, trust, etc.) to help you significantly increase this coverage (up to five times as much) per individual. Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are insured separately up to $250,000. For example, checking and savings accounts at a credit union would be insured up to $100,000, and an IRA would be insured separately for an additional $250,000. Before making a decision on a financial provider, be sure to shop around for customer service, financial products that fit your needs, and the best rates available for borrowing and saving. For more information on credit unions including how to locate one in Fort Bend County, go to the Texas Credit Union League’s website at www.tcul.org or visit the Credit Union National Association’s website at www.cuna.org. Homeowners Insurance Mortgage lenders require homeowner insurance on properties they finance. Generally, buyers are asked to pay one year of insurance at closing and the premiums, like taxes, can be included in monthly mortgage payments. Selecting an insurance company and determining coverage is the responsibility of the buyer, and should begin as soon as the contract to purchase a house is accepted by the seller. An engineering survey may be required by the insurance company to determine the home’s susceptibility to flooding. Some insurance agents offer auto, health and life insurance as well as homeowners insurance, and rates may be lowered if one insurance agent handles all of the policies. Get quotes from several insurance agents. The Texas Board of Insurance offers information to consumers and can be contacted at 512-4636169 or 800-578-4677 (in Texas), or Consumer Helpline 800-252-3439. Visit their on-line help section at www.tdi.state.tx.us/consumer. FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 53 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Student Assessment Testing: STAAR The State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) measures a child’s performance, as well as academic growth, and college and career readiness. Results from STAAR calculate annual school and district performance ratings. All students in grades 3-8 are tested in reading and math, with students in specific grades tested in science, social studies and writing. Grades 3-8 STAAR tests in reading and mathematics, by law, must be linked from grade to grade and to performance expectations for the English III end-of-course assessments. At the high school level, 5 end-of-course (EOC) assessments are mandated. High school students take EOC exams as they complete each subject, with the tests counting as 15 percent of the final grade in the courses. Graduates in the Class of 2015 will be the first students who meet EOC testing requirements as well as pass their classes in order to earn a high school diploma. For more information and complete district and individual school information, visit www. tea.state.tx.us. Information about STAAR can be found at http://bit. ly/c9UuHq. Special Needs Students The State of Texas ensures that students enrolling in public schools are tested for dyslexia and related disorders, in accordance with the State Board of Education. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibits discrimination and assures that students who are disabled by a physical or mental impairment have educational opportunities and benefits equal to those provided to non-disabled students. Texas Charter Schools Credit: St. France de Sale School Education Education is key to a secure and prosperous future for our children. W hen looking for a new home, identifying quality schools where children receive the best education possible is essential. Many parents chose a neighborhood because it is zoned to specific schools. Quality public schools and fine private schools are found throughout Fort Bend County. Universities, colleges and area community colleges give adult learners the opportunity to earn a degree or take classes to pursue a special interest. Fort Bend County is largely served by six school districts: Brazos, Fort Bend, Katy, Lamar, Needville, and Stafford. Each district offers a variety of study areas, extracurricular activities and special education departments to meet the needs of all students. Most districts offer dual credit programs along with community colleges, which give students the opportunity to earn both high school and college credit simultaneously. 54 | WWW.HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM 215 charter schools were authorized by the Texas Legislature to provide an alternative to traditional public schools. Open enrollment charter schools have the flexibility to adapt to the educational needs of individual students for a personalized learning environment that enables students to achieve more. Some charter schools even provide a curriculum that specializes in a certain field such as the arts, mathematics or science. Students in grades 9-12 may also take college courses at no cost while earning their high school diploma. Charter schools operate under and receive academic accountability ratings from the Texas Education Agency and adhere to the same STAAR test requirements just as public school districts do. State funds received are based on the average daily attendance of students (same as public schools); however, they do not receive funds from local tax revenue and most charter schools do not receive state facilities funding. Texas Education Agency (TEA) data indicates that charter schools receive approximately $1200 less in total revenue per pupil than traditional public schools. PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS Brazos Independent School District www.brazosportisd.net Brazos Elementary is located in Orchard, Texas in the northwest corner of Fort Bend County. It is part of the 2A Brazos Independent School District. The campus Katy Independent School District houses grades Pre-Kindergarten to Fifth Grade. The campus was constructed in 2005 and is relatively upgraded with two computer labs and wireless access for staff. It is located on forty acres allowing for a large playground and physical activity space. The campus does consider transfers by application but has capped its class sizes so as to not exceed the 22 to 1 student teacher ratio. Pre-Kindergarten has been capped at 24 and consideration for district residents has precedence over applications for transfer. The campus is currently rated Academically Acceptable under the state’s AEIS rating system. Fort Bend Independent School District www.fortbendisd.com Fort Bend ISD is an outstanding school district of choice by parents of more than 70,000 students. As the 7th largest school district in Texas, FBISD currently has 74 campuses (11 high schools, 14 middle schools and 45 elementary schools), as well as four unique secondary campuses (the Technical Education Center, M.R. Wood Center for Learning, Progressive High School, and Ferndell Henry Center for Learning) to address the academic and vocational interests of students. FBISD is proud to be one of the most diverse school districts in Texas and in the nation. Serving a large, multicultural population, FBISD is comprised of urban and suburban communities that serve families who speak more than 95 dialects and languages. FBISD is the only school district in the nation to be named a National School District of Character by the National Schools of Character Program in Washington DC, and will carry this distinction through 2015. The District was also named a 2012 Promising Practice in Character Education National Award Winner by the Character Education Partnership in recognition of its High School Diversity Conference. Among the District’s many academic honors, Fort Bend ISD has 69 semifinalists in the 2014 National Merit Scholarship Program, one of the highest numbers of National Merit Semifinalists among the larger school districts in Texas. The 2013 FBISD graduating seniors earned more than $42 million in reported academic and athletic scholarships. FBISD has been named a 2014 “Best Community for Music Education” by the National Association of Music Merchants. This is the fifth consecutive year that the District has been recognized for its leadership in providing schoolbased, music education programs to young people in our community. Forty-nine Fort Bend ISD high school students were selected as 2014 Texas All State Musicians by the Texas Music Educators Association through competitive auditions. Fort Bend ISD was named a 2013 Awards for Excellence in Texas School Health winner and received the program’s Vanguard Award in recognition of its WATCH Recognized Wellness Campus Award program. Fort Bend ISD was among 24 organizations to receive the 2014 Texas Association of School Business Officials (TASBO) Purchasing Award of Merit recognizing excellence in school purchasing operations. This is the third consecutive year that FBISD has received the award. FBISD is a recipient of the Texas Comptroller’s 2013 Texas Honors Circle Award, which recognizes districts and campuses that achieve academic success through cost-effective operations. Recipients of campus awards are Sartartia Middle School and Scanlan Oaks Elementary School. In 2012-2013, Business and Community Partners donated more than $3.5 million to support student success. The Fort Bend Education Foundation has awarded more than $4.1 million to FBISD teachers and schools. Last year, the Foundation awarded $312,982 for teacher and classroom grants. With more than 9,250 full-time employees and substitutes, the District is the largest employer in Fort Bend County. www.katyisd.org Katy is known for its family-friendly quality of life, which includes the much-touted Katy Independent School District. Katy ISD has an enrollment surpassing 66,500 students in an expanding region that exemplifies progress. Geographically, the District encompasses 181 square miles in the greater Katy area, reaching into Harris, Fort Bend and Waller counties and is comprised of 57 campuses, including 35 elementary schools, 13 junior highs, 7 high schools, a career-technology center and an alternative center. Instructional quality is guided by a comprehensive District-wide curriculum management plan, which coordinates development, delivery and assessment of teaching throughout the District. Student achievement on statewide tests consistently surpasses statewide achievement levels at every grade level in every area tested. Katy students consistently win individual and team championships (state, national and international) in athletics, academics and fine arts. Attesting to the solid relationship between the District and the community, Katy ISD offers an award-winning Partners in Education program, providing approximately one volunteer for every three children in the District. Volunteers donated more than 780,000 hours in the 2012-2013 school year. In addition, Katy ISD is the first school district in the world to adopt a Junior Achievement “whole district” approach, providing JA curriculum at each grade level and every campus. Katy ISD is committed to ensuring each child meets with success, and comprises a staff of dedicated, aspiring professionals with a common goal – to do “whatever it takes” for students. The emphasis is on meeting the needs of students through engaging instruction, a supportive classroom environment and a wide variety of extracurricular activities. Lamar Consolidated Independent School District www.lcisd.org The Lamar Consolidated Independent School District encompasses more than 42 percent of Fort Bend County and is proud of its growth and educational opportunities. Lamar CISD—now with 38 campuses and more than 27,000 students—is one of the fastestgrowing school districts in the Greater Houston area. Lamar CISD is ranked in the highest category by the Texas Education Agency, Met Standard. Lamar CISD also earned 39 TEA Distinctions for academic excellence and progress. “Our focus in on our students and we’re making a concentrated effort to include technology in every classroom,” said superintendent of schools, Dr. Thomas Randle. “We realized early on that this didn’t mean training our students as much as it meant training our teachers. FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 55 Credit: Stafford MSD Every summer, Lamar CISD teachers attend the INTERACT program, learning about the latest in software and hardware, and more importantly, how to use it to keep our tech-savvy students engaged in the classroom.” While Lamar CISD continues to add students, along with additional staff and more schools, the Board of Trustees and the staff have taken a conservative approach to finances, resulting in one of the lowest tax rates in the Houston area. Needville Independent School District www.needvilleisd.com The Needville Independent School District is a 4A district with an enrollment of just over 2,900 students. 100% of the school district is located in Fort Bend County and their educators take pride in being a conservative rural community within minutes of “The City”. The district has the following core values: 1. Trusting relationships in a safe and caring environment are vital to an innovative learning organization. 2. A learning organization focused on excellence will continually transform to best suit the needs of the students and community. 3. Through community support and engagement, quality public schools build and preserve a healthy democratic society. 