IT IS AN over used phrase, but there is a lot of truth in Location, Location, Location but why?

A postcode can literally add tens of thousands in some cities, in some cases streets next to each other can have largely differing values.

Some of the reasons behind these differences are historic, a style of architecture, access to good public transport or maybe even who lives there, but in recent times one of the biggest impacts on house pricing is school catchment areas.

When starting work at a new estate agency, one of the first things you need to learn for instance is which schools are most popular and where to live to get into them.

One should never under estimate the power of an “Outstanding OFSTED” at your local school.

So often on our applicant profiles buyers, customers will request an area purely based on the primary or secondary school or both.

One draw to Stroud is the fact that there is still the Grammar School system in place and Marling and Stroud High School for Girls have a particularly strong pull and living in the Stroud area also means being potentially able to access other grammar schools across Gloucestershire.

Equally for those looking for a smaller secondary school, Thomas Keble is within walking distance of some beautiful homes around Chalford, Bussage and Eastcombe.

The standard of education in the area is one factor that is attracting more buyers to the Stroud region, but there are also so many other reasons that make it an exciting time to live and buy here.

Stroud, Stonehouse and Nailsworth are all thriving busy towns with Stroud having its famous farmer’s market, they offer the cafe lifestyle similar to local cities.

As prices rise in cities like Bristol, Stroud has been a more affordable option, less than an hours commute away from there, you can have a home with stunning valley views.

But asking prices have certainly been on the rise here too and there is evidence that sale prices have been rising considerably as well.

While many companies arrange for employees to work from home there are still excellent train links to London and other cities from Kemble, Stonehouse and Stroud stations.

The arts, literature and music in all their genres are represented in the area with some fantastic studio spaces and famous authors.

Stroud College is making its mark too in terms of the variety and quality of courses also echoing the artistic nature of the area.

With so much to offer in Stroud and the Five Valleys, the area will continue to be the popular choice for many “house hunters” moving both within the area and from around the country.

Currently we therefore need more property to sell for waiting buyers keen to move here so to arrange a market appraisal on your home do contact our team.