Historic Homes in Fairmont, Mistletoe, Ryan Place (Dallas, Fort Worth: leases, HOA)

[jolo]

Hi, all. My husband and I are interested in historic homes like craftsmans, etc. We drove through the FW historic districts named above. We really liked the homes there, though there was a mix of homes that were renovated and those that need to be renovated. But the thing that we noticed was that we didn't really feel too threatened by the neighborhood even though it wasn't in pristine condition (esp. parts of Fairmount). Specifically, we compared it to the vibe in North Oak Cliff in Dallas west of I35 where there are older homes but also storefronts with bars in the windows. In Fairmount, it just seemed to be an older neighborhood that is more affected by age rather than crime.

Did we miss something? We would like any opinions that you may have about the area regarding safety, crime, schools, etc. Also, does the city have any future plans regarding the area or the downtown area that would affect these areas? We're from out of town, so please excuse all of the questions; but any help would be appreciated.

[loves2read]

you should check out the web sites of these districts--I think Fairmont and Ryan Place have HOA with web sites that might give pretty good information about city's plans--some of them may have signed oil and gas leases--that is big deal in Tarrant Co now for the Barnett Shale gas play...

someone posted a map of crime areas in FTW--hard to read because it is small and can't be exploded for better viewing but gives general idea...
you can also call the FTW police and just ask about the incidences of burglaries/assaults in those areas--think that is public knowledge kind of info...

[catman]

I live in Ryan Place. Cars are vandalized occasionally and things are stolen if they aren't locked up, but that's true of almost every area. My house isn't exactly the showplace of the neighborhood. The Ryan Place Improvement Ass'n is trying to work out a deal with nine other neighborhoods to get together and deal with the gas producers...there are a lot of "Just say NO to urban gas producers" signs in the area. IMO, the pittance they are offering us isn't going to make up for the mess they make of things, but of course the city and producers will make out like bandits (appropriate phrase).

[donna o.]

I too, am interested in moving to an area like Fairmount, but I know very little about the Ft. Worth area. I've been living in the 'burbs all my life and now that my kids are gone, I'm ready for something new and would like to be around more cultural centers. I am concerned about safety, but the school district makes little difference to me now. Are there other historic areas in Ft. Worth. What's the price range on homes and are some areas "better" than others? What cultural activities are close by? Thanks!
Donna

[fallof09]

We are planning to rent a home in one of the older neighborhoods as well. We are looking to spend no more than $900 a month for a 2/1 craftsmen. Is one of the neighborhoods a better deal without sacrificing safety? We have a 2-year-old.

I hope I'm not butting into the thread too much!

[tjh1]

I absolutely love the historic neighborhoods of Fort Worth's southside. That area is undergoing rapid regeneration and is quickly turning into a very desirable neighborhood. I would definitely say that things will only improve for that area. Homes in these neighborhoods will probably see substantial increases in value in the years to come.

[TXDadof1]

Check out Oakhurst. Oakhurst Neighborhood Association - Home (Northeast of DT Fort Worth, along 35W.
It has some smaller homes but has won awards for community of the year and such.
Mistletoe and Ryan Place are wonderful. I think with all the restoration and new construction near the hospital district you would be ok.