Do you think Parker or Murphy would be a good fit for my family? (Plano: cul-de-sac)

[futureDFWnewbie]

So, first off, we have been living in DFW metroplex for almost 6 years now despite my name (future DFW newbie). Anyhow, we currently live in McKinney, love the small town feel, sense of community, good schools (we are in Frisco ISD) and nice home for your $$. I have 2 kids, one in 1st grade, the other still in pre-k. Although we are pretty happy in McKinney, it has always been our dream to have a larger lot, and to build our own home. The hubby works at the Presby Plano hospital, so we would like to keep the commute reasonable (30 mins or less). Currently it is about 25 mins, 13 miles from home.

We would like at least an acre, great schools (or access to a good private school), trees, cul de sac, and 30 min or less commute time. Our budget is 600k-700k (including lot). I have seen some nice lots in Parker.

Where should we focus our search?

Thanks for your input

[Philip T]

I like Parker. But Murphy is alright, too.

Look ahead (at whatever your timeline is).

If I recall correctly -- you could wind up in either Wylie / Tibbells Elementary, or the Murphy sub-set of the Plano system.

What about after that?

[MurphyPl1]

You won't find much acreage to build on in Murphy at this point. The acre lots are already developed. The new construction will be 1/4-1/2 acres.

And Phillip is right, West of Maxwell Creek (the actual creek, not the subdivision) is PISD. East is WISD.

You might be better off in Parker. I have several friends who have lots in Parker and are very happy. Drawbacks are Armstrong MS (weakest school in PISD, but parents and new principal are trying to turn that around), septic system, no sidewalks and the closest parks (neighborhood size) are in Murphy and Plano. Large park is Bob Woodruff.

You will pay less in municipal property taxes due to reduced infrastructure, but the city's stance against any retail development means any future infrastructure needs will definitely be borne by the homeowners entirely.

It is pretty quiet, but the cul-de-sacs along Dublin south of Park are pretty neighborly. And you are still close to 544/Plano Pkwy and Park for access west. There's plenty of shopping around too.

[DitsyD]

If you want to live in Murphy, then you might look into purchasing one of the older homes on acreage as a tear down and building your new home. (Some of those homes date back to the 1960's I think)

[TX75007]

Dublin Road and around there is your best bet. There is real nice home up for sale I saw a few weeks ago. I think it was 1808 Dublin Rd.