Friday, March 29, 2024 Mar 29, 2024
58° F Dallas, TX
Advertisement
Cover Story

Million Dollar Homes and Where to Buy Them in Dallas

What $1 million buys in seven top neighborhoods. Plus: Meet the elite real estate agents who live there.
By D Magazine |

special thanks to Sylvia Scott and all the agents who provided art and information

Greenway Parks

Madeline Jobst

Years in real estate: 28. Family history: Jobst grew up in Greenway Parks and Highland Park. She chose to move back to Greenway 12 years ago. Taking care of business: “Eight Briggs Freeman agents live in Greenway,” she laughs. Which might explain why many houses that sell in the neighborhood never make it to MLS. “A lot of houses turn over privately,” Jobst explains. Lifestyle choices: “The greenbelts behind the houses are great for walking dogs. Children can play, and neighbors can interact.” Community outreach: “We have block parties for the whole neighborhood, home tours, a New Year’s cocktail party, movie nights for teens, and a Fourth of July parade,” Jobst enthuses. Schools: Many residents send their children to private schools or the TAG programs. Quality control: Greenway Parks has been designated with conservation district status, which means fewer teardowns and more renovations. Bang for the buck: “There are good homes here. Large homes,” she says. “The houses hold their value.”

 

Neighborhood Hot Spots: Celebration • Inwood Village • Bijoux • Inwood Lounge • Shinsei

5447 Neola Dr.
$1,175,000

Built in 1930, this 3,523-square-foot Greenway Parks house is every hostess’ dream. The two-story abode has generous formal space for guests with rich ebony-stained hardwood floors and a family room with beamed ceilings and custom cabinetry. The three-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath residence features a sunroom and eat-in kitchen with a six-burner Viking stove and oven. The property also boasts lush landscaping and a pool. Bob Edmonson. Allie Beth Allman & Associates.  214-521-7355.

5442 University Blvd.
$1,195,000

This Greenway Parks traditional residence sits on a double lot—more than half an acre. The three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom house was built in 1950 and features French doors, three fireplaces, vaulted ceilings, granite countertops in the kitchen, swimming pool, and a gazebo. Additional amenities include the guest house with living room and kitchenette, and a garage apartment. Stanley Williams. Dave Perry-Miller & Associates. 972-949-2327.

5356 Nakoma Dr.
$1,499,000

This four-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bath, 5,057-square-foot residence is ideal for entertaining. The family room boasts views of the greenbelt and a pool. The kitchen has been updated with stainless steel appliances, an island, and a mural in the breakfast room. The master suite has his-and-her bathrooms, sitting area, and a balcony perfect for viewing the property. Stephen Pryor. Ebby Halliday Realtors. 214-526-6600.


Plano

Donna Trayler

Years in real estate: 17. Years in Plano: 10. Growing pains: “Plano is aging,” Trayler says. But she continues to sell big homes to big names, including  Pro Football Hall of Famer James Lofton and Ron Rittenmeyer, the CEO of EDS. Schools: The schools continue to earn high marks—though they were recently downgraded by the TEA. Formality factor: The neighborhoods are generally warm and friendly, and not as formal as some farther south. Million-dollar neighborhoods: “Willow Bend itself is always going to be a little treasure. And the location is nice for people who think Frisco is too far. Plano almost seems inside the loop now.” Gated communities: King’s Gate attracts a number of athletes. “If you want privacy and a guard gate, there’s very little of that in Plano,” Trayler says. King’s Gate has that amenity, and homes start at around $1 million. Future prospects: In her estimation, folks will always be on the lookout for new houses. “It’s Texas. There’s always a divorce,” she chuckles.

Neighborhood Hot Spots: The Shops at Willow Bend • Martini Park • Jasper’s • Chow Thai Pacific Rim

 

4600 Sebago Tr.
$999,900

The two-story house was built in 2005 and sits on a cul-de-sac in Preston Lakes Estates. It has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half bathrooms, two dining areas, a media room, three living areas, and a wine room. Amenities include hand-scraped hardwoods, slate tile, granite countertops, plantation shutters, and a three-car garage. Justin Spain. Christopher Landers Real Estate. 214-293-1258.

1304 Eastwick Pl.
$1,045,000

Built in 1993, this five-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom residence was extensively remodeled in 2004, and overlooks the multiple fairways and lakes of the Gleneagles Country Club. The kitchen features granite countertops, a large island, Asko dishwasher, Dacor double ovens, triple gas cooktop, and a Sub-Zero refrigerator. The cabinets have a gorgeous faux finish, as does the paneling in the family room. First-floor master suite has access to the pool area. A private park is nearby. Jeanne Wieser. Keller Williams Realty Plano. 972-559-7000.

