The woodlands vs Clearlake, TX Family Relocation (Houston, Galveston: real estate, 2014)

[SolarBaby]

Actually I have yet to hang on a Texas Beach...go figure!

[SolarBaby]

Originally Posted by texas7

Missed the part about working from home. In that case, its all personal preference as both are nice areas and both have good schools. Depends on what you enjoy in your free time. I prefer the Clear Lake area to that of the Woodlands but again, no reason in particular other than personal preference. I have family in the Woodlands area and they prefer it to the Clear Lake area.

If you are still around, I understand that you prefer the Clearlake area, but you did not mention why
Do share, I would love to hear what you like about the area and what you feel that it offers.
Hope you are still out there...

[SolarBaby]

@ bloodwings19

Disadvantage:
Unfriendly people (appearance)

Are you seeming they appear not to be friendly? I noticed, under advantages you said they are good neighbors; does that mean they actually area? Have I got this right , do explain if not...

[deckhanddavy]

Both offer unique living environments, so it really depends on your needs. I would choose Clear Lake because of the quick and beautiful access to the beaches, Kemah, Galveston and south bound venues. Lot's of exciting things happening on the weekends throughout the year, such as Dickens on the Strand, boat shows, great seafood eateries with live events/entertainment. Also, I find that it's a very laid back and easy going atmosphere. Things move a little slower...well, at my pace at least. Has all of the modern amenities of most cities. Doesn't have the super upscale establishments found in the nicer parts of the Woodlands. Is much more humid and does not have the the large clusters of natural beautiful trees and forest landscaping that the Woodlands has. Of course, the Woodlands is pretty close to large lake in Conroe, so that's an option as well.

[SolarBaby]

Originally Posted by deckhanddavy

Both offer unique living environments, so it really depends on your needs. I would choose Clear Lake because of the quick and beautiful access to the beaches, Kemah, Galveston and south bound venues. Lot's of exciting things happening on the weekends throughout the year, such as Dickens on the Strand, boat shows, great seafood eateries with live events/entertainment. Also, I find that it's a very laid back and easy going atmosphere. Things move a little slower...well, at my pace at least. Has all of the modern amenities of most cities. Doesn't have the super upscale establishments found in the nicer parts of the Woodlands. Is much more humid and does not have the the large clusters of natural beautiful trees and forest landscaping that the Woodlands has. Of course, the Woodlands is pretty close to large lake in Conroe, so that's an option as well.

Forgot about Conroe lake...that is water. Your description really has gave me a lot to think about. That is what we like about Clear Lake. The lacked back vibe, very diverse. We have casually met many wonderful individuals there. The funny thing is, it is the kind of place that people seem to remember your name. Good times there, good times.

Thanks a bunch. Sounds like your are certainly in the right place, moving at the right pace

[texas7]

I like the Clear Lake area because it just feels less pretentious than a lot of Houston and other master planned areas feel - lots of people with money but not shoving it in your face trying to be a "wanna-be" so it feels more laid back and casual. Lots of different income levels in the area. I have a friend who lives off of 290/Beltway 8 and she loves to come over when I ask why she says "I feel like I am on vacation, when I come over." All we do is shop or do lunch so I am guessing she is feeling that laid back vibe that I feel as well. Great schools (my kids are grown but still have lots of friends with school age kids). I enjoy being outdoors and the area seems conducive to that lifestyle. I like that it is a mix of older (last new homes built in Clear Lake proper were in 1990 or so, and new (League city). It doesn't all look the same so it offers some uniqueness. Some people prefer the master planned everything looks the same so that it all flows - just not me. That's why I prefer the area but again it is sort a personal preference and nothing specific. Flooding and hurricanes - I've only evacuated one time in my lifetime due to threat of a storm (boarded up more than once though) so not too worried about playing the odds on this one. Insurance will cost you more in this area due to your Wind coverage and flood coverage. My siblings live in the Woodlands and love it. I like it there but I just don't feel the comfort I feel over here - I am more in my element here.

[Tex N Cal]

Originally Posted by EasilyAmused

What about The Woodlands doesn't feel master planned?

I am comparing it to the massive amount of communities which are brand new, have a couple of freshly planted 8 foot trees in the front yard where the homes surround a man-made lake with a water sprayer in the center of it. The Woodlands is unique in that there is still a feeling of living in a natural environment, mainly big, tall trees, but with all the necessary modern amenities nearby.

[SolarBaby]

texas7

You really do remind me of what we loved about Clear Lake. I have to have one husband read this one. I was really leaning towards Florida (being so unsure about Texas again). I might give ClearLake a closer look again. We plan to visit one City in February and the other in March. After which time we will have to settle on a location.

Again, this really does seem to be the vibe we felt in ClearLake. We are very laid back and down to earth. This seems to surprise many who know us. They all say, they are surprised at how approachable we are. I feel if someone is sincere, and comes to you for help...give them a hand. There is more than enough of everything (few exceptions) on this big earth of ours for everyone. Looking forward to our trip and finally figuring out where in the heck we will end up. Time certainly is flying by.

Thank you for all that you have shared.

Are there any little towns nearby that you like to visit for a day away from home or an extended weekend.

[SolarBaby]

Originally Posted by Tex N Cal

I am comparing it to the massive amount of communities which are brand new, have a couple of freshly planted 8 foot trees in the front yard where the homes surround a man-made lake with a water sprayer in the center of it. The Woodlands is unique in that there is still a feeling of living in a natural environment, mainly big, tall trees, but with all the necessary modern amenities nearby.

That is good to know, that The Woodlands has more of a naturally occurring organic feel. Lost in the woods, with the City nearby.


Who know's it might be what Jersey used to be to New York Now Jersey, is where people want to be. You can see the city better from outside the city anyhow. Guessing there are no views of the city from the woodlands, but they certainly have created something special.

[Mandres]

I'm afraid you might be sorely disappointed in the Texas beaches They honestly shouldn't even be mentioned in the same breath as those in Florida. If picturesque sand and clean water views are important to your decision then at least have a clear idea of what Galveston/Crystal Beach are really like.