Midlothian Master-Planned Communities: Complete Buyer's Guide 2026 - Waxahachie Buyers Agent
- 12 hours ago
- 13 min read
Midlothian is Ellis County's fastest-growing city with 33+ builders across 85+ communities offering new construction from the $340s to $700K+. This comprehensive guide covers every major master-planned community, builder comparison, current incentives averaging $15,000-$30,000, and insider tips for navigating Midlothian's thriving new home market.
Why Midlothian is DFW's Hottest New Construction Market
While northern Dallas suburbs grab headlines, savvy buyers are discovering Midlothian—a rapidly growing city 25 miles south of downtown Dallas that offers what's increasingly rare in DFW: abundant new construction, competitive pricing, generous builder incentives, and room to negotiate.
What makes Midlothian stand out:
85+ new home communities with 33+ active builders
Median new construction price: $519,000 (vs $650K+ in Frisco/Prosper)
Builder incentives: $15,000-$30,000+ flex cash on most homes
Rate buydowns available: 4.99% or lower with preferred lenders
Buyer-friendly market: 126 days average on market, room to negotiate
Strategic location: 25-30 minutes to both Dallas AND Fort Worth
Top-rated schools: Midlothian ISD with 85% of schools rated A or B
The growth story: Midlothian's population surged from 35,125 in 2020 to approximately 47,000 in 2025—a 34% increase in just five years. Major builders are betting billions on this market's future.
Midlothian New Construction at a Glance
Metric | Data |
Active Communities | 85+ |
Active Builders | 33+ |
New Homes Available | 400+ |
Median Listing Price | $519,000 |
Price Range | $300,000 - $900,000+ |
Days on Market | 126 days average |
School District | Midlothian ISD |
Distance to Dallas | 25 miles (30 min) |
Distance to Fort Worth | 30 miles (35 min) |
Featured Master-Planned Community: BridgeWater
BridgeWater is Midlothian's premier master-planned community and represents the gold standard for new construction in Ellis County. Developed by Hanover Property Company, this is the first master-planned community of this scale in Midlothian.
Community Overview
Feature | Details |
Location | Off Walnut Grove Rd, between Hwy 287 & FM 1387 |
Developer | Hanover Property Company |
Total Planned Homes | 2,000+ at buildout |
Price Range | $343,990 - $700,000+ |
Lot Sizes | 40', 50', 60', 70', and 80' homesites |
Home Sizes | 1,619 - 4,400+ square feet |
School District | Midlothian ISD |
Status | Actively selling, multiple phases |
BridgeWater Amenities
BridgeWater offers resort-style amenities that rival communities costing $100,000+ more in northern suburbs:
Completed and Planned Amenities:
Resort-style swimming pools (including kids' pool and lap pool)
Clubhouse with community gathering spaces
Pickleball courts
Putting green
Hidden Haven Lake with scenic views
Event lawn with games and entertainment space
Pavilion with grills and outdoor living area
Amphitheater seating
Miles of hike and bike trails
Multiple playgrounds throughout the community
Natural greenbelts with lakes, ponds, and creeks
Future on-site elementary school (Midlothian ISD)
BridgeWater Builders
Five premier builders offer homes in BridgeWater, each with distinct styles and price points:
Builder | Lot Sizes | Price Range | Sq Ft Range | Style Focus |
American Legend Homes | 40', 60', 70', 80' | $400K - $700K+ | 1,619 - 4,400 | Luxury customization |
Highland Homes | 50' | $428K - $559K | 2,106 - 3,277 | Award-winning designs |
John Houston Homes | Various | $450K - $650K | 1,837 - 4,227 | Family-focused layouts |
Perry Homes | 60' | $543K - $695K | 2,493 - 4,016 | Premium finishes |
