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HOA Reform Means Changes for Houston Texas Homeowners

When I was shopping for my first house, my dad pulled me aside for a bit of fatherly wisdom.  "Find a place with a strong Homeowners' Association and plenty of deed restrictions.  Trust me, you want a lot of deed restrictions."  And to a point, he was right. It's those HOA rules which ensure that the neighbors all maintain their homes at a consistent level.  HOAs can help ensure the neighbors don't let the yard get full of weeds, park junked-out cars in the driveway and generally let their homes get run-down, taking our property values with them.

But as many homeowners can attest, being part of an HOA isn't aways an easy experience.  A quick survey of the Internet reveals story after story of ordeals and horrors homeowner's have endured at the hands of their HOAs.  Some are simply petty - like fining a homeowner for having a fence a mere three inches too tall.  Some border on fraudulent - like using HOA funds to steer business toward board members' friends and relatives, and refusing to release details of HOA expenditures.  And some just seem to fly in the face of common decency - like foreclosing on homes when a homeowner is barely dollarsignr100 behind on HOA dues.

One such story got national attention and helped spur HOA reform in the recent Texas legislative session.  In 2009, a Dallas-area family lost their home to foreclosure after the wife missed two homeowner's dues payments while the husband, Captain Mark Clauer, was serving in the National Guard in Iraq.  Despite the fact that their dollarsignr300,000 home was already paid for, they received an eviction notice and their home was sold on the courthouse steps for dollarsignr3500, the amount needed to cover the late dues and legal fees.  The one thing working in their favor was that a federal law prevents foreclosing in this manner on military personnel fighting overseas (the HOA wasn't aware of the husband's military status), and they eventually got their house back.

The result of this and many other cases was that a total of 18 different HOA reform laws passed during the most recent legislative session.  The most noteworthy changes are:

• While HOAs can still foreclose due to late homeowner's dues, they now must be judicially approved. Previously, HOA foreclosures were nonjudicial, meaning they didn't require a judge's approval and gave homeowners less recourse - and time - for appeal.  
  
• Another significant change is something referred to as "priority of payment."  When a homeowner falls behind on payments, dollarsignr300 can quickly mushroom to dollarsignr3,000 as late fees and attorney's fees are added in.  Previously, many HOAs applied any payments to attorney's fees, handling fees, etc. first, and to the actual assessments last, meaning that unless the homeowner could come up with the full sum of money, they remained delinquent, leading to more fees and a vicious cycle that was hard to stop.  Now, delinquent and current assessments are first on the priority list, a much fairer arrangement.  
  
• HOAs now must disclose important information, including any bylaws or deed restrictions, on a publicly available website, so that homeowners can readily access them and prospective buyers can make informed purchase decisions.  Homeowners can also request a resale certificate in which the HOA must disclose any pending lawsuits involving the association (which can be an indication of problems with homeowners), as well as any fees involved in later selling your home.  
  
• HOAs can no longer prevent homeowners from installing solar panels, "cool roof" or hail-resistant shingles, or flying U.S. or Texas flags on their property, although HOAs can make rules for aesthetics.  
  
• And, in a nod to the Clauers' case, a new law clarifies that HOAs cannot foreclose on active-duty military members without a court order, and requires better communication between HOAs and homeowners to help prevent similar cases in the future.

Not all HOAs are created equal; while some act as mini-autocracies, bullying homeowners all in the name of preserving property values, many are reasonable groups of neighbors simply trying to keep a livable community.  So, before you buy in an HOA neighborhood, research the rules and consider getting a resale certificate.  (You still have to pay for it.) If you already live within an HOA, get to know the board and attend meetings.  Just like any venture, you need to know your rights and be willing to speak up (respectfully) when necessary to defend them.

New Ways Houston Home Builders are Selling Houses

No one can dispute the buying power of the Internet. All we have to do is enter a credit card number and boom, we're the proud owner of shoes, books, music, clothes, toys and … houses?

"The latest trend," says one of the 567 million Google hits I found on this very topic, "is to buy a house online."

You can't really buy a house online. But you can look at photos, watch video, print listings – or simply scan a QR barcode while out and about – to help narrow down the choices. 

"Baby boomers want a lot of information and it's up to us to get it to them in a way they want it," said Rosemary Bickford, vice president of sales and marketing at Brickland Homes. "Buyers want to know almost everything before they even pick up the phone."

And hopefully from there, they will want to meet in person.

"The Internet is a great way to gather information, but not to build a relationship of trust with the people you might want to build your home," said Ron Martin, who along with Marc Jungers owns Grand View Builders.

Aiming for that human touch, Grand View Builders has launched a series of real-life, in-person seminars for people who want to know more about its Build on Your Lot program.

"When we make ourselves available in this manner, we demonstrate both our expertise and our passion for homebuilding," Martin said.

"We look at it as an interview for a job. Potential buyers want to do business with people they trust."

Martin said the seminars have been well received and they plan to host more in the future.

Virtual shopping leads to real people

While an estimated 74 percent of buyers turn to the Internet for information first, 69 percent will also reach out to a Realtor – most likely someone they found the same way they found a potential home.

That's why sellers must seek innovative ways to standout online.

One way Realtors can remain competitive, Bickford said, is by earning and advertising any designations that go above and beyond state-mandated, continuing-education requirements.

"Buyers equate designations with extra education," said Bickford, who also teaches at Champions School of Real Estate.

But the "latest and greatest" thing, she said, is testimonials.

That means written, recorded or, even better, videotaped or webcam-captured kudos from buyers that can easily be posted online by sellers. A simple click of the "like" button on Facebook exponentially increases the number of users who see the positive message.

According to a 2009 National Association of Realtors survey on technology, 84 percent of Realtors are using social media.

The reality is…

Online and in person, sellers need to shine. The information highway brings buyers to the door, but someone has to be there to open it.

"Even if they end up buying somewhere else, they're going to remember us and say positive things about us because we took the time to help them," Martin said.

Bickford agrees.

"In this day and age," she said, "anything less than excellent is really not acceptable."

Mortgages Underwater, Housing Recovery Stalled: Bring Out the Bulldozer

In recent months, discussions on the economy have been dominated by two topics:  the national deficit and jobs.  And rightly so.  Mushrooming debt casts a pall on our long-term financial outlook and unemployment is a singular focus for anyone looking for a job.  As the economy continues to sputter, though, many economists and analysts are reaching the conclusion that, just as the housing market was at the core of the economic crisis, it is also the key to recovery.

Currently, 1 in 5 mortgages is underwater; with these homeowners often pouring all of their resources into just keeping their homes, they often have little money left to put back into the economy.  Foreclosed homes, which in some areas sit in limbo for months or even years, often fall into disrepair, taking surrounding home values down with them.  Most analysts agree that home prices won't be able to recover until the "shadow inventory" of 1.8 million homes in foreclosure are dealt with in some fashion. 

