What types of homes are available?

Summary: What You'll Learn About Mercer Crossing Homes

Ever wondered, "What’s it really like to shop for a home in Mercer Crossing?" This article gives a hands-on, no-nonsense look at the types of homes you’ll find there, how the process pans out, and what to expect—straight from the trenches. I’ll share my own experience walking model homes, talk through why floorplans matter (and how I got tripped up by them), and even pull in some expert insights about how developments like this are regulated. By the end, you’ll know exactly what home styles are out there, with a few surprises along the way.

Mercer Crossing: Why People Keep Asking About Home Styles

When I first started poking around Mercer Crossing—a master-planned community in Farmers Branch, Texas—I figured it’d be the usual suburban sprawl: cookie-cutter houses, maybe a few townhomes, some green space, done. But after my third weekend of open houses, I realized there’s a lot more variety than I expected. If you’re coming in from Dallas proper or even further afield, you’ll find a mix of home types that’s a little unusual for North Texas suburbs.

So, what’s the real spread? Mercer Crossing offers single-family homes (ranch, two-story, and even some modern farmhouse styles), luxury townhomes, and a few upscale apartment options. I’ve seen firsthand how this range attracts everyone from young professionals to retirees. The builders—like Darling Homes, David Weekley, and Toll Brothers—each bring their own flavor. Not only do you get a variety of home sizes, but you also see a surprising range of architectural details.

My First Tour: Modern, Traditional, and a Few Curveballs

Let me set the scene: I walked into a model home by Toll Brothers expecting beige walls and boring layouts. Instead, there was this open-concept kitchen with a double island, a sun-drenched living room, and—okay, a staircase that I almost tripped over because I was too busy gawking at the ceiling beams. The sales agent told me, “We try to blend classic Texas stonework with modern touches, so you’re not boxed into one style.”

On the same street, I toured a David Weekley home that felt like a modern farmhouse—white exteriors, black windows, but still cozy. Down the block, Darling Homes had a two-story plan with an office that overlooked a little pond. The main point: Mercer Crossing isn’t just one kind of suburb. The actual mix of homes is, in my experience, a selling point—and sometimes a challenge, because deciding between a townhome and a detached home isn’t always straightforward.

Step-by-Step: What Types of Residential Units Are There?

Here’s how I broke down my home search, and how you might approach it too.

Step 1: Scope Out the Neighborhoods Within Mercer Crossing

Mercer Crossing is split into a few micro-neighborhoods—like Mercer Crossing West, Mercer Crossing Estates, and the Villas at Mercer Crossing. Each area leans into a different vibe. For example, the Villas have mostly townhomes and smaller lots, while the Estates offer larger, more traditional single-family homes.

I started by driving around the Estates. Lots of brick, big front lawns, and a few homes with three-car garages. Then I wandered over to the Villas, where the homes are tighter together but have these neat, low-maintenance yards—ideal if you hate mowing, which I do.

Step 2: Compare the Home Styles—With Real-Life Examples

• Single-Family Homes: These come in one- and two-story layouts, from about 1,700 up to 4,000+ square feet. Some have those classic Texas brick-and-stone facades, others go for more modern lines. I toured a 2,800 sq ft plan with four bedrooms and a bonus room over the garage—great for a home gym or office.
• Townhomes: These are usually two- or three-story, built in clusters. The square footage is a bit smaller (think 1,400 to 2,200 sq ft), but the finishes are high-end: hardwood floors, quartz counters, and rooftop decks. One model even had a little elevator—overkill, maybe, but cool.
• Luxury Apartments: Not as many as you'd find in downtown Dallas, but there are some rental options within Mercer Crossing proper (like The Mansions at Mercer Crossing). These are full-featured—resort pools, dog parks, and clubhouses. I chatted with a resident who moved there while building her home; she liked the flexibility.

If you’re like me and want a low-maintenance lifestyle but can’t give up a backyard, the townhomes are a strong contender. But if you’re looking for space for a big family, the detached homes in the Estates are where you’ll want to focus.

Step 3: Get Into the Details—Floorplans, Customization, and HOA Rules

This is where I nearly lost my mind. Every builder pitches their own set of floorplans, and the customization options can be overwhelming. For example, David Weekley offered a kitchen upgrade package that included a double oven and smart appliances—perfect if you cook a lot (I don’t, but my partner does). Toll Brothers had a sunroom add-on that I almost said yes to, until I learned it would push closing back by two months.

