Good schools attract potential customers to new homes in Oakham

Moving into the catchment area of a good school is becoming more and more important for homebuyers, according to a national report.

The findings of the study reveal that 37 per cent of people with a child aged 10 or under placed securing a home and school of their choice as a top priority when moving.

They would be willing to pay an extra £12,141 to do so.

In addition, one in four people with a child aged 11-17 see schooling as a major concern and would be willing to pay an £11,564 premium for the privilege.

On average, people would be willing to pay an extra £5,663 to be able to set up home in a good catchment area.

The trend has been rubbing off on potential buyers looking towards the market town of Oakham in Rultand – with its excellent primary schools, Catmose College and independent Oakham School a major draw for Linden Homes.

The developer is currently building a range of three and four-bedroom homes at the Orchid development at Cold Overton Road, and is taking reservations for completed homes as far ahead as autumn 2012.

Many of the inquiries have come from potential customers looking to move close to the town’s highly-regarded schools.

Linden Homes sales director Steve Garton said: “We have had amazing interest in the Orchid development since its official launch just a few weeks ago.

“We believe that Oakham is the perfect location, given the wonderful and diverse amenities and attractions within a relatively small geographical area, independent shops and green open spaces.

“However, it has been the well-regarded schools that have prompted the highest volume of inquiries, again evidence that the positioning of our developments are carefully thought out with our customers’ needs in mind.”

For more information, visit lindenhomes.co.uk.