Moving from California to Houston TX - Relocation Guide
Thinking About Relocating from California to Houston, TX?
Here’s What You Need to Know!
Are you considering a move from sunny California to vibrant Houston, Texas? Relocating to a new city can be exciting, but it’s important to be well-informed about what to expect. In our latest video, we’ve covered key aspects of relocating to Houston and its surrounding areas—The Woodlands, Conroe, Spring, and Tomball. Here’s a summary of the insights and answers to common questions that might help you in your decision-making process.
1. Explore Your Future Neighborhood: One of the best ways to get a feel for your new home is through a Discovery Trip. This is an opportunity to spend a week or a weekend exploring different neighborhoods, including The Woodlands, Conroe, Spring, and Tomball. Our team will take you on a tour of various homes and communities, helping you find the best fit for your lifestyle and needs.
2. Weather: In Houston can be extremely hot during the summer, with temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F from June to September. The peak heat occurs from mid-August to September. Air conditioning becomes a necessity during this period. Winter temperatures are generally mild but can feel colder due to the humidity. While it doesn’t get extremely cold, expect a few weeks of freezing temperatures in February. It’s a good idea to keep some warm clothing handy despite the generally mild winter weather.
3. Property Taxes: Texas is known for its no state income tax, relying instead on property taxes.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Market Value: The price you pay for your home.
- Appraised Value: Determined by recent sales of similar homes.
- Assessed Value: Used for taxation, which can be lower than your sales price, and lowered further/kept down if you file for a homestead exemption.
- Assessed Value: Used for taxation, which can be lower than your sales price, and lowered further/kept down if you file for a homestead exemption.
Homestead Exemption: This can reduce your assessed value and cap annual increases to 10%. You can also protest property taxes if you believe your assessed value is too high, though this isn’t always successful.Overall, many people moving from California find that their effective tax rate decreases, allowing their dollars to stretch further.
4. Politics: Texas is generally a conservative state, but the Houston area tends to lean pretty moderate. Montgomery County, where The Woodlands is located, had relatively relaxed COVID-19 policies compared to other areas, focusing on personal freedom and responsibility.
5. Diversity: Historically, North Houston suburbs had less diversity, but areas like The Woodlands are becoming much more culturally diverse. You’ll find a mix of languages, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds, contributing to a vibrant community. There are also numerous options for diverse activities for children, including school, clubs, and sports.
Final Thoughts
If you’re thinking about making the move to Houston, feel free to reach out for more personalized information and assistance.
You can subscribe to our channel for updates, or contact us directly through the link provided below.
We’re here to help you every step of the way in making your relocation as smooth as possible.
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