5 Secrets You Should Know Before Moving to Dallas-Fort Worth

Are you considering looking for a new home in the DFW metroplex? Let me start by saying this: If you’re thinking about moving to Dallas-Fort Worth, you’re stepping into one of the most dynamic metropolitan areas in the country. However, it’s not all wide-open spaces and no state income tax.

There are some key details that can trip up even the savviest movers. Today, I’m sharing five relocation secrets that will save you time, stress, and potentially thousands of dollars.

1. Not all suburbs are created equal. The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex includes more than 70 different suburbs, each with a unique vibe, price point, and pace of life.

Some cities might already be on your radar: Frisco, Southlake, Plano, but what you may not realize is that these popular spots come with higher home prices and fierce competition. Meanwhile, nearby areas like Roanoke, Celina, The Colony, Mansfield, or Prosper often offer more space, a slower pace, and similar access to highways and top-notch schools.

If you want to find the right place to live, start by figuring out the kind of life you want. Once you know your priorities, finding the right neighborhood becomes much easier.

2. The traffic is real, but manageable. Compared to places like Los Angeles, DFW traffic is a breeze. But that doesn’t mean you can ignore commute times.

Our sprawling metroplex means miles don’t always equal minutes. Depending on where you live and work, your commute could vary wildly. For example, driving during rush hour from Frisco to downtown Dallas might take twice as long as you’d expect.

If you’re thinking of moving, visit during peak traffic times or use Google Maps to simulate your daily drive. Test out different routes and see how they align with your schedule. Knowing what you’re signing up for ahead of time makes all the difference.

3. Property taxes are higher than expected. This one catches almost everyone off guard. While Texas doesn’t have state income tax, our property taxes are notably high. On average, homeowners in DFW pay between 2.1% and 2.4% of their home’s value annually, and in some areas, it can reach as high as 2.7%. That’s a lot higher than many other states.

As someone who owns multiple properties, I can tell you firsthand: These taxes add up fast. Make sure you factor them into your budget when deciding how much house you can afford. Ignoring this step can lead to sticker shock once the bills start rolling in.

4. Public schools are a major perk. DFW boasts some of the best public schools in the nation. Seriously, several of our high schools rank among the top performers nationwide, not just in Texas, but across the entire country.

For families, this is huge. Higher property taxes often fund excellent educational opportunities, meaning you might not need to shell out extra for private school tuition. When choosing a neighborhood, pay close attention to the school districts because they’re worth every penny.

5. The weather can be extreme. Everyone expects the heat in Texas. Triple-digit summers are totally normal. That’s why most buyers prioritize access to a pool, either in the backyard or in the neighborhood.

But what surprises a lot of newcomers is how wild the weather can get. We get hail, ice storms, and massive thunderstorms. Everything really is bigger in Texas, including our weather events.

When buying a home, inspect the roof carefully, check the HVAC system, and ensure your insurance covers storm damage. These small steps now can prevent major headaches down the road.

Relocating to Dallas-Fort Worth offers incredible opportunities, but it also requires smart planning. From navigating suburb differences to understanding hidden costs, there’s a lot to consider.

If you or someone you know is ready to make the move, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call, text, or email me at (214) 267-9222 or SeychelleSells@vanpoole.com. I’m happy to answer questions and guide you through the process. Let’s make your transition smooth, stress-free, and successful.