"School catchment areas remain one of the most influential factors for family buyers entering the market, and as our research shows, many parents are prepared to make significant sacrifices to secure a place for their child at their school of choice"
- Verona Frankish - Yopa
Parents across the UK are compromising on their housing choices and financial stability to secure places for their children in sought-after school catchments, according to new research from estate agency Yopa.
The survey of almost 5,000 homebuyers found that 31% of parents moved specifically to live within a preferred catchment area. Among those who relocated, 78% described the process as challenging, with 32% calling it extremely difficult because of limited supply and intense competition.
To secure a property, 21% of parents chose to rent temporarily in their target area while waiting for a suitable home to become available.
Financial sacrifices
Competition often pushed buyers to exceed asking prices. One in four parents admitted to bidding higher, with 49% paying between 5% and 10% more. A further 9% stretched to 20% above asking, and 5% paid more than 20% extra.
For many, the financial strain was significant. Some 38% of parents said they had to borrow more than they could reasonably afford, usually by taking on a larger mortgage. Others turned to financial support from family members or alternative sources.
Planning years in advance
Parents are also moving much earlier to improve their chances. Thirteen per cent moved into a chosen area at the birth of their child, 15% relocated before nursery age, and 39% moved at least a year before applying for primary school.
A minority used unconventional tactics to stand out from other buyers. One in ten admitted to offering sellers gifts, extra financial incentives, or personal letters in an effort to sway decisions.
Compromises and stress
While the sacrifices delivered results, 84% of parents reported that their child secured a place at their preferred school, many felt the personal impact. Nearly half (46%) said they had to compromise on their dream home. Common concessions included buying a smaller property, settling for less desirable areas, accepting different styles or conditions, or losing access to outdoor space.
The process was also emotionally taxing, with 68% of parents saying it caused major stress for their family.
“School catchment areas remain one of the most influential factors for family buyers entering the market, and as our research shows, many parents are prepared to make significant sacrifices to secure a place for their child at their school of choice,” explained Verona Frankish, CEO of Yopa. “Whether it’s paying above the odds, overstretching financially, or compromising on the dream home, education consistently takes priority."
"We’re also seeing parents plan further ahead than ever before, in some cases moving years in advance, which only adds to the pressure and competition in these highly desirable pockets of the market. It underlines just how much weight education carries in the decision-making process and why properties in sought-after catchments continue to command such strong demand.”