Tri Pointe Homes | 40', 50' | $343K - $500K | 1,755 - 3,270 | Attainable luxury |
BridgeWater by Builder: Detailed Breakdown
American Legend Homes at BridgeWater
Price Range: $400,000 - $700,000+ Lot Sizes: 40', 60', 70', and 80' homesites Square Footage: 1,619 - 4,400+ sq ft
What sets them apart:
Wide selection of one and two-story homes
Extensive customization options
3-car tandem garage options
Media rooms, game rooms, and flexible living areas
Multigenerational floor plans available
Popular floor plans:
Discovery Collection (smaller lots, attainable pricing)
Signature Collection (larger lots, premium features)
Best for: Families wanting maximum customization and larger homesites
Highland Homes at BridgeWater
Price Range: $428,990 - $558,990 Lot Sizes: 50' homesites Square Footage: 2,106 - 3,277 sq ft
What sets them apart:
Employee-owned company with strong reputation
Multiple People's Choice Builder of the Year awards
Award-winning floor plans designed for livability
Focus on traffic flow, light patterns, and storage
Popular floor plans:
215 Plan (2,106 sq ft)
242 Plan (2,420 sq ft)
272 Plan (2,720 sq ft)
Best for: Buyers wanting proven designs and quality construction on mid-size lots
John Houston Homes at BridgeWater
Price Range: $450,000 - $650,000 Lot Sizes: Various (zoned to Midlothian ISD) Square Footage: 1,837 - 4,227 sq ft
What sets them apart:
Texas-based builder with 40+ communities
On-site Design Studio for customization
Up to 5 bedrooms available
Options include spiral staircases, luxury showers, front courtyards
Gas cooktop, furnace, and fireplace included
Cedar garage doors standard
Cabinets to ceiling in kitchen
Popular floor plans:
Cypress (1,837 sq ft)
Magnolia (2,500+ sq ft)
Sycamore (3,200+ sq ft)
Live Oak (4,227 sq ft)
Best for: Families wanting local builder expertise and extensive included features
Perry Homes at BridgeWater
Price Range: $543,900 - $694,900 Lot Sizes: 60' homesites Square Footage: 2,493 - 4,016 sq ft
What sets them apart:
Houston-based builder with 50+ years experience
Premium finishes and high-end standard features
Strong resale value
Excellent warranty program
Popular floor plans:
2994 Plan (2,994 sq ft) - single story, 4 bed/3 bath
3465 Plan (3,465 sq ft) - two story
4016 Plan (4,016 sq ft) - executive two story
Best for: Move-up buyers wanting premium quality and long-term value
Tri Pointe Homes at BridgeWater
Price Range: $343,990 - $500,000 Lot Sizes: 40' and 50' homesites Square Footage: 1,755 - 3,270 sq ft
What sets them apart:
Most attainable pricing in BridgeWater
Design-forward, innovative layouts
Focus on lifestyle and connections
Strong value proposition
Popular collections:
Discovery Collection (from $343,990): 1,755 - 2,200 sq ft
Voyage Collection (from $399,990): 2,200 - 3,270 sq ft
Best for: First-time buyers and budget-conscious families wanting master-planned amenities
BridgeWater Schools
All BridgeWater homes are zoned to Midlothian ISD:
Level | School | Rating |
Elementary | Longbranch Elementary | A- |
Middle | Walnut Grove Middle School | B |
High | Heritage High School | B |
Future: An on-site elementary school is planned as the community grows.
Other Premier Midlothian Communities
Hayes Crossing
Overview: Established community with strong builder presence and excellent location.
Feature | Details |
Builders | John Houston Homes, Bloomfield Homes |
Price Range | $400,000 - $600,000 |
Lot Sizes | Standard suburban |
Amenities | Community park, playground |
Schools | Midlothian ISD |
What buyers like: Proven community, good resale values, central location, multiple floor plan options.
Ridgepoint
Overview: Family-focused community by John Houston Homes with excellent proximity to parks and schools.
