When deciding between private and public schools, families in Perth face a choice that not only impacts their children’s education but also where they choose to live. The presence of highly regarded schools—whether private or public—significantly influences property prices in nearby suburbs. This article explores how education choices influence property values, highlights case studies of property price surges near prestigious schools and explains why investing in homes within desirable school zones is a strategic decision.
The Influence of Private Schools on Property Prices
Private schools in Perth are highly sought after due to their academic excellence, superior facilities, and the social prestige they offer. As a result, suburbs that host elite schools such as Christ Church Grammar, Methodist Ladies’ College, and Hale School experience increased demand for property, leading to significant price growth.
Case Study: Christ Church Grammar and Claremont
Christ Church Grammar School, located in the affluent suburb of Claremont, is one of Perth’s most prestigious private schools. Families are drawn to the school’s reputation and are often willing to pay a premium for homes in Claremont to ensure their children have access to this esteemed institution. Consequently, Claremont’s median house price consistently outperforms the broader Perth market. The positive impact on property values extends beyond Claremont to nearby suburbs like Swanbourne and Nedlands, where proximity to Christ Church Grammar and other top schools creates a ripple effect, driving up property prices.
Case Study: Hale School and Wembley Downs
Hale School, a leading boys’ school in Wembley Downs, exerts a similar influence on local property markets. The school’s reputation for academic and extracurricular excellence makes it highly desirable, leading families to seek homes nearby. This increased demand has spurred property price rises in Wembley Downs and nearby suburbs like City Beach and Floreat. The combination of educational prestige and desirable living conditions makes these areas particularly attractive to affluent buyers.
The Role of Public School Zones
While private schools tend to attract wealthier buyers, public school catchment areas are equally powerful in driving up property prices. For many families, being zoned for a top-performing public school is a crucial factor in choosing where to live.
Case Study: Shenton College Catchment
Shenton College is one of Perth’s most reputable public high schools, known for its strong academic performance and excellent facilities. The catchment area for Shenton College includes parts of Subiaco, Shenton Park, and Daglish. These and other suburbs have seen property prices rise as families vie for homes within the school’s zone. The limited availability of homes in these areas drives up demand. It leads to a noticeable premium on properties within the catchment.
Comparing Private and Public Schools: The Key Differences
Choosing between private and public schools involves weighing various factors, including cost, class size, facilities, and the school’s overall philosophy. Private schools like Christ Church Grammar and St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School offer smaller class sizes, enhanced facilities, and specialised programs. These attributes attract families who can afford the higher fees and seek a tailored educational experience for their children.
In contrast, public schools like Shenton College, Willetton Senior High School, and Rossmoyne Senior High School are known for their cost-effectiveness, diverse learning environments, and strong community involvement. These schools offer quality education at no direct cost, making them accessible to families from various socioeconomic backgrounds. The presence of top public schools in a suburb can make the area highly desirable. This makes it more conducive to strong property demand and price growth.
Why School Zones Are a Smart Investment
Investing in property near top schools, whether private or public, is often a sound financial decision. These areas typically exhibit strong demand and limited supply. It also insulates them from market downturns and ensures long-term capital growth. Furthermore, properties in these zones tend to attract a specific demographic of buyers—families with school-aged children. Hence, it provides a stable and reliable market for resale or rental.
However, it’s essential to remember that while school zones are a critical factor, they are not the only driver of property growth. Local amenities, infrastructure developments, and overall market trends also play crucial roles in determining future growth. Therefore, aligning your property purchase with your personal goals—such as the number of children you have or whether you plan to move from your current home—should also be considered. For instance, if you have more than two children, buying in a good public school zone might make more financial sense compared to paying for private education for multiple kids.
Partner with Buyers Advocate Perth
At Buyers Advocate Perth, we understand the complexities of the property market. We can carefully guide you in considering all essential factors to make a well-rounded investment decision. We specialise in helping clients find homes in these coveted areas. This ensures that you not only secure a quality education for your children but also make a wise property investment. If you’re ready to take the next step with an experienced buyers agent Perth team, contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in finding the perfect home in Perth’s most desirable school zones.
