The suburb that buyers are stretching themselves to get into

PHOTO: The slightly more flashy and a lot more expensive Glen Waverley gets plenty of attention from people looking in the area. Photo: Josh Robenston

The battle of street smarts versus book smarts takes on new meaning in Glen Waverley, where coveted private and public school options drive the property market.

“Education is the number one reason people want to live here,” says Barry Plant director and auctioneer Sam Rossello. “People take it very seriously.”

According to agents, many buyers here are willing to stretch themselves to secure a house, knowing they can skimp on education costs with excellent state schools nearby. Others choose to buy in more affordable suburbs, then rent in Glen Waverley’s sought-after streets that are within walking distance of the secondary college. In fact, properties in the school zone fetch a 10 to 20 per cent premium, on average.