4. Every student is uniquely capable and deserves to be provided engaging, challenging and mean56 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE ingful work. 5. Each student should be empowered to realize the opportunities that they have as 21st century learners. The Needville Independent School District is moving toward the future and continues to challenge and prepare students to live and work in a changing world. In addition to the rigorous academic curriculum, students learn the duties of citizenship, economic responsibilities, and an appreciation of their common American heritage. Students have the opportunity to develop the ability to think logically, independently and creatively to communicate effectively. The district believes in RESPECT for ones’ self and others, ACADEMIC learning, and DISCIPLINE. Stafford Municipal School District www.staffordmsd.org Hidden between the metropolis of Houston and the cities of Sugar Land and Missouri City, Stafford Municipal School District (SMSD) maintains its small-school environment while addressing educational needs of the 21st century. What began as a grassroots mission with 547 students has evolved into a mid-sized, 4A public school district fully accredited by the Texas Education Agency with an enrollment just over 3,400. The tree-lined 77 acre complex is home to five campuses, addressing the instructional needs of students from early childhood development through 12th grade. SMSD facilities are designed to allow all of the district’s students to attend the same elementary and secondary schools without the disruption of ever changing school attendance zones. All classrooms are equipped with interactive technology. Dual Language programs in Vietnamese and Chinese are available at the Kindergarten through 4th grade level and will expand through 6th grade. The Stafford High School College and Career Center opened in August 2013. The 92,000 square foot facility houses twelve academy programs leading to internships and industry certification and endorsements. Programs include engineering, architecture and construction, health and medicine, veterinarian services, culinary, automotive, information technology, graphic arts, business management, education, law, marketing, agriculture, welding, and military. The district prides itself in providing students with many school activities and organizations to encourage well-rounded, motivated learners. Stafford High School students have been named to both academic and athletic all-district and all-state teams. The Mighty Spartan Band, one of the largest 4A bands in the state, earned UIL Sweepstakes recognition for the fifth consecutive year. The Stafford MSD choral department annually presents a musical production at the Stafford Centre that includes students from 1st to 12th grade. Art is taught at all grade levels by certified art teachers and students annually compete in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo art program. FFA students participate in local and state competitions and the DECA chapter has participated at state levels and progressed to national competitions. Students can participate in UIL football, baseball, softball, basketball, volleyball, track, power-lifting and cross-country. Students in grades 6th-8th can learn martial arts through the Kickstart program and the district also is one of the very few 4A districts to offer boys and girls soccer and swimming. As the only municipal school district in the state, the district partners with the City of Stafford by utilizing the municipal swimming pool and the Stafford Civic Center, both located within the district’s complex. These facilities allow extension in curriculum by offering swimming lessons to 2nd and 4th graders and by provide the performing arts with a formal venue for student functions. The city also underwrites the cost for high school juniors to prepare for college entrance exams through a comprehensive SAT/ACT Preparatory Course. The mission of the Stafford Municipal School District is to be a diverse and visionary learning community, prepare each student to become a critical thinker, an ethical, productive citizen in the pursuit of excellence—through an unwavering commitment to provide multiple life and learning experiences led by dedicated profession- als using innovative teaching techniques in an engaging learning environment. PRIVATE SCHOOLS Cornerstone Christian Academy www.cornerstonecca.org / 281-980-0842 Solid academics are key to any successful private school. Cornerstone Christian Academy is set apart because of its small class sizes and solid academics which include biblical principles upon which the school is founded. Beginning at age two, students are challenged to think critically, to analyze the world around them and to continue developing their relationship with Christ. As they continue through elementary, middle, and high school, students continue to be seekers of truth and workers for social justice. Visitors are invited to tour the facility Wednesdays at 10:00. Fellowship Christian Academy www.fellowshipchristianacademy.org 281-495-1814 Fellowship Christian Academy (FCA) provides a place for children to grow and to learn while surrounded by God’s love. The early years of a child’s life are the years that shape their future; therefore, the curriculum is carefully selected and developed to enrich the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and social development in each child. Since 1976, FCA has provided a safe and loving environment where children are encouraged to develop spiritually as they grow cognitively, socially and physically. Many of the teachers have over 25 years of teaching experience. Age appropriate environments and classes are offered beginning with infants to children through 8th grade. FCA offers small classes with low student to teacher ratios, giving children the chance and room to blossom in their own unique way. This also provides an ideal learning environment in that students receive personal academic attention that caters to each individual’s style of learning. Discover Fort Bend Christian Academy www.fortbendchristian.org/admissions 281-263-9105! Fort Bend Christian Academy is celebrating 27 years of glorifying God through excellence in Christian education. Located on a 35-acre campus in the heart of Sugar Land, the school numbers almost 900 pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students. Designed to provide a superior spiritual and intellectual environment for each student, FBCA utilizes a variety of curricula to provide a well-balanced, academically challenging, college preparatory education with a decidedly Christian worldview. Also offered are competitive, award winning sports programs (2013 TAPPS 4A State Champions in Baseball and Softball), varied fine arts productions and programs (TAPPS 4A State Art Champions 2013, 2012, 2011), academic competitions (District and Regional Honors), interim Apply now for the 2014-2015 school year! Grades PK-12 281-263-9142 • www.fortbendchristian.org 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Fort Bend Christian exists to glorify God through excellence in college preparatory Christian education. FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 57 Harmony School of Science and Harmony School of Science – High School are members of the prestigious Harmony Public School System. Members of Educate Texas and participants in Texas Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (T-STEM) program, the Harmony Schools are tuition-free college preparatory schools which seek to prepare students for careers in the mathematics, science, and technology industries. HSS houses grades kindergarten through 6th, while their sister school, HSS – High School, houses grades 7th through 12th. Harmony Schools believe that “education must be individualized and one-on-one” for and implement the philosophy with five key elements: • Safety and Discipline • Exemplary Character • Advanced Curriculum • Gifted and Talented Program • Extra Curricular Activities Harmony School of Science 13415 W Bellfort Ave. Sugar Land, Texas 77478. 281-265-2525 www.hsshouston.org Harmony School of Science – High School 13522 W. Airport Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-302-6445 www.hsshigh.org Learning Stages A CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER Infants through Pre-Kindergarten To encourage self-esteem, self-confidence and self-understanding. • To provide for self-discovery and learning at each child’s pace. • To help children observe, investigate, seek and acquire information and to think positively. • To increase independence in meeting and solving problems. • To assist each child to acquire learning skills: following directions, independent work, attention span, task completion and impulse control. • To encourage each child to reach his/her maximum potential in all areas of development: social, emotional, physical and intellectual. 12780 S. Kirkwood Rd., Stafford, TX-77477 Tel: (281) 240-0480 Fax: (281) 240-2926 www.learningstages.com 58 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE week travel opportunities, and special school year and summer school offerings. Schedule a personal tour and discover for yourself the FBCA difference. Harmony School of Science www.hsshouston.org Harmony School of Science and Harmony School of Science – High School are members of the prestigious Harmony Public School System. Members of Educate Texas and participants in Texas Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (T-STEM) program, the Harmony Schools are tuition-free college preparatory schools which seek to prepare students for careers in the mathematics, science, and technology industries. Harmony School of Science houses grades kindergarten through 6th, while their sister school, Harmony School of Science – High School, houses grades 7th through 12th. Harmony Schools believe that “education must be individualized and one-on-one” and implement the philosophy with five key elements: • Safety and Discipline • Exemplary Character • Advanced Curriculum • Gifted and Talented Program • Extra Curricular Activities Both schools are now accepting applications for grades K-12th for the 2013-2014 school year. Harmony School of Science is located at 13415 W Bellfort Avenue Sugar Land, Texas 77478. Harmony School of Science – High School is located at 13522 W Airport Sugar Land, Texas 77478. Learning Stages, Inc. www.learningstages.com / 281-240-0480 Genuine passion and advocacy for children, in combination with their strong belief in early childhood education and development, creates the perfect environment to foster a solid foundation in your child’s path. The school setting provides an atmosphere filled with the essential components to promote security and confidence in their students. Highly qualified teachers are dedicated to nurturing each child’s individual characteristics to maximize student strengths and ability. They love their students and are dedicated to making them a great success. They understand that the commitment to their belief, of parents as partners is the best way to ensure this effort and establish a successful foundation for future learning. They have an open door policy for parents to come and discuss their needs, ask questions, give suggestions and comments. Learning Stages encourage parents to support the students by actively participating in daily activities and special school events. They have a curriculum in place starting with infants through Prekindergarten; Web cams to view classrooms and see how they are doing. As students grow, the curriculum grows with them. The curriculum presents developmentallyappropriate learning at every stage of your child’s journey. Primrose School of First Colony www.primrosefirstcolony.com / 281.565.2707 Will My Child be Ready for Elementary School? Primrose Schools has more than 270 accredited, private preschools nationwide, and provides a balanced approach to school readiness- a well-rounded preparation in basic concepts and acquisition of social skills- that gives children the foundation for a future filled with promise. “School readiness is essential to a child’s success in elementary school and beyond,” said Estela Papadopulos, Franchise Owner of Primrose School of First Colony. “Children who receive a quality preschool, pre-k and kindergarten education develop into well-rounded individuals prepared for learning and for life.” At Primrose School of First Colony, “readiness” means more than just learning how to add and spell. It means learning how to think critically, use mathematical concepts, share and show self-control-skills that support a positive transition to elementary school. Primrose Schools supports the development of social and life skills, as well as executive function. Research shows that executive functioning skills help children establish positive relationships and close the achievement gap. The Primrose Schools Balanced Learning System blends academics, play, and character development to build a strong foundation and nurture a lifelong love of learning. In addition to core academic subjects, the curriculum includes enrichment programs in music, physical activity, art, sign language, Spanish, technology and social skills. Parents choose Primrose School of First Colony because of its proven value in preparing children for success in school and in life. Nationally recognized assessment tools and their own research with Primrose parents show that Primrose pre-k and kindergarten students are advanced in social skills and concept knowledge, and therefore more ready for elementary school than many of their peers. Primrose School of First Colony believes that with the right foundation , anything is possible for your child. To learn more about the many lifelong benefits of enrolling your child in the pre-k and kindergarten programs at Primrose School of First Colony. Praying, Learning & Living Together Since 1964 St. Francis de Sales Catholic School PRE-K THROUGH 8TH GRADE 8100 Roos Houston, Texas 77036 St. Francis de Sales School www.sfdsschool.org / 713-774-4447 The mission of St. Francis de Sales School is to educate each student in a spirit of faith and academic excellence according to Roman Catholic principles. As part of a caring, disciplined community, the school, in partnership with parents, nurtures and challenges each student to develop to his or her fullest potential. Their mission statement reflects their deep commitment and focus for total development of each student intellectually, physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually. Their goal is to educate children to become caring, faith-filled adults involved with their family and their community. They nurture all children from diverse backgrounds as a reflection of the world in which we live. St. Francis de Sales is accredited by the Texas Catholic Conference of Education, and is a member of NCEA, NCTM, NCTSS, GHARC. Accredited by the Texas Catholic Conference Department Conveniently located in Southwest Houston between US 59 S. and the Sam Houston Tollway within one mile of St. Agnes Academy and Strake Jesuit College Preparatory 713-774-4447 www.sfdsschool.org Learning and Loving It. Just Ask a Mom or Dad. “Primrose is a blessing and has been a wonderful place for our little boy to learn and grow. Every day is an exciting and educational adventure for him! The curriculum is well thought out, age appropriate and has helped us as parents facilitate healthy progress in his early education. I would highly recommend Primrose!” John, Primrose Dad Credit: St. France de Sale School Enroll Today! Educational Child Care for Infants through Private Kindergarten and After School Primrose School of First Colony 4605 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.565.2707 | PrimroseFirstColony.com ©2014 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 59 Westlake Academy Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy Westlake Prep is a private Christian school where your child is more than just a number. We believe that each student is special and unique and most of all, a beloved child of God. Imagine a School in Katy Where….. • Students receive a Christ-Centered Academic Excellent Education • Teacher view their position as a Calling from God and not just a job • There is a sense of Community for families • Modern facilities have innovative technology, including smart boards in every classroom www.westlakeprep.org 281.341.9910 • 23300 Bellaire Blvd, Richmond, TX 77406 Higher Education www.westlakeprep.org / 281-341-9910 Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy is a private Christian school dedicated to providing faith-based educational programs which focus on academic excellence and spiritual growth. As a college preparatory school for PK3 to 6th grade for next school year, Westlake equips students to become courageous leaders while serving Jesus Christ in our changing world. Westlake recognizes that your children are your most important possession, and Westlake takes the responsibility you entrust to them seriously. Your child will be challenged and motivated to excel academically in a loving and caring environment. The dedicated teachers see their vocation as a true calling and integrate the intangibles of faith, morals, ethics, and service in the classroom as each student pursues a solid academic foundation. Westlake employs only certified and degreed teachers, and most of the K-6th grade teachers have Master’s Degrees. Each class is also equipped with the latest technology to support the curriculum, particularly in the areas of math, science, reading, writing, and history/geography. As a premier private school in the Katy/Richmond area, Westlake strives to prepare children for “today, tomorrow and eternity.” They are conveniently located southwest of the Grand Parkway and Westpark Tollway intersection. If you are looking for an inspiring environment for your child, call or visit their website for more information. Strayer University – Stafford 12603 SW Freeway, Suite 400 Stafford, TX 77477 Texas State Technical College – Fort Bend 5333 F.M. 1640 Richmond, TX 77469 281-239-1548 Devry University – Sugar Land 14100 Southwest Frwy., Ste. 