Top 5 Questions Lake Highlands Families Are Asking About Moving Up in 2025

🏠 1. How much larger are move-up homes in Lake Highlands compared to East Dallas—and is the extra space worth it?

Short answer: On average, move-up homes in Lake Highlands offer 25–30% more living space than similar East Dallas homes, often with larger yards and upgraded layouts.

Why it matters:
Families looking for a long-term home want to ensure the jump in price translates to real lifestyle value—especially with more work-from-home flexibility and larger households.

Market snapshot (Sept 2025):

• Average size (Lake Highlands): ~2,500–2,800 sq. ft.
  
  
• Average size (East Dallas): ~2,000–2,200 sq. ft.
  
  
• Median price: $600K (↑ 13.2% YoY)
  
  
• Typical yard: 0.20–0.25 acres
  
  

Why families love it:
Most Lake Highlands properties feature multiple living areas, home offices, and generous yards near White Rock Trail and Royal Oaks Country Club—ideal for growing families who value space and community.

Sources: Redfin – Lake Highlands Trends, Rocket Homes – Lake Highlands Report

🏡 2. What’s the inventory situation for move-up homes in the $500K–$800K range—and how does that impact timing?

Short answer: Inventory for mid-range move-up homes in Lake Highlands is rising moderately, giving buyers more selection without tipping into oversupply.

Why it matters:
The $500K–$800K price band represents the sweet spot for families trading up. More options mean less pressure to overbid—but well-priced homes still move quickly.

Market data (Fall 2025):

• ~400 listings currently in the $500K–$800K range
  
  
• 4-bedroom listings: up ~10.6% since June
  
  
• Average days on market: 43–57 days
  
  

Tip for buyers:
Use this window to buy before spring competition heats up again. Fall and early winter historically offer better negotiation opportunities in the Dallas move-up segment.

Sources: Unlocking DFW Blog – Move-Up Market 2025, Rocket Homes Report – Lake Highlands

🏫 3. Which schools and family amenities make Lake Highlands stand out for move-up buyers?

Short answer: Lake Highlands families enjoy access to 26 highly rated public schools, numerous parks, and a growing network of trails—making it one of Dallas’s most family-friendly neighborhoods.

Why it matters:
For move-up buyers, proximity to Richardson ISD’s top campuses, playgrounds, and outdoor recreation can outweigh small price differences.

Family lifestyle highlights:

• Schools: Lake Highlands HS, White Rock Elementary, and Wallace Elementary (RISD)
  
  
• Parks & trails: Flag Pole Hill, White Rock Lake Trail, and Lake Highlands Trail Extension
  
  
• Family amenities: Soccer fields, dog parks, splash pads, and weekend markets
  
  

Did you know?
Lake Highlands has one of the highest park-to-household ratios in East Dallas—nearly 16 acres of public parkland per 1,000 residents.

Sources: Unlocking DFW – Family Amenities, The Dallas Realtor – East Dallas Report

💵 4. What’s the price-per-square-foot trend for 3BR vs 4–5BR homes—and is the jump worth it?

Short answer: Yes—while larger homes cost more overall, price-per-square-foot drops as space increases, making upsizing more efficient for long-term buyers.

Why it matters:
Families considering a move-up want to gauge the tradeoff between space and cost before committing.

Market comparison (June 2025):

Takeaway:
Upsizing delivers more usable space for less per square foot—a smart investment for families planning to stay 5–10 years.

Sources: Rocket Homes – Lake Highlands Report, Unlocking DFW – Market Trends

⏰ 5. Is now a strategic time for families to upgrade in Lake Highlands—or should they wait?

Short answer: Now is a balanced window—inventory is up, prices are steady, and mortgage rates have plateaued around the mid-6% range.

Why it matters:
Move-up families benefit when both the selling and buying sides of the market are active—allowing smoother transitions and fair pricing.

Local trends (Fall 2025):

• Median home price: $600K (stable since summer)
  
  
• Days on market: ~57 (moderate pace)
  
  
• DFW-wide inventory: up ~53% year-over-year
  
  

Timing tip:
List your current home before Thanksgiving to catch late-fall buyers, then shop in December–January when competition is lowest.

Sources: Redfin – Lake Highlands Housing Data, The Dallas Realtor – Market Report, Unlocking DFW – Move-Up Market 2025

🧭 Final Thoughts

Lake Highlands, Dallas continues to shine as one of the best neighborhoods for growing families. With excellent schools, large homes under $800K, and miles of parkland, it’s the perfect balance of space, community, and long-term value. Whether you’re eyeing your first four-bedroom home or upgrading to a yard big enough for weekend soccer, now’s the time to explore what Lake Highlands has to offer.