When home buyers with young children come to us, inevitably the subject of “schools and neighborhoods” becomes the hot topic that drives their decision where to purchase a home. Searching for a house in a good school district in Los Angeles becomes a major focus point.
Between Los Angeles Unified (LAUSD) neighborhood schools, magnets, charters, language immersions, gifted, and other public school options, as well as private and religious school choices, it can become a daunting task sifting through all the school options.
If it’s your first time at this particular rodeo, it can feel quite overwhelming and you will likely need some guidance on how to navigate the school process.
From choosing your area to targeting several schools to actually applying and getting into your desired schools, there are several factors and steps to consider. While many neighborhoods have wonderful public schools, some neighborhoods are still struggling with their local schools.
In some cases parents find another school program that best suits their needs, but this brings with it uncertainty, eligibility, and paperwork. It’s important to check with your desired schools’ websites for their specific application guidelines, tours, and deadlines.
For instance, magnet programs are applied for through the echoices.lausd.net website, and must be submitted between October and early November before the fall of enrollment. Charter schools each have their own unique deadlines, but typically it’s around February before the fall of enrollment. For private and other school admissions, it will depend on that particular school’s application process, but is likely even earlier.
Knowing your priorities before you start looking for a home can make a big difference. We have helped many families purchase homes in areas that have great public schools, as well as guided them in the right direction to private, charter, or magnet schools!
If you want to get savvy about LAUSD public schools (including charters and magnets), we have a great resource for you! Tanya Anton of
GoMamaGuide.com has put together a super handy Guide, “The GoMamaGuide to LAUSD” that’s helped thousands of LA families understand their options and make the right public school choice for them.
We offer 10% off her book if you use this special Aspire link.As always, reach out to a
team member if you are an unrepresented buyer looking to purchase a home in Los Angeles.
