The Plano You Knew Is Changing — Here's What Smart Buyers Need to Know
I've been selling real estate in Plano since 1998. I've watched Frisco go from wide-open fields to a corporate powerhouse. I've seen Legacy West transform North Dallas. And now, I'm watching one of the most ambitious redevelopments in North Texas history unfold at Collin Creek.
If you owned property near Collin Creek Mall during its decline, you felt the impact. If you're considering buying in Plano now, you need to understand what's happening — because this isn't just a renovation. It's a complete reimagining of 115 acres in the heart of the city.
Here's what the $1 billion Collin Creek redevelopment means for Plano real estate, and why 2026 is a pivotal year.
Why Plano's 2026 Development Surge Matters for Dallas Buyers
Plano isn't just growing — it's evolving from suburban sprawl into a true urban ecosystem. The city is actively replacing aging retail with mixed-use districts that combine residential, commercial, green space, and walkability.
This shift is driven by:
Corporate confidence: AT&T's global headquarters relocation to Legacy Drive, the $4 billion Texas Research Quarter life sciences hub, and ongoing expansions signal long-term economic strength.
Demographic demand: Empty nesters, young professionals, and relocating executives want walkable communities with immediate access to dining, healthcare, and recreation — without sacrificing space or quality.
Infrastructure investment: Plano is modernizing roads, expanding trail systems, and adding parks at a pace that supports decades of growth.
For Dallas-area buyers, this creates a ripple effect. As Plano attracts jobs and amenities, demand increases across North Dallas, Richardson, Allen, and Frisco. Properties near major developments typically see faster appreciation and stronger rental demand.
How Collin Creek's Transformation Impacts North Texas Real Estate
The old Collin Creek Mall closed in 2019 after years of vacancy. For nearby homeowners, it was a blight. For developers, it was an opportunity.
Centurion American Development Group acquired the site and launched a master-planned community that will eventually house 5,000+ residents, hundreds of businesses, and become one of Plano's most amenity-dense neighborhoods.
What this means for surrounding properties:
- Immediate value lift: Homes within a mile of major mixed-use projects historically appreciate 10–15% faster than comparable areas during construction phases.
- Rental demand surge: The 2,300+ apartment units will attract corporate relocations, creating consistent tenant pools for nearby single-family rentals.
- Lifestyle upgrade: Walkability to retail, dining, parks, and trails makes adjacent neighborhoods more desirable for buyers prioritizing convenience.
- Long-term stability: Mixed-use developments create economic diversification — retail, office, residential, and hospitality all reinforce each other.
If you own property in East Plano, East Richardson, or near US-75, between 190 George Bush Turnpike and Park Boulevard, you're positioned in one of the fastest-appreciating corridors in North Texas.
Inside the Collin Creek Redevelopment: What's Actually Being Built
The new Collin Creek district spans 115 acres and includes:
Residential (Approximately 3,100 Total Units)
- ~500 single-family homes: Traditional detached homes, with approximately 50 residences currently completed and occupied. Construction continues on remaining phases.
- ~2,300 apartments: Class-A multifamily with resort-style amenities, targeting young professionals and relocating employees.
- ~300 senior living residences: Independent and assisted living options designed for active adults and empty nesters seeking maintenance-free living.
Retail, Dining & Entertainment (340,000+ SF)
- Curated mix of restaurants, boutiques, fitness concepts, and entertainment
- Ground-floor retail activates pedestrian corridors and serves residents + surrounding neighborhoods
- Expected anchors include dining concepts and experiential retail (specifics to be announced)
Office & Hospitality
- Planned office space for corporate tenants and local businesses
- Full-service hotel to support business travelers and visitors
Parks, Trails & Green Space
- 9 acres of parks and open space — more green space than many suburban subdivisions
- 1.6 miles of walking and biking trails connecting the district to surrounding neighborhoods
- Pocket parks, plazas, and landscaped courtyards integrated throughout
Infrastructure
- 1,900-space underground parking garage (already complete) — removes surface lots and maximizes walkability
- Modern utilities, stormwater management, and roadway improvements designed for long-term capacity
Construction Timeline: Collin Creek Build-Out
This is a long-term, phased redevelopment of the former Collin Creek Mall site into a mixed-use community.
✅ Complete / Underway: Underground parking garage and infrastructure; early single-family homes are finished and occupied.
🏡 2024-2026: Continued residential completion and sales; multifamily units under construction.
🛍️ 2026-2028: Retail, dining, office, hotel and entertainment components are expected to be built out over several years (exact schedule depends on leasing and construction progress). Large mixed-use developments often span into the late 2020s before full activation of all components.
While residents are already moving in, the full mix of commercial, entertainment, and institutional uses will take multiple additional years to deliver.