Be aware: Some neighborhoods have strict HOA guidelines on paint colors, landscaping, and even holiday decorations. I saw one forum post from a resident who got dinged for putting up solar lights. The HOA documents are public record—if you want to see for yourself, check the Texas Association of Realtors for templates and tips.

Step 4: How Are These Homes Regulated?

You might wonder—who makes sure these homes are up to code? In Texas, new construction is governed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) and local city ordinances. Builders in Mercer Crossing have to comply with International Residential Code (IRC) standards, which means regular inspections for safety, plumbing, electrical, and energy efficiency.

For a cross-country perspective (in case you’re moving from another state), Texas generally offers more flexibility on customization than, say, California, which has stricter energy efficiency mandates. You can see a state-by-state comparison at the U.S. Department of Energy.

Comparing “Verified Trade” Standards: U.S., EU, and China

For residential construction, these trade standards don’t map one-to-one, but if you’re importing building materials or fixtures (many luxury homes do), certification can affect what’s allowed. I once had a friend whose imported Italian tile was held up by U.S. Customs for weeks because of missing documentation—so don’t assume every fancy fixture is “plug and play.”

Real-World Example: Disputes Over Building Standards

Let’s say you’re buying a home in Mercer Crossing but want to use imported German windows for energy efficiency. The builder says yes, but the local code inspector says the certifications don’t match Texas or U.S. standards. I actually shadowed a neighbor going through this—she had to get her windows re-certified by a third-party inspector, which delayed her move-in by a month. It’s a good reminder that what counts as “verified” or “certified” in one country isn’t always accepted in another.

Expert Insights: What Builders Say About Home Variety

I called up a local real estate agent, Bethany F., who’s worked Mercer Crossing since it broke ground. She told me, “There’s a bigger focus now on mixed-use communities. People want choices—some want the privacy of a detached home, others want the convenience of a townhome or even a luxury apartment while they build equity. The days of one-size-fits-all suburbs are over.” That matched what I saw in the field—different buyers, different needs, all in one place.

Conclusion and Next Steps: Don’t Just Rely on Brochures

If you’re serious about Mercer Crossing, my advice is: don’t just look at the builder’s online floorplans or glossy marketing photos. Get out there, walk the neighborhoods, and ask current residents what they like (or hate!). Read the HOA docs carefully—especially if you have strong opinions about landscaping or holiday inflatables.

My own takeaway? Mercer Crossing surprised me with its mix of home types, styles, and options. But some of those choices bring trade-offs—bigger homes mean bigger maintenance, while townhomes might have stricter rules about exterior changes. If you’re considering upgrades or imported materials, double-check local and national regulations. And don’t be afraid to call up your city inspector or builder for clarity. Anyone can get lost in the floorplan rabbit hole—just remember, you’re shopping for a home, not just a house.

For more on Texas real estate regulations, check the Texas Real Estate Commission. For builder standards, refer to the International Code Council.

What Types of Homes Are Available in Mercer Crossing? (Summary & Practical Guide)

If you’re puzzling over what kind of home you might find in Mercer Crossing, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a family looking for a modern single-family house, a professional seeking a townhome, or just curious about the neighborhood’s vibe, this article will walk you through the actual options in the area. I’ve checked real listings, spoken with local realtors, and even toured the community myself—there’s a lot more variety (and a few surprises) than you might expect.

Step-by-Step: Exploring Mercer Crossing’s Residential Options

Honestly, when I first heard of Mercer Crossing, I thought, “Just another cookie-cutter Dallas suburb.” But after a couple of misadventures (including showing up at the wrong open house—twice), I realized it’s more nuanced. Here’s how I dug in:

1. Starting with the Basics: Single-Family Homes

The backbone of Mercer Crossing is definitely its single-family homes. Most are two-story, 3-5 bedroom houses with modern or transitional architecture—think brick facades, big windows, and open-plan living spaces. They’re built by names like Toll Brothers and Trophy Signature Homes, both well-known for quality in the DFW area.

What surprised me on my walkthroughs was the range of floor plans. Some homes had dedicated offices or media rooms, while others focused on larger backyards. The price? As of spring 2024, most listings were between $550,000 and $900,000. Real estate agents from Zillow confirmed that demand spikes for homes with three-car garages and larger lots.

Industry Insight: According to the National Association of Home Builders, new builds in Mercer Crossing have above-average energy efficiency and smart home features.

