Are you set on staying in North Dallas?
If not, I will make these suggestions since I'm biased and would like to see you sometime.
The big point for me as a hobbyist: I want a place I can have a backup reason for being at. (Bar, restaurant, entertainment venue) and not have to deal with the Tollway or Gate Codes.
(fyi Married Guys - tolls are timestamps of where you've been.)
Las Colinas area:
as mentioned before, but near the Toyota Music Factory at Las Colinas blvd and NW Hwy
1) The area is walkable (in normal weather) and has paid parking. I like the Two Mules Cantina lot at end of the street before highway.
2) I've been to the Blvd apts across the way for another provider. I did not get towed but used the guest parking with no issue. I can't vouch for others experience or the apts in the immediate vicinity, but this is a great area.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/4R3Ws2KX9u2gpf7y6
Grapevine Downtown
1) this area doesn't get utilized enough. Main street has plenty of traffic and the side street areas have business parking. Not a lot of apt selection, but my thoughts were AMLI apts because a brewery is a block away. I can park, get a beer, walk to my hobby session, walk back for another beer and go home.
2) There is a TRE train stop a 10 minute walk from here.
3) The TRE airport train has a stop near the car dealerships off 114 as well. TRE users can uber to you or you can send them an uber for an extra fee.
Grapevine on Google maps:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/FWTDzdV1V7vauyst6
Finally if you prefer North Dallas, check out Austin Ranch off Windhaven. I used to work in the area and was hooking up with a coworker on lunch breaks here. Nice apts with a shopping square, restaurants and a bar in the neighborhood. This is perfect for a hobbyist who wants to park at the apartments but not actually in an apartment slot.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/nEQ6ttthFAPk5qNV9