And of course, there are the million or so jobs which have been lost in construction and related fields, plus an estimated 3 million more jobs lost indirectly due to the housing slump.  Given all this, it's hard to envision a true economic recovery that doesn't include a housing recovery. 

So what can be done?  It's pretty obvious that, so far, government efforts to help shore up the housing market have fallen short.  The president's home modification program HAMP fell well short of targets, and the Homebuyer Tax Credits didn't so much bring in new sales as simply move existing sales earlier - at a cost of $16.2 billion in lost tax revenue, according to a BusinessWeek article.

The last time housing values dropped this much and this many homeowners were underwater was the Great Depression, and that led to drastic changes, including bailing out 20% of all U.S. mortgages and the introduction of the 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage.  Similarly dramatic action seems needed today, or else we could be facing the same kind of stagnation Japan has endured since their housing bubble burst 15 years ago.  CNN and TIME recently reported on the ideas being floated by economists and inside the White House to help stabilize the housing market and bring it back to life.

To help underwater homeowners, economists at Columbia Business School are proposing a mass refinancing for all government-backed mortgages through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.  Since those who owe more than their homes are worth can't go through the standard refinancing process, this would allow such homeowners to take advantage of the current low interest rates, and lower their mortgage burden.  Such a proposal is appealing, because it doesn't cost any taxpayer money and would save homeowners $85 billion by one estimate, money which could be pumped back into the economy.

Some are also suggesting mortgage principal write-downs to address the underwater issue.  One proposal would involve government-subsidized write-downs to the tune of $200 billion, though it's likely a difficult sell in today's political climate.  A more likely scenario is that write-downs would come from the private sector.  According to TIME magazine, "Bank of America, Wells Fargo, JPMorgan Chase and others may soon be forced by state attorneys general, who are seeking a collective $20 billion in penalties for faulty lending, to write down some individual mortgages" as part of settlement deals.

Then there's the problem with foreclosures.  While it may seem callous, some are suggesting the foreclosure process be sped up so that many loans in foreclosure can be finalized.  The reason?  Because in many parts of the country, the foreclosure process is drawing out over many months or years, while the homeowners - and homes - languish in limbo, essentially holding the housing market hostage.

In July 2009, 6% of delinquent homeowners were behind on payments for more than 24 months; by July 2011, that number was up to 37%, with another 34% not having made a payment in over 12 months.  The longer a home is in foreclosure, the more likely it is to be lost, and while some can be saved, usually it's just prolonging the inevitable.  By finalizing those which are seriously delinquent, the homes can be taken out of limbo and put back to use.

But what of all of those foreclosed homes, in addition to the excess supply already in the market?  Communities like Cleveland and Detroit are taking the radical step of demolishing vacant properties, many of which have become havens for criminal nuisance.  Of course, bulldozing three million homes is out of the question.  A more optimistic scenario for dealing with the glut of homes is to let private investors purchase them and rent them out, and in August the Treasury Department solicited ideas for how such a program could work on a large scale.  By reducing the number of homes for sale, the government hopes to stabilize the market and preserve neighborhoods on the brink. 

Obviously, there are no quick fixes, and we'll need more than one course of action in order to restore a healthy housing market.  But we will need action.  Because, as we've seen over the last 3 years, a recovery which doesn't include the housing market is really no recovery at all.

Making Your Houston Home Energy-Efficient can be Easy Peasy Money Squeezy

This is the time of year that makes even seasoned Houstonians want to hide from the heat in an air conditioned cocoon; and as temperatures soar, our electric bills do, too.  In fact, thanks to our sultry summers, Houstonians have among the highest utility bills in the country.

Luckily, there are things you can do to ease the pain - and that doesn't mean packing up to move north.  (You don't want to live there come winter anyway.)  With changes to your home big and small, you can slash your energy bills, help the environment - and use local and federal rebates to help pick up the tab.

Fix Those Leaks and Insulate

Regardless of what new, energy-saving technology might be out there, much of our home's energy efficiency comes down to simple and low-tech - how well our home keeps the heat (or cold) out and the cold (or heat) in.  And that means simple fixes like caulking, weatherstripping and insulation.

The best way to identify leaks in your home is to get an energy audit; in fact, some Houston residential energy providers, like Reliant, offer low-cost or free home audits.  Or, if you want to do it yourself, energysavers.gov has some good tips.

Check up on your insulation, too, as it tends to settle over time.  The amount you need depends on the type you're using, but a good rule of thumb is, if you can see your floor joists, you probably need more.  (Energystar.gov's Insulation DIY guide has more details.)  While you might want to wait for cooler weather to climb up in the attic, you'll want to do this by the end of the year; through December 31, 2011, weatherizing and insulation materials qualify for a federal tax credit of 10% of the costs, up to $500. (That's a lot of caulk.)  Local energy providers like CenterPoint provide weatherization rebates to some customers, too.

Upgrade the A/C

Perhaps the best invention for sweat-soaked Houstonians, A/C is also our biggest energy hog, so it pays to go as energy-efficient as possible.  An important note, though:  it won't matter how efficient your A/C is if you don't also fix the leaks in your home.  Installing a high-efficiency A/C unit in a leaky house just makes you pay twice, so seal it up first.  Also, keep your A/C happy with regular maintenance, as that helps it perform most efficiently. 

If you are ready to replace it, though, going with an energy-efficient model will generally cost more up-front - anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand more.  But keep in mind, those costs will be recouped in energy savings, on average, within 4 to 6 years and will continue past that - not to mention saving $300 through the federal rebate program.

Get a Cool Roof

On a hot summer day in Texas, a traditional roof can get as hot as 185 degrees.  Not only does this increase energy bills, hot roofs contribute to the urban "heat island" effect, where temperatures in cities are warmer than surrounding areas.  One solution is cool roofs, which use materials that reflect heat and stay cooler, keeping peak temperatures to about 120 degrees.

Again, there is a cost differential - cool roof materials add anywhere from 5 to 20 cents per square foot to the price of the roof.  If you're planning to stay in your home for more than a few years, though, it could be a worthy investment; in fact, one study found that cool roof owners saved almost 50 cents per square foot over the life of the roof.  And again, there's a federal tax credit of up to $500 for cool roof materials through the end of the year.

Going Solar

If you really want to go big, think solar.  There's no rush here - generous federal tax rebates of 30% for home solar panels are in place through 2016.  And, since solar panel component costs went down 15% just in the first quarter of this year, and are expected to continue to drop as technology matures, it might not be a bad idea to wait. 

