Pretty soon, Park Cities' streets will be lined with kids sporting new outfits and toting new backpacks as they head out for the first day of school. This family friendly community where kids can walk to award-winning schools and enjoy any number of nearby parks and playing fields is home to several properties within blocks of neighborhood schools. Many of these homes are being held open Sunday.

   
         
         
 
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  5501 Douglas   

5501 Douglas

Near Bradfield Elementary, the home at 5501 Douglas features clean lines, a contemporary vibe and close proximity to Highland Park Village. Designed by Emily Summers, the home has a downstairs master with a great bath, a large living room and family room with fireplaces and a comfortable study. Upstairs there are three bedrooms, a game room, media and bonus room. Listed for $1,095,000 by Joan Eleazer Open 1-3 p.m.

 
   
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  3501 St. Johns   

3501 St. Johns

Just two blocks from Armstrong Elementary is the home at 3501 St. Johns, a Mediterranean contemporary perched on a large corner lot in Highland Park. Built with the finest quality and exceptional detail, this sleek home boasts six bedrooms, six full baths, one half bath, a grand entryway, study, five fireplaces, master suite with balcony and a fabulous bathroom with a coffee bar, a media room and a backyard retreat featuring a loggia with great outdoor living and a pretty pool with a spa. Listed for $3,500,000 by Brenda White. Open 2-4 p.m.

 
   
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  3220 St. Johns   

3220 St. Johns

Nearby at 3220 St. Johns, an updated kitchen with marble countertops and stainless appliances opens to a breakfast room and den that make this classic home a true gem. The oversized den has a fireplace, beamed ceiling and built-ins, and opens to a patio and grassy back yard. The formal living area has a beautiful fireplace and opens to a separate room that can be used as a parlor, study or play room. The master bedroom is a retreat with treetop views. Listed for $1,400,000 by Tom Hughes, Open 2-4 p.m.

 
   
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  3801 Normandy   

3801 Normandy

Also located near Armstrong Elementary, the custom home at 3801 Normandy includes every amenity. Built in 2008 by Tatum Brown, the home has a wine room, elevator, oversized family room, morning room with fireplace, covered outdoor living area, a master with separate sitting room, game room, study, media and exercise rooms and fabulous landscaping. With limestone and hand scraped wood flooring, marble and granite throughout, this home is for the perfectionist! Listed for $6,450,000 by Joan Eleazer. Call for viewing appointment. 214-537-5923.

 
   
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  4076 Amherst   

4076 Amherst

Near Hyer Elementary, the charming cottage at 4076 Amherst has been meticulously remodeled and expanded to include four bedrooms, three full baths and two playrooms. The updated kitchen is ready to serve with granite and stainless appliances, and it opens to a sunny family room. The master bedroom is conveniently located on the first floor, along with formals, kitchen, family room and powder bath. All secondary bedrooms, playrooms, desk area and utility rooms are found on the second floor. Listed for $985,000 by Lucinda Buford, Open 2-4 p.m.

 
   
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  4140 Emerson # 2   

4140 Emerson # 2

Just steps from Highland Park High School, the condo at 4140 Emerson # 2 was built in 2005 with tons of amenities. This three-story unit features hardwoods in the kitchen, dining room and living area. The kitchen is fully outfitted with stainless appliances, granite counters and pristine white cabinetry. Master and guest bedrooms are on the third floor with great closet space and bathrooms with stone floors and granite counters. Other features include a two-car attached garage, utility room and a small balcony. Listed for $349,000 by Elisabeth Queal Davis. Open 2-4 p.m.

 
   
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Also see updatedallas.com for the latest in real estate news. CEO Robbie Briggs independently owns and operates Briggs Freeman Sotheby's International Realty.

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