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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Real estate agent and fourth-generation Houstonian Laura Mayer knows her way around the block. She specializes in Houston’s finest neighborhoods, including West University, which she also calls home herself.

“I have worked in West U my entire career of 20-plus years,” says Mayer. “As a resident, I’m involved in the community myself — and through my children’s various activities — which keeps my network strong in the area. It’s the best place to live, and I am honored to sell in this neighborhood.”

With a gorgeous setting, a great community feel, and stellar schools, Mayer says West University cannot be beat.

“I love feeling like I live in a small town in the heart of the fourth largest city in America,” she adds. “The central location, safety, amenities, and community events are just a few of my favorite highlights. My husband and I love to walk to dinner or up to the ball field, and my kids can ride their bikes to many places.”

Mayer offered up a few of her personal favorites about life in West U. Here's her guide to the area:

Where to eat & drink
“Head to Tiny's No. 5 for breakfast — and to hang with friends!” says Mayer. The charming restaurant is nestled in the old JMH No 5 Grocery Store that served the West U community for 60 years, and is right next door to their bakery, Milk & Cookies.

She also loves Leaf & Grain for a healthy lunch and Torchy's for a quick and easy dinner.

Little Matt's is great if you have kids, Mayer shares. Their mission is beautiful, too: to honor their young son’s memory by donating proceeds from the restaurant to Texas Children’s Hospital.

Where to play
West U has multiple parks, playgrounds, and two swimming pools, Mayer advises; it’s a great community environment. The neighborhood is also very convenient to shopping in Rice Village, which is a walkable, historic haven.

What to see
There are many things to see that are very close by, including the Museum District, Herman Park, and the Houston Zoo. Exploring the art on the Rice University campus — including a piece of the Berlin Wall — is another must.

Where to live
“West U is an eclectic neighborhood with varied architecture and style,” says Mayer. It’s a small town with a big heart and you really can’t go wrong in this area."

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Laura Mayer works and plays in West University. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email laura.mayer@sir.com, or call 713-443-6776.