Depending on where you live you may have different expectations for proximity of the public schools to your home. If you live in a rural community a drive to school is the norm. Inner city habitants expect walking distance to schools. Suburban communities have the most variable distances in my experience.
When folks think about the suburbs most picture the elementary school within walking or biking distance to their home. Most of my clients with children do prefer that the elementary school be close by. In the suburbs of North Austin I have found that homes with elementary schools in the neighborhood tend to sell faster and for a higher dollar amount than an equivalent home that requires a bus ride to schoool.
The fast growth in Central Texas has put a strain on schools in the newer communities. A lot of new construction homebuyers overlook the school location in order to build within their price range. But what about the commute on the bus? How might that impact your decision?
I'm not talking about a 15 minute bus ride a few miles from your neighborhood. What about a 7 to 15 mile bus ride, how would that impact your decision? Would you buy a home with a school 30-45 minutes away via major interstate commute on a bus? How much of a price concession would be needed to overlook busing commutes for your children?
The Highlands At Mayfield Ranch is a community in a North Austin suburb that requires a bus commute on I-35 for students. At first glance you would assume this neighborhood enjoyed a Round Rock address. In fact, it is a Georgetown address. The community sits on the backside of Mayfield Ranch, which does enjoy a Round Rock address. Mayfield Ranch is served by Leander and Round Rock Independent School districts. The Highlands is zoned to Georgetown Independent School district. The distance to the high school is 14 miles, and nearly 10 miles to elementary and middle schools.
The homes in the Highlands are selling like hotcakes! Clearly the commute is not a roadbloack. My first concern is the I-35 traffic, which can make a 10 mile drive take 30 minutes. The price is certainly competitive and the builders have been offering large incentives. M/I Builders are offering a 95% CLTV with no mortgage insurance for those with a 720 credit score. The neighborhood enjoys the same gorgeous oak tree's and open green spaces that draws people to Mayfield Ranch.
With charter school enrollment rising, private schools and many who homeschool these days, perhaps the location of the suburban schools isn't quite as important as it used to be. I think time will tell on these homes, as the dream of building a new home sometimes blinds us to the realities of day to day lifestyles. As resale homes it may not be quite so easy!
Brought to you by Ranee Bray of TCP Realty; your Cedar Park & NW Austin Real Estate professional. Thinking of buying or selling? General real estate questions? I am here to help save you money, time and reduce stress. Please call, text or email me, raneebray@tcphouses.com,
(512) 270-9750, www.RaneeBray.com
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