But, even solar technology on a smaller scale like solar-powered water heaters are becoming more affordable and common with Houston homeowners.  Most Houston solar energy rebates focus on commercial buildings, but across Texas, residential solar energy rebates are becoming more common and will undoubtedly make their way to Houston.  Some customers are even making money, selling their solar power back to the energy companies.

Between high utility bills, the threats of rolling blackouts this summer, and climate change, it makes sense to make our homes as energy-efficient as possible.  And with federal and local utility rebates, taking the first step - big or small - is a little easier.

Glenbrook Valley In Houston Texas Gets Groundbreaking Historic Designation

In 1956 Glenbrook Valley was just hitting its stride. The Parade of Homes had singled out the residential area, exclusively featuring Glenbrook Valley for all 30 homes on their annual tour. The development had previously been included in a citywide Parade of Homes in 1954, but not for the entire event.

Nestled along Sims Bayou between I45 and Telephone Rd., Glenbrook Valley originally opened in 1953 with a lot of fanfare.  It was designed by the renowned Kansas City landscape architecture firm Hare and Hare, which was known for many Houston layouts, including River Oaks. The subdivision also received a lot of interest when Better Homes and Gardens featured 7923 Glenview on the September 1954 cover for an article titled “The Home for All America” and was the prize home for the 1954 Parade of Homes. 

By 1956, Glenbrook Valley was steadily becoming the go-to neighborhood for up-and-coming Houstonians. The 1956 Parade of Homes brochure described the houses and gave each one a name to express their individuality.  “The Suburban Styline,” “Lowe’s Electric All Electric Home,” “House of Ideas” and “Casa Manana” alluded to their modern amenities. “Holiday House,” “Tex-O-Rama,” “Modern Junior Executive” and “Greener Pastures” appealed to the variety of personalities who may choose to move there.

Fast forward to today. Glenbrook Valley can now add another accolade to its rich history.  It has just received what no other atomic era development in Texas ever has — designation as the first post-World War II historic district in Texas.  The Houston City Council voted June 29 and the historic district was approved by a 10 to 4 vote.  It is also Houston’s first district outside the 610 loop and, with over 1250 homes, the largest of the 18 other historic districts.

Many 1950s era homes are gone forever from inner-loop neighborhoods. However, over 90 percent of the original homes built in Glenbrook Valley still exist today. These mid-century modern and American ranch style homes now have the City of Houston behind them. None of the houses can be torn down without approval from the city and must maintain their architectural integrity, although the interiors can be redesigned without restrictions.

Ranch style houses built in the 1950s are single story homes with low rooflines, usually built with an attached garage or carport.  Ranch style houses have fewer doors and hallways than earlier homes, with kitchens that were designed to accommodate the modern appliances of the day. These homes have large windows and sliding glass doors that lead to the back yard where families would spend much of their leisure time.  “Mid-century modern” is a term coined decades later for houses that build upon ranch style architecture. Many have floor-to-ceiling windows, open floor plans and flat roofs.

“We want to thank District 1 City Councilman James Rodriguez for his support,” said Robert Searcy, who helped spearhead the initiative along with members of the Glenbrook Valley Civic Club.   “The landslide victory reflects how most on council not only saw the worthiness of Glenbrook Valley for this designation, but also a repudiation of the tactics used by some on the opposition.”
 
Getting the historic designation was no easy task. The efforts began benignly in 2008, starting with accruing approval signatures from 51 percent of the neighborhood’s residents, which was met and exceeded. It also needed the blessing of the Houston Archaeological and Historic Commission as well as the Department of City Planning, which was received without complications. The Houston City Council was the final hoop for historic designation. However, neighbors against the restrictions that a historic district demands began to sway others against it, eventually sending in 241 retraction signatures. This neighborhood fissure played out publicly amid accusations of signature tampering from both sides, exaggerated claims on restrictions and even playing the “race card.”

Searcy said, “There has been discord, however, much that has been reported in the media is overblown and limited to a small group of troublemakers who are good at making a lot of noise.”

Despite the infighting, the publicity has sparked a newfound interest in Glenbrook Valley from those who may not have considered the location before. “Inner-loopers” who have what Searcy calls “southeast side vertigo” are now looking outside their traditional boundaries. Searcy said, “Sales for the first five months of 2011 doubled over the first five months of 2010, even though the 2010 period was during the height of the first-time-buyer tax credit rush.  That says a lot right there.  The increased exposure and respect level for being Texas’s first post- WW II historic district is something the community and the whole city can take pride in. As time passes, I think things will go much like this passage I got from Randy Pace, who just retired from the city as the director of the Houston Historic Commission: The most eminent US economist, not preservationist, but an economist, John Kenneth Galbraith, once said, ‘The preservation movement has one great curiosity. There is never retrospective controversy or regret. Preservationists are the only people in the world who are invariably confirmed in their wisdom after the fact.’”

Montrose - One Funky Neighborhood in Houston Texas

Look at an early picture of Montrose Blvd., circa 1911, and you'll see a grand avenue complete with wide, treed esplanade and sidewalks, freshly carved out of Houston dairy farmland.  You'll also see echoes, however faint, of the Montrose we know and (mostly) love today.

When the area we now call Montrose was still being grazed by cows, in the late 19th century, suburbs were starting to come into favor in other cities around the country.  New York City, in fact, had had commuters traveling to and from Brooklyn by ferry since the 1850s.  But for a young, inland city like Houston - bayous and ship channels notwithstanding - it would take an entirely different mode of transportation to make the suburbs take off.  And that happened in 1891, when the electric streetcar came to town.

In a streetcar, what was previously a 30-minute walk was now a quick 10-minute ride, much faster even than a horse and buggy.  Suddenly, possibilities arose for those who worked in downtown, but wanted to live on a  peaceful, tree-lined street, out of the city-center fray. 

It was around this time that the Heights neighborhood came into being, no coincidence as its developer opened his own streetcar line to carry passengers to and from his new development.  Houston officially had its first suburb.  Others followed in its path - Woodland Heights broke ground, just to the west of the Heights, some 15 years later, and the development of Bellaire began a short time after that. 

Enter J.W. Links, a turn-of-the-century multi-hyphenate (lawyer-lumberman-politician-developer), who had a vision for a "great residential addition."  In 1911, he set out to create Houston's poshest neighborhood, complete with four grand boulevards landscaped with "seven train car loads of palm trees and 4,000 shade trees," boasting paved sidewalks and modern curbs.  In fact, Link decided to live in the neighborhood himself, building a lavish $60,000 home on the main boulevard, as if to set the tone for future residents.  And in order to convey a regal feel, he named it after Scotland's Royal Borough of Montrose.

