Our top tips for growing families
Do your research!
Before you start your property search, research the catchment area of good schools. Think long term – also look into whether the primary schools in the area are a feeder school to a good secondary school.
Think logistics
Reflect on the logistics – will you drive your children to school every morning, or would they need to get a bus? Where is the bus stop – is the bus route near the property or would they have to walk some distance? Will the bus times affect your morning routine?
Everybody needs good neighbours
It’s worth looking to the neighbours – are there other children in the neighbourhood of the same school age? Is there a community feel to the area?
Look to the future
Examine the catchment borders also - purchasing a property in a good school catchment area is wise, but there are some risks. As a school’s popularity increases, the catchment area shrinks, so while your children may benefit with a place at the school, your property may be precluded from the catchment area in the future, which will affect your selling price.
Don’t be put off by the premium
According to primelocation.com, property prices in the areas surrounding the UK's 50 top-performing state schools are on average 35% more expensive than the rest of the country. This is no small investment, but the up-side is that market values for these properties tend to be more stable, so you are investing in a nest-egg and avoiding market fluctuations, as well as investing in the future of your children.
Ask the professionals
If ever in doubt, seek the advice of a local property professional. They will be able to offer advice on everything from the best schools in your area to school bus routes.
If you are thinking of moving to be closer to a good school and would like a free valuation of you property, please click the button below.