About Us
About the Company
Founded in 1995, Forrest Homes is the brainchild of Julio L. Laguarta, envisaging the creation of stunning, architecturally varied custom homes across Central Texas. In our first year, we successfully built and sold five custom homes. Our signature “Hill Country” style manifests through robust rock and pine exteriors, complemented by exquisite pine hardwood flooring, premium granite countertops, and elegant wood trim interiors.
Julio L. Laguarta, President
Julio L. Laguarta brings over 25 years of experience and respect in the real estate and residential construction industry.
Early Life
A Houston native, Julio studied real estate at the University of Texas at Austin. His early career began in 1979, when he oversaw sales and marketing for real estate partnerships in Houston, with more than 100 investors and properties valued at over $20 million. By 1983, as vice president at Laguarta, Gavrel & Kirk, he led a team of 25 sales associates who brokered significant transactions throughout the Houston area.
Work Experience
Julio shifted focus to residential real estate in 1986 with Neighborhood Homes, where he applied his management skills to excel in selling single-family homes. Under his leadership, the team of 12 sales associates achieved 250 sales in two years. Leveraging this experience, he turned to construction supervision, responsible for developing and selling 70 homes ranging from 2,500 to over 4,500 square feet, with prices between $200,000 and $500,000.
Founding Lansford Homes and Forrest Homes
From 1993 to 1996, Julio played an integral role in his family business, building homes in the neighborhoods of Bellaire and West University that ranged in size and price, enhancing his insights into residential development. He then founded Lansford Homes and Forrest Homes, constructing 15 homes in that period.
Expansion into Higher Market Segments
In 1996, Julio partnered with equity investors to focus on homes in the $500,000 to $800,000 market segment, gaining acclaim for his creative use of limestone. Responding to high market demand in 1995, he expanded into the $1,000,000 range, building luxurious homes that spanned over 5,000 square feet, totaling 25 homes from 1995 to 2009.
Julio has been an active member of professional organizations such as the Houston Association of REALTORS® and the Texas Association of Realtors, including serving as a director of the Houston Association of REALTORS® from 1985 to 1990 and holding positions such as secretary, treasurer, and vice president.
Other Interests
Julio values community involvement outside his professional pursuits and is an active member of The Crosspoint Church in LaGrange, TX. He enjoys a fulfilling family life with his wife, three children, and eight grandchildren, alongside hobbies that include fishing, hunting, and snow skiing.