Other wealthy Houstonians followed suit, and soon a collection of stately homes dotted Montrose Boulevard, including one owned by Humble Oil founder Ross Sterling.  Despite all of this, Montrose was not exclusively for the wealthy.  Link planned a variety of lot sizes and locations so that people of more modest means could live there, too, with the stipulation that homes cost a minimum of $3,000. 

By 1925, the Montrose neighborhood was all built out, with a collection of larger, lavish homes mixed with Craftsman-style bungalows, reflecting styles of the times.  From the 1920s to World War II, Montrose was considered to be a distinguished address.  In fact, it was in those early days that Montrose was home to two future distinguished Americans.  Future president Lyndon B. Johnson lived on Hawthorne Street when he was a high school teacher in the 1930s, and Howard Hughes lived on Yoakum Street - now a part of the University of St. Thomas.

Things started to change for Montrose, though, in 1936 when deed restrictions which had kept the area strictly residential expired.  By that point, the automobile had surpassed the streetcar in popularity, and Houstonians were seeking even further-out places to live.  Suddenly, Montrose's homes looked more attractive as potential offices or gas stations.  Many homes were subdivided into duplexes or apartments, or even demolished outright.  By the late 1940s, in order to ease congested traffic, the tree-lined esplanade on Montrose Boulevard was removed.

Not surprisingly, the original genteel character of the neighborhood began to change.  By the 1960s and 70s, Montrose became a hub for those seeking a laid-back, hippie or alternative lifestyle.  According to "A Walk Down Montrose" from Cite magazine, "Houses were converted into antique shops, topless joints, boutiques, bars and restaurants and were frequently treated to decorative makeovers that reflected the anything-goes aesthetic of the hippie culture."

For the past several decades, like so many Houston neighborhoods, Montrose has experienced a roller coaster ride of wealth, dilapidation, and resurgence.  And, also similar to so many places, each turn has left many longing for the "good old days."  When its original stately homes were turned into businesses or fell into disrepair, old residents lamented the area's decline.  As some of the funky businesses from the 70s became town homes of the 2000s, others bemoaned Montrose's loss of character.

Regardless of what some may perceive as the area's shortcomings, Montrose is something truly unique in Houston.  It has evolved into an eclectic mix of quirky and refined, from funky antiques to priceless antiquities, with offbeat shops at one end and elegant museums at the other.  It also happens to be, arguably, the most pedestrian-friendly area in the city, where trolling for shopping finds and grabbing a bite to eat can be done on foot as easily as by car.  And while it's not what it used to be (few things are), Montrose is a vibrant, funky, urbane 100 year-old gem in the heart of Houston.  Happy Birthday, Montrose.

The Montrose Area Whole Foods in Houston Texas - Built to Suit

Judging by all the press the new Whole Foods at 701 Waugh has received, you’d think that the natural and organic foods store has revolutionized grocery shopping. The store not only offers its standard wholesome selections of foods, but its building design and functionality sets it apart from all of its utilitarian carbon-copy counterparts.

Whole Foods broke ground April 2010. After three years of various construction and placement changes, the Austin-based company celebrated with the grand opening of its sixth Houston location on June 22, 2011.

Stone Soup 6 Architecture, which has partnered with Whole Foods on many projects, was the architect. Cleveland Construction, headquartered in Ohio, was the general contractor for the project.
Many green features have been incorporated into the $18 million, 42,000 sq. ft. structure. For starters, the location boasts a 1,500 gallon cistern to collect rainwater (when there is some!) and uses it to water the landscaping. “The rainwater cistern is not standard at all stores; however, our Sugar Land location has one, as well,” said Kimberly Crowder, Whole Foods Houston Media and Community Relations Coordinator.  There is also a secondary cooling system that circulates water through a water tower on the roof, then uses it to aid in cooling the refrigeration cases and the air conditioning unit.

Keeping with the green theme, the store even offers two complimentary charging stations for hybrid vehicles. “This is the first at any of our Houston area stores, although we have electric car chargers at our Lamar store in Austin,” said Crowder.

Energy saving LED lighting has been installed throughout the store and in the parking lot. There are also lighting panels that monitor the natural light, and raise or dim the LEDs, depending on how much natural sunlight comes through the store’s windows and skylights.

Each Whole Foods is built to reflect the uniqueness of the neighborhood where it resides. The Waugh location blends in with the Montrose style, displaying the artwork of local artists David A. Brown, Pen Morrison, Celeste Tammariello, Syd Moen, Lisa Chow and Julio Crews.  Reclaimed Texas woods and various recycled materials are also part of the décor.

The Montrose Whole Foods is not only a place to shop, but a gathering spot, offering the first grocery store in Houston built with a wine bar and beer on tap. Free Wi-Fi was also installed to encourage people to stay a while.

All of this eco-friendly attention to detail has garnered the Montrose Whole Foods a Green Globe certification. “Green Globe is the green building assessment and certification system for commercial buildings in the USA,” said Crowder. “We have buildings that are both LEED and Green Globe certified within the company. We are currently waiting to find out how many ‘globes’ this store will have. We can receive up to four globes. We will not find this out until the second round of inspections, which will take place at a later date, after we demonstrate that the green practices are continuing even after the store is opened.”

Complications are inevitable for large scale projects, and, likewise, the Montrose Whole Foods suffered a few bumps along the way. In 2008, the Fingers Companies acquired the land and granted Whole Foods a 25-year lease to build the structure. The building was originally going to be roughly 10,000 sq. ft. larger, but kept dropping until reaching its current size (causing many wrong news reports about the size).  It was also originally supposed to be built over two levels of parking.  One report explains that this was changed due to the amount of heat the parking lot would have generated. The placement of the building was another issue that had to be resolved, since the AIG building owner mandated that it be as far from the AIG campus as possible. As a result, the Whole Foods was built at the far edge of Waugh and Dallas, with the parking spaced in between AIG and the store.  And a series of delays pushed back the project, originally announced to be completed in November 2010, then Spring of 2011, and ultimately June 2011.

Has Whole Foods reinvented the grocery store? You be the judge!

