It is a rare find to have such a proud and proactive neighborhood in the fourth largest city in the nation!  With its quaint homes, local dining establishments, community activities, large lush green spaces both public and private, and close proximity to Downtown, the Galleria, River Oaks, and Midtown, one can see why Oak Forest in Northwest Houston is such a commodity for the Houston area real estate market.

Established in 1947 by Realty Investor Frank Sharp, who would later create Sharpstown, the beginnings of this neighborhood created quite a foundation of the pride that is seen still today in its residents.  The homes were primarily bought by new families, mostly veterans returning from World War II for a whopping $8,000-$10,000.  There are several original homeowners still living in Oak Forest today, however they welcome the diversity new residents can bring.  Oak Forest’s original constructions by Sharp were concentrated in section 1 of Oak Forest, but he went on to develop 17 more areas where other contractors would continue to build on to this centralized neighborhood. Since its annexation by the City of Houston in 1949, Oak Forest’s 5,500 homes comprise a nice piece of Northwest Houston; its east and west boundaries are 610 and Pinemont, and its North and South boundaries are 290 and Shepherd.

While Oak Forest boasts many homes on large lots, it has also set aside plenty of space for schools, places of worship, and businesses.  The businesses primarily line Ella Boulevard, West 43^rd Street, 34^th Street, and Mangum.  Restaurants unique to this area are: Doyle’s (homecooking), Plonk (Wine Bistro), El Rey Taqueria (Cuban Cuisine) and Fratelli’s (Italian).

With an abundance of mature Pine, Oak and maple trees, Oak forest is home to Candlelight Park and Community Center, Oak Forest Park, and T.C. Jester Park, complete with bike and jogging trails and play equipment for the little ones.  Even with all the green space in this neighborhood, the community doesn’t stop there.  Oak Forest prides itself in its lushly landscaped esplanades and parks, so the community continues to plant more trees to help maintain its woodsy charm.  Just recently, trees donated by the nonprofit organization, Trees for Houston, were planted along 43^rd, Mangum and Ella.

The community’s involvement and pride in Oak Forest is what keeps this neighborhood thriving.  This quaint community may have old world charm in its houses, but it is sailing on the information super-highway with its comprehensive website full of homeowner resources, discussion boards, and community event information.  Oak Forest’s Homeowner’s Association is all-volunteer and heads up some wonderful family events, like the Annual Movie Night in the Park, and they plan on initiating a regular “meet and greet.” This event will allow neighbors to meet and support local businesses.

Currently, Oak Forest has about 90 properties for sale, ranging from $111,000-$679,000.  For information on any of the homes available in this strong and proud neighborhood or any other properties available in the Houston real estate market, contact us!  We’ll be happy to give you the personal attention you want and deserve!