Discover the Best Gated Community in McKinney Texas: A First Look at Aster Park's Luxury Homes

Scott Baxter • February 22, 2025

Welcome to an exclusive tour of one of the most exciting new developments in North Texas—the gated community in McKinney Texas known as Aster Park. Nestled just north of McKinney, this master-planned neighborhood offers residents a perfect blend of tranquility, luxury, and convenience, surrounded by vast scenic farmland and thoughtfully designed amenities. If you're searching for a gated community in McKinney Texas that combines top-tier builders, exceptional home designs, and an unbeatable lifestyle, Aster Park deserves your attention.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the best homes and builders in Aster Park, highlighting everything from architectural details to community features. Whether you're a family looking for space and comfort, a professional seeking privacy and style, or someone relocating to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, this article will give you the insights you need about this remarkable neighborhood.

Table of Contents

Why Choose Aster Park: The Ultimate Gated Community in McKinney Texas

Aster Park stands out in the competitive McKinney real estate market for several reasons. First, it offers a 1.9% property tax rate, which is notably lower than many other areas in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The community is zoned for the highly acclaimed Prosper Independent School District (ISD), making it an ideal location for families who prioritize education.

One of the biggest perks of Aster Park is that it is a gated community with no MUD (Municipal Utility District) or PID (Public Improvement District) fees. This means homeowners have fewer additional taxes and fees, making the overall cost of living more manageable.

Homes here start in the mid $500,000s, with options ranging up to the million-dollar mark and beyond, depending on the builder and home size. If you want to step into a home right away, Highland Homes has spec homes starting in the $550,000 range, although most of their inventory is currently sold out.

Community Features That Set Aster Park Apart

  • Multiple gated sections: Aster Park is master-planned with five distinct gated phases, each with its own gate and unique character.
  • Resort-style amenities: The community features a stunning lakefront boardwalk, a large lake, and a resort-style pool that residents can enjoy year-round.
  • Scenic surroundings: Surrounded by beautiful farmland, Aster Park offers privacy and a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
  • Close to downtown McKinney: Despite its tranquil setting, the community is just minutes from downtown McKinney, offering convenience without compromise.

Lake and boardwalk at Aster Park gated community in McKinney Texas

Meet the Builders: Five Premier Builders in Aster Park

Aster Park is home to five top builders, each bringing their own style and expertise to the community. From luxury to family-friendly designs, there is something here for every buyer. Let’s dive into the details of the homes and what makes each builder stand out.

Toll Brothers: Executive Luxury Meets Spacious Living

Toll Brothers is a name synonymous with luxury, and their presence in Aster Park adds a high-end touch to the community. They offer an Executive Series of homes that are thoughtfully designed with premium finishes and spacious layouts.

One of their standout models is the Bolson, a nearly 4,000 square foot home featuring four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and an office. This model is priced at about $1.24 million and is one of the last available to build in this phase.

As you step inside, you’ll find a dedicated office with glass doors—perfect for those Zoom calls where you want privacy (and yes, don’t forget to wear pants!). The home also includes a mother-in-law suite with ample closet space and beautiful wood accents, ideal for guests or extended family.

The entertainment spaces are impressive, with a large movie room and generous dining and living areas. A unique feature is the wine seller—a cold wine storage room with brick walls that adds a touch of elegance and practicality for wine enthusiasts.

Storage is abundant, including an innovative closet with glass doors and a spacious laundry room. The mudroom painted black adds a sleek, modern touch, and the three-car tandem garage offers plenty of space for vehicles, boats, or golf carts.

One of the highlights is the primary bedroom suite with a luxurious bathroom featuring a freestanding tub, his and her vanities, and a beautiful shower. The walk-in closet is essentially a room on its own, providing privacy and space for two.

The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a six-burner gas stove, big island, and stainless-steel appliances. The pantry extends down a hallway, offering ample storage space. The living room boasts vaulted ceilings with exposed beams and farmhouse-style chandeliers, bringing a perfect mix of rustic charm and executive style.