5832 Dove Creek Ct.
$1,024,900

This Tuscan in Lakeside on Preston features travertine floors, wood shutters, and cast-stone fireplaces. The gourmet kitchen opens to the family room and boasts a breakfast bar and island with a vegetable sink, granite countertops, and professional-grade stainless appliances, including a Viking six-burner stove top with grill, warming drawer, Thermador double convection oven, and built-in Sub-Zero refrigerator. The home also has a wine room, three-car garage, and saline water Pebble Tec pool and spa. Cindy O’Gorman. Ebby Halliday Realtors. 972-380-7389.

Preston  Hollow

Eleanor Mowery Sheets

Years in real estate: 23. Whirlwind romance: In 1998, Sheets was perfectly happy in the Park Cities—she had lived there for 30 years. But after getting a call to check out a house on a tract that was formerly part of Bo Millers’ ranch, she says, “I fell in love. I decided to do what I knew I probably shouldn’t.” She made an offer and moved to Preston Hollow with her husband, Nicky. Formality Factor: “Everyone on the street looks out for other people,” she says. “Children ride bikes. Dogs are out.”  Lake living: Sheets’ grandchildren and golden retrievers are especially partial to the neighborhood lake stocked with fish, ducks, and swans. “It’s rare to find access to a large lake,” Sheets says. “Everyone sits around it and visits and talks.” Neighborhood haunts: Shopping at Preston Forest, Whole Foods Market, and TJ’s Seafood Market—“Nicky and I go there every day,” Sheets says.

Neighborhood Hot Spots: Suze • Prime• Mi Cocina • TJ’s Seafood Market • Whole Foods Market

4921 Northhaven Rd.
$999,700

This California contemporary built in 1959 sits on a 1-acre lot and has four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths. The custom kitchen has granite countertops, stainless appliances, wine fridge, double ovens, and warming drawer. Hardwoods run throughout the house. Additional amenities include an automatic gate, covered patio, new windows and doors, and an exercise room off the master could be either a nursery or office. Kris Kennedy Mahon. Kennedy Mahon Realty. 214-725-5778.

6522 Northport Dr.
$997,900

This four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath residence was built in 1950 but has been updated. The home has hardwood floors, plantation shutters, large windows, four living areas, huge kitchen, dining room with fireplace, and a backyard complete with pool, fountains, and a gazebo. The property also has a guest house with full bath that is ideal for visitors or use as a pool house or exercise room. Keith Newman. Briggs Freeman Real Estate. 972-949-2181.

6921 Prestonshire Ln.
$999,999

Built in 1965, this house has been fully updated and expanded. The six-bedroom, six-and-a-half bath homestead has a lofted great room, master suite featuring granite, steam shower, air-jet tub, and two walk-in closets in the bath. An optional exercise, nursery, or office is located off the master. The kitchen has granite countertops, Sub-Zero refrigerator, Thermador six-burner gas cooktop, and wine cooler. The backyard boasts a lagoon-style pool, spa, and guest quarters. Sharon Baker. Ebby Halliday Realtors. 972-735-9600.

Park Cities

Emily Price Carrigan

Years in real estate: 26. Highland Park history: Carrigan has lived in the Park Cities her entire life, with the exception of the four years she spent at the University of Texas. In fact, she lives in the very house she grew up in. Why Highland Park? Convenience. In addition to Highland Park Village, she mentions the exceptional schools and the ability to walk to a number of places. Formality factor: Less than you might expect. “Everybody meets at the same two neighbors’ houses on the block for parties.” They get together for everything from barbecues to Halloween candy distribution. Safety first: “The Highland Park Police Department will drive by your house when you’re out of town,” she says. Affordabilty: Things are escalating. There are teardowns on the market for $3 million, so short of large inheritances,  “I don’t know what the young people are going to do,” Carrigan laments.

Neighborhood Hot Spots: Highland Park Scots football games • Highland Park Village Preston Center • Burger House • Snider Plaza • Wild About Harry’s

4546 Fairway St.
$1,099,000

Built in 1932, this English Manor-style house in Highland Park has plenty of charm. Renovated in the 1990s from a duplex into a single family abode, it has 4,500 square feet of living space. The home features four bedrooms, three baths, and four living areas. It also boasts the original carriage house, which has full guest quarters above a four-car garage. Great yard with beautiful trees, flagstone side yard, and a backyard veranda. Brenda Sandoz. Virginia Cook Realtors. 214-696-8877.

