FORT BEND - Houston Newcomer Guides

Transcription

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.
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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
madie@houstonnewcomerguides.com
Project Manager
Jill Roe
Jill@houstonnewcomerguides.com
Marketing
Cecile Ruffino
cecile@houstonnewcomerguides.com
610
Long
Meadow
Farms
For additional copies or
advertising information
Michael P. Blalock
713-952-1916
mike@houstonnewcomerguides.com
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
sherri@houstonnewcomerguides.com
Contributing Editor and Writer
Kristen Jean Langerud
Art Department
Rebecca L. Cammack
Eliud Gonzales
art@houstonnewcomerguides.com
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
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 nscarbrough@thesugarcreek.com.
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
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
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
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Un B
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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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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Houston
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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
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.
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.
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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.
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FORT BEND NEWCOMER & RELOCATION GUIDE | 21
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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
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
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
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
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.
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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 pick-ups@fortbendwomenscenter.org
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
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
CindyLang@kw.com
www.cindylanhomesforsale.com
Keller Williams Premier Katy, TX
2013 Platinum Award winner
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
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
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
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
HamiltonRealEstateDevelop@gmail.com
832-631-0500
www.hredc.net
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
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
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
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
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
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
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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.
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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
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
Shelley@ShelleyNaiserProperties.com
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
Mary@ShelleyNaiserProperties.com
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
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
Riverstone
In Katy from $360s
Lakes of Bella Terra
In Sugar Land from $440s
Fieldstone
Sienna Plantation - close out
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.
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
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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.
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,
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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.
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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
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.
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
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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.
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.
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
Missouri City.................... www.missouri.tx.gov
City Hall.............................................. 281-403-8500
1522 Texas Parkway
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
Katy..........................................www.ci.katy.tx.us
City Hall ............................................. 281-391-4800
910 Ave C
Katy, TX 774943
Fire Department................................ 281-391-3500
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
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
Sugar Land........................www.sugarlandtx.gov
City Hall.............................................. 281-275-2700
2700 Town Center Blvd.
Fire Department................................ 281-275-2873
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
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.



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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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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
713-718-2900
Houston Community College – Stafford
10041 Cash Road
Stafford, TX 77477
713-718-7800
University of Houston – Cinco Ranch
4242 South Mason Road
Katy, TX 77050
713-718-5700
University of Houston – Sugar Land
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
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
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
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,
• 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
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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-
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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 • THawks@RiverbendCountryClub.org
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
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
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.
Buffalo Wild Wings - Sugar Land..... 281-313-9464.
www.buffalowildwings.com
BurgerFi................................................ 281-494-1196
16535 SW Freeway, Suite 2610
Sugar Land TX 77479
www.burgerfi.com
Capriotti’s............................................(281) 242-4300.
www.capriottis.com
Casa de Brazos Mexican Restaurant
and Cantina.......................................... 281-242-2272.
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
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
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.
www.fadiscuisine.com
Firehouse Subs..................................... 281-980-7827.
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.
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.
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 .
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.
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.
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.
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.
www.rugglesgreen.com
Sweet Tomatoes................................... 281-240-1400.
12540 Sugardale Dr. Stafford TX 77477
www.sweettomatoes.com
Swinging Door..................................... 281-342-4758.
www.swingingdoor.com
Swinging Door..................................... 281-342-4758.
www.swingingdoor.com
Taco Cabana......................................... 281-499-2453.
Taco Cabana......................................... 281-980-9683.
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.
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.
www.whataburger.com
Willie’s Grill & Icehouse #6................ 281-242-2252.
Wings-N-Things.................................. 281-242-2999.
44531 F.M. 529, Suite 175 Houston TX 77095
3-6-9 Chinese Restaurant................... 281-242-6977
Web | iPad | iPhone
Android | Mobile
The Most
Accurate Listings
Updated Every 15 Minutes
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
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
tmaler@geico.com
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

FORT BEND - Houston Newcomer Guides

Transcription

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