What to expect as a Brit living in Houston?

I'm relocating from outside of the US to Houston for work. I've spent short trips there though feel I have no idea what living there would be like or things to really look out for in terms of settling in.

I've heard some horror stories about utility providers and isps in the US generally. On the fence about buying or renting both house and car. My wife is concerned about racism. I was wondering if you would kindly provide some need to know and nice to know information for our move?