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 877-759-4250 Houston Community College - Katy 1550 Foxlake Drive Houston, TX 77084 713-718-5757 Houston Community College – Missouri City 5855 Sienna Springs Way Missouri City, TX 77459 713-718-2900 Houston Community College – Stafford 10041 Cash Road Stafford, TX 77477 713-718-7800 60 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE University of Houston – Cinco Ranch 4242 South Mason Road Katy, TX 77050 713-718-5700 University of Houston – Sugar Land 14000 University Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-275-3300 University of Houston – Victoria 3007 N. Ben Wilson Victoria, Texas 77901 877-970-4848 Wharton County Junior College – Richmond 5333 FM 1640 Richmond, TX 77469 281-239-1500 Wharton Junior College – Sugar Land 14004 University Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-243-8447 The University of Houston-Victoria www.uhv.edu / 877-970-4848 UHV experiences 40 years of growth in Coastal Bend region The University of Houston-Victoria has been in the vanguard of higher education in the Coastal Bend region since 1973. When UHV opened its doors to 356 students 40 years ago, the university became the first higher education institution within a 100-mile radius of Victoria to offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The university continued expanding its out- reach in the mid-1990s by taking classes to Fort Bend County and online. “Many universities are now realizing that they have to go where the students are instead of requiring the students to come to them,” UHV President Phil Castille said. “This is a model UHV has been following for nearly 20 years. We always strive to be accessible for our students, including offering entire degree programs online.” UHV now offers classes at UH Sugar Land, 14000 University Blvd., and the UH System at Cinco Ranch, 4242 South Mason Road in Katy. UHV also teaches some classes at the Houston Community College Katy campus and offers a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the Lone Star College University Center at Montgomery in The Woodlands. Students can customize their educational experience because classes are offered at various times throughout the day and in several modes of delivery. Many of UHV’s approximately 60 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and concentrations are available at the teaching centers in Fort Bend and online. Bachelor’s degrees include nursing, business, biology, criminal justice and education. Master’s degrees are available not only in business administration and nursing with a new family nurse practitioner concentration, but also counseling, economic development and entrepreneurship, and the new Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences. Fishers of Men Lutheran Church........281-242-7711. 2011 Austin Parkway Sugar Land TX 77479 www.fishersofmen.org Placesof Worship Fort Bend Church..................................281-980-8322. P.O. Box 1057 Sugar Land TX 77487 www.thebend.org Forty Holy Martyrs of Sebaste Orthodox Christian Church.....................................................281-240-4845. 340 Eldridge Rd. Sugar Land TX 77478 www.fortymartyrs.org Houston’s First Baptist - Sienna...........713-865-7670. 4309 Sienna Parkway Missouri City TX 77459 www.houstonsfirst.org/sienna Quail Valley Church..............................281-499-0594. 2303 FM 1092 Missouri City TX 77459 www.quail.org Crossbridge Church..............................281-313-8300. 935 Eldridge Rd., Suite 282, Sugar Land TX 77478 www.crossbridge.cc River Pointe Church..............................281-277-6767. 5000 Ransom Rd. Richmond TX 77469 www.riverpointe.org Fellowship of Love Church..................281-497-1971. 10223 Clodine Rd. Richmond TX 77407 Sugar Creek Baptist Church.................281-242-2858 13333 Southwest Freeway, Suite 200 Sugar Land TX 77478 www.sugarcreek.net First United Methodist Church Missouri City..........................................281-499-3502. 3900 Lexington Blvd. Missouri City TX 77459 www.fumcmc.org First United Methodist Church-Sugar Land...............................281-491-6041. 431 Eldridge Rd. Sugar Land TX 77478 www.sugarlandmethodist.org Sugar Grove Church of Christ.............281-530-9651. 11600 W. Airport Meadows Place TX 77477 www.sugargrove.org Sugar Land Baptist Church..................281-980-4431. 16755 S.W. Freeway Sugar Land TX 77479 www.wtbc.org Rev. Marty Vershel, Pastor • Traditional and Contemporary Worship • Sunday School for All Ages • Service and Ministry by: Youth, Children, Women, Men, Seniors • Choirs/Music • Day School • Mission and Community Outreach Opportunities 3900 Lexington Boulevard at Murphy Road 281-499-3502 www.fumcmc.org FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 61 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Health Care Exceptional health care is close to home. N eighborhood clinics specialize in treating a variety of routine conditions and minor injuries with little or no waiting. Walk-in patients can get a routine physical, school immunizations and standard screenings, and clinics take most major insurance plans. Some specialty clinics that treat conditions such as smoking cessation, weight loss or offer lab tests operate independently, while the leading hospitals have established such clinics within their facilities. Wellness centers may also be affiliated with hospitals or part of a physician’s practice providing health maintenance programs, stress reduction classes and spa treatments. These clinics offer extended hours and are often located in shopping centers or large grocery stores. Optometrist offices are one stop shopping for eye care and prescriptions for glasses can be filled onsite. Advanced cardiac care, cancer research and therapy, trauma units, and sports medicine are all easy to access so that Fort Bend residents can recuperate close to home. Several large award–winning hospitals with a well-regarded staff of physicians and quality nursing care are clustered in the Sugar Land and Katy areas. These campuses are modeled on the worldrenowned Texas Medical Center. The new facilities with state-of-the-art equipment were designed for the comfort of their patients and family members. Both of these medical centers’ plans incorporated professional buildings within blocks of the hospitals. Adjacent retail centers with 24-hour pharmacies add convenience. Physician Referral Service Physician referral services are familiar with most of the doctors who have practices in the area and the hospitals where they have privileges. The services are confidential and ready to identify doctors and other medical providers after gathering some information about the individual’s or family’s health care needs. Be sure to advise the service of your health insurance 62 | WWW.HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM plan. Services will usually provide a list of doctors at no charge and may also schedule the first appointment with the selected physician. Health Insurance Is your doctor part of your health insurance plan’s network? Are other specialists out of network? Not all doctors and clinics are part of the same network that your primary care physician and hospital belong to. Most insurance plans are two-tiered: in-network care and out-of-network care that typically carries a much higher deductible. This means that you could be unwittingly liable for thousands of dollars of medical bills. Be sure to ask your health care provider if they accept your insurance and what services are covered. Shape Up Fort Bend (SUFB) www.shapeupsugarland.org Shape Up Fort Bend (SUFB) is nonprofit organization that connects the community to activities that encourage a healthy lifestyle and offer residents WHEN CHOOSING A DOCTOR • Where is their office? • Which hospital(s) does the doctor use? • Where are routine x-rays and lab work done? • Are same day appointments available? • How are after-hours emergencies and weekend calls handled? • Does the physician accept your insurance coverage and process your claim? SOME OF THE BEST MEDICAL ADVICE YOU’LL EVER RECEIVE IS HOW TO GET HERE. When it comes to hospitals in Sugar Land, you have lots of choices. But only one hospital carries the St. Luke’s name. At St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital, you’ll find a commitment to excellence plus many of the services you may need, delivered with our own special brand of caring called Faithful, Loving Care®. Discover what makes us different. We’re here for you. StLukesSugarLand.com generated at BeQRious.com Highway 59 one block north of Highway 6 at Lake Pointe Parkway 1317 Lake Pointe Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 | 281-637-7000 Ranked #1 in FoRt Bend County Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital ranked in the top 10 on Consumer Reports‘ first-ever list of Houston-area hospitals based on surgical services. Our commitment to excellence in patient care has earned us a Press Ganey score of 99 percent for inpatient services and 97 percent for outpatient - the highest in our area. Emergency Room Services • • • • Imaging Services Specifically designed to treat minor emergencies Emergency physicians on site 24/7 Door to physician visit - 5 minutes or less X-rays and CT scans on site Sugar Land Surgical Hospital is now Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital New name, same outstanding quality of care. the resources to make choices. Opportunities for healthy exercise, nutritional intake, and overall health and wellness information is offered on their Web site. This community resource also includes restaurants providing healthy meals and local health events. Texas Medical Center www.tmc.edu The Texas Medical Center was established to create a medical center where people from all walks of life could have access to the best health care possible. More than 65 years later the Texas Medical Center has 49 member institutions serving people from every social circumstance and many nations. It is where one of the first, and still the largest, air ambulance service was created; a very successful inter-institutional transplant program was developed; and where more heart surgeries are performed than anywhere else in the world. Educational institutions in the Texas Medical Center serve over 22,000 students at Baylor College of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, University of Houston, Rice University, Texas A&M University, Texas Women’s University, Prairie View A&M University, Texas Southern University, Houston Community College and the Michael E. DeBakey High School For Health Professionals. Many of the member institutions are working to make the Texas Medical Center quality of care convenient to even more people by placing clinics, 64 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE • OASIS™ high-field open MRI system, delivering the comfortable exam you prefer • Friendly, accommodating MR system design • Advanced technology for fast, easy exams • Spacious and comfortable imaging suite For more information, call 281-243-1000. MemorialHermannFirstColony.com offices, and other facilities throughout the Houston area, Texas and other parts of the world. All of the Texas Medical Center’s member institutions are not-for-profit, and are dedicated to the highest standards of patient care, research and education. These institutions include 13 renowned hospitals and two specialty institutions, two medical schools, four nursing schools, and schools of dentistry, public health, pharmacy, and virtually all health-related careers. In 2014, the Texas Medical Center will have 40 million square feet of patient, research and education space, making it as big as the existing downtowns of Dallas and Fort Worth combined. An estimated 100,000 employees will work in the town-sized center. