What Are The Schools Like?

As a Realtor one of the most common questions I am asked by buyers is "what are the schools like?" 

Even buyers without children are curious of the school reputation and rankings, as many homeowners have seen the direct correlation between property values and quality of schools. 

Given that a ranking system dictates that only so many schools can be in the top 10, and only one school can be #1, how do buyers really determine which school system is best? 

There are many ranking systems available in today's world of data.  The Texas Education Agency provides reports showing every statistic imagineable about our schools.  U.S. News publishes an annual report that gains great attention for highschool rankings.  Greatschools.org provides searches by school, county, district.  They provide parent commentary, community rankings and their own ranking system.  Greatschools is so popular I have actually heard buyers say, "This home only has a 9 on Greatschools.org." 

As a Realtor I encourage buyers to research all the school data available.  Depending on the location of the home, I may also show them how frequently some parts of town get rezoned.  The quick growth and new construction of North Austin means constant change.  In fact, buyers need to be careful that the school zoning will be the same in the fall in some communities.  I can show them where to find this information. 

 
As a parent, I know there is much more to a school than a number. Your children may have special needs that one school is better prepared for over another. Is your child more interested in academics, band, or sports?  Which school will keep your child engaged and allow them to explore their interests?  Which school will your child actually be eligible to participate in today’s competitive world?  

Is the location of the school important to you?  Homes with elementary schools within the community tend to sell faster and for more money.  How about all three schools within walking distance?  That is the trifecta!  You may not think location of the school is important.  But, as your child gets older and wants to stay after school for clubs… there may be no bus available.  The closer proximity the more flexibility.  

Does your school or district offer special high school programs?  Leander Independent School District has the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at the Leander High School campus.  However, you don’t have to live zoned to Leander High to take part in this program.  At this time they allow inter-district transfers for students interested in this program and bussing is provided.  How about a STEM program, or specialty track for vocational training.  These are just a few of the many programs that some buyers should be asking about homes.  

 
Also keep in mind that school ratings change.  A school could be a 10 on Greatschools this year, but next year drop to an 8.  What changed at the school?  Did anything change at all?  Perhaps the data algorithm changed.  Maybe one angry parent posted a bad review.  Sometimes I see students posting reviews!  

In the end, each buyer must decide for themselves what impact the school has on their buying decision.  There is no such thing as the one perfect school.  We are all unique and have different needs.  A ranking system and review of the testing data is a good starting point. My best advice would be don’t let it be the end point.