McKinney Real Estate: Family Houses North of Dallas

Historic downtown McKinney has a courthouse square with independent shops, restaurants and a farmers' market, and has been repeatedly cited in national lists of desirable small cities. Stonebridge Ranch and Craig Ranch are large master-planned communities with golf courses, trails and amenities. Newer areas to the north and east, such as Painted Tree and Trinity Falls, add affordable new builds. McKinney National Airport is a small regional airport; Dallas Love Field and DFW are about 45 minutes to an hour away.

Schools are a major draw, and employers in nearby Plano, Frisco and Allen provide white-collar jobs. Property taxes are high, many communities are in special districts, and summer heat is intense.

Texas has no personal income tax, no state transfer tax and high property tax, usually around 2% or more of assessed value once county, school, city and special district rates are combined. Homestead exemptions apply only to owner-occupiers. Closing costs run about 2-3% of the price including regulated title insurance.

Foreign buyers are generally free to purchase, although a 2025 Texas law limits purchases by individuals and entities linked to some countries of concern; ask a Texas attorney. Foreign-national mortgages usually require 30% or more down. The US buying guide, financing page and mortgage calculator explain how to plan.

Before making an offer in McKinney, find out which school zone applies and what the total tax rate is, since two houses on neighbouring streets can have different special-district assessments. Request the seller's disclosure and a survey, and have the foundation inspected; North Texas clay soils shift with moisture. Check the roof for hail damage, especially if it is more than ten years old, because insurers now ask hard questions about older roofs.

If you intend to let the house, confirm HOA rental restrictions. Property managers charge about 8-10% of monthly rent. Foreign owners should obtain a US tax identification number and consult a cross-border adviser about rental income reporting and the withholding on sale. Use our valuation tool to benchmark prices and the contact page if you need introductions.

For value elsewhere in the Sunbelt compare Las Vegas and Henderson. Premium coastal options include San Diego, and in Florida Naples. The US overview lists all cities and the US analysis adds macro context.