There are no two ways about it – a property near a good school will fetch a higher price than one that isn’t. This is good news if you’re selling, and an important consideration if you’re saving to buy a family home. 

In this blog, we look at how much more a property can command if it’s near a school and whether an amazing house is better than being near a good school. We also look at where to find school information, and whether you can still get your children into a good school even if your new home isn’t very close. 

How much does living next to a school increase property value?

Recent statistics from the Department for Education suggest that a home near a school can have a value of 6-8% higher than a home that isn’t. And that’s just speaking generally! If the local school has been rated “outstanding” by Ofsted, the value of the property could increase even more. You can find out how your local school is rated by checking the Ofsted website.

Selling property near a school

If you’re selling property in an area close to a school, especially an outstanding one, this means that you could find your old home is worth more. This could be a real advantage to downsizers, moving out of the family home and into something smaller now the children have grown up and moved out. Remember too that selling near a good or outstanding school has more advantages if the property is a family house rather than a small flat. 

Buying property near a school

If you’re starting your family and looking for a home near a good school, it’s important to be prepared for higher property prices. 

On balance, it is better to compromise on the house rather than compromise on the school. You can usually build an extension or convert the loft to gain more space, but a complicated school run or a school your children hate is going to take its toll. Equally, moving house doesn’t disrupt friendships and the continuity of education as much as moving schools does.  

However, even if you can’t afford the property next to an Ofsted outstanding school, don’t despair! Remember that just because Ofsted rates a school outstanding, it doesn’t mean your children will be happy there. If you have the time and opportunity, visit the local schools and make up your own mind. You know your children best. 

It's also worth noting that Surrey County Council is obliged to give your child a school place, and – with only one exception at time of writing – all the mainstream schools in Guildford are rated “good” or “outstanding” by Ofsted. 

It’s good to know too that catchment areas usually change year by year. For example, if there are a lot of children turning five this year who live within a kilometre of the school, the catchment area will be smaller than for years when the rising-fives are more widespread. In other words, choosing a house near a school is not an exact science – luck plays a part too! 

Remember that while living nearby is usually the most important school admission criterion, it’s not the only one. You can see all the criteria for Surrey primary school admissions here and secondary school admissions here – there may be another way of getting your children into the best schools for them. 

Sell property in Guildford

If you have property to sell in Guildford – whether it’s near a school or not! – Cobbles would love to help. Explore our site to find out more and get in touch whenever you’re ready.