The #1 Mistake People Make Moving To Dallas Texas
The Living in Dallas Texas Team is the best relocation team in the Dallas area. Levi Lascsak founded the Living in Dallas Texas Team in 2020, and now the Living in Dallas Texas Team is the #1 Dallas relocation team and have serviced over 500 relocation clients worldwide of all budgets and lifestyle needs. The Living in Dallas Texas Team would love to help you make a smooth move to Dallas!
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Q: What’s the biggest mistake newcomers make when relocating to Dallas?
Overlooking the Property Tax “Money Bomb.” In the first year, new construction homes are taxed only on their land value. But in Year 2, the Dallas Central Appraisal District or Collin Central Appraisal District assesses the full property value, often resulting in a 300%–500% tax increase overnight.
How to Avoid This Money Bomb
- Don’t trust the closing statement alone. It often only reflects land value, not the home.
- Do your homework. Ask your real estate agent for tax bills from similar, recently built homes in your target community — you can use tools like the Dallas CAD property search to check.
Other Common Relocation Pitfalls (With Smart Solutions)
1. Underestimating Dallas Traffic
Dallas consistently ranks among the most congested cities in the U.S., according to
Texas A&M Transportation Institute. What looks like a 15-minute drive can stretch to 45–60 minutes during rush hour.
Solution:
- Test-drive your commute before buying.
- Use our guide: Best Cities in North Dallas to Move to in 2025 to explore traffic-friendly suburbs.
2. Expecting Quick Real Estate Flip Profits
The market has leveled off. Many homes now sell below asking price, and new sellers face 6–10% closing costs.
Pro Tip: Check
NTREIS MLS data for sales trends before banking on short-term equity.
3. School Zone Shenanigans
Rapid growth often triggers rezoning. Homes on boundaries can unexpectedly shift to different districts, affecting property values.
Smart Move:
- Choose neighborhoods in central school zones.
- Verify attendance boundaries with Frisco ISD, Plano ISD, or your target district.
4. Moving Logistics Overwhelm
The Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex is huge. Moving during peak season (May–September) can cost more and limit availability.
Plan Ahead:
- Book movers early, or consider local companies like AB Moving.
- Check HOA guidelines in your community — especially if you’re moving to a planned development like Phillips Creek Ranch.
5. Waiting for “Perfect” Market Timing
Interest rate drops often trigger a rush of buyers, pushing prices up.
Consider:
- Negotiating seller concessions now — many will offer rate buy-downs or closing cost credits.
6. Overlooking Total Cost of Living
Beyond mortgage and taxes, Dallas residents pay high summer utility bills, HOA dues, and hail-prone roof insurance premiums.
Budget For:
- Higher July–August electricity costs (Oncor Energy Guide).
- HOA fees, especially in master-planned communities.
FAQs — Dallas Moving Mistakes
Q: How do property taxes change after buying new construction in Dallas?
Year 1 is taxed on land only; Year 2 reflects full home value. This can triple or quadruple your bill.
Q: Is Dallas traffic worse than expected?
Yes — test your route during rush hours and explore
DART Silver Line Expansion plans for future transit options.
Q: Can I make quick money flipping houses?
Not in most cases — factor in closing costs, market trends, and appreciation rates before flipping.
Why 2025 Could Be a Smart Time to Move
Despite the cooling market, Dallas offers strong job growth, business relocations, and diverse housing choices. Affordability is improving in many suburbs like Celina and Little Elm.
Thinking of making the move?
Our
Living in Dallas TX team helps you avoid costly relocation mistakes and find the perfect home.
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Contact Us Today to start your move the right way.
If you’re shopping for homes in Dallas or want to sell your current home,
please reach out to the Living in Dallas Texas team so we can create a seamless
home buying or selling process for you!
