Hey all, graduating and managed to secure a job offer that will have me in far east McKinney in the middle of the summer.

I know next to nothing about living in the area really. And I know housing is rather hectic right now to say the least but I'm gonna find myself in the thick of it regardless. I'll be there mid May. What are my options? Thinking about short term lease somewhere until I can secure a house. Does that sound smart? Is it even possible to find and lock in a house to be move in ready by that time frame? I've never owned a home and don't have a lot of capital built up, at all. But I'll have a decent-ish salary and qualify for the VA home stuff. But I don't even know where to look really.

My thoughts right now are short term lease at a furnished location with my junk in storage until I can buy a house and hoping that isn't too dumb.

I'm single, have two cats, don't care about school zoning, would rather not live in super urban area if possible. I can commute but it is also a heavy consideration against. Don't care about nightlife or attractions. I essentially like quiet and friendly neighborhoods.

Where do I start?

Thanks for any and all advice.

Maybe look at Princeton or Melissa if you don't mind a little drive. More rural and you might have better luck in actually finding a house.

If you work in East McKinney and you like quiet, your long term solution is likely to be Lowry Crossing. It's very convenient and about as quiet as Collin County gets. As for your short term issue, I have nothing to suggest other than an apartment near 75, there are plenty to choose from.

I'm not a big fan of Princeton, 380 is a disaster, although you wouldn't be on it for very long of a commute. It's just not a very nice area and the locals are an eclectic bunch, but not in an endearing way.

When the time comes for a realtor, Cody Robinson is your guy.

Like others have said, rent until you familiarize yourself with the area and can find a neighborhood that has what you're looking for.

I would rent for a year and get a feel for the area before committing to a purchase. Especially in this market.

I know you aren't a traditional new grad so I would look to live close to work unless you find something to rent that is a little more rural.

Lots of good advice above. We've lived in Collin County for years and looked up that way during our most recent home search a few years ago. Definitely rent/short term lease until you get to know the area. I'd never live in Princeton for the reasons stated. 380 is a death trap and it's only going to get worse.

I'm not familiar with specific rentals/apts but suggest looking somewhere near downtown McKinney either side of 75, south of 380, but north of 121/hwy 5. Hope that makes sense when you look at a map of the area. Downtown McKinney is a cool place and they have multiple art shows, wine festivals etc. Also there's a farmer's market(think it's still there) during the warmer months every Saturday AM. Towne Lake is nearby if you like to walk, jog or just relax in the park. There's plenty of retail and restaurants in the area and it should be a very easy commute to your job.

That area is centrally located so it's easy to venture to Allen and Plano on 75 or take 121 to Frisco. Plano and Frisco have lots of festivals if you like that kind of stuff.

Keep your eyes open for deals north of McKinney all
The way up to Sherman. The drive commute south every day will be nothing. With a microchip plant being built in Sherman, home values are only going to go up.

Biggest Issue you will have trying to nab a house in this market is VA loans requiring the house to appraise for the purchase or you making up the difference. The desire to maybe live in a more rural area could help if you find the right property and not as much demand. But honestly, the demand in the North Dallas market is off the chains for anything with a decent home/backyard.

Ain't nothing wrong with temp leasing a place and trying to find a house. Just be prepared for a slog to get the house. But I've seen it done around and had some happy clients. If you don't have a realtor already, I'd love a chance to earn your business!

Contact info - Luke@MyRedPear.com or 214-785-1750

cadetjay02 said:

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If you work in East McKinney and you like quiet, your long term solution is likely to be Lowry Crossing. It's very convenient and about as quiet as Collin County gets. As for your short term issue, I have nothing to suggest other than an apartment near 75, there are plenty to choose from.

I'm not a big fan of Princeton, 380 is a disaster, although you wouldn't be on it for very long of a commute. It's just not a very nice area and the locals are an eclectic bunch, but not in an endearing way.

When the time comes for a realtor, Cody Robinson is your guy.

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Appreciate the kind words.

To the OP, I'm happy to help at any time. Can just have a phone conversation if that would be helpful to you. Cell is 972-365-0432.