In the dynamic world of real estate development, a deep understanding of market trends and consumer desires is paramount. Tom Woliver, a seasoned professional and co-founder of Dallas-based Oxland Advisors, embodies this principle, often describing himself as a “data junkie.” This meticulous, data-driven approach is fundamental to every venture, especially when tens of millions of dollars hang in the balance amidst a challenging economic landscape, as seen during the recent global pandemic. For a project to proceed, its feasibility must be unequivocally clear, demonstrating perfect sense in every aspect.
Such comprehensive scrutiny led to the ambitious development of Painted Tree, a sprawling 1,100-acre master-planned community meticulously crafted by Oxland Advisors. Situated strategically just west of McKinney, this monumental project is designed to feature approximately 3,400 homes, directly addressing the significant housing inventory shortage that has characterized the vibrant North Texas real estate market. The timing is particularly opportune, as a growing number of individuals and families are re-evaluating their living situations, seeking spaces that better accommodate their evolving lifestyles in a post-pandemic world where home is often much more than just a dwelling.
Embracing Authenticity: A Vision Accelerated by Changing Lifestyles
Woliver elaborates on the foundational research that shaped Painted Tree’s vision: “We conduct extensive data research, and even before the pandemic, there was a noticeable trend towards people desiring something more authentic and simpler in their lives and homes.” He notes that the global health crisis didn’t just introduce new trends; rather, “The pandemic significantly accelerated that trend,” making the need for integrated, flexible, and nature-centric living environments more urgent and desirable than ever before.
This insight guided Woliver and his team of consultants in identifying McKinney as an ideal location for Painted Tree. The city’s unique charm and growth potential allowed for a diverse range of homesites, catering to various preferences and life stages. The community will seamlessly blend detached townhomes and cozy cottages with spacious family residences and exclusive custom homesites. Beyond its diverse housing options, Painted Tree is designed to be a sanctuary, integrating mature trees and an extensive natural trail system. This network of pathways will not only enhance intra-community connectivity but also link residents directly to McKinney’s beloved Erwin Park and Bonnie Wenk Park, expanding recreational opportunities. Further enhancing the community’s appeal are a picturesque 20-acre lake and an innovative open-air trail outpost, serving as a hub for outdoor activities and social gatherings.
Strategic Partnerships and Phased Development
The development of Painted Tree is progressing swiftly. Oxland Advisors recently engaged with over 30 prospective builders, demonstrating robust interest in this innovative community. Concurrently, the firm is working in close collaboration with McKinney city leaders to finalize all necessary zoning matters and regulatory approvals. If all phases proceed as planned, construction for the foundational infrastructure is anticipated to commence in early 2021, with the grand opening and initial home sales projected for 2022, marking a significant milestone for North Texas real estate.
Further solidifying the project’s foundation, New York-based JEN Partners, a prominent national investor in residential land and homebuilding enterprises, recently acquired the development site. This strategic partnership underscores the confidence in Painted Tree’s potential. Plano-based Green Brick Partners has emerged as the inaugural builder to finalize lot purchases within the community, signifying the beginning of vertical construction and the realization of Painted Tree’s distinct vision.
Insights from the Visionary: Tom Woliver on Painted Tree
Tom Woliver graciously shared further insights into the genesis and unique attributes of Painted Tree in a recent discussion:
Daltxrealestate.com: Why was McKinney identified as the prime location for Oxland Advisors’ latest significant development?
Woliver: “For many years, developers have sought prime land in areas like Frisco and McKinney, but available acreage has become increasingly limited. Much of the recent large-scale development in North Texas is now extending much further north into towns like Celina and Melissa. We view Painted Tree as a unique form of ‘suburban infill.’ If you examine the landscape of suburban development across the region, McKinney stands out as the benchmark, the ideal that many other suburban cities aspire to be. It possesses that authentic, historic downtown square, radiating a distinct character and charm that is genuinely captivating. This rich sense of place significantly enhances the appeal of Painted Tree, offering residents the best of both worlds: access to an authentic downtown and a vibrant arts and cultural scene, while still providing ample space to spread out and enjoy a high quality of life in a thoughtfully planned suburban setting.”
CD: In what ways will Painted Tree distinguish itself from other large-scale developments in terms of its overall design and resident experience?
Woliver: “Our vision for Painted Tree was uniquely conceived right in the midst of the pandemic, allowing us to truly observe and understand how people’s lives were fundamentally changing. The home evolved dramatically during this period, transforming from merely a place to relax into a multi-functional hub. It became the primary office, the fitness center, the classroom, and indeed, everything. The traditional notion of ‘home as your castle’ expanded significantly; now, we believe, ‘your home is your porch.’ This philosophy guided our design, emphasizing seamless integration between indoor and outdoor living, ensuring homes and the community support every facet of modern life.”
CD: How did the challenges and shifts of the pandemic era specifically influence your overarching vision for this community?
Woliver: “We anticipated significant behavioral changes. More people would be working from home, leading to increased daytime activities within their communities. The question became: what should a community designed for this new reality look like? The solution for Painted Tree emerged directly from our core vision, capitalized on an incredible natural asset we had at our disposal—an exceptional natural setting, which is quite rare for North Texas. The unique topography, abundant mature trees, and a stunning 20-acre lake situated right on the site provided an unparalleled foundation. These natural elements are simply not found everywhere in North Texas, giving Painted Tree an inherent advantage in offering a truly distinctive living experience.”
CD: With such a unique natural backdrop, how does this setting directly translate into the range and type of amenities offered at Painted Tree?
Woliver: “In many contemporary communities, developers often have to artificially ‘manufacture’ a lifestyle through expansive, costly indoor facilities, large swimming pools, or elaborate amenity buildings. At Painted Tree, we are fortunate because that lifestyle is inherently present, woven into the very fabric of the land. Instead of replicating a common script, we’ve boldly taken that concept and shifted it outdoors. Our guiding principle is that ‘nature is the new luxury.’ This means we are making unprecedented investments in our extensive network of pathways, trails, and expansive open spaces. We are confident that the scale and quality of our outdoor offerings will set a new standard, providing an unparalleled experience that truly differentiates Painted Tree from anything our competition has done before.”
Painted Tree is poised to redefine master-planned living in North Texas. By thoughtfully blending diverse housing options with an emphasis on authentic community, abundant natural amenities, and a deep understanding of modern lifestyle needs, Oxland Advisors is crafting more than just a development; they are building a vibrant, connected, and truly unique place to call home in McKinney. This innovative approach, rooted in data and inspired by nature, promises a community where residents can thrive, connect, and enjoy an unparalleled quality of life.