Before making any decisions in purchasing home, it’s important to research local school districts to get idea of what the schools in your area are like. Your real estate agent should be able to provide information on local schools, but if you want to do some digging yourself, try online resources like greatschools.org or the National Center for Education Statistics to find the best school systems near you.

A good education is not just about what happens in the classroom. Consider what type of extracurricular activities your kids are interested in and look for schools and districts that offer quality sports, music, or volunteer programs. Find out if the schools in your preferred area have had any previous state titles or awards for their clubs and organizations.

If you are looking for a unique educational experience for your children, you may want to consider tuition-free charter school’s or local private schools. This may also a good option if you want to emphasize foreign language learning, college preparation, or classical subjects. 

When you begin to narrow your interest to specific districts or schools, it’s a good idea to visit the schools. Ask questions about disciplinary methods, after-school programs, advanced placement courses, and college acceptance statistics and tour the facility to see what kind of amenities the school can offer.

Buying a new home is no small decision—and finding the right school district for your family is just as big a consideration. With these tips, you’re one step closer to moving into the perfect home in the perfect district.