2010 School Ratings

From my friends at Republic Title, here is a link to school ratings in the Dallas area.

Schools Do Affect Home Values

As we prepare for traditional back to school activities, some families are searching for affordable housing based on local schools or desirable school districts. In some cases, proximity to quality schools is so important buyers may choose to rent close to a preferred school until the right home becomes available, especially if they're running out of time before the first day of school.

Because proximity to a quality school is such a high priority for some of these families as they search for their next home, they specifically chose neighborhoods with top ranked schools, which can sometimes as much as 10 to 28 percent higher in price than a comparable home in an area with lower ranked schools.

In my experience, North Dallas neighborhoods within the Richardson Independent School District are a popular choice for buyers relocating from other states or moving from other areas within the city. Other school districts, such as Plano, Allen, and Carrollton/Farmer's Branch are gaining in popularity.

So whether you have school age children or not, keeping an eye on your school's ranking does make a difference when it's time to sell your home. Many homeowners also support their local PTA and offer volunteer hours to stay involved with neighborhood schools.

No Federal Sales Tax on Home Sales

It's a myth ... there is no federal sales tax on home sales. An Internet rumor continues to spread false information about a supposed tax on home sales. The erroneous e-mail claims that a provision of the healthcare reform bill passed earlier this year will place a tax on "all real estate transactions" in 2013. Not true.

Source: Texas Association of REALTORS