As a real estate expert in southeastern New Hampshire, I have seen firsthand the impact that top schools have on the local housing market. While many factors can influence the value of a property, the quality of the local schools is often overlooked by home buyers. However, in this region, top schools not only provide a quality education for students but also have a significant influence on home prices and the overall community.
The Importance of Schools in Real Estate
It's no secret that good schools are highly sought after by home buyers. In fact, a study by Realtor.com found that 91% of home buyers said school boundaries were important in their search for a new home.This is because schools not only provide education for children, but they also serve as a reflection of the overall community. When a school district has a good reputation, it can attract families who are willing to pay a premium for homes in that area. This demand can drive up home prices and make it more difficult for buyers to find affordable options. On the other hand, homes in areas with underperforming schools may be more affordable, but they may also have a harder time retaining their value.
The Top Schools in Southeastern New Hampshire
Southeastern New Hampshire is home to several top-rated schools that consistently rank high in state and national rankings. These schools not only provide quality education, but they also offer a variety of extracurricular activities and resources for students.Phillips Exeter Academy
is one of the most well-known private schools in the area.Founded in 1781, this prestigious boarding school has produced many notable alumni, including U. S. presidents and Nobel Prize winners. With a rigorous academic program and a wide range of extracurricular activities, Phillips Exeter Academy is highly sought after by families looking for a top-notch education for their children.
Portsmouth High School
is a public high school that consistently ranks as one of the best in the state.With a graduation rate of 95%, this school offers a variety of advanced placement courses and has a strong focus on college preparation. In addition, Portsmouth High School has a variety of sports teams and clubs for students to get involved in.
Windham High School
is another top-rated public high school in southeastern New Hampshire. With a graduation rate of 97%, this school offers a challenging curriculum and a variety of extracurricular activities, including a highly-regarded music program. Windham High School also has a strong sense of community, with many students and parents actively involved in school events and activities.The Impact on Home Prices
So how do these top schools impact home prices in southeastern New Hampshire? According to data from Zillow, homes in the same zip code as Phillips Exeter Academy have an average home value of $1.2 million, which is significantly higher than the state average of $300,000.Similarly, homes in the same zip code as Portsmouth High School have an average home value of $500,000, while homes in the same zip code as Windham High School have an average home value of $600,000. These higher home values can be attributed to the demand for homes in these areas due to the quality of the schools. Families are willing to pay more for homes in these districts because they know their children will receive an excellent education.
The Ripple Effect
The impact of top schools on real estate in southeastern New Hampshire doesn't just stop at home prices. It also has a ripple effect on the local economy. When families move to these areas, they bring with them a higher income and a higher level of education.This can lead to an increase in job opportunities and economic growth in the community. In addition, top schools often attract businesses and corporations looking to relocate or expand. These companies know that a strong education system is important to their employees, and they are more likely to choose a location with top-rated schools for their headquarters or offices.
