When Hillwood Communities—the developer behind AllianceTexas's $130 billion success story—announces their largest project to date, people pay attention.
When that project is a $10 billion, 3,200-acre "city within a city" in Denton featuring 6,000 homes, 3,000 apartments, Denton's first H-E-B, and 1,100 acres of preserved parkland including Pilot Knob (Denton's highest point), well, that's historic.
Landmark by Hillwood officially broke ground on November 13, 2025, marking Denton's first master-planned community and the residential cornerstone of AllianceTexas—the visionary development that's shaped North Texas for 35 years.
As Hillwood community experts who specialize in communities throughout the Alliance Texas corridor—and with Paige Miranda's recognition as a top Hillwood Realtor for two consecutive years—we're already working with clients positioning themselves for Phase 1. We attended the unveiling, we know the builders, and we understand what makes Landmark one of the most significant real estate opportunities in North Texas.
Let us share what you need to know about Denton's most ambitious development.
What Makes Landmark Different: A 40-Year Vision Realized
Landmark isn't a speculative development rushed to market. The Perot family purchased this land—the former Hunter Ranch—in 1987, nearly 40 years ago. They waited. They planned. They watched Denton grow. And when the time was right, they launched their most ambitious project yet.
The Scale: A "City Within a City"
At full buildout, Landmark will feature:
- 6,000 single-family homes
- 3,000 apartments
- 900 acres of commercial space
- 5 million square feet of retail, dining, entertainment, hospitality, and office
- 1,100 acres of preserved parkland and natural areas
- 35 miles of hike-and-bike trails
- Three on-site Denton ISD schools
- 20,000-25,000 new residents over the next 20-30 years
- $10 billion total estimated value at completion
This isn't a subdivision. It's a complete live-work-play ecosystem designed to rival the best master-planned communities in the country.
The Land Leads Us: Nature-Centered Development
Hillwood's approach to Landmark centers on a philosophy: "The land leads us." Rather than imposing a development plan on the land, Hillwood designed around the existing natural features—the Cross Timbers Forest, the rolling hills, the native vegetation, and especially Pilot Knob.
Pilot Knob: Denton's highest point at 830-839 feet elevation, Pilot Knob is a sandstone outcrop that has served as a landmark for centuries—used by the Native Caddo tribe, early explorers, Texas Rangers, and even outlaw Sam Bass as a hideout. Hillwood is permanently protecting Pilot Knob as the centerpiece of a 300-acre park and entertainment district.
Conservation Commitment: Approximately one-third of Landmark—1,100 acres—will be preserved as parkland, trails, and open space. This is one of the largest natural preserves in Texas, protected by conservation easement to ensure it remains open forever.
This isn't greenwashing or marketing. Hillwood secured conservation easements before Phase 1 even broke ground. The preservation is legally protected and permanent.
Phase 1 Details: What's Coming First (2026-2027)
Phase 1 of Landmark is substantial, bringing the first wave of residential and commercial development to life.
Phase 1 Residential: 747 Single-Family Homes
The first residential phase includes 747 single-family home sites with nine premier builders offering variety in style, size, and price point.
Nine Phase 1 Builders:
American Legend Homes - Quality construction and attention to detail
Coventry Homes - Award-winning designs and energy efficiency
David Weekley Homes - Exceptional customer service and innovative floor plans
Drees Custom Homes - Luxury custom homes with premium features
Highland Homes - 10-time People's Choice Builder of the Year with award-winning designs
M/I Homes - Value and smart home technology as standard
Perry Homes - Flexible floor plans and design center customization
Toll Brothers - America's luxury homebuilder
Tri Pointe Homes - Sustainable, innovative homes for modern living
Lot Sizes and Pricing
Phase 1 lot sizes range from 40-foot to 70-foot widths, accommodating homes from entry-level to luxury:
- 40-foot lots - Entry-level pricing for first-time buyers
- 50-foot lots - Traditional single-family sizing
- 60-foot lots - Larger homes with expanded outdoor space
- 70-foot lots - Premium homes with substantial yards
Pricing: Home prices in Landmark Phase 1 are expected to range from the mid-$400s to over $1 million, with Highland Homes specifically indicating their offerings will start in the high $500s for homes sized 2,200-3,600 square feet on 50-foot lots.