5006 Airline Rd.
$995,000

At approximately 3,185 square feet, this French-style house has five spacious bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, and two living areas. The residence has a marble entry and a number of amenities including vaulted ceilings, three fireplaces, and faux finishes in the dining room and great room. The master bedroom has one of the three fireplaces, as well as a private balcony. Joseph Gullotto. Gullotto Real Estate Group, Ebby Halliday Realtors. 214-303-1133.

4231 Normandy Ave.
$995,000

New construction in University Park features 4,007 square feet of living space, including four bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, and hardwood floors throughout. The kitchen opens to a large den and features stained cabinetry and granite countertops. The master suite has a private bath and large walk-in closet. A room on the third floor has a full bath and can be used as a fifth bedroom or a exercise room. Frank Purcell. Allie Beth Allman & Associates. 214-696-5344.

Southlake

Tommy Pennington

Years in real estate: Five. Why Southlake? Aside from the exemplary schools, the great small-town feel, and terrific shopping in Town Square, Pennington likes the high standards of local leadership. “I would live nowhere else,” he says. Friends and neighbors: A lot of corporate types live here due to the proximity to the airport. Friday night lights: Southlake is a football town. The Dragons have won the 5-A state championship for three consecutive years. Pennington has three young daughters but that doesn’t prevent him from attending football games. “Everyone supports the team. The whole community rallies around them,” he says. Stuff to do: Plenty, according to Pennington. Residents gather for a number of special events throughout the year, including Oktoberfest, a Fourth of July celebration, and Christmas in Town Square. “It’s our own little bubble,” Pennington says. “You don’t have to get out if you don’t want to.” Safety first: “People feel so safe here,” he says. “I sometimes leave my keys in my car. We joke that the Southlake Police Department doesn’t have a lot to do.”

Neighborhood Hot Spots: Town Square • Southlake Carroll Dragon football games • Michael Anthony’s Fine Dining • Annual Easter egg hunt

774 Black Forest Ct.
$995,000

Built in 2005, this house sits on a cul-de-sac lot on more than half an acre. At 5,490 square feet, the French-style residence has five bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, four living areas, and two dining areas. The house features a downstairs master bedroom, three additional bedrooms (each with private bath), game room, media room, study, and dual staircases. Karen Mierars. Hatcreek Realty. 817-329-0072.

413 Bryn Meadows Dr.
$978,800
This contemporary, 6,113 square-foot abode has five bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, five living areas, and two dining areas. The desirable corner lot sits on a cul-de-sac. The custom house has four fireplaces, travertine flooring, soaring ceilings, a wine room, and a seasonal room. It also has a pool, with an attached spa, and a large deck. Roxann Taylor. Roxann Taylor & Associates, Realtors. 817-416-2700.

2104 Cheyenne Pk.
$1,075,000

This five-bedroom, six-bathroom house offers a study with built-in bookcases, a stone fireplace in the family room with a built-in entertainment center, a game room complete with a granite countertop wet bar, and a large kitchen with stained knotty alder cabinets. The master suite has accent lighting, a raised tile Jacuzzi tub, and his-and-her walk-in closets. The exterior includes lush landscaping with trees and aggregate walkways and drive. Tracey Schultz. Hat Creek Realty. 817-329-0072.

West Highland Park

Carole Hoffman

Years in real estate: 26. Years in West Highland Park: 10. Why there? Hoffman cites the convenience—the neighborhood offers proximity to arts, restaurants, and shopping—without the Highland Park price tag. Formality factor: Hoffman raves about the casual community spirit. “It’s a gem of a neighborhood,” she says. Safety first: “I go for a 3-mile walk every morning, and it’s very safe.” Old-school charm: Sure, there’s a lot of new construction, but somehow the neighborhood has managed to strike a balance with older, charming homes that have been redone and expanded tastefully. What’s it gonna take? The mid $600s will get you a two-story, approximately 2,000-square-foot home that’s in need of some work. And you’ll need to set some money aside for private schools if DISD doesn’t float your boat. Prepare to fall in love: People may leave but never for long. “Old neighbors always come back.” Hoffman explains.

Neighborhood Hot Spots: Whole Foods Market • Mia’s Tex-Mex • Gloria’s • Wine’tastic!

