Land vs. Lots: Where Denton County, TX Buyers Are Building

By Realtor Robert Wink, Denton, TX

Whether you’re buying acreage for a custom estate or a simple lot for a new build, understanding local development trends is key. Here’s a breakdown of current hot spots for both.

1. Small Acreage (1–5 Acres): Privacy Meets Practicality

Where: Ponder, Krum, Aubrey, Argyle
Why buyers love it:

Sizeable enough for privacy and flexibility—often to build barndominiums, workshops, or bring livestock.
Low-movement of 20+-acre tracts makes these highly desirable: “Lots between 1–5 acres are flying off the market… buyers want space, privacy, and the ability to build—but they don’t want the maintenance of 20+ acres.”Robert Wink
Particularly popular are properties without HOA restrictions—which opens possibilities for unconventional or agricultural builds. Markets in Sanger, Justin, and Pilot Point are especially hot for unrestricted land.Robert Wink

2. Infill Residential Lots: Built for Convenience

Where: Downtown Denton, Argyle, and established neighborhoods (e.g., Ryan Woods subdivision)
Why they’re in demand:

Buyers or small builders pick up these city lots for custom homes, duplexes, or rentals.
These often come with utilities, roads, and zoning in place—making them turnkey opportunities.Robert Wink
Example: A townhome development parcel at 2605 E McKinney St in downtown Denton is fully entitled for 29 units—showcasing the demand for infill redevelopment.LoopNet

3. Master-Planned Communities: Lot Growth with Amenities

Where: Hunter Ranch (Landmark development), Tabor Ranch, and Cole Ranch
Why they’re thriving:

Hillwood’s Landmark/Hunter Ranch project spans 3,200 acres and includes 6,000 single-family homes, 3,000 apartments, plus extensive trails, parks, and commercial space.WFAAStar-Telegram
Tabor Ranch, a 600-acre development near Krum and Ponder, will offer nearly 2,000 homes, a resort-style amenity center, commercial zones, and multifamily units—all debuting in phases.WFAA
Cole Ranch, adjacent to Landmark, adds another 3,000+ acres with mixed-use opportunities, civic spaces, entertainment, and parkland dedication.Dallas Express

Market Takeaway for Buyers & Sellers

Buyers seeking flexibility & privacy should explore small acreage, especially in areas with light or no restrictions.
Investors and builders can look at infill lots in Denton for quick turnaround custom builds or rental suites.
Homebuyers wanting convenience and community should consider lots in master-planned developments—offering modern infrastructure, amenities, and built-in value.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

I can help you identify:

Available 1–5 acre parcels near utilities or in low-restriction zones
Build-ready lots in town or inside Denton’s city limits
Master-plan lot opportunities in Landmark, Tabor Ranch, or Cole Ranch

Let’s connect to map out what fits your vision—whether it’s acreage or a refined lot.