Considering leaving 77024 and buying in south Katy, schools, neighborhoods??? (Taylor: best neighborhoods, sale)

[anabel]

We have been renting in 77024 and are now considering buying in Katy. We want to be as close in as possible, with trees, and exemplary schools. Price range 300k max. I know nothing about Katy, please point me to best neighborhoods and schools. We are thinking Green Trails, Nottingham Country and Kelliwood. We really don't want to have to go farther out than that. Any schools to avoid? We have kids in elem, middle and HS. Please help!!! TIA
Anabel

[Mom2Feebs]

I am such a sucker for Green Trails. Excellent schools, holds its value, and just great people in there. You usually can't get anything in there less than $200K. The others you mentioned are very good as well. Kelliwood Gardens is one of my favorites.

[Beto]

Green Trails is a great community as well as Kelliwood. You can't go wrong with either one you choose.

[anabel]

Thanks Mom and Beto, are there any schools to avoid? Is McMeans significantly better than the other middle schools? Are Taylor HS and Cinco Ranch both about the same? It seems like almost all the elem. schools are exemplary? Schools are really my main concern.
Also, how much negotiating room is there typically on properties out there given the current climate? Thanks!

[Mom2Feebs]

I think Cinco and Taylor are equal, though stats-wise, in 2008 TEA gives Cinco recognized status and Taylor is acceptable, but a national study done by Newsweek and The Washington Post puts Taylor above Cinco Ranch as far as challenging students. 6 of one, half a dozen of the other. I wouldn't pay too much attention to the TEA standards in high schools (unless it is just unacceptable) simply because there are too many mitigating factors when it is so close.

I think in any of those areas you could get your house anywhere from 92-98% of the asking price, for a conventional purchase. A cash sale might get that lower.

[Beto]

Middle schools I would have to say McMeans then Rodger & Ellen Beck. As for high schools Cinco is a bit better than Taylor based on TAKS. It's a buyers market with lots of options.