There are so many great places to live in Houston that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.
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“Memorial is a unique oasis in the middle of Houston,” says Patti Garrison, who knows it well. She has lived in the Sandalwood and Lakeview area for more than 36 years with her family, and celebrates how much it appeals to families because of the highly rated schools that are within walking distance.

There are also excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options such as CityCentre, Memorial Green, and Memorial City just a short drive away.

Garrison’s initial foray into real estate was more than 35 years ago when she purchased her first home, remodeled it, and sold it. That home was the first of many, and in the years since her background in remodeling and new construction has proven invaluable to her clients, whether they are purchasing a new home or deciding how to prepare a property before putting it on the market.

She shared some of her personal favorites about life in the Memorial, specifically in the Sandalwood and Lakeview areas.

Where to eat & drink
Garrison loves Jonathan's The Rub for its dining options indoors and out and, of course, the amazing food.

The Landry's company also has a variety of nearby restaurants that are delicious and iconic, from Brenner's to Goode Co. Barbeque to Saltgrass Steak House. Other favorites include Treebeards and Liberty Kitchen.

The Houston Racquet Club is a friendly, private club with good food — and with 41 tennis courts, it's also great for the whole family.

Where to play
Speaking of tennis, Garrison also recommends Bendwood Park for its tennis courts, jogging paths, and a variety of playgrounds.

CityCentre has an outdoor green space that’s surrounded by restaurants and places for kids to play.

“Another great thing about Sandalwood and Lakeview is that hike and bike trails connect neighborhoods and the streets aren't busy,” adds Garrison. “It's an enclave where kids can be out playing in the neighborhood without crossing a busy street.”

Sandalwood residents also enjoy three private, spring-fed lakes where you can swim, fish and sail, along with walking paths and a playground right in the neighborhood.

Where to live
“The nice thing about Sandalwood and Lakeview is that there is no typical style,” says Garrison. “The homes were built starting in the 1950s and were originally one-story ranches. Today, there are new homes ranging from traditional to modern.”

Garrison also points out that Lakeview and Sandalwood both have deed restrictions, so there are setback lines and height limitations.

The stunning 6,722-square-foot estate at 26 Robinlake Lane is an example of a re-build in Lakeview and Sandalwood that Garrison identified for her clients, who have done multiple real-estate transactions with her over the years. It boasts beautiful lake views on a huge corner lot along with expansive interior and exterior living space.

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With over $600 million in lifetime sales, and over 700 homes sold, Patti Garrison works and plays in Sandalwood and Lakeview in Memorial. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email patti.garrison@sir.com, or call 713-501-7086.