Timeline:
December 2025: Highland Homes begins taking reservations
Spring 2026: Model homes open across all builders
Summer 2026: First home closings and move-ins begin
Early 2027: Denton's first H-E-B opens
Phase 1 Commercial: H-E-B and Retail
Construction is already underway on Denton's first H-E-B grocery store, located at the northwest corner of I-35W and Robson Ranch Road. The grocer is expected to open in early 2027.
The first phase includes 120 acres of retail, dining, and entertainment space currently being leased, providing immediate commercial amenities for early residents.
Amenities and Parks: Nature-Focused Living
Landmark's amenity approach differs from typical master-planned communities. Rather than one massive amenity center, Hillwood is creating a network of nature-focused amenities spread throughout the development.
Phase 1 Amenities Include:
Hilltop Amenity Center: Elevated site taking advantage of natural topography, featuring indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, fitness facilities, and community programming areas.
Two STEAM Learning Parks: Interactive outdoor education spaces focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math—blending education with nature exploration.
Eight Green Spaces: Neighborhood parks distributed throughout Phase 1, providing convenient access to outdoor recreation near every home.
Trails System: 35 miles of hike-and-bike trails planned throughout the full development, with Phase 1 trails connecting neighborhoods and amenities.
The 1,100-Acre Parks & Wilds System
Beyond Phase 1, Landmark's full vision includes an interconnected system of parks, trails, and preserved natural areas:
Pilot Knob Park & Entertainment District: 300-acre park centered around Pilot Knob, featuring three post oak-shaded hills, trails, natural observation areas, and event spaces.
Cross Timbers Forest Preservation: Protecting native Cross Timbers Forest ecosystem, including upland and lowland habitats with native vegetation.
Trail Network: 35 miles of trails connecting all neighborhoods, parks, schools, and commercial areas—designed for walking, running, and biking throughout the community.
Schools: Three On-Site Denton ISD Campuses
One of Landmark's most valuable features for families is the plan for three on-site Denton Independent School District schools:
- Elementary School (future)
- Middle School (future)
- High School (future)
Having schools integrated into the community means kids can walk or bike to school, parents can volunteer without long commutes, and the sense of community is strengthened when schools are neighborhood anchors rather than distant facilities.
Denton ISD has been working closely with Hillwood on site selection and planning, recognizing Landmark's importance for serving southwest Denton's growth.
Location: Southwest Denton and the Alliance Texas Corridor
Landmark is strategically located along Interstate 35W in southwest Denton, bordering Argyle—positioned perfectly within the Alliance Texas corridor that Hillwood has developed over the past 35 years.
Proximity to Major Destinations:
- AllianceTexas: 15 minutes (590 companies, 66,000+ jobs)
- DFW Airport: 25 minutes
- University of North Texas: 10 minutes
- Texas Woman's University: 12 minutes
- Downtown Denton: 15 minutes
- Fort Worth: 30 minutes
- Dallas: 45 minutes
Denton: University Town Meets Economic Growth
Denton offers something increasingly rare: small-city culture and university-town energy combined with major economic opportunity. Home to University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University, Denton maintains its creative, independent spirit while experiencing explosive growth.
Landmark will add 20,000-25,000 residents over the next two decades, but Denton is prepared—the city has been planning for southwest Denton growth for years, working with Hillwood on regional infrastructure including a six-mile off-site sewer line starting construction in January 2026.
The AllianceTexas Connection: 35 Years of Proven Success
Understanding Landmark requires understanding AllianceTexas—the broader 27,000-acre master-planned development that Hillwood has been building since 1989.
AllianceTexas by the Numbers:
- $130 billion in cumulative economic impact
- 590 companies operating in Alliance
- 66,269 direct jobs
- Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport - World's first industrial airport
- 35 years of sustained growth and value creation
AllianceTexas revolutionized North Texas development by creating a complete live-work-play ecosystem. For decades, you could work in Alliance and build your business in Alliance—but residential options were limited to nearby communities.
Landmark changes that. For the first time, you can live, work, and play entirely within the AllianceTexas ecosystem. This completion of the Alliance vision is what makes Landmark historic.
