The Importance of Schools When Buying a Home: What You Need to Know

Jan 30, 2025 | Finding a Home, First-Time Homebuyer

Schools Matter—Even If You Don’t Have Kids

When searching for a new home, many buyers prioritize square footage, kitchen upgrades, and proximity to work. But what about schools? You might be thinking, “I don’t have kids—why should I care?” or “My kids are grown, does this even matter to me?” The truth is, whether or not you have children, the quality of nearby schools can have a major impact on home value, neighborhood desirability, and future resale potential. In this article, we’ll break down why schools should be on your homebuying radar no matter your life stage.


Before Kids: The Hidden Perks of Buying in a Good School District

Even if children aren’t in your plans, purchasing a home near highly-rated schools can offer substantial benefits:

  • Stronger Property Values – Homes in good school districts tend to hold value better, even in economic downturns. Future buyers—especially those with children—will be willing to pay a premium. Studies have shown that homes in top-rated school districts can appreciate 10-20% faster than homes in other areas.
  • Better Neighborhood Stability – School zones often shape neighborhoods. Well-rated districts attract long-term residents who care about maintaining the community. Families with children tend to be more invested in their communities, leading to lower turnover rates and more community involvement.
  • Rental Demand – If you plan to rent out your home down the line, a home in a great school district will appeal to families looking for rental properties near quality education options. Families are often willing to pay a premium for rentals in good school districts, sometimes as much as 10-15% more.

Think of it like investing in a designer brand: even if you don’t care about the logo, it holds its value because others do.


If You Already Have Kids: Schools Are More Than Just a Commute

For families with children, school districts can make or break a home search. Beyond academics, consider the following:

  • Proximity & Safety – A long commute to school can mean stressful mornings and rushed evenings. Being close to schools makes life easier and often means safer walking or biking routes for children.
  • Extracurricular Activities – Strong school districts often have better-funded sports teams, arts programs, and academic clubs. This provides children with more opportunities to explore their interests and develop their talents.
  • Quality of Life – A good school district isn’t just about test scores; it often means well-maintained parks, family-friendly businesses, and active community engagement.

Pro tip: Check district zoning carefully. Some homes may be on the border of a great school district but zoned for a less desirable school. Use resources like GreatSchools.org to verify zoning and school ratings.


Even If You Don’t Have (or Plan to Have) Kids: Resale Value & Marketability

If kids aren’t on your radar, school districts should still be. Why? Future resale value.

  • Wider Buyer Pool – When it’s time to sell, homes in top-rated districts attract more buyers, meaning less time on the market and potentially higher offers. A larger pool of potential buyers increases demand and can drive up the selling price.
  • Better Appreciation – Studies show homes in strong school districts appreciate faster than similar homes in less desirable districts.
  • Lower Risk of Market Fluctuations – While all real estate is subject to economic shifts, homes in great school districts often retain their value better in downturns. They are seen as a safer investment due to the consistent demand from families.

Think of it like buying a car with great resale potential—maybe you don’t plan to sell soon, but when you do, you want top dollar.


Pros and Cons of Buying in a Highly-Rated School District

Pros:

  • Higher home values and better appreciation over time.
  • More stability in the neighborhood and community engagement.
  • Increased demand from future buyers and renters.
  • Potential for better local amenities like parks, libraries, and shopping.

Cons:

  • Higher property taxes due to better-funded school systems.
  • Homes may be more expensive upfront.
  • More competition from buyers, making it harder to negotiate price.

Final Thoughts: Should Schools Be a Factor in Your Home Search?

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or a growing family, schools should be a factor in your decision-making. Even if you don’t have kids, a good school district can be a strategic investment for the future. Higher property values, market stability, and desirability all make this a key factor in choosing the right home.

As a real estate agent or loan officer, educating buyers about the importance of school districts—beyond just the academics—helps them make informed decisions. Sharing insights like these builds trust and positions you as a knowledgeable resource.


FAQs

Q: How do I find out if a school district is good? A: Websites like GreatSchools.org and Niche.com provide ratings and parent reviews. You can also check local district report cards and rankings.

Q: Will a home in a top school district always be a good investment? A: While location is key, real estate markets fluctuate. A well-rated district improves your odds of holding value, but other factors like economy and local development also play a role.

Q: What if I can’t afford a home in a top-rated district? A: Consider up-and-coming neighborhoods with improving schools. Look at school investment plans and community growth trends. You could also explore homes slightly outside the most desirable zones or consider smaller homes within the good district.

Q: Does the school district impact mortgage approval? A: Not directly, but homes in better school districts often have higher property taxes, which can impact your debt-to-income ratio when applying for a loan.

Scott Gentry
Author: Scott Gentry

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