Best Cities in DFW to Buy a New Construction Home Under $400K - By Forney Buyers Agent
- 6 hours ago
- 6 min read
The Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex remains one of the strongest real estate markets in the country. While luxury and move-up homes often dominate headlines, there are still excellent opportunities for buyers seeking new construction homes under $400,000.
For first-time buyers, relocating families, and value-focused investors, several DFW cities continue to offer affordability, growth potential, and access to major employment corridors.
Below is a curated guide to the best cities in DFW where you can still purchase a new construction home under $400K, along with insights into appreciation trends, commute patterns, and lifestyle benefits.
Why Focus on New Construction Under $400K?
New construction homes offer several advantages compared to resale properties:
Modern floor plans with open-concept designs
Energy-efficient construction and lower utility costs
Builder warranties
Smart-home technology integration
Lower maintenance in early ownership years
In today’s market, inventory below $400K is increasingly concentrated in emerging growth corridors rather than established central suburbs like Plano or Frisco.
The key is knowing where development is expanding next.
1. Forney, TX
Location: East of Dallas along US-80Commute to Downtown Dallas: Approximately 25–35 minutes
Forney has become one of the fastest-growing suburbs in North Texas. With strong residential development and expanding retail, it offers significant new construction inventory under $400K.
Why Buyers Like Forney
Master-planned communities with amenities
Competitive price per square foot
Access to US-80 for commuting
Continued retail and infrastructure expansion
Many builders offer three- to four-bedroom homes between 1,800–2,500 square feet within the $325K–$400K range.
Investment Outlook
Forney continues to benefit from eastward expansion out of Dallas. Population growth and infrastructure investments support long-term appreciation.
2. Princeton, TX
Location: Northeast of McKinney in Collin CountyCommute to McKinney: 15–20 minutes
Princeton is one of the most affordable entry points into Collin County, a region traditionally known for higher home prices.
Why Buyers Like Princeton
Access to Collin County schools
Rapid residential development
Affordable price points compared to McKinney and Allen
New retail and commercial expansion underway
New construction homes frequently range from $300K–$390K, making it attractive for buyers wanting proximity to higher-priced northern suburbs.
Investment Outlook
As surrounding cities like McKinney and Frisco continue appreciating, buyers are moving outward. Princeton is benefiting from that demand shift.
3. Anna, TX
Location: North of McKinney along US-75Commute to Plano: 35–45 minutes
Anna offers small-town charm with expanding residential developments.
Why Buyers Like Anna
New master-planned communities
Competitive builder pricing
Larger lot sizes compared to inner suburbs
Access to US-75 corridor
New construction pricing often begins in the low-to-mid $300Ks.
Investment Outlook
With ongoing highway improvements and northward migration trends, Anna remains a strong appreciation candidate in the long term.
4. Royse City, TX
Location: East of Rockwall along I-30Commute to Dallas: 35–45 minutes
Royse City has emerged as a popular alternative for buyers priced out of Rockwall and Heath.
Why Buyers Like Royse City
Access to I-30
Strong new construction inventory
Community-focused atmosphere
Lower property prices compared to neighboring Rockwall
Builders commonly offer homes between $325K–$390K.
Investment Outlook
As Rockwall prices continue climbing, Royse City absorbs demand overflow, supporting steady appreciation.
5. Sanger, TX
Location: North of Denton along I-35Commute to Denton: 15–20 minutes
Sanger provides a quieter setting with lower price points compared to Denton.
Why Buyers Like Sanger
Smaller community feel
Access to I-35 corridor
Lower land and home costs
Growing residential development
New construction homes can often be found in the $320K–$380K range.
Investment Outlook
With Denton expanding northward and UNT growth contributing to housing demand, Sanger is positioned for gradual appreciation.
6. Crandall, TX
Location: Southeast of DallasCommute to Downtown Dallas: Approximately 35 minutes
Crandall is gaining attention due to affordability and increased builder presence.
Why Buyers Like Crandall
Lower entry pricing
New subdivisions under development
Proximity to Dallas job centers
Homes frequently begin in the high $200Ks to mid $300Ks.
Investment Outlook
As affordability tightens in traditional suburbs, secondary markets like Crandall continue to attract demand.
7. Midlothian (Select Communities)
Location: South of Dallas in Ellis County
While Midlothian is often known for move-up and luxury homes, certain communities still offer select new construction options under $400K.