Feature | Details |
Builder | John Houston Homes |
Price Range | High $400s - $600,000 |
Lot Sizes | Various |
Square Footage | 2,186 - 3,125 sq ft |
Location | South of new Midlothian City Park on 14th Street |
Schools | Midlothian ISD |
Highlights:
Close to Hwy 287 for easy commuting
Exclusive community park and green space
Floor plans from 1-story (4 bed, 2,186 SF) to 2-story (4 bed + study + gameroom, 3,125 SF)
Near entertainment and shopping
Best for: Families prioritizing park access and new construction value
Wind Ridge
Overview: Spacious lots in a tranquil setting for buyers wanting more land.
Feature | Details |
Builder | John Houston Homes |
Price Range | $475,000 - $650,000 |
Lot Sizes | 75'-80' wide x 125'-135' deep (1/4 acre+) |
Location | Mockingbird Lane, east of Walnut Grove Rd |
Schools | Midlothian ISD |
What buyers like: Quarter-acre+ lots, serene setting, close to junior high and high school, room for pools and outdoor living.
Best for: Buyers wanting space and privacy without going rural
Hartson Estates - 1 Acre Lots
Overview: Estate-style living on full acre lots for buyers wanting maximum space.
Feature | Details |
Builder | John Houston Homes |
Price Range | From $609,990 |
Lot Sizes | 1 acre minimum |
Schools | Midlothian ISD |
Best for: Buyers wanting estate living with new construction quality
Parkside North
Overview: Quaint, private neighborhood with community amenities.
Feature | Details |
Builder | Bloomfield Homes |
Price Range | $400,000 - $550,000 |
Amenities | Playground, park |
Location | Near Hwy 360, Hwy 67 & Hwy 287 |
Schools | Midlothian ISD |
What buyers like: Private neighborhood feel, playground and park for families, convenient highway access, Midlothian community events.
The Grove
Overview: Growing community with Bloomfield Homes offerings.
Feature | Details |
Builder | Bloomfield Homes |
Price Range | $375,000 - $525,000 |
Schools | Midlothian ISD |
Lakeview Pointe
Overview: D.R. Horton community with lake views and competitive pricing.
Feature | Details |
Builder | D.R. Horton |
Price Range | $350,000 - $550,000 |
Location | Grand Prairie (Midlothian ISD) |
Schools | Midlothian ISD |
Popular floor plans:
Emory (single story, 4 bed/2 bath)
Wimberley (two story, 4 bed/3 bath with study, game room, media room, 3-car garage)
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers wanting lake proximity and national builder warranty
Patriot Estates
Overview: LGI Homes community offering entry-level new construction.
Feature | Details |
Builder | LGI Homes |
Price Range | From $300,900 |
Schools | Midlothian ISD |
Best for: First-time buyers seeking the most affordable new construction in Midlothian
Westside Preserve
Overview: DRB Homes community with single-family homes.
Feature | Details |
Builder | DRB Homes |
Price Range | $400,000 - $550,000 |
Schools | Midlothian ISD |
Complete Midlothian Builder Guide
Builder Comparison Chart
Builder | Price Range | Strengths | Communities |
American Legend Homes | $400K - $700K+ | Luxury customization, large lots | BridgeWater |
Bloomfield Homes | $375K - $550K | Value, quick move-in options | Hayes Crossing, Parkside North, Wind Ridge, Ridgepoint, The Grove |
D.R. Horton | $350K - $550K | National builder, competitive pricing | Lakeview Pointe |
David Weekley Homes | $458K - $600K | Design flexibility, reputation | Various |
DRB Homes | $400K - $550K | Single-family focus | Westside Preserve |
First Texas Homes | $350K - $500K | Aggressive incentives | Various |
Grand Homes | $500K - $750K | Luxury, custom options | Grand Somercrest |
Highland Homes | $385K - $560K | Award-winning plans, employee-owned | BridgeWater |
