One in four parents move house to be in desired school catchment area

Twenty-four per cent of parents with school age children have either bought or rented a new property in order to obtain an address within their chosen school catchment area.

According to new research from Santander Mortgages, one in five (20 per cent) of these parents have had to change jobs in order to get their children into the school of their choice.

In addition, the research shows that families are prepared to spend an extra 12 per cent for their chosen school catchment address, adding £26,800 to the average UK property price.

Forty-four per cent of all families who move to a certain catchment area say they will leave as soon as a school place is secured. This figure rises to two-thirds (66 per cent) for parents in London.


One in four (25 per cent) admit they overstretched themselves, paying more for the property than they could realistically afford and 26 per cent moved to a location that was far away from family or friends.

The bank’s study suggests that the moves made by many of these families are temporary, with only 26 per cent planning to continue living in the area once their child leaves school.

Amongst families who have moved to be within their desired catchment area, 51 per cent said they had sold their previous property and purchased a new one within their chosen area.

Three in 10 (30 per cent) said they purchased a second home in the catchment area, while 19 per cent secured their desired address by renting a property.

Miguel Sard, managing director of mortgages, Santander UK said: “Living within a certain school catchment area is top of the wish list for many families but often these addresses come at a premium. Our study highlights the significant financial and lifestyle sacrifices that parents are making to be within the catchment area of a desired school.



“Buyers need to do their research as properties in catchment areas often come with a hefty price tag, especially in London where competition for school places is fierce. We urge parents not to over-stretch themselves, but to find a mortgage provider that not only offers competitive rates and products but also has the expertise to ensure that the right deal is secured and the repayments are affordable.”