Neighborhoods like Park Cities, but cheaper? (Dallas, Grapevine: homes, good schools, university)

[noname]

We're moving to Dallas soon from the Midwest, and we really like the University Park and Highland Park areas (older homes, good neighborhoods, trees, places to walk), but cannot afford the $700-800,000 in takes to live there.

Are there similar areas (safe, good schools) in Dallas for less money? Is Southlake, Colleyville, or Grapevine a good substitute? We'll probably spend in the $300-400 range.

[momof2dfw]

You like the trees & homes? You won't find that "atmosphere" in the newer subdivisions. Still "in" Dallas look around Lakewood, Lake Highlands and the "M" streets. With kids I would lean towards Lakewood and Lake Highlands.

[stargazer]

In Mckinney, off of El Dorado and Country Club, there is a beautiful area with many large trees and a lake to walk around. It is a smaller area compared to Park Cities but it is very lovely.
The neighborhoods there are Hidden Forest, Village Creek, Kensington Estates, Provine and El Dorado. On the south side of El Dorado off of Country Club, there is a country club and several huge older customs on 1/2 to 1 acres that sit off the golf course. The more deeper you go down that way, you will find some really wonderful homes as well.
The homes you can find in Mckinney in this area will have the charm that you are desiring that you see in the Park Cities, they though are going to be on the newer side. My home was built in 96 and it was built in the trees. I have cedar elms that are 80 years old on my lot along with some soap berries and lots of greenery. I love trees and homes with old world charm, so I understand where you are coming from. That is why we bought over here, we too could not afford Highland Park Prices.