John Houston Homes | $400K - $650K | Local expertise, Design Studio | BridgeWater, Hayes Crossing, Ridgepoint, Wind Ridge, Hartson Estates |
LGI Homes | $300K - $400K | Most affordable | Patriot Estates |
Perry Homes | $522K - $695K | Premium quality, Houston heritage | BridgeWater |
Risewell Homes | $434K - $550K | Modern designs | Various |
Tri Pointe Homes | $344K - $500K | Attainable luxury, innovative | BridgeWater |
2026 Builder Incentives: What's Available Now
Builder incentives in Midlothian are at historic highs. Here's what's currently available:
Types of Incentives
Incentive Type | Typical Value | How It Works |
Flex Cash | $15,000 - $30,000 | Use toward closing costs, rate buydowns, or upgrades |
Rate Buydowns | 1-3% reduction | Lower monthly payments for 1-4 years or permanently |
Closing Cost Credits | $5,000 - $25,000 | Builder pays portion of title, lender, and escrow fees |
Design Center Allowances | $10,000 - $30,000 | Credits toward flooring, appliances, finishes |
Lot Premium Waivers | $5,000 - $20,000 | Free upgrades on corner lots, cul-de-sacs, or larger lots |
Price Reductions (QMI) | $10,000 - $75,000 | Discounts on completed inventory homes |
Understanding Rate Buydowns
Rate buydowns are the most powerful incentive for reducing your monthly payment:
Temporary Buydowns:
Buydown Type | Year 1 Rate | Year 2 Rate | Year 3 Rate | Year 4+ |
3-2-1 Buydown | -3% | -2% | -1% | Full rate |
2-1 Buydown | -2% | -1% | Full rate | Full rate |
1-0 Buydown | -1% | Full rate | Full rate | Full rate |
Example: On a $500,000 home at 6.5% interest:
Standard payment: ~$3,160/month
With 2-1 buydown Year 1 (4.5%): ~$2,533/month
Year 1 savings: $627/month or $7,524/year
Permanent Buydowns: Some builders offer to buy down your rate for the life of the loan. One discount point (1% of loan amount) typically reduces your rate by 0.25%.
Current Builder Promotions (February 2026)
Builder | Current Offer | Details |
First Texas Homes | Up to $25K Your Way | Closing costs, pre-paids, or 3/2/1 buydown |
Tri Pointe Homes | From $343,990 + incentives | Recently reduced prices + flex cash |
Highland Homes | From $384,990 + incentives | Recently reduced + rate assistance |
John Houston Homes | Design Studio credits | Extensive customization packages |
D.R. Horton | QMI discounts | Quick move-in specials |
LGI Homes | Appliance package included | Whirlpool stainless steel appliances |
Pro tip: Incentives change monthly. Always ask about current promotions and whether they can be combined.
How to Compare Communities: Decision Framework
Step 1: Define Your Priorities
Rate these factors 1-5 based on importance to your family:
Factor | Your Rating (1-5) |
Price/Value | ___ |
Lot Size | ___ |
Community Amenities | ___ |
School Quality | ___ |
Commute Time | ___ |
Builder Reputation | ___ |
Customization Options | ___ |
Move-in Timeline | ___ |
Step 2: Match Communities to Priorities
If Your Priority Is... | Consider These Communities |
Lowest Price | Patriot Estates (LGI), Lakeview Pointe (D.R. Horton) |
Best Amenities | BridgeWater |
Largest Lots | Wind Ridge, Hartson Estates |
Most Customization | BridgeWater (American Legend, John Houston) |
Fastest Move-In | Any community with QMI inventory |
Best Value | Hayes Crossing, Ridgepoint, Parkside North |
Step 3: Calculate True Cost
Don't just compare base prices. Calculate total cost including:
Cost Component | Typical Range |
Base price | Varies by community |
Lot premium | $0 - $25,000 |
Structural options | $10,000 - $50,000 |
Design upgrades | $15,000 - $75,000 |
Closing costs | $12,000 - $20,000 |
MINUS incentives | -$15,000 to -$50,000 |
Midlothian ISD: School Guide for New Construction Buyers
All communities listed are zoned to Midlothian Independent School District.
