77079 Advice (Houston, West: apartment complexes, home builders, neighborhoods)

[texasbeauty01]

Hello!

My husband and I have been looking in the 77079 area since we've moved back to Houston after school. Because we're looking for a particular area (East of Kirkwood) we have decided to wait a while (probably 3-4 years) before buying so we can afford more.

I have a few questions:

With all the bidding wars and fast turnarounds how quickly do we need to get plugged in with a relator? I noticed there are basically two relators that are selling most of the homes in our desired areas (and probably for good reason). Is it overkill to contact a relator now just to let them know to keep us in mind for the future?

Also, REALEX homes seem to be a great deal. Tearing down an older home and getting a new one for not that much more (20%) than the nicer/renovated older homes. Does anyone know the quality/reliability? Is it too good to be true?

Finally are there are any other good alternates to Realex? I have seen several signs for McCollum as well.

My husband and I are set on the area because we both work in the energy corridor, and we just love the area.

Thanks again!

[EasilyAmused]

Rather a long dicussion going on about the area already

//www.city-data.com/forum/houst...880-77079.html


Regarding Realex, mixed opinions in the area about them. They have been concentrating on the mostly in Nottingham West, where lots are less expensive and the apartment complexes are closer. Time will tell about there quality, aesthetically many already don't like them. Ironically the owner of the company lives in a 1960's house close to the bayou. McCullom is building 1.5 million and up houses. I really like their work, and they are respectful of the neighborhoods with their designs,set backs. Their crews and work sites are impeccable.

As to waiting three years..I wouldn't bother realtors until you are within a reasonable time period, more like 6 months out. Who know what three years could hold, another 100k price point jump or a slide. But yes, I would go with realtors that sell heavily in the area.

[ToyYot]

And while you're waiting go to all the open houses you can whether or not they're within your price point or target neighborhood. The houses across Memorial West are for the most part comprised of a limited number of models. Open houses will help you get a sense of the floorplans of the different model homes, what they look like in 'original" condition and what the potential is after a remodel. And take the time to visit some of the schools, you might be surprised by what you find.

[Beto]

There are several custom home builders building in the in the area who are doing lots tear downs and building custom homes. Relax Homes has been building in the area for some time now, and as EasilyAmused said, they do have mixed reviews from previous home buyers. McCollum Custom Homes is fairly new to the industry and have been building since 2004.

[proudmom123]

I know there have been some interesting stories about Realex Homes but let me tell you from experience that they are GREAT. My husband and I recently closed a house with them and it is everything we were wanting and more. So far after getting to know the staff (who are all very friendly) and talking with them it is apparent that the "bad reviews" realex is getting is mostly due to people who had unrealistic expectations about what building a house entails. Trust me after hearing some of the staffs stories i can tell you take those comments with a grain of salt. I was very impressed with their dedication and efficiency and would recommend them highly. Keep in mind that going through the building process is not always easy but realex was always there to help us when issues arose.