Making the Grade: How to Research Local Schools Before Buying Your Next Home

There are so many things involved in moving into a new home in a different neighborhood that it can be easy to forget about the proximity of many nearby amenities. However, if you have children, the local schools available can make-or-break the decision on whether or not to invest in a house. If you’re wondering how you can find out more about the local school, let the following tips be your guide.

Utilize My Website!!

Click HERE to access information about schools and school districts in Arizona both public and private.  Simply click on the name of the school to get the website, enrollment numbers and other demographics.

Take a Web-Search To SchoolMatch.com

One of the benefits of so many things being online these days is that local schools are no exception, and SchoolMatch.com is a great resource that puts this information at your fingertips. While you’ll have to pay a fee to get the details on many public and private institutions, this resource features ratings on schools throughout the country which can make it worth the price.

Contact The NAEYC

With a wealth of information on preschools, kindergartens and elementary schools located throughout the country, the National Association for the Education of Young Children is another helpful website to visit. While the organization offers informational pamphlets that can help you decide a school’s benefits, you can also call in if you want to speak with someone directly about a particular institution.

Make A Visit To The Neighborhood

While it can take a lot of time to visit the schools in the neighborhood you’re considering, this is a great way for you to get a sense of the area you’re moving to and what it affords. By taking a walk through the hallways to view the building’s upkeep and even visiting the office to talk with the Principal, you’ll be able to decide whether it’s a good fit.

Talk To An Agent

It might seem a bit strange to talk to a realtor about local schools, but real estate agents are responsible for providing a multitude of information to potential homebuyers so they have to be in the know. Whether they’re able to help you with a house or not, it’s certain they’ll have some of the basic details about your neighborhood’s educational offerings, whether it’s good or bad.

There are a variety of amenities that can improve the appeal of a new neighborhood, but good schools are a necessity when it comes to the kids. If you’re currently searching for schools and are interested in local neighborhoods, give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

4042 S 177th Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85338

$549,990

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,530 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780520

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this exceptional single-story home in Goodyear, designed with 2,530 square feet of spacious elegance. With five bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a three-car tandem garage, this home offers both style and functionality. The grand foyer leads to a large open-concept kitchen featuring 36-inch umber slate cabinets, pristine white quartz countertops, a generous island, and a walk-in pantry, perfect for cooking and gatherings. Each bedroom includes a walk-in closet, with the primary suite boasting a huge walk-in closet and a luxurious en-suite bathroom complete with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower. Thoughtfully selected finishes like Dal Vicinity white wood-like tile flooring, cozy beige carpet, and black pendant lighting add a modern touch. Enjoy a large covered patio ideal for outdoor relaxation. This home includes all appliances, from the kitchen to the washer, dryer, and window treatments, offering convenience and value. Please note, this property is currently under construction and will be ready in approximately six weeks. Located in a desirable neighborhood near schools, parks, shopping, and dining, this home will soon be the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience, waiting for its first residents.

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5606 W Thurman Drive Laveen, AZ 85339

$549,990

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,623 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693133

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this brand-new construction home! You drive up to a Farmhouse exterior with front desert landscaping, with the interior boasting 2623 sq ft on all one level offering a comfortable and spacious living space. The well-designed open concept floor plan features 9ft ceilings, 4 bedrooms and 3 and a half bathrooms with a 3-car tandem garage. Bedrooms 3 and 4 share a Jack-N-Jill bathroom in the front of the home, along with an additional bedroom and bathroom, while the primary suite is tucked away in the back of the home creating the ideal split floorplan. All bathrooms provide a clean quartz countertop with square modern sinks. The primary bedroom in the back of the home offers a spacious and private retreat with double square sinks, quartz countertops for the vanity and primary shower surrounds, extra linen closet for storage, and private water closet. The 3-car tandem garage allows for ample storage and additional parking. The design promotes seamless flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas making it ideal for entertaining. Additionally, the formal dining space has a butler pantry are that connects into the kitchen creating an elegant space with additional cabinetry. The kitchen boasts a large island with beautiful granite countertops, contemporary shaker style white 42 upper cabinets, and subway style backsplash in the kitchen. The large great room offers ample entertaining space with a 8ft 4-Panel Slider for easy access to the covered patio. This home is fully move-in ready with all your appliances installed! You'll find stainless-steel kitchen appliances including dishwasher, gas range, and refrigerator. The plank tile floors throughout the home offer durability and easy maintenance, while creating a cohesive and stylish look. Plush carpeting with an enhanced carpet pad in the bedrooms adds a touch of comfort and coziness. In the laundry room, located off the garage entry, the matching washer and dryer ensure your home is equipped to take on whatever your family throws at it! Estimated to be complete in June. Located right off the new Loop 202 and Dobbins. Great location close to dining, freeways, parks, and entertainment.