District Overview
Metric | Data |
Overall District Rating | B (score of 85) |
Schools Rated A or B | 85% |
Total Rated Schools | 13 |
Mission | "To inspire excellence today to change the world tomorrow" |
2025 School Ratings
School | Level | Rating | Notable |
Dolores W. McClatchey Elementary | Elementary | A | Top performer |
T.E. Baxter Elementary | Elementary | B | Top 25% Closing the Gaps |
Mt. Peak Elementary | Elementary | B | Strong academics |
Longbranch Elementary | Elementary | A- | BridgeWater feeder |
J.R. Irvin Elementary | Elementary | C | Improving |
J.A. Vitovsky Elementary | Elementary | C | Improving |
Frank Seale Middle School | Middle | B | Top 25% Academic Growth |
Walnut Grove Middle School | Middle | B | BridgeWater feeder |
Midlothian High School | High | B | Top 25% Academic Growth |
Heritage High School | High | B | BridgeWater feeder |
School Assignments by Community
Community | Elementary | Middle | High |
BridgeWater | Longbranch | Walnut Grove | Heritage |
Hayes Crossing | Varies | Varies | MISD High Schools |
Ridgepoint | Varies | Varies | MISD High Schools |
Wind Ridge | Varies | Walnut Grove/Frank Seale | Heritage/MHS |
Important: Always verify current school zoning before purchasing. Boundaries can change as new schools open.
The New Construction Buying Process
Timeline: What to Expect
Phase | Duration | Key Activities |
Research | 2-4 weeks | Tour communities, compare builders, identify priorities |
Selection | 1-2 weeks | Choose lot, floor plan, and builder |
Contract | 1 week | Sign purchase agreement, pay earnest money |
Design | 2-4 weeks | Visit Design Studio, select finishes and upgrades |
Construction | 4-8 months | Home built (varies by builder and inventory status) |
Pre-closing | 2-4 weeks | Final walkthrough, punch list, loan closing |
Closing | 1 day | Sign documents, receive keys |
QMI (Quick Move-In) homes: Already under construction or completed. Timeline: 30-90 days.
What to Bring to Your First Visit
Pre-approval letter or proof of funds
List of must-haves vs nice-to-haves
Questions about incentives and timelines
Camera/phone for photos
This guide!
Key Questions to Ask Every Builder
About the home:
What's included in the base price vs. what's an upgrade?
What structural options are available (extended garage, covered patio, etc.)?
What is your warranty coverage?
Who are your preferred trade partners (HVAC, plumbing, electrical)?
About incentives:
What incentives are currently available?
Can incentives be combined?
Do I have to use your preferred lender to get the full incentive?
How does the incentive compare to a price reduction?
About the process:
What is your current construction timeline?
How often can I visit during construction?
What is your change order policy?
How does the warranty claim process work?
About the community:
What amenities are completed vs. planned?
What are the HOA dues and what do they cover?
Are there any MUD or PID taxes?
What is the timeline for future phases?
Understanding MUD and PID Taxes
Many Midlothian communities have Municipal Utility Districts (MUD) or Public Improvement Districts (PID) that add to your property tax rate.
What Are MUD/PID Taxes?
Type | Purpose | Typical Rate |
MUD | Funds water, sewer, drainage infrastructure | 0.5% - 1.5% additional |
PID | Funds roads, parks, amenities | 0.3% - 1.0% additional |
How It Affects Your Payment
Example on a $500,000 home:
Scenario | Tax Rate | Annual Taxes | Monthly Impact |
Standard (no MUD/PID) | 2.2% | $11,000 | $917 |
With MUD (1.0%) | 3.2% | $16,000 | $1,333 |
Difference | +1.0% | +$5,000 | +$417/month |
Important: Always ask about MUD/PID rates before purchasing. This can significantly impact your monthly payment and should be factored into your budget.
Why Work with a Buyer's Agent for New Construction?