What Collin Creek Means for Different Types of Buyers & Investors
For Empty Nesters & Downsizers
If you're in a 4,000+ sq ft home in Plano, Frisco, or North Dallas and ready to simplify, Collin Creek will offer (once complete):
- Maintenance-free living in a walkable setting
- Senior living options with built-in amenities and social opportunities
- Proximity to healthcare (Texas Health, Medical City, and Baylor are minutes away)
- Access to dining, shopping, and entertainment without driving
Pro tip: I work with empty nesters every week navigating this transition. The demand for right-sized luxury housing in Plano is high — and inventory is tight. Planning 6–12 months ahead gives you better options. While Collin Creek's senior living components won't be available until 2027–2028, understanding what's coming helps with strategic planning.
For First-Time & Move-Up Buyers
Collin Creek offers access to Plano's schools, corporate job centers, and a planned walkable lifestyle:
- Modern homes with lower maintenance than older Plano inventory
- Walkability (once retail opens) appeals to younger buyers who prioritize convenience
- Strong school districts and proximity to Legacy West, Shops at Legacy, and Dallas North Tollway corridor
- New construction quality and warranties
For Real Estate Investors
This is one of the most compelling investment opportunities in North Texas:
- High rental demand: Corporate relocations to AT&T, Texas Instruments, and the Research Quarter create consistent tenant pools
- Diversified income: Single-family, multifamily, and senior living all perform differently through market cycles
- Infrastructure complete: The underground garage and utilities are done — reducing construction risk
- Location advantage: US-75 access, DART proximity, and central Plano location ensure long-term relevance
- Early-stage opportunity: Getting in during construction phases often provides better pricing before amenities drive premiums
Beyond Collin Creek: What Else Is Happening in Plano Through 2026?
Collin Creek is the headline, but it's not the only story:
- AT&T Global Headquarters – Consolidating operations on Legacy Drive (complete)
- Texas Research Quarter – $4 billion life sciences hub attracting biotech and healthcare innovation
- Haggard Farm Development – 200+ acres of mixed-use along Dallas North Tollway
- Shops at Willow Bend Redevelopment – Reimagining another legacy mall
- Eastside Village – Mixed-use project near US-75 and Parker Road
- Trail & park expansions – Connecting neighborhoods across the city
- Texas Health Plano expansion – Adding capacity for growing population
Plano is investing in itself. For buyers and investors, that's a signal worth paying attention to.
How Plano's Development Boom Affects Dallas-Fort Worth Real Estate Values
The transformation happening in Plano doesn't exist in isolation. As one of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex's largest suburbs, Plano's evolution influences property values and buyer behavior across the region.
Regional impact on neighboring cities:
- Richardson: Properties along the US-75 corridor benefit from proximity to Plano's job centers and mixed-use developments
- Allen & McKinney: Buyers priced out of new Plano developments look north, driving demand in these fast-growing communities
- Frisco: Competition for corporate relocations and master-planned communities creates a rising tide effect
- North Dallas: Plano's walkable urban districts offer an accessible alternative to inner-city living
Understanding these connections is critical for anyone evaluating North Texas real estate as an investment or lifestyle decision.
Why Location Still Matters: Connectivity & Infrastructure
One often-overlooked advantage of Collin Creek's location is its connectivity:
- Highway access: Direct access to US-75 (Central Expressway) puts you 20 minutes from downtown Dallas
- Public transit: DART Rail stations nearby provide car-free access to Dallas employment centers
- Airport proximity: DFW International Airport is 30 minutes west; Dallas Love Field is 25 minutes south
- Corporate corridors: Legacy West, Las Colinas, and the Telecom Corridor are all within 15 minutes
This infrastructure backbone ensures Collin Creek's long-term viability regardless of economic cycles.
Final Thoughts: Why 2026 Is the Year to Pay Attention to Plano
I've watched Plano evolve for nearly three decades. My family lives there. This moment feels different.
The city isn't just adding homes — it's creating complete communities. It's not just attracting corporations — it's building the infrastructure those companies need to thrive. And it's not just redeveloping old malls — it's reimagining how people want to live in North Texas.
If you're considering Plano as a buyer, seller, investor, or someone planning a lifestyle transition, 2026 is a pivotal year. Construction is accelerating. Early residents are moving in. Property values in surrounding areas are responding to what's coming.
I also have exclusive behind-the-scenes video tours of model homes in the Collin Creek district that I'll be sharing soon — giving you a firsthand look at what's actually being built.
Thinking about how these changes impact your home value, investment strategy, or next move?
Let's talk. I've been navigating Plano's market since 1998, and I'd love to help you understand where your specific situation fits in this evolution.
📱 Brandon: (214) 206-7778
📧 Email: [email protected]
📱 Tiffany: (972) 979-0978
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Visit: www.hawkinsgrouprealestate.com