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital www. houstonmethodist.org/sugarland 281-274-7500 Since 1998, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has been the health care provider of choice for residents of Fort Bend and surrounding areas. Patients and their families know that Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital delivers “Methodist quality” close to home through: • Compassionate, personal care and service • Experienced, knowledgeable and skilled employees and physicians • Leading-edge technology • Advanced clinical procedures Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital of- Full accreditation by the following: fers leading-edge technology and excellent medical care in a unique, home-like environment. The hospital is designed to maximize patient comfort and convenience while offering the highest quality medical diagnosis and treatment. Patients and family will quickly see the difference in the staff and the commitment to living the Houston Methodist I CARE values. The employees display Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence in their daily interactions with patients, family members, the medical staff and each other. That commitment to serving others, in conjunction with the very best technology and the medical center training and expertise, has enabled Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital to be chosen, once again, as one of America’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” by FORTUNE magazine for the ninth year in a row. An integral part of the Fort Bend community, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is an extension of Houston Methodist Hospital in the Texas Medical Center, with the same standards of excellence and commitment to quality. That combination of medical center expertise and hometown convenience makes Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital the first choice for Fort Bend County physicians and patients. More than 800 physicians — representing the full range of medical specialties — are on staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. The hospital also has an experienced, caring nursing staff and support personnel dedicated to serving Forever Families Residential Support • Foster Care • Adoption • Supervised Living • Day Habilitation Excel Urgent Care Day Habilitation Adoption Agency Home & Community Based Services and TxHml Program We take care of our families, because we are family, and there’s nothing like family WWW. FORFAM. ORG Main Location:Teal Run Plaza 12125 State Hwy 6, SteE Fresno, Texas 77545 Newest Location 109 W 4th Street Taylor, Texas 76574 patients. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Centers of Excellence include cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, orthopedics, urology and women’s services. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital offers a wide range of services, including aquatic therapy, birthing center, breast center, cancer center, cardiology services, cath lab, diagnostics & imaging, emergency department, endoscopy services, headache center, infusion center, inpatient services, intensive care, joint center, lab services, occupational therapy, physical therapy, respiratory services, robotics, speech therapy, spine center, surgical services and wound care clinic. Over the years Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has grown into a 243 bed hospital with 18 operating rooms. However, to continue to meet the growing population of the area, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has plans to expand once again, adding a new bed tower and a free standing emergency care center. At the forefront of expansion and growth phases there is one thing that will never change: Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s mission to provide patients with the best, most compassionate care from some of the nation´s foremost health care professionals. Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital-First Colony Sugar Land Surgical Hospital recently joined the Memorial Hermann Health System and took on a new name: Memorial Hermann Surgical 66 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE provides high-quality, cost-effective healthcare for you and your family where you need it most, close to home. St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital is located at 1317 Lake Pointe Parkway--U.S. Highway 59 just north of Highway 6. Phone: 713-661-2626 512-309-4483 Toll Free: 1-800-777-4402 Hospital-First Colony . You can rely on them for the same quality of care for you and your family, only now they are bringing the resources and reputation of Memorial Hermann to their mission of serving the people of Sugar Land. At Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital-First Colony you will find first class surgery, imaging and emergency services, and discover a patient focused alternative to a hospital for your surgical procedure and immediate recovery. Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital-First Colony is located at 16906 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77479 For more information visit www.memorialhermannfirstcolony.com St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital www.stlukessugarland.com / 281-637-7000 As a member of the St. Luke’s Episcopal Health System, a nationally-recognized leader in healthcare known for its dedication in delivering world-renowned compassionate care, St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital continues to bring Faithful, Loving Care to the Sugar Land community. In collaboration with its medical staff, St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital is dedicated to excellence and compassion in caring for the whole person-body, mind, and spirit. From a full-service emergency department equipped with advanced technology to cardiovascular care, orthopedic services, women’s services, imaging services and much more. St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital www.excelurgentcare.com / 281-829-9900 It’s after hours, your primary care physician is not available and your child has just developed an earache. What do you do? Excel Urgent Care offers a solution - a convenient easily accessible, state-of-the-art facility right in your neighborhood to serve your family’s urgent care needs. Excel urgent care is a facility dedicated to treating individuals and families’ acute non life-threatening illnesses as well as providing timely cost effective occupational services to the employer. Excel Urgent Care brings a valuable service to the community realizing illnesses and emergencies do not keep a regular schedule. All physicians are board certified in their respective fields and are truly passionate about treating patients with the utmost care and consideration. Excel Urgent Care offers convenience and availability to patients, opening its doors seven days a week with late evening hours and an appointment is never needed. They accept most major medical insurance, credit cards and have discounted rates for cash patients. Urgent care is not to be confused with emergency care. Urgent care focuses on acute non-life threatening illnesses such as sore throats, lacerations, colds, etc. Hospital emergency rooms are for very serious or life threatening situations The beautiful new Katy facility boasts 4000sq ft with eight exam rooms, digital X-ray facilities and an onsite lab for routine blood work and an electronic medical records systems that transmits prescriptions directly to a pharmacy and records to patients’ primary care physicians. Next Level Urgent Care www.nextlevelurgentcare.com An ER versus Next Level Urgent Care If you have a life-threatening medical emergency like cardiac chest pain, signs or symptoms of a stroke, or a deep traumatic wound, call 911 and let them take you to the nearest available emergency room. However most medical urgencies don’t require that level of medical attention. For an earache, the flu, a rash, a superficial cut that may need a few stitches or even a broken bone, Next Level Urgent Care can provide the same care and treatment as an emergency department but with one pretty significant difference: cost. For insured patients, Urgent Care patient portions can be 5-10 times less expensive than the patient responsibility at an ER. For example: Urgent Care copay is $50 whereas ER copay is $250. For patients without insurance, the difference can be even greater. For an acute episode of back pain, the Next Level discounted price for payment at the time of treatment is $155 whereas the same Sore Throat, Fever or the Flu? Excel Urgent Care is Here For You! (It’s Cheaper and Faster) Board Certified Physicians providing the following services & more: E SS RD • Non life threatening acute adult and pediatric medical care • School and Sports physicals • Occupational medicine and work related services • Drug Screening and alcohol testing • Digital X-ray services on-site • Electronic prescriptions for your convenience SPR 281-829-9900 PR CY GIN Cypress Open Everyday 9am - 9pm N 8 6 Interstate Katy 10 8 (EXCEPT MAJOR HOLIDAYS) 19450 Katy Fwy. Katy, TX 77084 Your Neighborhood Urgent Care Center 59 10 8 Interstate 45 288 Missouri City The cost-effective alternative to the emergency room. At Next Level Urgent Care, everything is designed around your comfort and convenience. Forever Families Foster Care And Adoption Home And Community Based HCS/TxHml Provider Services www.forfam.org Forever Families, Inc. is a 501(c3) non-profit entity whose mission is to provide children with a safe, nurturing and educational environment through connections with families that last forever. Their vision is to educate and involve communities to invest in the future through adoption. Forever Families is currently composed of Forever Families Foster Care and Adoption and A Forever Families Day Habilitation Service. Forever Families implements both the Home and Community-Based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living Programs (TxHml). Collectively these organizations contribute to providing foster, adoptive and special needs children and adults services they need. Forever Families offers the ultimate care to each individual and their guardian’s, foster parents/companions and staff. Additionally, HOUSTON 92 Conveniently located in front of Garden Ridge (I-10 and Fry) treatment in an ER could run over $1000. The biggest difficulty for patients right now is discerning the ERs from the Urgent Cares. Many freestanding ERs use the words urgent care but still charge at ER rates. Before signing yourself in, be sure to ask if the clinic you are choosing charges at ER rates or Urgent Care rates. Next Level Urgent Care NEVER bills as an ER and only charges you what your insurance states you owe for Urgent Care Services. 59 290 FRY RD www.excelurgentcare.com Interstate 45 • Easy check-in process • Comfortably appointed exam rooms and soothing decor • Treatment for conditions that need immediate attention but are not life threatening (i.e., coughs, earaches, sprains, broken bones, sutures) Visit NextLevelUrgentCare.com Sugar Land 16902 Southwest Freeway, Suite 108 Sugar Land, TX 77479 (832) 342-9205 Sienna Plantation 8720 Highway 6, Suite 400 Missouri City, TX 77459 (832) 342-9204 Long Meadow 7101 W. Grand parkway S., Suite 180 Richmond, TX 77407 (832) 304-2309 All insurances accepted Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. - 7 days a week. FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 67 tially funded by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Service. HCS/TxHml provides services and support to eligible individuals with intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities or related conditions through Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) Waiver Programs. Services are provided to persons living in their family’s home, their own home, foster or other community settings, such as small group homes where no more than three persons may live. A Forever Families Day Habilitation is a setting that offers daytime services to individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or other related conditions who live in the community as an alternative to adult day care. Services are conducted Monday through Friday. These services address physical, mental, medical and social needs. HealthSouth Offers a Higher Level of Care. Here’S How. Patients and families at HealthSouth Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital hear a lot about a higher level of care. What does this mean to you? Our rehabilitation teams work with patients and their families, providing superior care with quality outcomes to return patients to maximum independence at home and in the community. 1325 Highway 6 • Sugar Land, TX 77478 281 276-7574 • Fax 1 866 429-3485 www.healthsouthsugarland.com The Joint Commission Disease-Specific Care Certification in Hip Fracture Rehabilitation and Stroke Rehabilitation The only inpatient rehabilitation hospital in Fort Bend County. ©2014:HealthSouth Corporation:484468-03 To a patient recovering from an illness, injury or surgery, a higher level of care means: • Personalized goals for a faster return home • Comprehensive team approach to rehabilitative care • Advanced technologies for the latest treatments • Physician visits every day • Three hours of therapy over a day, five days a week • 24-hour certified rehabilitation nursing care Moving Medical Tips 1 in this publication to get information. Call the offices of all your current physicians/dentists and tell them that you are moving. Ask for 2 referrals they might be willing to make. If you have already selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician to forward copies of 3 the records of each of your family members to your new doctor. If you have not yet selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician/dentist to make cop4 ies of pertinent records of all your family members for you to take with you. Pack these records If you have a special healthcare need or requirement, refer to and call the healthcare advertisers in your suitcase, not in the moving van, so they will be readily available in case of an emergency. 5 move. You cannot enroll your children in local schools without these records. You will also need It is extremely important that you get the immunization records for your children before you certified copies of your children’s birth certificates as well as the addresses of your children’s former schools. 6 notify the company of your moving plans. The insurance company should be able to provide you If you are a member of a healthcare HMO/PPO plan, or have a prescription drug card, be sure to with a list of physicians/ healthcare facilities in the area. 7 thermometer, pain killer or aspirin, antihistamine, first-aid ointment, tweezers and decongestant Pack an emergency first aid kit to take en route to your new home. Items such as bandages, can come in handy. 