Many buyers assume they don't need an agent when buying new construction. Here's why that's a costly mistake:
What a Buyer's Agent Does for You
Service | Value |
Incentive tracking | Knows current promotions across all builders |
Negotiation | Can often negotiate beyond advertised incentives |
Contract review | Identifies one-sided builder contract terms |
Construction monitoring | Visits during construction to catch issues early |
Inspection coordination | Arranges independent inspections at key stages |
Punch list advocacy | Ensures builder completes all items before closing |
Market knowledge | Knows which communities have best resale potential |
The Cost to You
$0. Builders pay buyer's agent commission. You get expert representation at no cost.
The Risk of Going Alone
Builder sales agents work for the builder, not you. Their job is to maximize the builder's profit. Without representation, you may:
Miss available incentives
Overpay for upgrades with high markups
Sign unfavorable contract terms
Not catch construction defects
Have no advocate if issues arise
Frequently Asked Questions
Is new construction more expensive than resale in Midlothian?
Not necessarily. With current builder incentives averaging $15,000-$30,000, new construction in Midlothian is often comparable to—or cheaper than—resale homes when you factor in the need for updates and repairs on older homes. Plus, new homes come with warranties, energy efficiency, and modern floor plans.
How long does it take to build a new home in Midlothian?
Typical construction timelines range from 4-8 months depending on the builder, floor plan complexity, and current demand. Quick Move-In (QMI) homes that are already under construction or completed can close in 30-90 days.
Can I negotiate with builders?
Yes! Despite what sales agents may say, there's usually room to negotiate—especially on:
Lot premiums
Design center upgrades
Closing cost credits
Rate buydown terms
Appliance packages
Having a buyer's agent strengthens your negotiating position significantly.
What's the difference between spec homes and build-to-suit?
Spec (inventory) homes: Already designed and under construction. Limited customization but faster move-in. Often have better incentives to move quickly.
Build-to-suit: You select the lot, floor plan, and all finishes. More customization but longer timeline (5-8 months typically).
Are builder warranties worth anything?
Yes. Texas builders are required to provide warranties, and reputable builders offer:
1-year workmanship warranty (covers most defects)
2-year systems warranty (plumbing, electrical, HVAC)
10-year structural warranty (foundation, load-bearing elements)
Note: Highland Homes is moving from a 10-year to a 6-year structural warranty effective January 1, 2026.
Should I use the builder's preferred lender?
It depends. Builder incentives often require using the preferred lender, but you should:
Get a quote from the preferred lender
Get quotes from 2-3 outside lenders
Compare total costs (not just rates)
Calculate whether the incentive savings exceed any rate difference
Sometimes the outside lender is still cheaper even without builder incentives.
What about resale value in Midlothian?
Midlothian's rapid growth, improving schools, and strategic location support strong resale values. Communities with the best amenities (like BridgeWater) and quality builders tend to hold value best. Midlothian ISD's continued improvement also supports long-term appreciation.
How do I know if a builder is reputable?
Research:
Online reviews (Google, Facebook, BBB)
Years in business
Number of homes built
Warranty claims history
Talk to current homeowners in the community
All builders listed in this guide have established track records in the DFW market.
Ready to Find Your Midlothian Home?
Midlothian's master-planned communities offer exceptional value, generous builder incentives, and a quality of life that rivals communities costing $100,000+ more in northern Dallas suburbs.
Whether you're drawn to BridgeWater's resort-style amenities, Wind Ridge's spacious lots, or the attainable pricing in Patriot Estates, there's a Midlothian community perfect for your family.
Take the next step:
📞 Call or Text: 469-269-6541
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Nitin Gupta, REALTOR® specializes in helping families navigate new construction purchases across Dallas-Fort Worth, including Midlothian's master-planned communities. With designations including CRS, GRI, ALHS, ABR, SRS, MRP, SRES, PSA, e-PRO, CHMS, TRLS, and TRPM, Nitin brings expert-level knowledge to every transaction.
Awards and Recognition:
D Magazine Best Real Estate Agent: 2020, 2023, 2024
BRAG (Best Real Estate Agent): 2023, 2024
FastExpert Top Agent
Zillow 5-Star Agent
Call us at 469-269-6541 for more information about Waxahachie real estate!
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