Many homebuyers were drawn to selected properties in key areas within a two-kilometer radius of private and international schools in Klang Valley in 2021.

Subang Jaya, Puchong, Kuala Lumpur, Mont Kiara, Kepong, Petaling Jaya, Setapak, Ampang Jaya, Cheras, Seri Kembangan, Shah Alam, Klang, and Cyberjaya were among the key areas.

These areas saw encouraging transactional activity in 2021, despite the difficulties caused by the pandemic, according to iProperty.com.my.

According to Shylendra Nathan, country manager - PropertyGuru Malaysia (PropertyGuru.com.my and iProperty.com.my), proximity to schools is one of the possible buying considerations among property seekers with growing children looking for a new home.

"Hence, they tend to prioritise accessibility to reputable schools without compromising on providing a conducive living environment. This tells us that even in tough times, buyers feel that purchasing a home close to a reputable school remains one of the top priorities. Furthermore, the transaction growth could be contributed by investors who recognise how proximity to schools can be a driver for property rental demand, especially from the expatriate community whose population is expected to increase following Malaysia's transition to the endemic phase," he said.

Nathan anticipates that as the market recovers, the trend of purchasing properties near good private educational institutions will likely accelerate.

 He believes that this bodes well not only for the property seekers' lifestyle and the convenience of their children but also for the long-term value growth of their property investment.

"Not to mention, the trend of moving out to suburban areas in search of a better quality of life could continue to increase as the hybrid work model becomes more popular. Statistically, the presence of local students in private and international schools has been growing over the past decade," he said.

Malaysians make up 45 per cent of the student population at premium international schools and 65 percent at mid-market international schools (rated by fees), according to ISC Research Data.

Naturally, demand for neighbourhoods near reputable schools has increased, as properties in such areas have become prime targets for upgraders and even newlyweds, Nathan said.

"Moreover, the Covid-19 pandemic has brought about the need for an excellent remote learning environment. In this case, private learning institutions proved to be better equipped to facilitate online learning with innovative teaching methods," he said.

Popular neighbourhoods with proximity to schools

Mont Kiara/Kepong

Schools - Mont'Kiara International School, Hibiscus International School, The International School @ ParkCity

Mont Kiara has become an expatriate residential hotspot and one of the most expensive areas to live, with some of the best international schools and one of the most vibrant and conveniently connected suburbs in Kuala Lumpur.

Furthermore, property seekers who enjoy an urban lifestyle while raising a family are drawn to Mont Kiara's many upmarket retail, F&B, and entertainment outlets.

New developments in the area have not only resulted in urban expansion into neighbouring Kepong but have also increased the variety of property options.

Kuala Lumpur

School - St John's International School

The capital city's centre is an ideal location for balancing a promising career and raising a family. Although living in the heart of Kuala Lumpur can be costly, living near KLCC can help you save money on transportation.

Families looking to enrol their children in Kuala Lumpur's sole international school, St John's International School, should consider living in the city centre, especially if they enjoy the bright lights, pace, and pulse of the capital city.

Cheras/Seri Kembangan

Schools - Australian International School Malaysia, Tanarata International School, Sekolah Sri Cempaka (private school), RIZQ Islamic School (private school)

The Cheras-Seri Kembangan corridor is one of the Klang Valley's fastest-growing stretches.

It is a gateway urban community south of the city centre, only 15 kilometres from Cyberjaya and Putrajaya, and the constant urban sprawl will place it at the centre of a seamless connection between the capital city and this important business and administrative hubs.

Petaling Jaya

Schools - The British International School, Sunway International School, Beaconhouse Sri Inai International School, MAZ International School, Sekolah Sri KDU (private school)

Petaling Jaya is a mature area popular with families because of its urban lifestyle, which includes family parks, eateries, hipster cafes, and shopping malls.

In addition, the city is home to several well-known private educational institutions. It is strategically located between Kuala Lumpur and many other Klang Valley urban hotspots.

Many residents have said that Petaling Jaya is an excellent place for children to grow up.

Klang/Shah Alam

Schools - Regent International School, Beaconhouse Sri Lethia (private school), Tenby Schools Setia Eco Park (private school)

Shah Alam has a more relaxed and slower pace of life than other cities. Families with children are drawn to the city because of its well-planned roads, abundant green space, and excellent public schools.

The addition of private and international schools in Shah Alam and neighbouring Klang has boosted the value of properties in these areas.