🌊 Houston Flood Zones Explained 🏠 What Buyers Need to Know Before Closing!

🏡 Don’t Get Soaked! 🌧️ Must-Know Tips About Houston Flood Zones Before You Buy

🌊 Flood Zones in Houston: What You Need to Know Before You Buy a Home

Buying a home in Houston? Before you fall in love with the granite countertops and spacious backyard, you need to ask an essential question: Is it in a flood zone? 🌧️

Houston is no stranger to heavy rainfall and hurricanes. In fact, flooding is one of the most common and costly disasters in the area. Understanding how flood zones work—and how they affect your mortgage, insurance, and long-term investment—is critical before you close on that dream home.

📍 What Are Flood Zones?

Flood zones are geographic areas defined by FEMA based on the level of flood risk. These zones help determine who must buy flood insurance and how much it will cost.

·         Zone AE or VE – High-risk areas that require flood insurance if you’re using a government-backed loan.

·         Zone X (Shaded or Unshaded) – Lower-risk areas. Insurance may be optional but still recommended.

·         Zone AR or A99 – Areas with developing flood control systems.

📌 Pro Tip: Flooding can happen outside “official” flood zones. During Hurricane Harvey, 68% of homes that flooded were outside mandatory flood insurance zones.

💰 How Flood Zones Affect Mortgages

Lenders want to protect their collateral (your home). If your property is in a high-risk flood zone:

·         You’ll be required to carry flood insurance.

·         Your monthly mortgage payment may be higher due to added insurance costs.

·         You may need elevation certificates or updated FEMA maps before closing.

Working with a knowledgeable mortgage broker can help you navigate flood zone requirements, avoid surprises at closing, and connect you with insurers who understand Houston’s unique landscape.

🧾 Can You Get a Loan in a Flood Zone?

Yes! In fact, many Houstonians do. But not all lenders treat flood zone properties the same. That’s where we come in.

At Medallion Mortgage, we work with a variety of lenders—giving our clients flexibility, competitive pricing, and guidance in complex scenarios like flood zone purchases. We help:

·         Review FEMA maps & flood risk tools

·         Coordinate with insurance providers

·         Structure your mortgage to protect your budget

🧠 Final Thoughts: Be Informed, Not Afraid

Flood risk doesn’t mean “don’t buy.” It means “do your homework.”

If you’re buying in areas like Katy, Cypress, Meyerland, or near Buffalo Bayou, make sure you understand:

·         Your flood zone designation

·         What your insurance premiums will be

·         How it affects your financing

👉 Ready to talk with a local expert who understands the ins and outs of Houston mortgages and flood zones? Let’s connect and protect your purchase.

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© 2023-2024 Bill Rapp, Medallion Funds LLC, Director of Capital Advisory