Welcome to Forest Lakes – Forest Hill, MD Real Estate & Neighborhood Guide
Forest Lakes is one of Forest Hill’s most appealing and established communities. As a local REALTOR® specializing in Harford County, I’m glad to introduce prospective buyers to this area—offering neighborhood insight, real estate trends, lifestyle advantages, and school information that helps you make a confident decision.
About Forest Lakes
Forest Lakes is a mature subdivision in Forest Hill, with development going back to the late 1960s and continuing into the early 2000s. Homes here range in styles from traditional colonials to split-levels, ranchers, and larger models built later. The lot sizes, home footprints, and architectural diversity give the area character and flexibility for different buyer needs.
Forest Lakes has a homeowners’ association (Forest Lakes Community Association), which helps oversee the common elements and community standards. (There is a community website for the association.) The HOA helps maintain a baseline of order without being overly restrictive, which many residents appreciate.
Neighborhood Character & Lifestyle
Living in Forest Lakes gives you the benefit of a more settled, tree-filled environment. Because much of the development is established, mature landscaping, canopy trees, and thoughtful road layouts contribute to a stable, comfortable feel. The mix of older homes and newer renovations allows buyers to choose a move-in property or something with room to grow.
Residents often point out the quiet streets, proximity to conveniences, and the sense that neighbors look out for one another. One resident told me: “We love walking our dog along the sidewalks and rarely go days without greeting someone we know. It feels like a place where people take pride in their homes.”
Because Forest Lakes is not brand new, you often see homes with tasteful upgrades: finished basements, updated kitchens and baths, deck expansions, and landscaped backyards. For many buyers, the combination of character + upgrade potential is a compelling mix.
Schools & Education
Forest Lakes falls under the banner of Harford County Public Schools (HCPS). While specific school assignments depend on address, schools commonly linked to this area include
Forest Lakes Elementary
Bel Air Middle School
Bel Air High School
In practice, some homes near the borders may be assigned to alternative middle or high schools depending on boundary adjustments. (Homes near Forest Lakes Elementary often appear in listing searches tied to that school.)
In addition, HCPS offers magnet programs, special pathways, and alternative schooling options that may be accessible depending on your address and eligibility.
Disclaimer: School attendance zones are subject to change. Always verify school boundary assignments directly with Harford County Public Schools before making decisions based on school placement.
Local Features & Surroundings
Forest Hill, as a community, offers a blend of rural and suburban appeal. It sits north of Bel Air along key routes like MD-24, making access to shopping, dining, and services very practical. (Forest Hill’s ZIP code, 21050, covers a wide swath of land including residential and rural parcels.)
Some notable local draws include:
- Green space & walking: Because Forest Lakes is mature, many lots have mature trees, gentle topography, and sidewalks that facilitate walking neighborhoods. Trail and outdoor options in greater Harford County are within reach.
- Community events: In the broader Forest Hill and Bel Air region, local events, seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and cultural gatherings help build social connection.
- Historic landmarks: Within Forest Hill is St. Ignatius Church, one of the community’s historic assets. (St. Ignatius Church dates back to the late 18th century and is listed on the National Register.)
- Convenience to commerce: Shopping, grocery stores, restaurants, and service corridors are just a few minutes away via main roads.
- Commuter routes: The location supports access to I-95, major thoroughfares, and commuting corridors to surrounding employment zones.
Real Estate Trends & What to Know
Because Forest Lakes is established, inventory isn’t always high—but when homes come up, they draw strong interest. Buyers often compete on condition, upgrades, and lot desirability. Many homes with recent renovations or modern amenities command premiums; others with solid bones offer value and upside for updating.
Typical home footprints include 3 to 5 bedrooms, multiple baths, and square footage from perhaps 1,600–2,500+ depending on design and additions. Some homes include finished lower levels or walk-out basements. Because the neighborhood is mature, you often find a mix of original features and tasteful upgrades—custom cabinetry, updated mechanicals, deck additions, etc.
As your REALTOR®, I monitor new listings in Forest Lakes continuously. When one matches your criteria—lot size, style, school, condition—I can arrange previews and help you assess comparative value. Because inventory may move fast, early awareness gives you an edge.
Why Move to Forest Lakes?
If you’re considering Forest Lakes, here’s why many buyers select it:
- Established character: Mature trees, settled roads, and a stable feel you don’t get in many newer subdivisions.
- Built-in upgrade paths: Many homes offer scope for further enhancements rather than needing full rebuilds.
- Balanced location: You’re close to retail and commuter routes without being right on top of highway congestion.
- Strong school alignment: Residents often access well-regarded HCPS schools (but always verify for your specific address).
- Good resale potential: Because the neighborhood is known and stable, future buyers tend to understand its value.
Explore Homes in Forest Lakes
This content is currently unavailable. Please check back later or contact the site's support team for more information.
Scroll through current listings below, and don’t hesitate to get in touch so I can arrange a tour, supply comps, or help you compare with similar communities nearby.