Chef's kitchen with six-burner stove and large island in Toll Brothers home

The living area includes a modern electric fireplace with crystal rocks, surrounded by large windows that flood the space with natural light. The covered back porch features exposed beams and is perfect for outdoor entertaining, with easy options for adding a fireplace and seating area.

Upstairs, there’s a hidden wing that truly brings the 4,000 square feet to life. Each child gets their own bedroom with a private bathroom and a closet with a window—an upscale feature not often seen in homes this size. This wing provides privacy for family members and ample space for everyone.

The bedrooms are beautifully decorated with high-end finishes, accent walls, and plenty of room for kids to hang out or study. The oldest child’s room is particularly spacious with a huge closet and tasteful decor that balances style and comfort.

Another Toll Brothers Favorite: The Lavon Model

Just across the street from the Bolson is another Toll Brothers home called the Lavon. This five-bedroom, four and a half bath model sits on a 60-foot lot and starts around $866,000—a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.

Toll Brothers Leavon model exterior in Aster Park

This home is designed for livability with excellent interior design touches such as new wallpaper trends and a cozy charcoal-toned fireplace with a thick mantle. The kitchen features a five-burner gas stove, giant stainless-steel sinks, and ample storage, although the pantry is on the smaller side compared to the Bolson.

The primary bedroom is bright and spacious with accent wood walls blending gray and brown tones. The bathroom continues the theme with subtle tile color variations and a well-designed shower space. Lighting fixtures here are unique and artistic, adding flair to the home’s ambiance.

Upstairs, the home features three bedrooms, each with its own closet and two bathrooms shared between the kids. The rooms are medium-sized, making this home ideal for a younger family. There’s also a movie room and a storage closet, providing extra functional space for family activities and belongings.

William Ryan Homes: Quality Meets Affordability

For buyers looking for a high-quality home at a more affordable price point, William Ryan Homes offers an excellent alternative in Aster Park. These homes start in the high $700,000s and feature 2x6 construction, which is sturdier and more energy-efficient than the standard 2x4 construction found in many homes.

The home we toured is approximately 3,500 square feet on a 60-foot lot with a J-swing garage, which includes a three-car garage setup with a mudroom and office space. The layout also includes a mother-in-law suite, perfect for multigenerational living or guests.

The bathrooms feature tile that extends all the way to the ceiling, creating a modern, polished look. The living area is open and bright with multiple windows allowing natural light to flood the space. The kitchen boasts a big island and cabinetry that reaches the ceiling, providing ample storage.

An important highlight is the construction quality. William Ryan Homes uses 2x6 exterior walls, spray foam insulation in the attic, and other materials that help reduce energy costs—important in Texas’ hot summers. This attention to detail makes these homes a smart investment.

Upstairs is more compact compared to Toll Brothers but still functional, with two bedrooms sharing a bathroom and a movie room for family entertainment. The bedrooms are medium size, making this a great choice for younger families or those prioritizing budget and quality.

M.I. Homes: Best Bang for Your Buck in Aster Park

Our final stop is M.I. Homes, a builder known for maximizing space and value. The model we explored, called the Addison, is a 3,100 square foot home on a 50-foot lot, featuring four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a two-car garage.

What sets M.I. Homes apart is its open concept design. From the moment you enter, the living spaces feel expansive and connected, with a bright kitchen featuring a large island and an impressively large pantry—a rare find in homes of this size.

The living room boasts soaring ceilings that enhance the sense of space, complemented by large windows filling the area with natural light. While this model doesn’t come with a fireplace by default, one can be added at the cost of losing two windows—a tradeoff to consider.

The primary bedroom is gigantic, with a sandstone-colored accent wall adding warmth and style. The ensuite features his and her toilets, two closets, and tasteful tile work, making it both luxurious and practical.

Upstairs, M.I. Homes packs in spacious bedrooms that are larger than typical for a 50-foot lot, a game room hangout area, and a modest movie room. Though the bedrooms share bathrooms, the overall design balances space and affordability, making this model a top choice for families seeking value in a gated community in McKinney Texas.

