When seeking a new family residence, the majority begin with some fundamental questions: Is it a secure location? Is it cheap? And for families with children, or those intending to start one, how near is it to a good school?
The location of schools in a city such as Dubai, where the real estate market is doing exceptionally well and families are always on the move, has a far reaching effect not only on lifestyle but also on property prices. However, how significant is proximity to a school? And is it worth the increased cost?
So what are the pros and cons of purchasing a house in a good school area and why is it often considered a wise long-term investment? Let us analyze it.
Why Do School Districts Matter to Property Value?
School districts have a massive involvement in real estate. Parents care about their children and a well-rated school can be the key to their future. That is why houses in good school districts tend to be sold at a higher price- even up to 20 percent more- than the same kind of house in a school district that has a lower rating.
It’s Not Only About Education
Houses that are located in areas with good schools tend to appreciate well in the long run. These communities tend to be more family friendly, have superior infrastructure, and community standards. To a lot of the customers, this makes them even more desirable- and with the increase in demand, the prices also rise.
In some housing reports, it is found that in neighborhoods with test scores in schools that are 30 percent higher than the state average, the value of homes is much higher. Indeed, the national average of homes in these regions is even 70 percent higher. That is not a minor increase in value but a significant one.
Advantages of Location of Good School
So, let’s look at why living near a good school might be a smart choice.
Easy to Parents and Children
The convenience is one of the greatest benefits of living close to a school. It can be the parent-teacher meetings, or taking your child home when he/she is sick, or volunteering in a school event; anything seems a lot easier when the school is just nearby.
You could even drop off a forgotten lunchbox or attend your child’s school play at the last minute. This convenience is a big difference in busy cities such as Dubai where traffic is unpredictable.
Emergency Access and Safety
Dubai is already regarded as one of the safest cities in the world, and being close to a school creates an additional level of safety. There are school zones with reduced speed limits, speed cameras, and more walkable infrastructure, particularly in such areas as Al Qouz or Al Nahda.
In addition, during times of emergencies, the fact that you are close to the school would mean you can reach the school in time- something that every parent would treasure.
Increased Property Value and Return on Investment
Houses located in areas of good schools are more likely to fetch a better resale value. They are ever in demand- particularly where families have school going children. Not only do such homes sell quicker- they also appreciate better.
A home near a school is a good long-term investment. In one study, homeowners in good school areas gained 75,000 dollars more in appreciation than homeowners in areas without good schools with the average gain of only 23,000 dollars.
Improved Access to Facilities
Good schools lead to faster development of the areas. Malls, supermarkets, medical clinics, cafes, and parks will be nearby on a regular basis. As an example, you may live close to Dubai Festival City Mall or in such a well-developed area as Al Qusais, and you are not only close to schools, but also surrounded by all other things you may need every day.
This comes in handy during last minute shopping of school supplies, weekend trips with children or impromptu grocery trips.
Transportation Time and Cost Savings
School runs can be time consuming and costly- particularly where traffic comes in. Residing close by helps reduce the stress of driving to work everyday, gas expenses, and vehicle wear-and-tear. It also saves a lot of precious time, so you can enjoy more unstressed mornings and evenings with the family.
In short, you will be on the road less and at home more where it counts.
Yet It Is Not All Perfect: The Disadvantages to Keep in Mind
Although there are numerous advantages, some negative aspects of this situation also should be remembered when purchasing a house near a school:
Traffic Problems at School Times
The worst grievance of people residing around schools is traffic jams, particularly at the time of dropping and picking up. The streets may get congested, causing delays and inconvenience-even when you are not involved in the school routine.
In case you live right along the school route, be prepared to encounter traffic jams on a daily basis, around 7:00-8:30 AM and 1:00-3:00 PM.
Noise Levels
School zones are not quiet- morning announcements, school bells, playground noise, and sports events. Some individuals are not bothered by the noise and the commotion but it can be a disturbance to the peace and quiet of others.
Moreover, schools sometimes hold parades, fun fairs, or special assemblies, and these may increase noise and activity in the neighborhood.
Parking Issues
Parents who have come to drop off or pick up their children tend to park in the surrounding streets, often occupying resident parking spaces. Although Dubai is well supplied with paid parking, it can be frustrating when your building or villa does not have its own parking space.
It seems that you cannot find a parking place near your house when you are at the school event.
Increased Property Prices and Taxes
Houses around highly rated schools are more expensive. This may be unattainable by young couples who are just starting out, the elderly who are retired or simply by those with a low budget. The home value might also increase the property taxes (where they are applied) in such areas.
These homes will be excellent investments, but they are not necessarily affordable to all.
Is It a Good Idea to Purchase a Home in a Good School District When You Do Not Have Children?
You may think that school zones are only significant to parents, yet even when you do not have children, this aspect is also important. Here’s why:
- Future planning: In case you want to have children in the future, you will already be ready.
- Family or guests: Your relatives who have children might want to stay with you or visit a long time.
- Resale value: The buyer next might have children-and he or she will want a house close to a school.
Concisely, school zones do not affect parents as the only buyers. The houses in such places are secure, well taken care of and have better chances of yielding better returns on investment.
Concluding Remarks: Is It Worth It?
Purchasing a house close to a decent school does not only mean convenience, but also a good real estate investment. Regardless of whether you are concerned about the education of your children, future resale value, or simply day-to-day convenience, these neighborhoods provide a good mix of comfort, security, and value.
But make sure you consider the added expense, possible noise and traffic problems before you choose. A home with a good school nearby may be one of the best choices you make especially when your budget permits it and the advantages outweigh the disadvantages to your lifestyle.
And when you are house hunting in Dubai, where school zones are so inextricably linked to community design and development, then making this factor a priority could not only make your everyday life more enjoyable, it could also make you richer in the long term.