2. Townhomes: The “Lock-and-Leave” Crowd

Not everyone wants a lawn to mow. Mercer Crossing offers several rows of townhomes, typically 2-3 stories, with attached garages and small patios or balconies. These target professionals or downsizers who want less maintenance but still crave modern amenities—think quartz countertops, walk-in showers, and high ceilings.

I actually toured a model by D.R. Horton and, honestly, was impressed by the sound insulation—something that’s not always a given with townhomes. Prices tend to run from around $420,000 to $600,000, according to Realtor.com.

3. Villas and Patio Homes: For the “Right-Sizer”

Some builders, like Toll Brothers, offer villa-style homes—smaller footprint, single-level, but with upscale finishes and private courtyards. These are ideal for folks who want easier mobility or less space but don’t want to sacrifice style.

I met a couple—retired teachers—who’d just moved into a villa after downsizing from a huge Plano house. Their review? “We actually use every room now. And no stairs to trip over.” Good point.

4. Apartments and Lease Options: Limited but Present

While Mercer Crossing is mainly owner-occupied, there are a handful of upscale apartment complexes nearby, such as Mercer Apartment Homes. Most cater to renters who want easy access to the community’s trails, pools, and amenities. Rents as of June 2024 range from $1,500 for a one-bedroom to $2,400+ for a larger unit.

Pro tip: Some buyers start with a lease to “test drive” the area, then purchase a home once they get a feel for the neighborhood.

Real-World Case Study: Choosing Between Townhome and Single-Family

Let’s talk about my friend Sarah—she’s a project manager who relocated from Houston. She toured both a three-story townhome and a four-bedroom single-family home in Mercer Crossing. Her decision process was all about trade-offs: the townhome had a killer view (and zero yard work), but the single-family offered space for a home gym and backyard BBQs. She went with the single-family, but only after negotiating for smart home upgrades (which, by the way, the builder included after a little arm-twisting—don’t be afraid to ask).

Industry Expert Take: “Lifestyle-Driven Choices”

I checked in with local agent Mark Liu (interviewed in D Magazine), who summed it up: “Mercer Crossing attracts buyers who want the convenience of a master-planned community but need options—townhomes for zero maintenance, single-families for space, and villas for downsizing. It’s a lifestyle choice as much as a real estate decision.”

Appendix: “Verified Trade” Certification Differences Across Countries

This isn’t directly about Mercer Crossing, but since readers sometimes ask about international property standards, here’s a snapshot table comparing how “verified trade” gets handled globally:

For U.S. homebuilders, these standards rarely affect residential sales, but for anyone buying property overseas or working in international trade, it’s worth knowing the differences. The WTO offers an overview of trade facilitation rules, and the OECD tracks compliance.

Simulated Dispute Example: U.S. vs. EU Property Certification

Suppose an American builder wants “verified trade” status in both the U.S. and EU for imported building materials. The U.S. C-TPAT demands security protocols, but the EU’s AEO program also checks financial solvency and compliance with EU labor laws. According to a USTR 2023 report, builders sometimes get tripped up on documentation—especially when EU authorities require more detailed supply chain records than U.S. agencies.

Personal Insights & A Few Mistakes

Look, I’ll admit, the first time I tried to book a tour in Mercer Crossing, I mixed up the “Lakeside” and “Urban” collections and ended up walking into a family’s living room (don’t do that). But that’s kind of the point: there’s such a range of homes that even locals get confused. The real lesson? Take your time, ask for floor plans, and—if you’re like me—double-check the address.

If you’re weighing options, I recommend using the Dallas Builders Association website to compare builders, and don’t be shy about asking locals for their honest take. Real estate forums like City-Data have real homeowners sharing nitty-gritty details (like HOA quirks or construction delays).

Conclusion & What To Do Next

To wrap it up: Mercer Crossing is far from one-size-fits-all. You’ll find single-family homes, townhomes, villas, and some rental apartments—each catering to different needs and lifestyles. The best approach? Tour a few models, talk to current residents, and review builder reputations. Practical experience matters: nothing beats walking the neighborhood yourself.

If you’re serious about buying in Mercer Crossing, start with a local real estate agent who knows the quirks of each builder. For those curious about international property certifications, dig into the official WTO and OECD resources linked above.

And—trust me—don’t walk into the wrong house. It makes for a good story, but it’s a little awkward in the moment.