Additional Builders and Community Insights

Besides the main builders featured, Aster Park also includes homes from Shaddock Homes and Highland Homes. Highland Homes, while currently sold out of new builds, offers spec homes starting in the mid-$550,000s. Shaddock Homes, although present here, did not impress enough in this community to merit a detailed tour, but their other developments elsewhere are notable.

Each phase of Aster Park has its own gate, enhancing security and privacy. The community is surrounded by undeveloped farmland, preserving the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views. This combination of gated security, excellent schools, and beautiful surroundings makes Aster Park one of the best gated communities in McKinney Texas.

Tips for Homebuyers Considering Aster Park

  • Bring your budget: Prices vary significantly between builders and home sizes. Be prepared to invest for the quality and space you desire.
  •  
  • Work with a local expert: Navigating new construction can be tricky. I am the local expert you need to get in contact with, ensuring you save headaches and get the best deal. Call or text me at 945.244.0342 .
  • Consider your timeline: Whether you plan to move in 9 days or 9 months, early communication with builders and agents will help you secure your ideal home.
  • Think about lot size: Aster Park offers 50, 60, and 70-foot lots. Larger lots provide more outdoor space but come at a premium.
  • Evaluate your lifestyle needs: From large family homes with multiple bedrooms and private baths to more affordable, open-concept homes, choose a builder and floor plan that fits your lifestyle.

FAQs About Aster Park and Gated Communities in McKinney Texas

What makes Aster Park a gated community different from others in McKinney?

Aster Park offers multiple gated phases, each with its own gate, ensuring privacy and security. Additionally, the community features resort-style amenities such as a lakefront boardwalk and pool, and it is surrounded by scenic farmland, offering a tranquil yet convenient lifestyle.

Which school district serves Aster Park?

The community is zoned for Prosper Independent School District (ISD), known for high academic standards and excellent extracurricular programs.

Are there homes available for immediate move-in?

Highland Homes offers spec homes starting in the mid-$550,000s, which may be available for quick move-in. Other builders like Toll Brothers and M.I. Homes have move-in ready homes depending on the phase and inventory.

What are the benefits of 2x6 construction compared to 2x4?

2x6 construction provides thicker walls, better insulation, and improved energy efficiency, resulting in lower utility bills and enhanced comfort, especially important in Texas’ climate.

Is Aster Park suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. The community offers spacious homes with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, proximity to excellent schools, and family-friendly amenities like parks, a pool, and walking trails.

How does the property tax rate in Aster Park compare to other areas?

Aster Park boasts a competitive property tax rate of about 1.9%, which is lower than many surrounding areas, helping to keep homeownership costs reasonable.

Conclusion: Why Aster Park is the Gated Community in McKinney Texas You Should Explore

Whether you’re relocating to Dallas-Fort Worth or upgrading your current home, Aster Park represents a rare opportunity to live in a gated community in McKinney Texas that offers luxury, space, and lifestyle without compromise. With five premier builders, including Toll Brothers, William Ryan Homes, and M.I. Homes, you can find a home that fits your budget and preferences—from sprawling executive homes with private wings to efficient, open-concept designs perfect for growing families.

The combination of low taxes, no MUD or PID fees, excellent schools, and resort-style amenities makes Aster Park a standout choice. Plus, its location north of McKinney surrounded by farmland ensures a peaceful environment that still keeps you close to city conveniences.

Don’t venture into this exciting community alone. Partner with a knowledgeable local realtor who knows the ins and outs of Aster Park and the McKinney market to guide you through the process smoothly and successfully.

Explore your dream home in Aster Park today—your perfect gated community in McKinney Texas awaits!

scott baxter

Local Realtor. Builder Expert. Relocation Pro.


Based in Rockwall, Scott helps buyers and families navigate new construction and relocation across the Dallas metro — with straightforward advice, real video tours, and unmatched builder insight.

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