Moving to Dallas is one of the best decisions your family or career can make — but getting it right requires more than browsing Zillow from your home state. The DFW area spans 9,000 square miles, covers more than 40 cities, and has 27 independent school districts. Where you land in that map will shape your commute, your kids' schools, your social life, and your equity position for years to come.
I'm Lacey Brutschy, a Dallas relocation specialist with The Advisory Team. I've helped hundreds of executives and families relocate to the Dallas area — most of them moving from California, New York, Illinois, Colorado, and Washington. I know what people from high-cost coastal cities need to understand about DFW before they make an offer.
What Makes Dallas Relocation Different
Most buyers who relocate to Dallas are shocked by how different the experience is from buying at home. There's no state income tax, property taxes are significantly higher than most states (typically 2–2.5%), HOA rules vary wildly by community, and the "best neighborhood" depends entirely on where you work, what your kids need, and how you like to spend your weekends.
That's why relocation buyers need a local expert who doesn't just show houses — but helps them understand the tradeoffs before they commit.
Who I Work With
My typical relocation client is:
- A corporate executive or senior professional relocating for a job or corporate transfer
- A family moving from California, New York, Illinois, Colorado, or Washington
- Prioritizing schools, commute times, lifestyle fit, and neighborhood feel
- Often beginning their search online 3–6 months before their move date
I also specialize in helping LGBTQ+ families and individuals find welcoming, inclusive neighborhoods in Dallas-Fort Worth.
Top Areas for Relocating Buyers
Lakewood & White Rock Lake — East Dallas neighborhood with a walkable village feel, strong school options, and homes ranging from $700K historic bungalows to $3M+ custom builds on the lake.
East Dallas / Lower Greenville — Vibrant, urban, LGBTQ+-friendly, walkable restaurant culture. Great for professionals without kids or those who want a high-energy neighborhood.
Preston Hollow — Traditional luxury neighborhood in North Dallas. Large lots, gated estates, excellent for families with significant equity to deploy.
Plano — Top-ranked Plano ISD schools, easy access to major corporate campuses (Toyota, Liberty Mutual, JP Morgan, etc.). Strong $900K–$1.5M market.
Frisco — Fastest-growing suburb in America. Frisco ISD is elite. New construction abundant. Best for families who want more space for the dollar.
McKinney — Historic downtown, excellent schools, more established feel than Frisco. Great for buyers who want community character with suburban convenience.
Allen — Exceptional schools (Allen ISD), lower price points than Frisco, strong corporate proximity.
How the Relocation Process Works
Step 1 — Discovery Call (30 min)
We talk through your priorities: where you're working, what your kids need, your budget, your must-haves and dealbreakers. Book your free 30-minute discovery call →
Step 2 — Neighborhood Shortlist
I send you a curated guide to 3–4 neighborhoods that match your criteria, with school ratings, commute times, price ranges, and lifestyle notes.
Step 3 — Virtual Tour
If you can't visit in person yet, I conduct live FaceTime or Zoom tours of homes and neighborhoods so you can get a real feel before flying in.
Step 4 — In-Person Visit (1–2 days)
We design an efficient visit itinerary — typically 6–10 homes, neighborhood drives, a school tour if needed, and lunch in the area so you can feel the vibe.
Step 5 — Offer to Close
Once you're ready, I handle negotiations, inspections, title, and every step to closing. Most of my relocation clients close within 30–60 days of making an offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Dallas property taxes cost?
Dallas County property taxes typically run 2.0–2.5% of assessed value annually. On a $1.2M home, budget $24,000–$30,000/year. This is higher than most states but offset by zero state income tax.
What are the best school districts for relocating families?
Frisco ISD, Plano ISD, Allen ISD, and Highland Park ISD consistently rank at the top. The right district for your family depends on where you plan to buy — I can help you map school boundaries before you start touring.
Can I search remotely and make an offer without visiting?
Yes. I work with relocation clients who make offers remotely regularly. I can provide detailed video walkthroughs, neighborhood context, and inspection summaries so you can make a confident offer. Many of my clients fly in just for one weekend and make an offer that weekend.
Do you charge relocation buyers a fee?
No. My commission is paid by the seller. You get full-service relocation guidance at no cost to you.
Ready to start your Dallas relocation search?
Call or text Lacey directly at (214) 642-2510 or email lacey@theadvisoryteamdallas.com.
Ready to start your Dallas relocation? Contact Lacey today for a free, no-pressure consultation — and explore our Dallas neighborhood guides to start narrowing down your search.