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5330 W Jackalope Lane Laveen, AZ 85339

$549,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,214 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6732836

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6732836 January 2025 Completion! Experience modern luxury in the all-new Hudson model at Tierra Montana Encore. This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bath home with a 2-car garage welcomes you with an elegant paver front porch. Step inside to discover a spacious open floor plan that seamlessly integrates the heart of the home. The kitchen, featuring pristine white quartz countertops and a gas cooktop with a single oven, caters to both culinary enthusiasts and everyday convenience. Relax in the generously designed living space, which offers both style and functionality. Retreat to the primary suite, complete with an ensuite bath and ample closet space for a peaceful escape. Three additional bedrooms and well-appointed bathrooms ensure comfort for both family and guests. Design options include: Signature Canvas Collection - Manuscript.

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16707 W Whispering Wind Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$549,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,432 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761168

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Up to 3% of Base Price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender.'' The Avelino AllGen floorplan offers 4 bedrooms, a second kitchen, 3 baths, a soft water plumbing loop, a no-step shower, a 2' garage extension, and 8' interior doors. Highlights include granite kitchen countertops, a gas range, and upgraded flooring.

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22865 E Roundup Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$549,990

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,949 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782621

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

'' Step into the Larkspur floorplan, with 1949 Sqft this home that offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a den, and a spacious backyard, providing ample space for comfortable living and outdoor enjoyment. The kitchen boasts 42'''' Sarsaparilla shaker cabinets, Carrara breeze quartz countertops, and a 3 x12 white white tile backsplash. Natural 6 x36 plank tile floors in the main living areas offer durability and sophistication, neutral plush carpeting in the bedrooms and den adds comfort. This home comes fully equipped with stainless steel appliances including a gas range, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, white washer/dryer, blinds, and a garage door opener ensuring convenience from day one. Experience seamless indoor-outdoor living with a 4-panel center slider glass door in the greatroom leading to the covered patio. Additionally, enjoy the elegance and spaciousness of 8' doors throughout the home. Don't miss the opportunity to tour our homes and experience the exceptional living experience awaiting you at Madera.

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20240 W Catalina Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$549,990

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,456 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6655730

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! Amethyst floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 3 baths and a 3 car garage. This home is stunning and has plenty of storage space including all bedrooms have walk in closets. Multi slide door at the extended covered patio. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Gas appliance package in stainless steel, 30'' cooktop, microwave & canopy hood. Tahoe Maple Painted Boulder ''Gray'' cabinets throughout. Bianco Typhoon Polished granite tops in kitchen and owner's bath. Stainless steel under mount single bowl kitchen sink. Flooring includes EMS Riverside Yaris 20x24 in all areas of the home except Bedrooms & closets. Dual sinks at bath 2. Gas stub for future BBQ. Garage service door and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent . Thank you!

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20245 W Catalina Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$549,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,510 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6686329

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the beautiful Jade floor plan in the Arroyo Seco community. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and a 2 car garage plus a large storage area. Pavers at the drive, walk and entry, Stainless steel gas appliance package with 30'' cooktop, wall oven and canopy hood. Tahoe maple slate - (gray) cabinets throughout. AZT Della Terra Quartz Linen countertops in kitchen and restrooms. Upgrade flooring includes EMS Riverside Firenza 20x20 tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets. 5'' baseboards with 3 1/4'' door casings throughout. Dual sinks at bath 3. Interior two tone paint in ''Whiskers''. 8' tall garage door with two remotes, Garage service door for easy access into the back yard and so much more. Please verify information with onsite agent. Thank you!

