There are so many great places to live in Fort Worth that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Briggs Freeman Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.

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Though Montserrat and La Cantera are fairly new neighborhoods — both sold their first lots in 2007 — they've quickly become some of the most desirable areas in Fort Worth.

Real estate agent Adrianne Holland attributes the popularity of both communities to their topography and accessibility.

"There are rolling elevation changes and natural limestone elements that can be experienced on the walking trails," she says. "Their location is also outstanding, as both Montserrat and La Cantera are just off Loop 820 which has access to Interstates 30 and 20. Loop 820 provides quick and easy access around Fort Worth's central business district."

Born and raised in Fort Worth, Holland graduated from All Saints' Episcopal School before earning her bachelor's in business administration from the Neeley School of Business at Texas Christian University.

Holland offered up a few of her personal favorites about life in Montserrat and La Cantera. Here's her guide to the area:

Where to eat & drink
Holland can often be found at Atico or H3 Ranch in the Stockyards.

Where to play
"I love history! I always tell my out-of-town guests to book a historical tour at Thistle Hill," Holland says. "Period architecture is so fascinating, and seeing how homes change over time makes me feel like an anthropologist."

Holland also names Mutts Canine Cantina as a top spot for spending time outside with furry family members. TCU has year-round sports, meaning you can always catch a game on the weekend.

A true neighborhood gem is Grissom's Fine Jewelry: "Jewelry makes everything better. The custom service is outstanding, and they can redesign a family heirloom into a new piece you will cherish," Holland says.

Where to live
Holland says these neighborhoods are the ultimate in luxury living, with gated and guarded entrances but also "a warm vibe — it is not uncommon to see children playing games in the cul-de-sacs."

Fort Worth does not have a lot of modern Texas vernacular architecture, but Holland says you will find some beautiful examples in both neighborhoods, along with Mediterranean, French, New American, and transitional homes.

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Adrianne Holland works and plays in Montserrat and La Cantera. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email aholland@briggsfreeman.com, or call 817-988-7955.