🏡 When School Districts Matter — A Note from Bob the REALTOR®

As a REALTOR® serving Maryland’s Eastern Shore, I’ve helped many families navigate the homebuying process. One question that comes up again and again—especially for buyers with school-age children—is:

👉 “How are the schools in this neighborhood?”

I get it. As a parent and now a grandparent, I know how important educational opportunities are. In fact, according to a National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) study, over half of homebuyers with children under 18 consider the quality of school districts a major factor in choosing a home. But here’s the thing: answering that question isn’t as simple as giving a thumbs up or down.

🎯 My Role: Helping You Make an Informed Choice

When it comes to schools, my job is to give you tools, not opinions. I follow the Equal Professional Service Model outlined by NAR, which means I offer the same high-quality support to every client—consistently, ethically, and without steering. That’s especially important when we talk about school districts.

So instead of saying, “This is a good school,” I’ll connect you with trusted resources like:

• GreatSchools.org
• Local Board of Education websites
• Maryland School Report Cards
• Parent groups and school staff contact info
• Neighborhood comparisons backed by objective data

You’ll get everything you need to evaluate what matters most—whether it’s test scores, student-to-teacher ratios, extracurricular programs, or special education services.

📊 School Quality = Neighborhood Value

Here’s another reason school districts matter: they directly affect property values. Studies have shown that every $1 spent on public schools increases nearby home values by about $20. Homes in high-performing districts often command a premium—sometimes 40–50% higher than similar homes in neighboring zones. It’s not just about education—it’s about long-term investment, too.

🧭 What a Typical Journey Looks Like

When you work with me, here’s how we’ll approach your school-conscious home search:

1. We talk: You share your priorities for your child’s education and ideal home features.
2. I send resources: You’ll get links to objective, third-party school data to review.
3. We tour: I’ll show you homes both within and outside your preferred districts so you can compare options.
4. You connect: I’ll help coordinate school visits or connect you with parent networks, if you’d like.
5. We act: When you’re ready, I’ll guide you through the offer and negotiation process with confidence and transparency.

📣 Final Thought

Whether you’re focused on schools from day one or just beginning to consider their impact, I’m here to support you. I’ll never steer you—I’ll empower you with information so you can make the best decision for your family and your future.

✅ Let’s find a home that checks all the boxes—education included.
📩 Send me a message and let’s start your school-smart home search.

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📍 Serving Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset Counties
📞 Bob the REALTOR® | ERA Martin Associates