While attending social events and/or working with clients, I am always asked about the source of new residents for The Woodlands. As noted in a previous post, our community population has grown 69% from 2000 to 2010.

First-time visitors to our community almost always begin their tour of the community by visiting The Woodlands Development Corporation Homefinder Center. The local Realtors utilize the Homefind Center and the knowledgeable staff to provide potential home-buyers an overview of the community and the many many lifestyle amenities. Part of the introduction process includes a visitor registration. Based on this information, the above chart is created.

The Out of Area section of the pie is composed of new residents coming from outside the Houston SMA, outside Texas, outside the United State. For a number of years, this percentage was over 50%. Due to global economic conditions, fewer corporate transfers were implemented; resulting in a percentage decrease.

The Houston segment has remained steady in the 25% to 33% range. Many in this category were former residents of Spring seeking lower taxes, insurance costs, better schools, and a change in lifestyle. After traveling to The Woodlands for golf, shopping, restaurants, and entertainment events, many decided to eliminate the commute! Of course, there are also in-the-city Houston residents that grow tired of horrible street conditions, traffic, and noise pollution.

Current residents of The Woodlands represent the final segment. Reasons for moving within The Woodlands include buying a larger home, down-sizing to a smaller empty-nester home, moving closer to the front to reduce commute times to a downtown office, or moving from an older home to a newer home.

Visit Michele Flory at www.MicheleFlory.com for more information on The Woodlands community, schools, events, activities, lifestyle, and real estate.