Why We Recommend Landmark to Buyers
As Hillwood community experts—with Paige Miranda recognized as a top Hillwood Realtor two years running—here's why we're excited about Landmark and why we're already working with clients on Phase 1 positioning:
1. Historic Opportunity: First Master-Planned Community in Denton
Denton has never had a master-planned community on this scale. Landmark is setting a new standard for development quality in Denton, and Phase 1 buyers are getting in on the ground floor of something truly historic.
2. Hillwood's Largest Project Ever
When Hillwood—the developer behind AllianceTexas's $130 billion success—calls Landmark their largest and most ambitious project to date, that matters. This isn't a speculative flip. This is a 40-year vision backed by the Perot family's resources and Hillwood's proven track record.
3. The Nature Preservation Commitment
1,100 acres of permanently protected parkland isn't just marketing. Hillwood secured conservation easements before Phase 1 broke ground. This isn't greenwashing—it's a legally binding commitment to preserve one of the largest natural areas in Texas.
4. Phase 1 Pricing Before Market Recognition
Phase 1 pricing reflects a new development in a market that hasn't fully recognized Landmark's value yet. As construction progresses, amenities open, H-E-B arrives, and the broader market realizes what's being built, pricing in later phases will reflect that increased demand.
Early Phase 1 buyers benefit from pre-market pricing while taking on the typical new development timeline.
5. Executive Housing Gap in Denton
Denton has hospitals, universities, and growing companies, but has historically lacked high-end housing options. Many professionals work in Denton but live elsewhere due to limited luxury home inventory. Landmark specifically addresses this gap with builders like Toll Brothers, Drees, and Highland Homes offering executive-level homes.
6. Owner-Occupancy Requirement
Hillwood requires owner-occupancy at Landmark. You're not competing with Wall Street investors buying homes as rental portfolios. This community is designed for people building lives, not investment funds chasing yields.
7. Strategic Infrastructure Investment
The six-mile sewer line starting construction in January 2026 doesn't just serve Landmark—it opens up the entire southwest Denton quadrant for development. Hillwood is funding infrastructure that will catalyze broader regional growth, positioning Landmark at the center of Denton's expansion.
The Phase 1 Opportunity: Buy Early or Wait?
This is the question we're hearing constantly: "Should I buy in Phase 1, or wait for later phases?"
Here's our honest perspective as Hillwood community experts:
Phase 1 Advantages:
- First choice of lots across all nine builders
- Pre-market pricing before broader recognition
- Ability to lock in Phase 1 pricing with 9-12 month build timelines
- Positioning in a historic development before everyone else figures it out
- No Wall Street investor competition (owner-occupancy required)
- Highland Homes already taking reservations (December 2025)
Phase 1 Considerations:
- Amenities under construction (not complete on move-in)
- H-E-B opening 2027 (not immediately available)
- Schools planned but not yet built
- Living in an active construction zone during early phases
- Building on AllianceTexas's 35-year track record (not a speculative flip)
Waiting for Later Phases:
- More amenities complete
- H-E-B open and operational
- Ability to see exactly what's been built
- But: Higher pricing as market recognizes value
- But: Less lot selection and builder availability
- But: Competition from buyers who've now figured it out
Our perspective: If you understand what AllianceTexas represents, if you see where Denton is headed, and you're serious about this corridor, Phase 1 positioning offers advantages that waiting won't provide.
However, don't rush blindly into a $10 billion development. New construction in a 3,200-acre community requires expert guidance on lot selection, builder differences, and timing strategy.
Why Work With Us for Landmark:
Paige's Top Hillwood Realtor Status:
Direct relationships with Hillwood development team and all nine Phase 1 builders, providing clients with the most up to date information, lot releases, and builder incentives.
Already Working With Landmark Buyers:
We're not waiting for Landmark to be "ready." We're already working with clients securing lots, comparing builders, and positioning for Phase 1. Our clients are getting first access to the best opportunities.
Dynamic Duo Advantage:
Paige and Edson work together, providing dual perspectives, increased availability, and comprehensive expertise covering every angle of the new construction process.
Personal New Construction Experience:
We've personally bought and sold six homes over the last 13 years, including multiple new construction purchases. We understand the process from buyer and professional perspectives.
Alliance Corridor Specialists:
We live here, work here, and specialize in Hillwood communities throughout the Alliance corridor—Harvest, Pecan Square, Treeline, and now Landmark.