8 they might be willing to make. Don’t forget your pets. Contact your veterinarian for copies of their records. Ask for referrals Forever Families provides free training to foster and adoptive parents, free FBI fingerprints and discount adoption attorney fees. Forever Families Foster Care and Adoption offers a full range of services for adoptive parents. These include pre-adoptive home screening, pre-placement visits, pre-adoption consummation activities, counseling services, post-placement supervision and post-adoption services. Forever Families is par68 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE HealthSouth Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital www.healthsouth.com HealthSouth Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital provides an average of 3 hours of therapy a day, five out of seven days a week depending on the patient’s level. They use a team approach and have a physician on site that makes daily rounds. The average length of stay for a stroke patient is 14 days with 85% or more of the patients being discharged to home. In addition, new technology-based therapy is offered utilizing specialized computer equipment like the auto ambulator, and upper extremity therapy interventions like the bioness, dynamic wrist hand splinting stations and gait assessment training systems. While the incidents of stroke may be on the rise, HealthSouth is working hard to make sure those who experience a stroke get the therapy they need to return home and maintain an independent lifestyle. HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Sugar Land is a 50 (private) bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital that provides a higher level of rehabilitative care to patients who are recovering from stroke and other neurological disorders, brain and spinal cord injury, amputations, orthopedic, cardiac and pulmonary conditions. Accredited by The Joint Commission as a Stroke Certified Rehabilitation Hospital the hospital is located at 1325 Highway 6 (next to Lifetime Fitness) and can be found on the Web at www.healthsouthsugarland. com. Or Call Lisa Collins the Director of Marketing Operations at 281-276-7574 to arrange a tour and or for more details. HealthSouth is the nation’s largest provider of inpatient rehabilitative healthcare services. Operating in 26 states across the country and in Puerto Rico, HealthSouth serves patients through its network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, longterm acute care hospitals, outpatient rehabilitation satellites, and home health agencies. HealthSouth strives to be the nation’s preeminent provider of inpatient rehabilitative healthcare services and can be found on the Web. FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Business &Community F ort Bend County business is booming. New jobs have steadily been added and the gain is attributed to the diversification of industries: energy, health care, nationally known retailers and government are major employers. The commercial and retail development boom began in the early 1960s when population growth spread south from Houston along U. S. Highway 59. Office complexes, retail businesses and commercial centers rapidly moved into the area to support the burgeoning residential developments. The growth expanded into Meadows Place, Missouri City and Stafford with mid-rise buildings, warehouse complexes, and office parks springing up along the major thoroughfares of U. S. Highway 90, Highway 6, and Airport Boulevard. As the growth continued, the importance of planned development became evident. Creating a sound infrastructure to support the growth and attract future expansion was essential to the success the County enjoys today. The strategic planning of leaders past and present is credited with the broad business base that exists today. The pro-business climate is another outstanding achievement that was accomplished through the cooperation of the local governments, Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development Councils. The Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council and the Katy Area Economic Development Council have been instrumental in actively promoting a balance between a quality lifestyle, an excellent environment for business, and a healthy eco-system. Partnerships with the cities, school districts and community organizations along with private industry collaboration are key components of the county’s success. Credit: Larry Pullen Photography The residents are another important part of the county’s commercial success. The labor force is well educated with diverse occupational skills and significant professional experience. Impressive employment numbers have translated into a higher bottom line for families, which fuels the demand for more upscale housing and support services for residents and corporations alike. Job growth continues to increase in the robust economy and employees of small business as well as major corporations earn some of the highest wages in the country. In other words, “Success begets success,” and Fort Bend County leads the way. 2014 – 2015 Milestones • The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center is scheduled to open Summer 2015. • Sugar Land Performing Arts Center breaks ground Summer 2014 with expected opening in 2016. • Fluor Enterprises, Inc. has purchased a site of approximately 50 acres at southeast corner of U.S. Highway 59 and University Boulevard for their headquarters. • T.I. has selected a site at the northeast corner of Highway 59 and University Blvd in the Telfair commercial development area to construct a 160,000-square-foot office facility. Completion early 2014. WWW.HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM | 69 • Nalco Champion is constructing a new headquarters 133,000-square-foot building on the 18.5-acre site, and renovate its existing 45,000-square-foot Sugar Land office next to the new building. • Toll Brothers acquired 3,700 acres south of Sienna Plantation to develop 6,500 homes over the next 15 to 20 years. HBJ 2014 Landmark Award Nominees Fluor Enterprises purchase in Telfair development Igloo Katy East Distribution Center Katy Medical Plaza Newpark Technology Center Campus ORGANIZATIONS Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Credit: Fluor Major Employers Fort Bend ISD Lamar CISD Fluor Corporation Fort Bend County Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Schlumberger Technology Corp. Richmond State School United Parcel Service Texas Dept. of Criminal Justice (4 locations) Oak Bend Medical Center City of Sugar Land Texana Center Texas Instruments Nalco Company St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital Frito-Lay, Inc. Baker Hughes, Inc. Tyco Valves & Controls Fiserv Output Solutions Puffer-Sweiven Memorial Hermann - Sugar Land Hospital Tramontina National Oilwell Varco, Inc. Minute Maid FairfieldNodal Yokogawa Corp. of America Champion Technologies CSM Bakery Products, NA Hudson Products Sunoco Logistics Partners Flextronics Allied Concrete Thermo Process Instruments Houston Community College City of Katy Suntron Corporation Benedittini Cabinetry Information contributed by the Fort Bend Economic Development Council 70 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE www.FortBendChamber.com The Fort Bend Chamber is the largest single-county chamber in the Houston region and serves as the advocate for business excellence in Fort Bend County. We create, enhance and promote the thriving economic environment in which we work and live. Whether it is through the Education Division, Infrastructure Planning, Governmental Relations, Community Resources, Business and Professional Development, Economic Development, Healthcare or Members Services we bring value to our members. Graduates of the premier Fort Bend Leadership Forum program are serving in leadership positions throughout our community. The Leadership Excellence for Nonprofits builds organizational effectiveness within our philanthropic community. High school students have the unique opportunity to experience how volunteerism and philanthropy coexist to serve the community in our Youth in Philanthropy program. Fort Bend Volunteers provides a county-wide calendar of events and a place for our community to serve. The Chamber Young Professionals Division will ensure that the Chamber is delivering value to the future leaders of Fort Bend County. Through the Fort Bend Convention Visitors Services we provide our visitors and new residents resources that highlight the great amenities and attractions in Fort Bend County. Under the Chamber’s banner, the Farmers Market at Imperial operates year round and is the largest certified farmers market in Texas. Not to be outdone and celebrating its eleventh year, the Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair attracts thousands of wine and food aficionados to our area each year. The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce is proud to serve one of America’s most dynamic and fastest growing counties, where success is just around the Bend. Fort Bend Convention & Visitors Services Contact the visitors bureau at 281-491-0800 or www.fortbendchamber.org/tourism.asp. The Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council www.fortbendcounty.org www.fortbendcounty.com The Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council is a public-private partnership established in 1986 to promote economic vitality and to ensure quality development in Fort Bend County. The Council provides a wide array of information and services designed to help businesses, whether local, regional, national, or even international, identify, understand and then act upon the tremendous advantages and opportunities of relocating or expanding their commercial operations in Fort Bend County. The Council’s efforts contribute to the advancement of business, quality growth, and economic development so that the region’s vibrant economy will continue to expand, bringing the benefits of prosperity to every corner of the County. Visit www. fortbendcounty.org. Fulshear Economic Development Corporation Economic Development operates under two Economic Development Corporations (4A & 4B) and the Economic Development Department within the City of Fulshear. Business recruitment and retention is a main priority for the City, to service and balance the community as it experiences exponential growth. The EDCs prioritize the expenditure of funds for city beautification, infrastructure, drainage, lighting and other needed capital improvements. Fulshear has a small town atmosphere that has caught the heart of many and attracted residents from all around the world. This dynamic community maintains an excellent quality of life, fostering a vibrant business environment, making it the premiere address in Fort Bend County. For more information, call Economic Development Director, Cheryl Stalinsky, 281346-1796. The Grand Parkway Association www.grandpky.com The Grand Parkway is a proposed 180+ loop around metropolitan Houston. Portions of the highway from US59 South in Sugar Land, north to I-10W in Katy and on to US290 in Cypress are completed, open to traffic and ready for you to use. Several additional segments from US290 (Cypress) to SH249 (Tomball) to I-45N (Spring and The Woodlands) to US59 North (New Caney and Kingwood) are under construction with all three scheduled to be open to traffic in late 2015. The four lane highway will be restricted to EZPass holders and will handle 80,000 cars a day. The Grand Parkway, also known as State Highway 99, and is being developed by the Grand Parkway Association and TxDOT to meet the growing needs for improved transportation in the Houston metro region. Other segments on the south and east sides are in various phases of study or design and await funding decisions by local and or state leaders. Katy Area Chamber of Commerce www.katychamber.com The Katy Area Chamber of Commerce (KACC) is a voluntary organization of businesses and professionals who strengthen the Katy business community. KACC is the voice of commerce in the area and strives to promote a better understanding of the private enterprise system within its membership. The coordination of the efforts of local businesses, industry and professionals form the basis of a sound and healthy business climate through progressive programs designed to stimulate activities that provide full development and employment of Katy’s human and economic resources. KACC’s creative business leadership initiates constructive community action. The Katy Area Chamber of Commerce also seeks to promote the great opportunities, advantages and assets of the community across the country and around the world. Contact KACC at 281-391-5289 or visit www.katychamber.com. Katy Area Economic Development Council www.katyedc.org The mission of Katy Area EDC is to establish the Katy Area as the premier location for families and businesses through planned economic growth and development. Near enough to Houston to benefit from its assets and resources but far enough away to nurture a safe, comfortable family-focused community lifestyle, Katy’s greatest competitive strength is its commitment to cultivating the bright minds, spirit and energy that fuels today’s progress and inspires tomorrow’s innovation. For business start-ups, business relocations or expansions, Katy is strategically located and tactically equipped to offer companies, investors and developers an impressive field of benefits to help build, grow and prosper: • Katy Independent School District. Home to one of the state’s most acclaimed school districts – it is a guaranteed magnet for companies, employees and recruitment firms seeking high quality education for their children. • Three Counties. Three Cities. The size and scope of the Katy Area footprint incorporates a variety of living and lifestyle options including award-winning master planned communities, robust resources and recreational and entertainment choices to help businesses attract and retain excellence. • Location. Located on Interstate 10, and just 20 miles west of Houston, Katy offers companies and residents the benefits of proximity to urban amenities and conveniences, access to deep talent pools and resources, and the accessibility necessary for the affordable movement of people, goods and services. • Energy Corridor. Home to the world’s major energy companies, and a variety of compatible industry clusters, the Energy Corridor is on the perimeter of and part of the Katy Area – closer to Katy than Houston for a reason: we are where their leadership and employees want to live and raise their families and we are where their companies can grow their potential. Visit www.katyedc.org to discover resources that tell the Katy story – ripe with opportunity and brimming with benefits designed to help businesses grow and prosper. Orchard Economic Development Council The Orchard Economic Development Corporation was formed in May 2004 to focus on the well-being of the community. Educating companies about the advantages of relocating to the small town and improving the city’s capability to attract new business is the philosophy of the Orchard EDC. For more information, call 979478-6893. The Stafford Economic Development Corporation www.cityofstafford.com The City of Stafford has been promoting economic development for over forty years, the first in Fort Bend County to do so, resulting in one of the strongest, most diverse economies per capita in the State. The Stafford Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) was initiated in 1999 to promote and