Take a moment to browse through the current stock of homes in Collin County and one thing comes across loud and clear — there’s a complete void of diversity in architecture. You have to really scour through listings in the older parts of Plano, or snatch up one of the very rare (and pricey!) historic homes near the square in McKinney.
But more often than not, you get the same red brick, plain Jane traditional with the two-story entry just about everywhere you go. It starts to become a snoozefest. Even our HOA columnist Jon Anderson called out developers for their overused mish-mash of architectural banality.
So any time I see something that deviates from the norm, I applaud it, as I did with this very cute Tudor-style patio home in Craig Ranch. I love the design and finish-out in these executive-style, lock-and-leave units that feel more like a European village than a suburban community.
And it’s a trend that I hope catches on.
The stone and wood exterior gives way to light and bright interiors, with on-trend transitional furniture and lighting at every turn in this 2,782-square-foot Frisco home at 5300 Sutton Circle.There are two bedrooms with a first-floor master, two full and one half baths, and an attached two-car garage in this corner unit. It’s a wonderful home for a small family that wants access to outstanding Frisco ISD schools without all the hassles that come with owning a larger home or a lawn. Sure, there’s outdoor space, with a tidy and private rear patio perfect for grilling and having an evening cocktail, but there’s nothing you don’t need or that will require a lot of extra attention, making it perfect for a busy household.
In fact, this property, with its easy open floor plan, hardwood floors, spacious master suite, and the incredible amenities that Craig Ranch offers, is somewhat of an epic-level bargain at $350,000. That’s $126 per square foot, y’all. Of course, there’s a monthly HOA fee of $295 you have to take into account, but with the beautiful pool and clubhouse at Craig Ranch, it’s totally worth it.
Heck, the master suite is surprisingly current for a home built in 2007, with its his-and-hers closets and five-piece master bath with separate vanities.
While there are technically two bedrooms, there are five living areas, and what is now being used as a home gym could be repurposed as either a media room or even a third bedroom, should you need it. You’ll also like the built-ins and desk in the additional office area near the foot of the staircase, just down the way from the utility area. Make sure to include that gigantic wine refrigerator in your negotiations.
Of course, the big bonus in my eyes is this lovely little porch in the back, which offers just enough outdoor space to enjoy, and not enough to be a pain. Add some potted plants and a flat-screen TV and it would be a Herculean task to pry my husband away from this spot during the baseball season. It’s everything in a home you want to enjoy, with none of the trouble!
