DeSoto developers revise plans to meet community home size preferences and market demands

The DeSoto Planning and Zoning Commission convened on February 11, 2025, to discuss significant developments in local housing projects, particularly focusing on the ongoing adjustments to the Planned Development (PD) 193. The meeting highlighted the evolving real estate market in DeSoto and the community's response to proposed changes.

The discussion began with a review of the current housing landscape, noting that First Texas Homes had initiated construction on larger homes that were not selling as quickly as anticipated. This prompted developers to reassess their strategy, leading to a proposal for smaller lot sizes to better align with market demand. The developers acknowledged that the previous plan, approved in 2022, was based on a different market condition where homes were selling rapidly.

As the meeting progressed, developers explained that they had gathered 20 months of sales data from a neighboring project, which indicated a shift in buyer preferences. They emphasized the need to adapt to current market conditions, which include rising construction costs and a demand for more affordable housing options. The developers expressed their commitment to providing a variety of housing types to cater to different demographics, particularly as the population ages and the demand for smaller, more manageable homes increases.

Community engagement was a key theme, with developers reporting positive interactions with local residents. Approximately 16 to 20 residents attended two recent meetings, expressing their concerns and desires regarding the development. Residents were particularly focused on maintaining property values and ensuring that new construction would not negatively impact their neighborhoods. In response, developers assured attendees that new homes would be priced competitively and would not detract from existing property values.

The developers also addressed specific community concerns, such as the inclusion of alleys and rear-facing garages, which were incorporated into the revised plans based on resident feedback. They acknowledged the importance of these features in enhancing the overall aesthetic and functionality of the neighborhood.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the developers' commitment to adapting their plans in response to market trends and community input. The ongoing adjustments to PD 193 aim to create a feasible and marketable housing development that meets the needs of DeSoto residents while addressing the challenges posed by the current real estate environment. The commission will continue to monitor these developments as they progress.