Any LR2 owners in the Houston area able to recommend an independent Land Rover specialist?

Nope. Sorry about that. As long as they are certified (often an Ex dealer employee) you should be good to go.

I've called a local on here a few times over the years for estimates on our LR2 & older LR3. The pricing was almost always the same. If you have a good dealer (ask for the Service manager) they are often worth a look. Ours here in Denver, CO are quite good (despite some ownership changes) as long as you communicate up front.

Good luck!  Wait...you get 17in steel wheel options, diesel engines, manual transmissions, cloth seats, optional sunroofs and G4 kit!