Homes located within the catchment for some of Melbourne’s best public schools are achieving six-figure premiums, compared to neighbouring properties which fall just outside the zone.
The latest REIV data shows the median house price in highly sought after public school catchments is up to $400,000 more expensive than homes within a one kilometer radius of the zone.
In the year to December 31, homes zoned for some of the city’s best primary schools recorded the largest price difference, with South Yarra Primary School leading the way. Homes within the South Yarra Primary School zone had a median price of $1,930,000 while properties bordering the zone had a median of $1,520,000 – a difference of $410,000.
Vendors of homes within the catchment area for Altona Primary School could also expect higher sale prices than those located just outside the zone. The median house price for those within the zone was $1,225,000 while neighbouring homes bordering the zone fetched $325,000 less.
In Bentleigh East, homes zoned for Valkstone Primary School were almost $250,000 more expensive than those within one kilometer of the school zone.
REIV President Richard Simpson said access to quality public schools remains a key factor for many buyers, which is delivering significant capital gains for homes located in these catchments.
“Parents of school-aged children are investing in the family home by buying into areas zoned for some of the city’s best public schools, rather than paying the equivalent in private school fees.”
“Many of these catchment areas experience a high turnover of stock, indicating ongoing buyer demand for homes in these suburbs. Given this demand, these areas are also well-positioned for significant long-term price growth.”
“In order to give their child the best possible start to their education, we’re also seeing buyers willing to pay a premium to be located within the zone of some of Melbourne’s best public primary schools.”
Camberwell High School experienced the largest price difference for secondary schools, with a difference of $289,000 recorded between those in the zone and those bordering the zone.
Homes located within the catchment of McKinnon Secondary College also achieved significantly higher prices than those just outside the zone. The median house price for homes within the zone was $1,690,000 while those bordering the zone had a median price $235,000 less.