Keep Your Emotions Out of the Real Estate Selling Process

• Hire a Realtor to help you set an objective price – The truth is that, most of the time, you will think your is worth more than it really is. And rightfully so; after all, you’ve likely invested a good deal of time, money and energy into making your house a home. However, buyers simply are not interested in your emotional investment. So, instead of pricing your home according to what you think it is worth, call in the advice of a qualified real estate agent who can give you an accurate price at which to list your home.
• Take a deep breath during the negotiation process – Often times, it is the negotiation process that proves to be the most difficult for buyers, but it is important to eliminate emotions from negotiation because it will only result in a real estate deal gone sour. One of the best ways to handle the negotiation process is to take some time before you submit any type of counter offer. In other words, a knee-jerk reaction could blow the deal.
• Remember that everyone’s taste is not the same as yours – One of the hardest things to come to grips with when selling your home is that your buyers’ taste may not reflect your taste. Remember that buyers aren’t out to insult you when buying your home; they may simply want to see changes based on their personal needs and tastes.
• Hire a Realtor who has an understanding of your situation – The relationship with your Realtor can often soften the blow of selling your home, so make sure the Realtor you choose has an understanding of how difficult the whole process may be for you, and is willing to help you throughout the home selling experience. It’s important to remember that, although a Realtor has gleaming qualifications and experience in the industry, if he or she does not have a good rapport with you, then the relationship will likely not work.

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A Lean, Mean, Environmentally Green Home

Environmentally friendly, "green" & more eco-conscious are sizzling hot topics in homes and businesses across the U.S. Families and people all over seem to more aware and concerned with the beautiful Earth we live on. Most folks want to conserve energy in their homes, and the subject is often a major topic of discussion as home buyers start looking for their dream home. Not only does energy conservation save homeowners money and make their home more appealing, but it also has a significant positive impact on the environment. In the real estate market today- fewer home features attract as much attention as a home's ability to conserve energy. So, let's get down to business and help you make your home a "green" energy conserving machine!

1. Tame that Thermostat

One simple, easy step all homeowners can take is to install a programmable thermostat and then actually program it. During the winter months, set the heat at 68 degrees during waking hours and lower it when you sleep. Setting the temperature lower in Winter when the house is empty, will prevent that heater from blasting out BTU's like a jet engine on take off while your utility bills remind you of feeding your money into a paper shredder. In the hotter summers, keep the air conditioning set at 78 degrees for the hours a home needs cooling off.

2. Light Bulbs can do More... for Less

Switch light bulbs in a home from incandescent to compact fluorescent bulbs or CFLs. These bulbs also put out significantly less heat than incandescent bulbs, further increasing a home's overall energy efficiency.

3. Put a Cinch on Water Use

Consider installing low flow toilets and a flow reducer in all shower heads. Flow reducers have come along significantly in recent years to both reduce flow but maintain desired water pressure. When you jump in the shower-you can enjoy a refreshing blast of comforting water without lowering the water table in surrounding communities!

4. No Procrastination on the Insulation

All families considering buying or selling a home or those looking to save some hard-earned dollars should check insulation levels in attics, walls and the floor. In most climates that experience all four seasons, the recommended R-Value of insulation (the measure of insulation's ability to resist heat traveling through it) is a minimum of R38 for attics and walls, and a value of R25 to R30 for floors. Homeowners should also consider insulating water pipes and water heaters. A simple insulating jacket for a water heater costs just $10 to $20 and can add up to significant savings over time.

5. Appliances looking a little worn around the edges?

Replace older appliances when possible as new models are more energy efficient. If you are looking looking to buy a home- consider asking the current owner to update the appliances. All appliances in a home should carry the Energy Star label. Also consider switching to a front-loading washing machine, which can cut hot water use by 60 to 70 percent.

6. Exercising that Green Thumb; Planting Pleasant Shade Trees

Consider planting luscious shade trees around your home to provide natural energy conservation. Home owners can benefit from programs supported by cities around the country which offer trees for free or at significantly reduced prices.

As the temperature climbs, visualize yourself relaxing in a hammock beneath your gently swaying mature shade trees enjoying the cool breezes... saving energy and being environmentally conscious can be downright pleasant!

With just a few simple steps, any family can increase the energy efficiency of a home, save money and contribute to the health of the environment.

About The Author

The Hughes Group is a team of Buyers Agents located in the Boise, Idaho area. For a fresh, exciting experience preview Idaho Real Estate now.

Texas Cyclone, Greased Lightning, Snow, and Fresh-Baked Bread: Astroworld USA in Houston Texas

For almost 40 years, summer in Houston meant two things: air conditioning and Astroworld.  Our own private Disneyland, the Astroworld theme park was a requisite childhood destination, someplace everybody went at least once and a repeat trip for many.  And like so many Houston landmarks, it was the brainchild of an exceptional person.

That person was Roy Hofheinz, a Rice University-educated lawyer, who served as Harris County judge (thus securing his most enduring title, "Judge Roy") and later as Houston mayor.  After presiding over two contentious terms, during which he was impeached and had four city council members arrested for boycotting a special meeting he'd called, he returned to private law practice and business ventures.

Part of that business was the lucrative Houston Sports Association, which he created with three partners essentially for the purpose of bringing a Major League Baseball team to Houston.  Through some bluffing, posturing and city funding, they were able to do just that when the Colt 45's - later Astros - came to town.  To house them, Hofheinz built an air-conditioned, first-of-its-kind indoor stadium, known as the Astrodome.  Hofheinz himself dubbed it the "8th Wonder of the World."

Not surprisingly, he had grandiose plans that went beyond the Astrodome.  According to a Time magazine article at the time, Hofheinz envisioned a vast entertainment complex which would include an amusement park, "motels, two theaters, a museum, an automobile race track and an inland Sea-Arama" - a veritable empire of fun where a family could come for a week and never leave.

The cornerstone of this vision was Astroworld, named in honor of Houston's vibrant space industry, and it opened - somewhat inauspiciously - on June 1, 1968.  On its first day, the Alpine Sleigh Ride and Lost World Adventure boats weren't functioning.  The next day, the Astrowheel halted mid-turn, stranding some 40 riders up in the air.  Oh, and it rained.

But, 50,000 visitors came that first weekend, and many millions were to follow in their steps.  Houston's Astroworld era had begun.

Like Disneyland, which provided the obvious blueprint for this park, Astroworld was divided into thematic areas.  Once through the entrance carousels, the smell of fresh bread greeted visitors as they entered Americana Square, with its Rainbo Bakery and multitude of shops.  From there, they could wind their way through such areas as Alpine Valley, Plaza de Fiesta and Western Junction.

Developers were mindful of the Houston heat when they designed the park.  Air conditioning vents were hidden throughout, so that visitors waiting in line at special "air relief stations" could get a breath of cool air.  They also had plenty of rides to help cool folks off, such as the Bamboo Shoot log-flume ride, the Alpine Sleigh Ride which took riders through super-cooled rooms with actual snow, and later Thunder River, the world's first river rapids ride.

Astroworld's most visible landmark came in 1976 with the opening of the Texas Cyclone, a classic wooden roller coaster in the vein of Coney Island's famous Cyclone.  In fact, Astroworld management initially tried to relocate the Coney Island coaster to Houston, but settled on building their own.  In the end, Astroworld's Cyclone was taller and faster than the original.  This is Texas after all.