What We Provide:
✅ Phase 1 lot positioning strategy - Understanding which lots offer the best value and long-term appreciation potential
✅ Builder comparison expertise - Honest assessment of which builders deliver best value, quality, and customer service
✅ Construction timeline coordination - Managing 9-12 month build process and financing
✅ Contract review and negotiation - Protecting your interests in builder contracts
✅ Alliance corridor market intelligence through our Alliance Network platform
✅ Long-term value perspective from years tracking Hillwood community performance
Most importantly: Bringing your own Realtor costs you nothing extra. Builder compensation is built into pricing. Without your own Realtor, the builder simply keeps that compensation—your price doesn't decrease.
Current Availability and Next Steps
Highland Homes began taking reservations in December 2025. Model homes across all nine builders are opening Spring 2026. First move-ins begin Summer 2026.
Specific availability changes weekly as lots are released and reserved. Rather than providing information that quickly becomes outdated, we encourage interested buyers to contact us directly for:
- Current lot availability across all nine builders
- Builder incentives and financing options
- Lot-specific recommendations based on your priorities
- Phase 1 positioning strategy and timing
- Highland Homes reservation process
- Upcoming lot releases and builder announcements
Considering Landmark or Other Hillwood Communities?
Whether you're relocating to Denton, looking to upgrade within the DFW area, or specifically drawn to Landmark's historic scale and nature preservation, we'd love to share our expertise.
As Hillwood community Realtors—with Paige recognized as a top Hillwood Realtor two years running—specializing in communities throughout the Alliance Texas corridor (including Harvest in Argyle/Northlake, Pecan Square in Northlake, and Treeline in Justin), we offer perspective beyond typical real estate representation:
✅ Top Hillwood Realtor (Paige Miranda, 2024 & 2025)
✅ Hillwood specialization across multiple communities in the corridor
✅ Already working with Phase 1 Landmark buyers
✅ Direct builder relationships for all nine Phase 1 builders
✅ Professional expertise navigating builders, floor plans, and pricing
✅ Dynamic duo advantage (Paige & Edson working together)
✅ Personal new construction experience (six homes over 13 years)
✅ Alliance corridor market intelligence through Alliance Network
✅ Long-term value perspective from years in the Alliance corridor
We understand the buying process with Landmark builders, we know Phase 1 lot availability in real-time, we can guide you through positioning strategy and builder selection, and we'll be there from lot reservation through closing.
Ready to explore Landmark Phase 1 opportunities?
📞 940.577.2051
📧 [email protected]
🌐 https://mirandarealty.team/
Quick Facts: Landmark by Hillwood
Size: 3,200 acres
Location: Southwest Denton, Texas (I-35W & Robson Ranch Road)
Developer: Hillwood Communities & Hillwood Properties (Perot Family)
Total Homes at Buildout: 6,000 single-family + 3,000 apartments
School District: Denton ISD
Future On-Site Schools: Elementary, Middle, and High School (planned)
Total Development Value: $10 billion (estimated at completion)
Preserved Parkland: 1,100 acres (permanently protected)
Commercial Space: 900 acres / 5 million square feet
Home Prices (Phase 1): Mid-$400s to $1M+
Phase 1 Builders: 9 premier builders
Phase 1 Lots: 747 single-family home sites
Lot Sizes: 40', 50', 60', 70' lots
Phase 1 Timeline: Reservations December 2025, Models Spring 2026, Move-ins Summer 2026
H-E-B Opening: Early 2027
About Miranda Realty Team
We specialize in new construction and Hillwood communities throughout the Alliance Texas corridor, including Landmark (Denton), Harvest (Argyle/Northlake), Pecan Square (Northlake), and Treeline (Justin). Paige Miranda has been recognized as a top Hillwood Realtor for two consecutive years (2024 & 2025), providing clients with insider access and expert guidance. We combine deep Hillwood relationships with professional expertise to help buyers navigate these exceptional developments.
Our mission: help you love where you live and profit when you leave.
Related Resources:
- Living the Harvest Lifestyle: Argyle's Premier Hillwood Community
- Making History: First Contract to Build at Landmark by Hillwood Denton
- Treeline by Hillwood: Justin's Nature-Inspired Community
- Why You Need a Realtor for New Home Construction
- Meet Our Team