3723 S Versailles Ave.
$999,000
This four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath residence is set on a private end-lot with indigenous Texas landscaping and stately amenities. Built in 2005, totaling 3,588 square feet, the kitchen boasts a  Miele built-in coffee machine, Jenn-Air appliances, designer tile, and custom-built cherry cabinets. The house has 10-foot ceilings throughout and a large den with 22-foot ceilings. Outdoor entertaining is a must with a salt-water pool, hot tub, and spacious covered patio.  Melissa Moroney. GC Inc., Realtors.  214-718-7799.

3710 S. Versailles Ave.
$910,000

This contemporary four-bedroom, five-bathroom dwelling is approximately 3,498 square feet. The master suite has a see-through fireplace between the bedroom and the bath. Additional amenities include high ceilings and a gourmet kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances. Andre Leffall. Coldwell Banker Residential. 214-521-0044.

3946 Fairfax Ave.
$1,095,000

Designed by Miles Edward Falls and built in 1956, this house has been completely updated. It has three bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths and consists of approximately 3,248 square feet. The kitchen is equipped with Viking appliances, granite countertops, and custom cabinets. The living, dining, and kitchen all have travertine floors. A master bath has a jetted tub and granite dual sink vanity. The backyard boasts a courtyard with custom fountain. Debra Durham. Prudential Texas Properties. 972-380-7862.

Lakewood

Lee Lamont

Years in real estate: 4. Years in Lakewood: 6. Why there? Lamont ticks off four reasons quickly (and in a lovely British accent): “Churches, neighborhood, schools, and White Rock Lake.” He then adds, “It’s affordable, too. And it’s close to downtown.” Formality factor: “Kids ride bikes in the street. It’s a relaxed family-oriented environment.” Schools: Many residents send their kids to Stonewall Jackson and Lakewood elementary schools. “DISD is a challenge for middle school and high school,” he says. What can $1 million get you: Two different products: Something brand new with all the bells and whistles. Or an older home—something architecturally delightful on a fourth- or half-acre. “It’s nowhere near as energy efficient though. A lot of people can’t afford to maintain an older home,” Lamont says. Lakewood lover: “The neighborhood has history, fabulous homes, and unique characteristics,” Lamont enthuses. “It’s about as cosmopolitan as you can get in Dallas.”

Neighborhood Hot Spots: Matt’s Ranchero Martinez • Lakewood Country Club • St. Thomas Aquinas • Kitchen 1924 • The Wine Therapist • White Rock Lake • Dallas Arboretum

6371 Vickery Blvd.
$990,000

This 5,134-square-foot Tudor has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, one dining area, and two living areas. The house was built in 2005 and boasts a number of amenities, including a saline pool with an indoor control panel, an outdoor covered summer kitchen area with rotisserie and grill, gourmet kitchen, wine cellar, and a media room. Security is also taken care of, with front and back security cameras that are wired to television locations. Margaret Faust. Keller Williams Realty. 214-526-5663.

6616 Vanderbilt Ave.
$989,900

This four-bedroom, four-bathroom Mediterranean has handscraped hardwood floors throughout, as well as granite, stone, and tumbled surfaces. Built in 1985, features include a master suite with double-sided fireplace between the bedroom and bath; gourmet kitchen with stainless appliances, butler’s pantry, pot filler faucet, and warming drawer; and backyard with covered veranda, fireplace, salt-stystem pool, spa, tanning ledge, and a stone bar. Carol McCracken. Ebby Halliday Realtors. 972-733-9479.

5711 Swiss Ave.
$999,999

This gorgeous mansion was built in 1919, and the current owners spent 24 months renovating the interior. Everything but the original carriage house has been updated. The five-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath manse didn’t even have air conditioning before it was lovingly restored. The house was designed by architect Bertam Hill—who designed the Melrose and Adolphus Hotels. Tonya Tooley. T.S. Tooley & Associates.

Credits

Related Articles

Image
Arts & Entertainment

Here’s Who Is Coming to Dallas This Weekend: March 28-31

It's going to be a gorgeous weekend. Pencil in some live music in between those egg hunts and brunches.
Image
Arts & Entertainment

Arlington Museum of Art Debuts Two Must-See Nature-Inspired Additions

The chill of the Arctic Circle and a futuristic digital archive mark the grand opening of the Arlington Museum of Art’s new location.
By Brett Grega
Image
Arts & Entertainment

An Award-Winning SXSW Short Gave a Dallas Filmmaker an Outlet for Her Grief

Sara Nimeh balances humor and poignancy in a coming-of-age drama inspired by her childhood memories.
By Todd Jorgenson
Advertisement