Over time, themes changed.  The County Fair became Nottingham Village with its Excalibur roller coaster; Children's World became Enchanted Kingdom; and Water World, Houston's first major water park, opened up next door.  And while most changes were welcomed by new waves of visitors, eventually external factors began to weigh on Astroworld's success. 

Many of the park's unique rides were duplicated elsewhere, and newer attractions like Galveston's Moody Gardens lured visitors away.  The 8th Wonder itself was now dwarfed by the new Reliant Stadium next door.  What once was magic and spectacular now seemed commonplace, even dated.  In September 2005, Astroworld's owner Six Flags announced the park would close, and seven weeks later the Texas Cyclone, Thunder River and all the others took their final ride.

Not surprisingly, many Houstonians mourned the closing.  Tribute websites dot the internet with people's pictures and favorite Astroworld memories.  Although Astroworld itself is long gone, fun-seekers may have cause to rejoice in the future, if plans for a new amusement park north of Houston come to fruition.  Developers are said to be readying 1,600 acres in New Caney for a new park, to be filled with rides, roller coasters, a water park and family entertainment center.   And while it remains to be seen if it will be built (developers insist it's a done deal), a new amusement park - with 21st century themes and state-of-the-art attractions - would be sure to enthrall a new generation, as Astroworld once enthralled us.

Divorce Can Lead to Two Homes - Or Living with Your Ex and their Spouse and more Kids and Step-Pets

I know! How about you, me, stepdad, dad, stepmom, sibling, half-sibling, step-sibling and the dogs all live together in one big house?

There's probably not a divorced parent out there who hasn't heard their kids ask for something like this.

They're not too far off.

Whether it's financially-driven or a unique take on "staying together for the sake of the children," some reports claim that more and more divorced couples are choosing to live together, yet separately, under one roof.

That certainly gives new meaning to the oft-quoted real estate mantra "location, location, location."

Too close for comfort

Spring resident James Wilson, a 38-year-old divorced father of two kids, ages 9 and 10, is somewhere in the middle. Not too close but not too far, he lives just a few neighborhoods away from his ex-wife.

"One of the big issues in a divorce tends to be where the kids are picked up and dropped off, but if you live close to each other, it becomes a nonissue," Wilson said. "And the kids will inevitably forget a pair of shoes, swimsuit, video game or cellphone, so it's easy to just swing by and pick it up."

Wilson has been divorced for three years.

"Have I thought about moving? Sure," Wilson said. "But it's about the kids."

You want to what?

Katy Realtor Mickie Cioccia said she's had divorced clients purchase homes right next door to each other.

Cioccia is a Real Estate Divorce Specialist, someone who has received additional training in the legal rulings, regulations and tax implications of real estate and divorce.

With more than 50 percent of marriages ending in divorce, it's a realistic niche that probably shouldn't be ignored.

"I kept seeing divorcing couples more and more and thought 'there's something I need to know here'," Cioccia said. "I was kind of winging it, but I really wanted to know where the landmines were."

One of the most explosive areas seems to be a simple misunderstanding, but one that can lead to disastrous complications.

"Some people think that because the house is their biggest asset, it's a negotiable item," Cioccia said. "It's really not. Typically, the wife wants the house because she's raised her kids in it, and she's thinking that when she sells it later, she's going to have money. That is not always true, especially in the current market."

Ties that bind

I think Cioccia is bang-on about mothers equating concrete and brick with flesh and blood. 

It was our first house in Texas after moving here from Canada. It's the house where I stood on the curb with my daughter, watching as the school bus swallowed her up and whisked her off to her first day of Kindergarten. It's the house where my son doffed the diapers and donned the superhero big-boy undies.

But someone had to leave. He wouldn't. I did.

After a year in a rented townhouse, I was ready to buy my own home.

Except that it wouldn't be my own.

There is no such thing as legal separation in Texas, and Texas is a community property state.

"Guess what?"  Cioccia advises people like me. "You have a spouse, and that spouse is going to own half your house. It doesn't matter whose name the mortgage is in or who actually acquired the property. If it was while the couple was together, it must be split directly in half."

Sign here, please

Paul Caver, owner of Infinity Title Company, said that unless the divorce decree is crystal clear on which spouse will own 100 percent of the property, the divested ex-spouse will have to sign a deed to the ex-spouse who gets the property, but not until a judge has approved the conditions of the divorce.

"A deed from one spouse to the other while they are still married is pretty much worthless," said Caver, who is also a board-certified real estate attorney.

New beginning, happy ending

After re-marrying, my new spouse and I decided to move to a larger house to accommodate our blended family.

Fortunately, with a properly-worded and judge-approved divorce decree that safely allowed for the sale of the house I purchased while still technically married, we put stakes down in a neighborhood 2.15 miles away from my ex. It's a six-minute drive. I know because I timed it.

It was important to live somewhat close to the ex because we parent our kids 50-50.

That was three years ago; a decision made with the kids in mind. Was it the right one?

"I think it's good we live close together because I can just call and ask to come for the day or ask if I can come earlier or stay later," said my now 10-year-old son. "And it's easier to see my mom or dad when I'm missing one of them."

Hurricanes, Fires and Floods - Review Home Insurance Before an Emergency Hits

Hurricanes, Fires and Floods ...OMG!

This stuff happens in Houston, Texas. Get an Insurance Check-up Before an Emergency Hits.

When was the last time you looked at your homeowners’ insurance policy?  Was it, say, around the time you purchased your home?  If so, you’re not alone.  Many homeowners take a “buy it and forget it” attitude when it comes to their insurance, and for good reason - it’s not fun to think about all the calamities that could befall your home. 

But, as the recent outbreak of floods, tornadoes and wildfires across the country reminds us, disasters can strike whether we’re ready or not.  And in the middle of a crisis is not the time to find out whether your policy will fully take care of any damage to your home.

So, below are several steps to take to give your homeowner's policy a "check-up" and ensure you're covered before an emergency.

Get any necessary disaster coverage

Not surprisingly, the most common insurance claims in Texas are weather-related; according to a 2010 survey of Allstate customers, (non-flood-related) water, wind and hail damage were the top claims made by Texas homeowners.  And while these are usually covered under standard homeowners’ policies, flood insurance has to be purchased separately through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).   Some Gulf Coast residents may also have wind and hail exclusions on their policy, in which case coverage can be obtained through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA).

If you live in a high-risk area, chances are you already have this coverage. If you live inland, though, you still might want to consider coverage due to Houston's history of dramatic floods during tropical storms.  Just keep in mind, if you do plan to purchase flood insurance, a 30-day waiting period is in effect for all policies and, of course, no new policies can be written once a storm is in the Gulf of Mexico.