expand commerce and to finance projects enhancing economic development. The Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre and Convention Centre and the major improvements and amenities to US 90A are two of the SEDC’s noteworthy projects. The SEDC endeavors to bring exemplary economic development projects to the City of Stafford. Sugar Land Economic Development Council www.sugarlandecodev.com. Located 20 miles southwest of Houston, the City of Sugar Land has one of the most favorable business climates in U.S. This master-planned city has achieved its sustainable, strong local economy through a strategically focused and aggressive economic development program creating new wealth and jobs. This city of over 79,000 residents has a well-deserved reputation as one of the top locales for business relocation and expansion, due to an educated workforce, excellent access to the Gulf Coast Region and one of the lowest tax rates in Texas. As a regional employment center, the City is home to numerous high-profile regional and international corporations housed in over 23 million square feet of commercial space, including Minute Maid, Schlumberger, Fluor Corporation, Bechtel EO and Aetna. In addition, the Sugar Land Regional Airport provides corporate aviation services with US Customs to over 100 Fortune 500 corporations, and the facility is ranked the number one FBO in the Americas. FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 71 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Entertainment &Events F ort Bend County residents have the best of both worlds - excellent recreational facilities plus entertainment at home and a short drive to Houston with even more enjoyable venues. Museums are favorite destinations for those who want to explore the rich culture of the area. Trains, dinosaurs and Texas history are all on display at area museums. Contact the Fort Bend Museum Association to learn more at www. fortbendmuseum.org. The Brazos River and its tributaries, small lakes and streams are wonderful spots for sportsmen and naturalists alike. With the county’s gently rolling terrain, lovely wooded areas, and an abundance of wildlife, residents can enjoy the same outdoor activities that draw nature-based tourism from across the United States. Bird watching, wildlife viewing, hiking, horseback riding, bik- 72 | WWW.HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM Credit: Sugar Creek Country Club ing, and boating are increasingly popular with urban residents who want to connect to the outdoors. Fort Bend County’s eight parks are great places for leisurely, low cost getaways. For more information, call 281-835-9419. The Gulf Coast has numerous state parks, too. Contact the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department at 800-792-1112 or visit www.tpwd.state.tx.us. For day trips, consider visiting the NASA Johnson Space Center and Space Center Houston that draw crowds from around the world. The picturesque port town of Galveston is a relaxing seaside destination that is only an hours drive away. Further south are the delightful coastal towns of Freeport, Rockport, Port Aransas and Corpus Christi. To the north and west is Austin, the state capital, San Antonio with historic missions, and the extraordinary Texas Hill Country. Every newcomer to Houston should know about all of the many annual events that take place in the Greater Houston area. The Azalea Trail Credit: GHCVB The Freedom Over Texas Festival Area Attractions Credit: GHCVB The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is held each February/March at Reliant Park, and attracts some of the nation’s most popular entertainers and country music stars as well as cowboys from around the world who compete for millions in prize money. The finest cattle, horses, chickens, pigs and other livestock are exhibited throughout the month, and many FFA students earn college scholarships with their award-winning animals. For those who enjoy gardening, the River Oaks Garden Club hosts The Azalea Trail, a tour of magnificent homes and gardens in River Oaks, Tanglewood and other fine Houston neighborhoods during the month of March. The Art Car Parade, a production of the Orange Show Foundation, is held each spring when fanciful cars decorated by artists from across the country congregate along the banks of Buffalo Bayou and wind through the streets into downtown Houston. The patriotic Freedom Over Texas festival happens every July 4th with live music, food, arts and crafts, and an award winning fireworks display. Newcomers will enjoy learning about the many diverse cultures that make up the city at the many fall festivals like the Greek Festival and the Italian Festival. Diverse Christmas and Holiday Season celebrations take place across the region that are colorful and entertaining and, often times, raise money for charitable causes. These are only a few of the larger events and each city offers celebrations and festivals throughout the year. The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo The Art Car Parade runs, public art works, and two restaurants are only a few of the attractions. www.discoverygreen.com/713-400-7336 Hermann Park Houston Garden Center Includes 90 varieties of roses, 2,722 plants, a Bulb Garden, a Fragrant Garden, a Perennial Garden, a Camellia Garden, a Friendship Pavilion, and an International Sculpture Garden. 713-284-1989 Houston Zoo The Houston Zoo is a 55-acre zoological park housing over 4,500 animals and is a fun and unique experience bringing the natural world to the heart of Houston. The $6 million John P. McGovern Children’s Zoo features the six ecosystems of Texas and many interactive, hands-on exhibits. Visit the zoo’s website for daily animal feeding schedules. 713-533-6500 Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark With its huge array of awesome aquatic adventures, Schlitterbahn Galveston Island can be your personal happy place! During the summer season the park offers over 32 amazing rides and attractions. The Heated Indoor Season, October through mid-April, features more than a dozen heated attractions in a tropical, heated indoor oasis. www.schlitterbahn.com/409-770-WAVE Bayou Bend Collection & Gardens Bayou Bend, the magnificent home of Miss Ima Hogg, is best known for her superb collection of American decorative arts, innovative architecture, and breathtaking gardens. 713-639-7750 Discovery Green Downtown Houston’s great 12-acre park has its own one-acre lake. A children’s playground, an amphitheater stage and slope for live entertainment, dog 74 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Mercer Arboretum & Botanical Gardens A 300 acre oasis along Cypress Creek, is a horticultural masterpiece that houses the region’s largest collection of native and cultivated plants along with an abundance of wildlife that thrive in the area. 281-443-8731 Moody Gardens, Galveston Explore the all new Rainforests of the World along with the Aquarium Pyramid, the Discovery Museum & the action of the IMAX 3D, 4D or Ridefilm theaters. www.moodygardens.org/800-582-4673 Texas Renaissance Festival, Oct. 12 – Dec. 1, Plantersville, TX One of the nation’s largest weekend renaissance theme parks in the country celebrates 16th Century life with magicians, jugglers, minstrels, troubadours and comedians, food demonstrations, arts and crafts, and more. www.texrenfest. com/800-458-3435 Credit: GHCVB Credit: GHCVB Houston Symphony-Credit: GHCVB Jones Hall Home of the Houston Symphony and Society for the Performing Arts. 713-227-3974 / www.joneshall.org. Main Street Theater Holds acting classes for children and adults, and mounts productions authored both locally and by established writers. 713-524-6706 / www.mainstreetheatre.com. Hobby Center-Credit: GHCVB Theater District Alley Theatre Gleaming white concrete and contemporary in design, the award winning Alley is home to one of the oldest and most significant resident theater companies in the United States. 713-228-8421/ www.alleytheatre. com. Stages Repertory Theater Produces daring and innovative plays focusing on new off-Broadway hits and world premieres. 713-527-0123 / www.stagestheatre.com. Wortham Theater Houston’s largest performing arts complex, is home to the Houston Ballet, Houston Grand Opera, Da Camera of Houston and Society for the Performing Arts. 713-558-8887 / www. worthamcenter.org. A.D. Players 713-526-2721 / www.adplayers.org. Bayou Place 713-221-8883 / www.bayouplace.com Hobby Center for the Performing Arts This arts complex is home to Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), and the Houston Broadway Series. 713-227-2001 / www.thehobbycenter.org. Broadway Series 713-622-7469 / www.broadwayseries.com Houston Ensemble Theater 713-520-0055 / www.ensemblehouston.com Houston Ballet 713-227-2787 / www.houstonballet.org Houston Grand Opera 713-227-2787 / www.houstongrandopera.org Houston Symphony 713-224-7575 / www.houstonsymphony.com Photo courtesy of Sugar Land Skeeters Miller Outdoor Theatre 713-284-8350 / www.houstonparks.org Society for the Performing Arts 713-227-4SPA / www.spahouston.org Wortham Theater-Credit: GHCVB Dancer Mireille Hassenboehler-Credit: GHCVB Theatre Under the Stars 713-558-8887 / www.tuts.com FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 75 SPORTS Sports Houston’s National Sports Teams Museum District Museum of Fine Arts-Credit: GHCVB The fine arts–both classic and contemporary–are displayed for all to see at galleries and museums in what has become aptly known as the Museum District. Major museums in the district are within walking distance of each other along tree-lined streets brimming with tantalizing restaurants, small parks and shops. Museum of Fine Arts, Houston The Museum of Fine Arts and its companion school, The Glassell School of Art, the Contemporary Arts Museum and the C.G. Jung Educational Center all hold international treasures. Children’s Museum A duck pond, playhouse, grocery store, Mexican village, puppet shows and an infant play area are all under one roof. This fun-filled, hands-on experience will not leave anyone bored. Houston Museum of Natural Science Looking for a little adventure? This museum caters to both adults and children with its Cockrell Butterfly Center, the Burke Baker Planetarium and the Wortham IMAX Theatre. Menil Collection Houston’s world-renowned private museum with satellite installations including the Rothko Chapel, the Byzantine Fresco Chapel Museum, the Cy Twombly Gallery and Richmond Hall. McGovern Museum of Health & Medical Science The tour begins with a stroll through a Texas-sized human being. Features video and live theater productions, hands-on science classes and demonstrations, traveling exhibitions, and summer camps. The .The NFL’s Houston Texans are the city’s professional football team, and 2014 marks their 13th season. The team is the 2011 and 2012 AFC South Division champion. Bob McNair, owner of the Houston Texans, and Head Coach Bill O’Brien are putting together an exciting new roster for the upcoming season. Expect to see some familiar faces and new talent on the field when the team takes the field at Reliant Stadium. Houston is a great town for football fans to enjoy the grid iron action – both on and off the field. Tailgating is popular on game day, and many fans gather in the parking lots for the pre-game festivities. Numerous local sports bars hold special events on game days. The Houston Astros, the 2005 NL Champions, play their regular season at Minute Maid Park. Owner Jim Crane and Manger Bo Porter have big plans for the team. The legendary Nolan Ryan has also joined the Astros as an executive advisor after selling his interests in the Texas Rangers. The 2014 baseball season promises to be the turning point in the history of the Astros. The ballpark, once a landmark Houston railroad depot, is one of the few stadiums in the country with a retractable roof. In keeping with the Houston landmark, a model train runs along the infield of the stadium. The ballpark has energized the surrounding blocks with hip new restaurants, clubs and music venues. The hometown basketball team, the Houston Rockets, are two-time world basketball champions, and are regular challengers in playoff action. A number of star players have been on the Rockets’ roster. Kevin McHale coaches the team owned by Houston businessman Les Alexander. Their home court, the Toyota Center is also in downtown Houston, and is amongst the best arenas in the U.S. The Houston Dynamo, 2006 and 2007 MLS Champions, play at the newly constructed BBVA Compass Stadium in downtown Houston. The Dynamos joined the line-up of Houston’s professional sports teams in 2005. Soccer fans have lots to cheer about in the architecturally acclaimed new stadium where their team continues to rank well both at home and internationally. The Art Car Museum 713-861-5526 / www.artcarmuseum.com Asia Society Texas Center 713-496-9901 / www.asiasociety.org Bayou Bend Collection 713-639-7750 / www.bayoubend.uh.edu Blaffer Gallery-U of H 713-743-9530 / www.blaffergallery.org Contemporary Arts Museum 713-284-8250 / www.camh.org DiverseWorks 713-223-8346 /www.diverseworks.org Holocaust Museum Houston 713-942-8000 / www.hmh.org Houston Center for Contemporary Craft 713-529-4848 / www.crafthouston.org Houston Center for Photography 713-529-4755 / www.hcponline.org Lawndale Art and Performance Center 713-528-5858 / www.lawndaleartcenter.org The Buffalo Soldier National Museum and Heritage Center 713-942-8920 / www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com The Health Museum 713-521-1515 / www.mhms.org 76 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Credit: Houston Dynamo Same Great Game 2014 Atlantic League All-Star Game at Constellation Field • July 16, 2014 Tickets: $25 Secure your SeATS ToDAy! Fun New Promotions Visit the Sugar Land Skeeters website or call for game schedule & promotions www.SugarLandSkeeters.com | 281.240.4487 BUY ONE GET ONE Free Individual Field Box Seats Valid for Skeeters home games only. (Excludes 7/3 & 7/16) Cannot combine coupon with other offers. Must redeem at the Skeeters Box Office. No cash value. Shopping in Fort Bend Brazos Town Center Reading Rd & Us-59, Rosenberg TX 77471 Colony Square 16762 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land TX 77479 First Colony Mall 16535 Southwest Fwy Ste 520 Sugar Land, TX 77479-2324 Lacenterra at Cinco Ranch 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Katy, TX 77494 Lake Pointe Town Center U.S. 59 at Highway 6, Sugar Land, TX 77479 Missouri City Shopping Center 5950 Highway 6 Missouri City, TX 77459-4162 Murphy Road Shopping Center 510 Murphy Rd, Stafford, TX 77477 First Colony Marketplace 3350 Highway 6, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Plaza Shopping Center 2816 Avenue H, Rosenberg, TX 77471 Fort Bend Town Center SWC Ft. Bend Pkwy. & Hwy. 