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16367 W Desert Mirage Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$549,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,561 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6710581

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! Multi slide door off the great room. Pavers at drive, walk and entry, Large walk in shower at owner's bath. Stainless steel gas appliance package with a 30'' cooktop and wall oven. Sonoma maple ''Slate-grayish'' cabinets with 42'' uppers in kitchen with pullout trash drawer. Himalaya white granite countertops in kitchen, most bathrooms. Stainless steel undermount single bowl sink in kitchen with a 4x16 backsplash. Upgrade flooring includes EMS Baccarat 12x24 Astra tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets. Additional recessed can lights and ceiling fan prewires. 8' tall garage door with openers and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!

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685 E Aurora Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$549,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,970 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6721226

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Move into a New Home Now!!! Est Completion Nov. 2024!!!! - Welcome to Edgewood Villas in the Queen Creek Corridor. Step into this exquisite home designed with Loft ''Looks'' interior selections. Cooking is effortless with premium Bosch gourmet appliances, elegant white kitchen cabinets complemented by open shelving and an expansive island, perfect for hosting memorable family gatherings. The open floor plan fosters togetherness while providing serene personal space. Indulge in the Primary Suite with a spa-like bath including a soaking tub and showcased by a barn door. This home is certified as Dept. of Energy ''Zero Energy Ready Home'' equipped with solar prewire and an EV charger outlet. Up to 6% of Loan Amount can be applied towards closing cost and/or short-long term interest rate buydowns when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply.

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6543 E Norwood Street Mesa, AZ 85215

$549,990

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,762 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781757

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

THIS HOME IS COMPLETELY TURN KEY, LOCATED IN EAST MESA & NO HOA! 3 Bedroom 2 Bath, single story with updates galore on the 9th hole of Camelot Golf Course! Enter & find wood laminate throughout the main spaces plus a picturesque view from the living & dining rooms. Kitchen features quartz countertops, beautiful marble backsplash, stainless appliances, updated cabinets, breakfast bar & nook. Cozy up by the fireplace in the family room right off the kitchen. Both bathrooms have been fully updated with new flooring, vanities & tile surrounds. Head out back to find a private entertaining space with covered patio, grass area & golf course! Minutes away from the 202 that will take you west to shopping, ASU & airport. Scenic Red Mountain with hiking/biking trails just minutes away!

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14167 W Alameda Road Surprise, AZ 85387

$549,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,226 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746380

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6746380. December Completion. The 50RM1 floorplan at Raveena at Rancho Mercado offers a beautifully designed single-story layout with 3 bedrooms, a versatile flex room, 2.5 bathrooms, and a 3-car garage, all within 2,226 square feet. Step into the foyer and experience the open-concept design that seamlessly connects the spacious gathering room, dining area, and gourmet kitchen, complete with double ovens, a 30-inch gas cooktop, and 42-inch cabinets. The outdoor living area is perfect for al fresco dining and family gatherings. The private owner's suite features dual vanities and an expansive walk-in closet. The flexible room provides an ideal space Structural options include: extended covered patio, paver front porch and driveway, alternate AC location with gate, soft water loop, and 30 gas cooktop w single oven.

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17313 W Wandering Creek Road Goodyear, AZ 85338

Open House

$549,990

5 Beds

4 Baths

2,801 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6734346

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful home is nestled in the heart of the Estrella Mountains with a spacious primary bedroom with full bath downstairs, beautifully enhanced gourmet kitchen, Bianco antico granite, dark expresso cabinets, natural wood look tile, kitchen backsplash, 8 ft doors. Host your next dinner party in the open dining and great room then transition to the covered back patio for dessert and a nightcap. This home can close in 30 days! Located within the Estrella masterplan with 2 state-of-the-art Residents Clubs including fitness centers and pools, Starsplash Water Park, and a community lake with activities including boat rentals.

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