Schools Matter to Northern Virginia Home Buyers

There is little doubt that one of the first questions that a family relocating to the Northern Virginia area asks is "what about the schools?" As real estate agents we can't answer the question directly but can help point prospective buyers to a number of places to research local Northern Virginia schools.

In a Washington Post article this weekend it was point out how often schools dictate the choice of neighborhood that families will consider. Living in a "good" school district could mean that parents sacrifice their commute or other community amenities in order to find the right school.

Michael Reinemer a Northern Virginia parent stated "I have seen a pronounced school-boundary mentality among some parents. But I think the boundary obsession is blown out of proportion to its educational significance, at least in Northern Virginia, where all the schools are good," he said. "It's more of a status or prestige thing, like 'Lake Wobegon, where everyone is above average. "

Looking at the different county and city schools sites for test scores, absentee rates, teacher turnover, graduation rates and extracurricular activities are part of what a buyer can use to make a school decision. If you are relocating to Northern Virginia you can check out the following local school sites for more information:

Alexandria City Public Schools
Arlington County Public Schools
Fairfax County Public Schools
Falls Church City Public Schools
Loudoun County Public Schools
Prince William County Public Schools
Stafford County Public Schools

You can also check out the Virginia Department of Education site and the independent Great Schools site as well. If you are also looking for a post secondary school for continuing your own education you can check out the links to local Virginia Colleges and Universities on my website.

If a move to the Northern Virginia area is in your future give Cindy Jones a call at 703-346-2213. Let me help you find the information you need to make the best decision for your families reclocation to the area. No hassle, no pressure just straight talk about lliving in Northern Virginia.