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 Riverpark Shopping Center 20030 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land TX 77479 Fountains on the Lake 12520 Fountain Lake Cir, Stafford TX 77477 Highland Square 3219 Highway 6, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Katy Mills 5000 Katy Mills Cir, Katy, TX 77494 Sugar Land Town Square Us-59 & Highway 6, Sugar Land TX 77479 Town Center Lakeside Us-59 & Highway 6, Sugar Land, TX 77479 Williams Trace Shopping Center Highway 6 & Williams Trace Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 77 Credit: George Ranch Histrical Park George Ranch Historical Park The historic 23,000-acre working ranch features an 1830’s log cabin, Civil War-era farm house, restored Victorian mansion, blacksmith shop and original barns and shop buildings. Living history portrayals of pioneer life take place in life-like vignettes. www.Georgeranch.org. ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Fort Bend Boys Choir The nationally acclaimed Fort Bend Boys Choir with more than 200 members performs music from all genres for enthusiastic audiences year round. The talented boys are selected for their love of song and dedication to perfecting their musical abilities. The Choir gives concerts throughout the year and tours nationally and abroad. www.fbbctx.org. Fun In Fort Bend Credit: Houston Musseum of Natural Science Fort Bend offers almost every kind of entertainment and recreational activity PARKS Brazos Bend State Park 21901 FM 762, Needville Carved from the banks of the Brazos River, the 4,897-acre park is filled with wildlife, beautiful century old trees and lovely streams and lakes. Activities are centered on fishing and water sports. The campgrounds are linked by nature trails to screened shelters, bathroom facilities and picnic areas. www.tpwd.state.tx.us Credit: Eric Pohl 78 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE The Challenger Center is located on the grounds and honors the seven Challenger astronauts who lost their lives exploring space. Operating in conjunction with the George Observatory and the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the center expands the traditional classroom experience to inspire students to explore space. www.hmns.org / 979-553-5101 Fort Bend Museum Colorful exhibits documenting the history of Fort Bend County, historic home museums and walking tours of Richmond are all part of the Fort Bend Museum experience. Visitors can follow the journey of the “Old 300” who received land grants from Mexico and their leader, Stephen F. Austin, to settle the first Anglo community in Texas. The Texas Historical Commission has proclaimed the Fort Bend Museum “one of Texas’ best local history showcases.” www.fortbendmuseum.org Fort Bend Theatre Non-profit group organized exclusively for arts and education and offers children’s theatre for young audiences. www.fortbendtheatre.com Credit: Fort Bend Theatre Credit: Railroad Museum Railroad Museum The history of railroad is preserved through the extensive collection of memorabilia on display. Restored locomotives and cars are on display and bring the romance of the railroads to life. www.rosenbergmuseum.org George Memorial Library The George Memorial Library is the main library of the Fort Bend County Library System. Seven branches, the County Law Library and online access are managed by the system. The Joe Grillo Science Center, Jodie E. Stavinoha Amphitheater, the Distance Learning Center are on the grounds. www.fortbend.lib.tx.us Credit: FBSO-Coleman Locke Sugar Land Ice and Sports Center For all activities on the ice, skating parties and classes for all ages. www. garlandice.com Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra Live symphonic music performed by 60 talented musicians performing concerts from pops to classical music. www.fbso.org Great Southwest Equestrian Center The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show draws international talent to the annual event each spring. Classes, equine events and community functions are regularly hosted on the grounds. www.gswec.com Houston Museum of Natural Science Once a prison, the remodeled building has four galleries, permanent installations and popular exhibits from the main facility in the Museum District of Houston. www.æhmns.org Imperial Performing Arts & Imperial Theatre Local actors, singers, musicians and dancers have joined together to produce a variety of performances that always entertain their audiences. www.imperialperformingarts.com Credit: Sugar Land Skeeters Skeeters Minor League Baseball One of America’s most popular sports has come to Sugar Land. Skeeters’ games offer affordable family fun at the new state-of-the-art Constellation Field. The facility was built for the team yet it is versatile enough to host concerts and special events. www.sugarlandskeeters.com FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 79 JULY ANNUAL EVENTS JUNE-DECEMBER JUNE Sugar Land Historic Walking Tours Walking tour of Sugar Land’s historic district. The tours are guided by a local historian. Second Saturday of each month, 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Reservations required. www.slheritage.org Freedom Over Texas SEPTEMBER Flag Day For more information about patriotic events and festivities, log on to www.fortbendcalendar.com. Golf Classic - June 16 Golf tournament supporting The Arc of Fort Bend County. Foursome teams available. Dinner and live auction following golf. Weston Lakes Country Club. www.arcoffortbend.org Juneteenth and Emancipation Day, June 19 Celebrations of African American heritage includes parades, and blues, jazz and gospel music performances at Miller Outdoor Theatre, 713-529-4195. Details of Fort Bend events can be accessed at www. fortbendcalendar.com. Fort Bend County Fair & Livestock Show OCTOBER Texian Market Days NOVEMBER Golfer’s Challenge DECEMBER JANUARY Candlelight Tours 80 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE JULY July 4th Celebrations Big Backyard BBQ and Fireworks – La Centerra Katy Freedom Celebration - Katy Mills Mall Star Spangled Spectacular – Constellation Field Freedom Over Texas – Eleanor Tinsley Park Freedom Rings Concert presented by the Fort bend Symphony Orchestra – Stafford Centre AUGUST Music Fest An irresistible celebration of life’s simple pleasures: food, wine and music. Concertgoers indulge in the best acts of today and yesterday, supporting the programs and services provided by the Fort Bend County Women’s Center. www.fortbendwomenscenter.org Red, White and Blue Jean Bash – Aug. 23 West Fort Bend Women’s Charity holds raises much needed funds for charitable organizations that assist those in need. www.wfbwc.org SEPTEMBER Garden Art & Plant Sale - TBA Sponsored by the Sugar Land Garden Club, the sale offers plants, seeds, decorative accessories and garden art. Proceeds are used within the community for scholarships, local charities, environmental education, maintenance of public gardens and more. www.sugarlandgardenclub.org. Fort Bend County Fair & Livestock Show Sept. 26 – Oct. 5 Parade of marching bands and drill teams kick-off the fair and rodeo. One of the largest county fairs in Texas, carnival rides, live entertainment, dances are only part of the fun. Cowboys compete for prize money in action packed roping and riding events that draws over 200,000 visitors each year. www. fortbendcountyfair.com OCTOBER Texian Market Days – Oct. 25 The Texian Market Days & Festival includes battle re-enactments, live music, historical foods and children’s activities. Activities will be held at the 1830s Jones Stock Farm site, the 1860s Ryon Prairie Home site, the 1890s Davis Victorian Mansion, and the 1930s George Cattle Complex and Village areas. www.TexianMarketDays.com NOVEMBER 14th Annual Bike the Bend – Nov. 24 Bike the Bend is a BP MS 150 recommended ride. Supporting Bike the Bend benefits the Literacy Council, an organization that assists adults who are committed to improving their literacy skills. www. ftbendliteracy.org Sugar Plum Market – Nov. 7 & 8 The Fort Bend Junior Service League and Methodist Sugar Land Hospital sponsor the shopping extravaganza, raffle, and Fashion Show and Luncheon. The market benefits local charities. Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre and Convention Center, Stafford. www.sugarplummarket.com Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Golfer’s Challenge Golfer’s and non-golfers can participate in this annual Fort Bend Chamber event. Opportunities for networking, hole sponsorships and supporting members are available. For more information contact Jan-Michael Jenkins at 281-491-0218 or jan@ fortbendcc.org. DECEMBER Candlelight Tours – Dec. 6 & 7 The Fort Bend Museum Docents host a beautiful holiday event at the Candlelight Tours of the Moore Home that is decorated for the holidays and set aglow in candlelight. Call 281-342-6478. Campfire Christmas – TBA The historic, down-home celebration and holiday feast with all the trimmings and a wagon ride through the park to the Jones Stock Farm, the Davis Victorian Mansion, and the Cowboy Camp. George Ranch Historical Park. www.georgeranch.org Miracle on Morton Street – TBA Festive family celebration held in conjunction with the Candlelight Tour. 310 Morton Street, Richmond. www.miracleonmortonstreet.com CASA Christmas Home Tour – TBA Six beautifully decorated homes are on the tour to benefit Child Advocates of Fort Bend. Enjoy local entertainment and sample refreshments along the way. www.cafb.org. Christmas in Rosenberg – TBA The streets of historic Rosenberg capture the holiday spirit with a carnival area, shopping, entertainment, and great food. Historic Downtown Rosenberg, 2nd to 4th St. between Avenues F & H. www.RosenbergEvents.com Golf Courses Public and Private golf courses offer a variety of services and amenities to create the ultimate golf experience for any player. Join Riverbend and get in on the Excitement! 2012 Sugar Land Sun’s Readers Choice for Best Private Club and Best Golf Course! Riverbend Country Club Located just passed Beltway 8 and I-59 PRIVATE Brae Burn Country Club .............. 713-774-8788 The Club at Falcon Point............... 281-392-7888 Fort Bend Country Club............... 281-342-8368 Houstonian Golf & Country Club .281-494-4244 Pecan Grove Golf Course.............. 281-342-9940 Riverbend Country Club............281-491-2552 www.riverbendcountryclub.org Shadow Hawk Golf Club .............. 281-494-3533 Sugar Creek Country Club ........... 281-494-9135 Sweetwater Country Club ............ 281-980-4653 Weston Lakes Country Club ........ 281-346-1228 Westwood Golf Club...................... 713-774-3011 Willow Fork Country Club.......... 281-579-6611 Membership Benefits: • Championship Golf Course • Golf Leagues, Events and Match Play • Four Lighted Outdoor Tennis Courts and Private Instruction • Olympic Size Swimming Pool, Patio and Fire Pit • State-of-the-Art Fitness Facility • Private Event Rooms, Dining and Planned Social Events Contact Tricia Hawks at 281.269.2526 • [email protected] www.RiverbendCountryClub.org PUBLIC Columbia Lakes Resort & Conference Center......................... 979-345-5151 The Golf Club at Cinco Ranch...... 281-395-4653 Greatwood Golf Club..................... 281-343-9999 Meadowbrook Farms .................... 281-693-4653 Quail Valley Golf Course.............. 281-403-5900 www.golfquailvalley.com River Pointe Golf Club.................. 281-343-9995 Sienna Plantation Golf Club......... 281-778-4653 FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 81 Restaurants Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Members Hooters................................................. 281-242-9464. 12759 Southwest Freeway Stafford TX 77477 www.hooterstexas.com Japaneiro’s Sushi Bistro & Latin Grill.281-242-1121. 2168 Texas Dr. Sugar Land TX 77479 www.japaneiro.com Jupiter Pizza and Waffle Company.... 281-313-1008. 16135 City Walk Sugar Land TX 77479 www.jupiterpizzaandwaffles.com Kelley’s Country Cookin’.................... 281-277-3367. 11555 West Airport Meadows Place TX 77477 www.kelleysrestaurant.com La Cocina Mexican Restaurant.......... 281-238-0872. 515 FM 359, Suite 100 Richmond TX 77469 www.lacocinarestaurant.com La Escondida Mexican Grill....................................... 281-403-3306.......................................................7270 Highway 6, Suite 500 Missouri City TX 77459 www.LaEscondidaGrill.com Aura Restaurant................................... 281-403-2872 15977 City Walk Sugar Land TX 77479 www.aura-restaurant.com Chick-fil-A at Sugar Land.................. 281-494-3800. 2330 Highway 6 S. Sugar Land TX 77479 www.cfasugarland.com Becks Prime Sugar Land Ltd.............. 281-242-6300 1822 Highway 6 Sugar Land TX 77478 Chili’s Bar & Grill................................ 281-499-0227. 5788 Highway 6 Missouri City TX 77459 www.chilis.com Berryhill Baja Grill.............................. 281-313-8226. 13703 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land TX 77478 www.berryhillbajagrill.com Big Ben Tavern..................................... 832-532-7855. 636 Highway 6, Suite 1000 Sugar Land TX 77478 www.thebigbentavern.com Brookstreet Barbecue.......................... 281-313-4000. 1418 Highway 6 S. Sugar Land TX 77478 Buffalo Wild Wings - Sugar Land..... 281-313-9464. 1401 Highway 6 Sugar Land TX 77478 www.buffalowildwings.com BurgerFi................................................ 281-494-1196 16535 SW Freeway, Suite 2610 Sugar Land TX 77479 www.burgerfi.com Capriotti’s............................................(281) 242-4300. 2228 Texas Dr. Sugar Land TX 77479 www.capriottis.com Casa de Brazos Mexican Restaurant and Cantina.......................................... 281-242-2272. 4514 Highway 6 S. Sugar Land TX 77478 Charlie’s Restaurant & Catering........ 281-499-2233. 1250 Texas Parkway Suite J. Stafford TX 77477 www.charliescatering.com Chick-fil-A at First Colony Mall....... 281-494-2500 16535 Southwest Freeway, Suite 520 Sugar Land TX 77479 Chick-fil-A at Missouri City.............. 281-261-7100. 6124 Highway 6 S. Missouri City TX 77459 www.cfamocity.com Chick-fil-A at Stafford........................ 281-564-0062. 12161 SW Freeway Stafford TX 77477 82 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Churrascos........................................... 832-532-5300 1520 Lake Pointe Pkwy, Suite 500 Sugar Land TX 77478 www.cordua.com Coal Vines............................................ 281-491-0464 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 100 Sugar Land TX 77478 www.coalvinesoftexas.com Denny’s / MC....................................... 281-208-2231. 6131 Highway 6 S. Missouri City TX 77459 Fadi’s Mediterranean Grill.................. 