3131 Southwest Fwy

3131 Southwest

It’s true that 3131 Southwest Freeway is located next to Interstate 69, one of Houston’s busiest highways, but living here makes it possible to gain a foothold in the affluent West University Place neighborhood — just eight miles from downtown. Median single-family homes in the area cost $1.6 million and West University Elementary is ranked among the top 10 elementary schools in the state. The two-story condo complex dates to 1965 and is reminiscent of classic motel architecture from that era, complete with a continuous second-floor balcony. The complex’s 54 units surround an in-ground pool and tidy, gated courtyard, plus, it’s possible for residents to walk to local businesses thanks to streets lined with well-maintained sidewalks. Most units have been renovated to various extents since the 1960s, with some sporting granite counters, recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, plantation shutters, walk-in tiled showers and built-in microwaves. Units range from one bedrooms starting at 726 square feet to two bedrooms spanning 1,350 square feet, with prices between $131,000 and $181,000. Less renovated units still offer open floor plans, dishwashers, ample kitchen cabinets and closets, hardwood or tile floors and well-proportioned rooms. All units have central air, electric stoves and doors leading out to the courtyard and pool. Limited amenities help to maintain a low monthly maintenance fee that’s less than $500 a month, but residents still benefit from a private, well-tended courtyard with a year-round pool and grilling area. Besides creating a sense of community, this area provides a quiet corner amid the busy streets just beyond. The complex also offers a laundry room since units lack washers and dryers, plus a dedicated carport parking spot. While the complex, occupying the neighborhood’s northern edge, might not benefit from the same mature trees and residential streets associated with West University, it’s hard to beat its convenience. West University Place is popular among those who work or attend nearby Rice University, a top-ranked private research university with about 4,200 undergraduates on 300 acres. In fact, 84 percent of residents are college graduates, and almost half of all residents possess advanced degrees, stats that are significantly above the national average. Texas Medical Center and the Museum District are just over three miles away, while the Galleria, an upscale shopping destination loaded with more than 400 stores and destination dining like Nobu Houston, is about four miles away. Even closer are everyday necessities like H-E-B or Kroger’s for groceries. The entrance to the heavily trafficked Interstate 69 is literally right in front of the building, a convenience for frequent commuters. William P. Hobby Airport is 15 miles away and George Bush Intercontinental Airport is 24 miles. METRORail is Houston’s light rail option and the Dryden/TMC station on the Red Line is less than three miles away for fast and frequent access into downtown Houston. Buses are another way to get around with nearby stops along Buffalo Speedway, just around the corner. The 10-lane freeway is reflected in the building’s sound score of 63/100, especially for units facing it. The complex allows rentals, but no pets.