Make a home inventory

According to a 2008 survey by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, 48 percent of respondents said they did not have an inventory of their possessions, and of the ones who did, a sizable portion said they didn't have pictures or receipts to document their items' value, or hadn't stored the inventory in a safe place.

Obviously, having an inventory will not only make it easier to determine the proper level of coverage (see below), but also make replacing items go much more smoothly in case of a loss.  Use a template from your insurance company, or use one of the many electronic guides or apps which can help guide you through the process.  Take pictures as you go - being sure to open cabinets and closets - and keep receipts of any large items to document their value. 

Know your policy terms

Specifically, know whether your policy provides replacement cost or actual cash value.  Replacement cost is what you would pay to rebuild or repair your home, based on current construction costs. Replacement cost is different from market value (remember, this would mean hiring a construction crew to rebuild your home) and does not include the value of your land.

Actual cash value is the replacement cost of your property minus depreciation. While these policies are cheaper, they provide significantly less coverage.  If your home is destroyed and you only have actual cash value coverage, you may not be able to completely rebuild.

Adjust your coverage amounts as needed

You should know - without digging out your policy - how much your home and contents are insured for.  Keeping in mind the terms above, do an annual check with your agent to ensure your home is valued correctly, or even hire an appraiser if you want a third opinion.  Use your home inventory as well to gauge the correct level of coverage for personal property.  Note that there are usually limits on luxury items like jewelry and furs; if you have any of significant value, you'll need to purchase additional coverage for them if you want them to be insured.

Also, take a look at your liability coverage.  The standard amount on many policies is $25,000, but that amount would be insufficient in many lawsuits.   If you have a dog, for instance, some experts recommend raising the coverage to $100,000 or more.  While weather-related claims are among the most common in Texas, dog bites and other liability claims are the costliest.

Have a home savings account

Yes, insurance is there to be a safety net, and your insurance agent should work with you to ensure it continues to provide adequate coverage.  But, no policy covers everything; whether it's damages due to termites or hail damage to plants or just the deductible, it's helpful to have a savings account to dip into for those things, and provide your own safety net.

Of course, each case is unique and you should always talk to a qualified insurance professional when making any policy changes.  Above all, do your research, revisit your policy at least once a year, and get the coverage you need... before you need it.

Green Grass in Houston - Extreme Makeover Sod Addition

It happens... Maybe you forgot to water the yard during last summer's vacation, or your kids have played "buried pirate's treasure" one too many times.  Now you have a major case of Lawn Pattern Baldness, and trying to patch it here and there isn't cutting it anymore.  When it gets to this point, it's very possible you need to bite the bullet...and re-sod your yard.

You can do it - the keys are simply preparing properly, and not cutting corners.

Seeking: The Perfect Grass for Houston, Texas

The first step is choosing the proper grass, which will vary depending on your specific lawn needs and lifestyle.  The top three most often seen in Houston lawns are bermuda, zoysia and St. Augustine.

Bermuda grass is what you often see on playgrounds and athletic fields; it takes a lot of abuse and is quite weed-resistant.  It's not great in shady areas, or next to flowerbeds, as it will invade them.  Also be prepared to water and tend to this grass more than some others.

Zoysia grass is the beautiful "golf course grass."  It's drought resistant, weed-resistant and requires much less frequent mowing, making it a popular eco-friendly choice.  It's not good for high-traffic areas, though, and is also more expensive - up to twice the cost of grasses like Bermuda and St. Augustine.

St. Augustine is the grass most frequently seen in Houston yards, as it's well-suited to the local climate and soil. It's shade-tolerant, well-growing but not aggressive, has a nice green color and is relatively inexpensive. Its major downside is maintenance - it requires frequent mowing and watering.

Preparing the Soil - or, Turkey Poop Can Be Your Friend

It can be tempting to want to just plop those grass squares on top of your existing soil, but packed soil and old grass will make it difficult for new grass to take root.  Also, it's very possible that your soil has lost its nutrients over the years (or never had them to begin with).  Home builders are infamous for using cheap topsoil around homes, sometimes called "red death" for its reddish color and ability to lead plants to an early demise.

To find out what kind of soil you're dealing with, take a soil sample to your local gardening store or use a home soil testing kit, and buy any necessary amendments such as compost or fertilizers.  Before adding those amendments, though, you'll want to till the old soil in order to break it up and dig up any old roots or rocks which might be impeding growth.  You can rent a roto-tiller (a.k.a. the "bucking bronco") from a hardware store.

Now you can add amendments - a half-inch to inch layer of compost can give your grass a much better start, and there are so many good varieties on the market now.  My personal favorite is turkey compost, and yes, it smells just about as lovely as you'd imagine.  But the plants surely do love it.

Till the soil again after these additions, and smooth it out with a metal rake, removing any dirt clods or old pieces of grass that might be lingering.  Then, give the soil a once-over with a grass roller to even it out (again, these can be rented).  Once you've done this, now you're finally ready to lay the grass.

Laying Down the Sod

The key here is speed; sod should be installed the day it arrives, so don't order until your soil preparation is done. Start laying it down on a straight edge, like a fence, then stagger the sod pieces in the adjacent rows in a “brickwork” fashion. Since sod pieces may shrink after installation, push them together tightly, and use a machete to cut around trees and flowerbeds.  (If you successfully use a machete and a roto-tiller on this job, you are truly an intrepid lawn warrior.  Give yourself a gold star.)

Water the sod within 30 minutes of installation, and roll it again with a roller to ensure good soil contact.  Now go grab a beer and collapse.

But I Want to Be in My Yard NOW!

Of course, it's tempting to want to enjoy your new lawn, but practice patience.  To help the roots establish, water it daily for the first two weeks and avoid walking on it as much as possible.  Once the roots are established (you can't pull the grass from the soil) - usually in three weeks to a month - start watering more deeply and infrequently, and you can begin regular mowing. 

There's no doubt that sodding a yard is hard work; there's a reason the landscape companies charge so much to do it.  But if you want to hold onto more of your hard-earned money, and don't mind a few days of honest labor, there's no reason you can't sod your yard - and enjoy the satisfaction of having done it yourself.

Houston Texas, Taxes and Houses. A Harris County Property Tax Overview

If you own Houston property, chances are you recently received a "notice of appraised value" in the mail from the Harris County Appraisal District ...or you will soon.  Spring is tax appraisal season in Texas, and although what we're receiving aren't bills - these taxes won't come due until next year - it's important to understand how appraisers arrive at these numbers, and what your rights are if you disagree with them.