Why Buyers Like Midlothian
Strong school district reputation
Less congestion than northern suburbs
Expanding retail and infrastructure
Access to US-287 and Highway 67
Inventory below $400K is more limited than in other cities on this list but still available in entry-level builder phases.
Investment Outlook
Midlothian benefits from long-term southward expansion trends and proximity to both Dallas and Fort Worth.
What Buyers Should Expect at This Price Point
New construction homes under $400K in DFW typically include:
1,700–2,400 square feet
3–4 bedrooms
2–3 bathrooms
Two-car garages
Builder-grade finishes with upgrade options
However, buyers should budget for:
HOA fees (varies by community)
Property taxes (often 2%–2.6% depending on location)
Upgrade selections beyond base price
Closing costs (2%–5% of purchase price)
Comparing Growth Corridors
City | Region | Commute Access | Price Range (New Construction) | Growth Trend |
Forney | East DFW | US-80 | $325K–$400K | Rapid |
Princeton | NE DFW | 380 / US-75 | $300K–$390K | Rapid |
Anna | North DFW | US-75 | $320K–$395K | Strong |
Royse City | East DFW | I-30 | $325K–$390K | Strong |
Sanger | North DFW | I-35 | $320K–$380K | Steady |
Crandall | SE DFW | US-175 | $290K–$360K | Emerging |
Where You Won’t Typically Find New Homes Under $400K
Buyers searching under $400K should understand that new construction at this price point is generally not available in:
Frisco
Prosper
Southlake
Highland Park
Flower Mound
West Plano
These markets are largely move-up and luxury segments.
Tips for Buying New Construction Under $400K
Act Early in Builder PhasesEarly-phase buyers often secure better pricing.
Compare Tax RatesProperty taxes vary significantly by county and school district.
Ask About IncentivesBuilders may offer closing cost assistance or rate buy-downs.
Understand Upgrade PricingBase price rarely reflects final purchase cost.
Consider Commute PatternsBalance affordability with daily travel time.
Final Thoughts
DFW continues to offer new construction opportunities under $400K — but they are concentrated in growth-oriented suburban corridors.
Cities like Forney, Princeton, Anna, Royse City, Sanger, and Crandall provide strong value, modern homes, and long-term appreciation potential.
For buyers focused on affordability without sacrificing new-home benefits, these communities represent some of the strongest opportunities in today’s market.
If you’re exploring new construction options in DFW and want personalized guidance on communities, builders, and negotiation strategies, a strategic consultation can help you identify the best fit for your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there still new homes under $400K in DFW?
Yes, primarily in emerging suburban markets east, north, and southeast of Dallas.
Which side of DFW is most affordable?
Eastern and southeastern corridors often offer the most competitive pricing.
Do builders negotiate under $400K?
In many cases, yes — especially regarding incentives and closing cost contributions.
Is buying new construction a good investment?
In high-growth corridors with infrastructure expansion, new construction can offer strong long-term value.
How much should I budget beyond the base price?
Plan for upgrades, closing costs, and property tax escrows in addition to the advertised price.
Please call us at 469-269-6541 for more details about Forney and available homes in Forney!
About us: Forney New Construction Expert Real Estate Agent
As a Top Real Estate Professional in Forney, I understand the challenges that arise when buying a new construction home. There are over 100 builders in the DFW area. I work with most of the new home builders in Forney and understand how various builders operate. I am familiar with the options they offer, current incentives and I frequently visit the upcoming communities they are building. I guide my clients through all steps of the new home construction process and aggressively protect their interests in the transaction.
As a holder of top real estate industry certifications and designations like CRS, ABR & GRI, I can offer my clients experience as a Buyer's Agent and REALTOR®, top Industry Customer Service, in-depth, up-to-the-minute and comprehensive market knowledge; honesty, integrity, dedication, and professionalism in my business.
Whether you are a first time buyer in Forney looking to buy a home whether you are relocating to Forney from California or moving your entire family from areas like San Francisco, Fremont, Palo Alto, Los Angeles, San Diego in California due to job transfer with your company, I can help you find a new construction home in Forney. Our relocation team eases the transition - whether you are moving across town or across the globe. We will work with you to find an area that best suits your professional, family and lifestyle needs. We have all the tools you need to help your home search. Whether it is video previews of homes, extended work hours, digital signatures for documents or more, we can make this process as comfortable as possible no matter where you are located.
What is most important to you in your new construction home in Forney? Send us an email at info@NitinGuptaDFW.com or give us a call at (469) 269-6541 to schedule a no obligation consultation. We’ll give you honest advice about Forney that you can use to help make your home buying decision.