281-313-3144. 716 Highway 6 Sugar Land TX 77478 www.fadiscuisine.com Firehouse Subs..................................... 281-980-7827. 3135 Highway 6 S. Sugar Land TX 77478 www.firehousesubs.com Fort Bend Brewing Company............ 281-769-8618. 13370 South Gessner Rd. Missouri City TX.77489. www.fortbendbrewing.com Freaky Fast, Inc. DBA Jimmy John’s.. 281-265-0808. 2276 Lone Star Drive Sugar Land TX 77479 www.jimmyjohns.com French Fry Heaven.............................. 832-928-6264 16535 SW Freeway First Colony Mall - Food Court Sugar Land TX 77479 www.frenchfryheaven.com la Madeleine Country French Cafe... 281-494-4401. 2675 Town Center Blvd. Sugar Land TX 77479 www.lamadeleine.com Lasagna House III............................... 281-277-3400. 16089 City Walk Sugar Land TX 77479 www.lasagnahouse.com Locker Room Sports Bar and Grill.... 281-565-8795. 16227 Lexington Blvd Sugar Land TX 77479 www.lockerroomsugarland.com Longhorn Steakhouse......................... 281-240-1018. 16746 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land TX 77479 www.longhornsteakhouse.com Luby’s / Stafford................................... 281-568-0931. 10575 West Airport Blvd. Stafford TX 77477 www.lubys.com McDonald’s........................................... 832-328-1890. 9310 Highway 6 S. Houston TX 77083 Mosset Grill and Wine Bar................. 281-201-8296 14019 Southwest Freeway Suite 101 Sugar Land TX 77478 mossetwinebar.com Nothing Bundt Cakes......................... 281-491-2253. 1531 Highway 6, Suite 125 Sugar Land TX 77478. www.nothingbundtcakes.com Old Trading Post.................................. 281-545-8064. 9903 FM 2759 Richmond TX 77469 www.otpboothtx.com Panera Bread / SL................................ 281-242-7323 . 1928 Highway 6 Sugar Land TX 77478 www.paneratexas.com Fuddruckers, Inc.................................. 281-240-9414. 11445 Fountain Lake Drive Stafford TX 77477 Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza.. 281-494-0747 11609 S Highway 6 Sugar Land TX 77498 www.papamurphys.com Gringos................................................. 281-980-7482. 12330 Southwest Freeway Stafford TX 77477 www.gringosmexicankitchen.com Pepperoni’s........................................... 281-240-1020. 12807 Royal Dr., Suite 106 Stafford TX 77477 www.pepperonis.net Guru Burgers and Crepes................... 281-313-0026. 2268 Texas Dr. Sugar Land TX 77479 www.gurukitchen.com Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille................ 281-565-2727. 2115 Town Square Place Sugar Land TX 77479 www.perrysrestaurants.com PF Chang’s China Bistro..................... 281-313-8650. 2120 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land TX 77479 www.pfchangs.com Salata in Sugar Land Town Square.... 832-886-4582. 2170 Town Square Place Sugar Land TX 77479 www.Salata.com Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse........... 281-277-9292. 12000 SW Freeway Meadows Place TX 77477 www.tradicaobraziliansteak.com Pitchfork Bar & Steakhouse............... 281-494-1165. 12914 Murphy Rd Stafford TX 77477 www.pitchforksteakhouse.net Skeeter’s Mesquite Grill...................... 281-980-0066. 16535 Lexington Blvd. Sugar Land TX 77479 www.adairfamilyrestaurants.com Potbelly Sandwich Shops.................... 281-277-2515. 1815 Hwy 6 S Sugar Land TX 77478 www.potbelly.com Spring Creek Barbeque....................... 281-499-8222. 4895 Highway 6 Missouri City TX 77459 www.springcreekbarbeque.com Tucanos Brazilian Grill....................... 281-277-5477 16535 SW Freeway, Suite 2001 Sugar Land TX 77479 www.tucanos.com Ragin Cajun Seafood & Oyster Bar........................... 281-277-0704.....................................................16100 Kensington Dr., Suite 400 Sugar Land TX 77478 www.ragin-cajun.com Stadia Sports Grill............................... 281-265-4889. 2105 Lone Star Dr Sugar Land TX 77479 www.stadiagrill.com Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers......... 281-980-9860. 1529 Highway 6 Sugar Land TX 77478 www.raisingcanes.com Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers......... 281-497-7907. 3833 FM 1092 Road Missouri City TX 77459 www.raisingcanes.com Red Mango Cafe - Sugar Land........... 281-980-1074 16535 Southwest Freeway Suite 2600 Sugar Land TX 77479 www.redmangousa.com Rita’s Ice Custard Happiness.............. 267-664-5883 1226 Museum Square, Suite 600 Sugar Land TX 77479............................. http://ritasofsugarland.com Ruggles Green ..................................... 281-565-1175. 15903 City Walk Sugar Land TX 77479 www.rugglesgreen.com Sweet Tomatoes................................... 281-240-1400. 12540 Sugardale Dr. Stafford TX 77477 www.sweettomatoes.com Swinging Door..................................... 281-342-4758. 3818 FM 359 Richmond TX 77406 www.swingingdoor.com Swinging Door..................................... 281-342-4758. 3818 FM 359 Richmond TX 77406 www.swingingdoor.com Taco Cabana......................................... 281-499-2453. 5850 Highway 6 Missouri City TX 77459 Taco Cabana......................................... 281-980-9683. 16770 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land TX 77479 www.tacocabana.com Thai Cottage II..................................... 281-313-0707. 4723 Sweetwater Blvd. Sugar Land TX 77479 www.thai-cottage.com LOOKING FOR HOMES JUST GOT EASIER! Turquoise Grill & Bar.......................... 281-937-7481. 16019 City Walk Sugar Land TX 77479 www.turquoisegrill.us Veritas Steak & Seafood...................... 281-491-2901 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 500 Sugar Land TX 77478 www.veritassteakandseafood.com Whataburger........................................ 281-498-2248. 10315 Hwy 6 S. Sugar Land TX 77498 www.whataburger.com Whataburger........................................ 281-494-4298. 340 Highway 6 Sugar Land TX 77478 www.whataburger.com Willie’s Grill & Icehouse #6................ 281-242-2252. 945 Highway 6 Sugar Land TX 77478 Wings-N-Things.................................. 281-242-2999. 44531 F.M. 529, Suite 175 Houston TX 77095 3-6-9 Chinese Restaurant................... 281-242-6977 14025 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land TX 77478 Web | iPad | iPhone Android | Mobile The Most Accurate Listings Updated Every 15 Minutes FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 83 Advertiser’s Index APARTMENT LOCATORS Apartment Direction, Inc. ..................................21 www.houston-apartments.com APARTMENT HOMES Century Sienna Plantation .................................42 www.century-apartments.com Foundations at Austin Colony ...........................39 www.foundationsaustincolony.com Foundations at Edgewater...................................39 www.foundationsedgewater.com Foundations at Lionshead ..................................39 www.foundationslionshead.com Foundations at River Crest ................................39 www.foundationsrivercrest.com Regency at First Colony.......................................39 www.regencyfirstcolony.com BANKS/CREDIT UNIONS First Community Credit Union.........................51 www. FCCU.org Frost Bank............................................................. 51 www.frostbank.com BUILDERS Ashton Woods Homes........................................ 41 www.ashtonwoodshomes.com Chesmar Homes...................................................22 www.darlinghomes.com Darling Homes......................................................39 www.chesmar.com D.R. Horton...........................................................17 www.drhorton.com/Houston Emerald Homes....................................................17 www.emeraldhomes.com Highland Homes...................................................33 www.HighlandHomes.com KB Homes..............................................................40 www.kbhome.com M/I Homes...............................................................6 www.mihomes.com Newmark Homes Houston...................................5 www.newmarkhomes.com Perry Homes..........................................................37 www.PerryHomes.com Princeton Classic Homes.......................................9 www.PrincetonClassicHomes.com Trendmaker Homes..............................................25 www.trendmakerhomes.com Westin Homes.......................................................35 www.westin-homes.com CHURCHES First United Methodist Church Missouri City.........................................................61 www.fumcmc.org EDUCATION Cornerstone Christian Academy.......................57 www.cornerstonecca.org Fellowship Christian Academy...........................56 www.fellowshipchristianacademy.org Fort Bend Christian Academy............................57 www.fortbendchristian.org Harmony School of Science................................58 www.hsshouston.org / www.hsshigh.org 84 | FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE Learning Stages.....................................................58 www.learningstages.com Primrose Schools..................................................59 www.primroseschools.com St. Francis de Sales School...................................59 www.sfdsschool.org UHV - University of Houston Victoria.............61 www.uhv.edu Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy........60 www.westlakeprep.org Wharton County College...... Inside Front Cover www.wcjc.edu GIFTS, LANDSCAPING, NURSERIES Enchanted Forest..................................................43 Enchanted Garden................................................43 Enchanted Landscapes.........................................43 www.myenchanted.com HEALTH CARE Excel Urgent Care.................................................67 www.excelurgentcare.com Forever Families....................................................66 www.forfam.org Healthsouth Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital..................................................................68 www.healthsouthsugarland.com Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital First Colony...........................................................64 www.memorialhermannfirstcolony.com Methodist Sugar Land Hospital..........................65 www.methodistsugarland.com M.D. Anderson Sugar Land .................................3 www.mdanderson.org/locations/sugar-land/ index.html Next Level Urgent Care........................................67 www.NextLevelUrgentCare.com St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital........................... 63 www.StLukesSugarland.com HOME DECO Custom Decor.......................................................38 www.customdecorsolutions.com INSURANCE GEICO Sugar Land - Tom Maler.........................6 [email protected] Keller Williams Realty - Kimbra Valachovic....41 www.kimbrav.com Keller Williams Southwest................. Back Cover www.KWSW.com Martha Turner Properties.................................. 21 www.marthaturner.com RE/MAX Fine Properties - Kristi Bajjali...........38 www.kristibajjali.com RE/MAX Southwest - Jennifer Weaver.............33 www.JenniferWeaver.com Shelly Naiser Properties.......................................40 www.shelleynaiserproperties.com REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS Cross Creek Ranch...............................................19 www.CrossCreekTexas.com First Colony Community Association..............27 www.firstcolony.org Fulbrook.................................................................15 www.fulbrookhomes.com Long Meadow Farms............................................13 www.LongMeadowFarms.net Quail Valley...........................................................26 www.quailvalleyfund.org Riverstone............................................................. 11 www.riverstone.com Sienna Plantation....................................................1 www.siennaplantation.com RECREATION Quail Valley Golf Courses...................................81 www.golfquailvalley.com Riverbend Country Club.....................................81 www.RiverBendCountryClub.org Schlitterbahn ........................................................73 www.schlitterbahn.com Sugar Creek Country Club....................................7 www.thesugarcreek.com Sugar Land Skeeters..............................................77 www.SugarLandSkeeters.com Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair ................................Inside Back Cover www.SugarLandWineAndFoodAffair.com RESALE SHOPS Fort Bend County Women’s Center PennyWise Resale Centers..................................26 www.fortbendwomenscenter.org MUNICIPALITIES City of Meadows Place.........................................30 www.cityofmeadowsplace.org City of Richmond.................................................29 www.ci.richmond.tx.us City of Rosenberg................................................ 29 www.rosenbergevents.com SHOPPING CENTERS Brazos Town Center ............................................28 www.brazostowncenter.com REAL ESTATE & RELOCATION SERVICES Better Homes & Gardens Gary Greene Realtors.....................................................43 www.garygreene.com Cindy Lang – Keller Williams............................27 www.cindylanghomesforsale.com Hamilton Real Estate Company.........................31 www.hredc.net Heritage Texas Properties Fort Bend.................23 www.heritagetexas.com TV, INTERNET, PHONE & SECURITY Comcast / XFINITY.............................................45 www.comcast.com/moversedge TRANSPORTATION Fort Bend County Public Transportation............... 49 www.fbctransit.org Connect One ........................................................47 www.connectonesecurity.com UTILITIES TXU..........................................................................2 www.txu.com/mover 2015 8th-12th April April www.SugarLandWineandFoodAffair.com 713-SIP-WINE THE TIME TO DISCOVER THE UNEXPECTED FEATURES OF WATERFRONT LIVING ISN’T AFTER YOU’VE ALREADY CLOSED. If you’re looking to buy in Fort Bend, you need Keller Williams Southwest. From Katy to Sugar Land, our team of experienced agents know where, and more importantly, where not to buy. Let us guide you down the right path to finding your perfect home. Choose the area expert. Choose Keller Williams Southwest. • Market analysis experts • Luxury home division • High integrity belief system • Industry leader in growth • Continuous real estate education • Committed to the community • Located in the heart of Sugar Land • Over 200 qualified professionals to serve you • Top market share of Fort Bend County • Fastest-growing real estate firm in the nation 1650 HWY 6, STE 350, SUGAR LAND, TX 77478 281.265.0000 KWSW.COM KELWM-003 Branding Ad 7.5x10 MECH2.indd 3 10/9/13 3:33 PM