While Texans overall enjoy a relatively low tax burden thanks to the fact that we don't have a state income tax, Texas property tax rates average higher than most states, These tax rates are not set by the state; in fact, all property taxes are both collected and spent locally.  Rather, it's up to each individual taxing unit (i.e. the school districts, cities, counties, MUDs and so forth) to set local property tax rates.  Then, county appraisal districts, or CADs, assess the value of properties upon which those taxes will be paid. 

So just how do those appraisers decide what Houston homes or property is worth?  First, it's good to know a bit about the property tax calendar.  All properties are appraised based on their value as of January 1.  Actual appraisals take place from January 1 through sometime in April, with notices of appraised value going out in April and May.  You then have at least 30 days to protest your valuation, often until May 31, with protest hearings usually happening May through July.  Tax bills are sent out starting October 1, with taxes - which were assessed as of January 1 - due by January 31 the following year. 

In most cases, properties are appraised using market value; in other words, "What are properties similar to this selling for?"  Of course, appraising each property individually is usually impractical, so to save time and money, appraisal districts often use mass appraisal - essentially grouping properties based on factors such as size and construction type, and assigning a "typical" value based on recent property sales. While they make adjustments to take into account differences such as age or location, it's not hard to imagine how some appraisals could miss the mark or be flat-out wrong - so it pays to double-check and know your rights.

The Texas Constitution requires that property taxes be assessed uniformly and evenly; that is to say, if two properties have the same value, their taxes should be identical.  So, if you have evidence that similar homes in your area have been appraised for less than yours (tax documents are public record), you may have a case for an appeal under this uniform assessment clause, even if your home's appraised value stayed the same or went down.

You should also check to see that your tax assessment reflects any exemptions for which you qualify - disabled, over 65, or the standard homestead for your primary residence.  An exemption is simply a provision which lowers the taxable value of a home (i.e. a $100,000 home with a $15,000 homestead exemption would be taxed at a value of $85,000).  These are not automatically granted, though, so be sure you've submitted the appropriate paperwork to your Appraisal District - either when you closed on your home or within a year of qualifying for one of the special exemptions.

And lastly, check your home's description on the detailed property record.  It's not uncommon to have the number of a home's bedrooms or bathrooms misstated, leading to an erroneous value appraisal.

If you do find mistakes or believe your property is over-valued, file a protest with your appraisal district by filling out a protest form from the districts' website, or simply returning the "protest" portion of your appraisal form. You will usually be given a chance to resolve the issue through an informal meeting at the appraiser's office first, but if you are unable to resolve it, the next step is a hearing in front of the appraisal review board or ARB.

As scary as they sound, the ARB is actually made up of citizens from the community, chosen by the appraisal district to hear disagreements.  You will be asked to provide evidence to back up your case, so do your research beforehand and bring documentation - whether it's tax records of similar properties in your area, photos of your home, or a report from an independent appraiser.  If this all sounds a bit daunting, or if you just don't have the time to deal with it, you can hire a property tax reduction specialist to help, although most cases can be resolved before reaching the ARB hearing stage and with a relatively small investment of time.

Bottom line, pay attention to those appraised value notices that are coming in the mail; be familiar with the laws and rules that govern your taxes and be prepared to speak up should you see something that's not right.  Because, although we all need to pay our fair share of taxes, there's no reason we should pay a cent more.

To learn more about appraisal districts, the appeals process or tax rates, visit the Greater Houston Area Appraisal Districts and Tax Assessors summary page on our website.

Rice, Oil and Mudbugs. The Cajun Journey from Canada to the Houston Bayou

Aiyeee, y'all!  Eh? 

One look at your grocer’s seafood counter will tell you - it’s officially mudbug season in Houston (that’s crawfish for you recent transplants).  This is the time of year when we break out the boilin’ pots and get ready to do some serious stompin’ to Cajun tunes - all thanks to our neighbors to the east. 

Just as having Mexico to our south has given us an excuse to celebrate Cinco de Mayo and our beloved Tex-Mex, our proximity to Louisiana has brought Cajun culture to our doorstep.  In fact, so many Cajuns have settled just to our east - near Orange, Port Arthur and Beaumont - the area is sometimes called “Lapland,” where Cajun and Texas cultures overlap.  With our bayou buddies so linked to our own culture here, it’s easy to forget they originally came from the far, far north.

In case you didn’t know, Cajuns are actually descendants of French colonists in modern-day Canada.  (It’s hard to imagine the people who gave us gumbo coming from the land of poutine,  but it’s true.)  In the 1630’s, peasants in west-central France began emigrating to an area then called Acadia, the present-day Canadian Maritime provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.  These Acadians, as they were called, eked out a living as fishers and farmers, and formed a culture that valued independence and industry over social position - traits you can still see in today’s Cajuns.

Although the Acadians essentially governed themselves and enjoyed minimal government interference, they were still loyal to France - and the official religion of Roman Catholicism.  So when the Protestant British conquered Acadia in 1713, they refused to sign an unconditional oath of allegiance to Britain.  Tensions between them mounted until, fed up with the Acadians’ lack of loyalty, Britain ordered their expulsion in 1755. 

Known as Le Grand Derangement, or the Great Upheaval, this mass deportation split up families and had them shipped off to various locations along the Atlantic seaboard, or even back to France.  Many Acadians, wanting to stay in a French territory, emigrated to the bayous and swamps of Louisiana.

Upon arrival though, the Acadians found out - much to their dismay - that France had ceded control of the Louisiana territory to Spain about two years prior.  Luckily for them, Spain was also a Roman Catholic nation, and they allowed the Acadians to continue to practice their culture, language and religion as they pleased.  And so, they were able to form a virtual island of their own brand of French(ish) culture in western Louisiana, even as American expansion crowded in around them.  (In fact, it was these American settlers who truncated their name to “Cadians” and eventually “Cajuns.”)

It wasn’t until the late 1800’s when Cajuns finally began to migrate into our fair state, driven mainly by economic devastation in the wake of the Civil War.  Two industries at the time drew in our Louisiana neighbors - rice and railroads.  Rice was becoming a major crop in southeast Texas at that time, and of course, who better to cultivate rice fields than the people who gave us gumbo?  And as railroads expanded, many workers of Cajun descent moved to Houston, where Southern Pacific had their district headquarters.

And then came Spindletop, and the industry that would forge the strongest economic bond between our two regions.  The burgeoning oil industry would bring streams of Louisiana Cajuns looking for work in the oil fields, and Texans into Louisiana as their petroleum industry took off as well - a link which continues today.

And so, it turns out that we have French settlers, British overlords, Spanish overlords, rice farmers, railroad workers and Spindletop to thank for the gumbo, jambalaya and crawfish etoufee we get to enjoy on a regular basis today in Houston.  Let’s just thank our lucky stars they didn’t bring poutine with them instead.