Moving to Dallas or Plano, Texas for AT&T’s RTO? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying a Home
- Nitin Gupta, CRS, REALTOR
- Mar 21
- 4 min read
As AT&T employees across the country begin relocating to Dallas to comply with the company’s return-to-office (RTO) policy, many are faced with a big decision: Should I buy a home in Dallas now—or wait?
If you're considering planting roots in North Texas, this guide walks you through the essential things you need to know before buying a home as part of your move. From market trends and commute-friendly neighborhoods to taxes and timing, here’s what relocating AT&T professionals need to consider.
1. The Dallas Housing Market Is Competitive—But Still Affordable (Compared to Where You're Coming From)
Whether you’re moving from California, Seattle, New Jersey, or Atlanta, you’ll likely find more home for your money in Dallas.
Here’s what $500K–$700K typically buys in DFW:
4-bed, 3-bath single-family home
2,400–3,200 sq ft
Yard, garage, office/flex space
Often located in a master-planned community with HOA amenities like pools, trails, and parks
Current Market Snapshot (2025):
Median home price (DFW): ~$450,000
Annual appreciation rate: 5–7%
Mortgage rates: Stabilizing after prior rate hikes
Inventory: Still tight under $600K in popular suburbs
👉 Search Homes Near AT&T's Plano Campus
2. Where You Work Should Influence Where You Buy
If you're assigned to the Plano Legacy Campus, consider:
Plano (Legacy West, West Plano): 5–15 minute commute
Frisco: Top-rated schools, newer homes, 15–25 minutes away
McKinney / Allen / Prosper: More space, great value, 25–35 minute commute
If you're reporting to the Downtown Dallas HQ, check out:
Uptown Dallas: Walkable, urban, 5–10 minutes from AT&T Tower
Lakewood / East Dallas: Historic charm, 10–15 minutes
Bishop Arts / Oak Cliff: Artsy, up-and-coming, 15–20 minutes
Addison / North Dallas: Urban-suburban mix, 20–25 minutes
👉 Explore Commute-Friendly Neighborhoods
3. Buying vs. Renting: For Many, Buying Makes More Financial Sense
Relocating professionals often assume they’ll rent first, but in DFW, rents are high and rising—while mortgage payments on a modest down payment often come out equal or less per month, especially when you factor in tax benefits.
Monthly Rent (3BR in Plano/Frisco) | $2,800–$3,500 |
Monthly Mortgage (on $500K home) | ~$3,000 |
Equity after 3 years (ownership) | $50K+ |
Equity after 3 years (renting) | $0 |
If you plan to stay in DFW for at least 2–3 years, buying can save you money and help you build long-term wealth.
👉 Compare Rent vs. Buy in Your Price Range
4. Know the Hidden Costs: Texas Has No Income Tax, But Property Taxes Are Higher
What you'll save:
No state income tax = more take-home pay
Your paycheck goes further compared to high-tax states
What you need to budget for:
Property taxes: 2.3%–2.7% of home value
HOA dues: $500–$2,000/year depending on community
MUD/PID taxes: Extra tax assessments in newer communities (ask before buying!)
Even with the higher property tax, most AT&T transferees end up saving thousands annually compared to where they came from.
👉 Need help estimating taxes by area? Let’s talk
5. New Construction Is a Smart Option—But Inventory Moves Fast
If you’re relocating and want a move-in-ready or customizable home, the northern suburbs offer great builder opportunities in communities like:
Windsong Ranch (Prosper)
Trinity Falls (McKinney)
Light Farms (Celina)
Cambridge Crossing (Celina)
Builders often offer incentives like:
Rate buydowns
Closing cost credits
Appliance or upgrade packages
👉 Browse New Construction Homes
6. You Don’t Need to Be Here to Buy
Many AT&T employees are buying homes remotely before moving to Texas. As a relocation specialist, I help clients by:
Touring homes virtually (via FaceTime/Zoom)
Providing detailed walk-throughs with pros/cons
Handling paperwork, inspections, and title remotely
Aligning closing dates with move-in schedules and corporate relo benefits
“Nitin helped us buy a new home from 1,500 miles away—and we never felt like we missed a thing.”—Jennifer M., Project Manager, relocated from California
👉 Work With a Relocation-Savvy Agent
7. Don’t Wait Too Long: Prices and Demand Are Trending Up
With continued job growth and low inventory, DFW home prices are projected to climb steadily in the next 2–3 years. Waiting may cost you more in the long run—especially as mortgage rates fluctuate.
If you're ready to make the move, this is the time to buy smart.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Dallas for AT&T’s RTO doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right strategy, you can turn a corporate relocation into a major life upgrade—with more space, better schools, and long-term equity.
Need help finding the right home near your office, within your budget, and on your timeline? I specialize in helping AT&T employees relocate with confidence and clarity.
👉 Schedule a 1-on-1 Relocation Call
Call us at 469-269-6541 for more information about Plano real estate!
FIND A LUXURY HOME IN PLANO, TEXAS WITH NITIN GUPTA, BROKER ASSOCIATE, REALTOR®.
When purchasing a luxury home in Plano, Texas, it’s essential to consider factors such as location, architectural style, security, and amenities to ensure the home meets both lifestyle and investment needs. By selecting a property in a prestigious neighborhood with numerous amenities and security measures, buyers can ensure they’re making a valuable and rewarding investment in the vibrant Plano market.
For those looking to invest in luxury homes in Plano, Texas, Nitin Gupta is an expert real estate professional ready to assist. Known for his extensive experience, market insights, and numerous awards, he is committed to finding his clients the best properties in the area.
Contact Nitin Gupta at 469-269-6541 or send a message today to explore exclusive listings and secure your ideal luxury residence in one of Plano elite communities.
