Is Lake Highlands Still a Top Move-Up Market in Fall 2025?

If you’re a growing family looking to buy a larger home in Lake Highlands this fall, you’re entering one of the most strategic moments in years. With strong demand, improving inventory, and favorable pricing trends for larger homes, Lake Highlands continues to be a leading move-up market within Dallas.

This guide breaks down the current trends, school impacts, pricing, and neighborhood insights based on November 2025 data.

How RISD Boundary Changes Are Influencing Move-Up Decisions

The 2025–26 Richardson ISD (RISD) boundary updates—especially around White Rock Trail, Skillman Street, and northern Lake Highlands—are reshaping how families choose where to upsize.

Why It Matters

• School assignments remain a top driver of resale value

• Larger 4–5 bedroom homes cluster in the most competitive RISD zones

• Families prioritize elementary → middle → high school continuity

• A few blocks can shift a property to a different school

➡️ Always verify school zones by exact address when evaluating move-up homes in Lake Highlands.

Market Trends for Move-Up Buyers in Lake Highlands

Larger Homes See a Premium

Move-up properties—especially 4–5 bedroom homes—continue to command higher price-per-square-foot due to demand and limited supply.

• 4–5 bedroom PPSF: ~$390/sq ft

• Overall neighborhood PPSF: ~$262/sq ft (Redfin, Oct 2025)

• Updated homes sell fastest, particularly those zoned to top RISD schools

Inventory Is Improving

While still competitive, inventory in the $500K–$800K range is stronger than in previous years:

• ~400 homes listed in this range in 2025

• Majority include 3–4 bedrooms

• Smaller but growing supply of 5+ bedroom options

• More selection + more negotiation room than 2021–2023

➡️ This fall offers one of the best move-up windows in several years.

Space Advantage: Lake Highlands vs. East Dallas

Families consistently choose Lake Highlands for the extra space and larger lots compared to nearby East Dallas neighborhoods.

➡️ Lake Highlands offers room to grow without leaving northeast Dallas.

🌳 Neighborhood Insights: Parks, Trails & Amenities

Lake Highlands is known for its outdoor-friendly, family-centered environment.

Highlights

• 900+ acres of parks

• 26 miles of connected trails

• Fast access to White Rock Lake, Flag Pole Hill, playgrounds, sports fields

• Recreation centers, youth sports, and dog parks

• Walkable pockets with neighborhood shops and dining

These amenities continue to attract families needing more space and community connection.

What Should Move-Up Buyers in Lake Highlands Do Now?

1. Prepare for PPSF Differences

Larger 4–5 bedroom homes carry a premium—especially updated ones. Budget accordingly and be ready to act fast.

2. Evaluate the RISD Boundaries Carefully

School zoning changes make address-by-address verification essential for long-term planning.

3. Look at Homes in the $500K–$800K Range Immediately

This segment has the best availability for move-up families and offers strong value.

4. Work With a Lake Highlands Expert

Partnering with a top Dallas agent like Jamie Simpson at Unlocking DFW ensures accurate school zone verification, deep neighborhood knowledge, and competitive negotiation strategies.

Authoritative External Resources

(Use similar style as East Dallas blog)

• Lake Highlands Housing Market Trends (2025–2026)

• Richardson ISD Boundary Adjustment Summary (2025)

• Redfin Market Data – Lake Highlands (Oct 2025)

Ready to Make Your Move-Up in Lake Highlands?

If your family needs more bedrooms, larger living spaces, or access to top RISD schools, Lake Highlands continues to be one of the strongest choices in Dallas.
Get a custom move-up plan—and a strategy to secure your ideal home—by connecting with Jamie Simpson, Unlocking DFW.

By Jamie Simpson, D Best Real Estate Agent Dallas | Unlocking DFW