Facility touted in sales pitches for homes

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SYRACUSE -- Being within Syracuse High School boundaries has become a selling point for many Davis County homes.

Ivory Homes sales consultant Gary Lindhardt recently put the headline "Looking to Be in the New High School Boundaries? We've got you covered," in an advertisement for Syracuse homes. Lindhardt said he was inspired by several calls he received from parents searching for a home near the soon-to-open school.

"Some parents won't even consider you unless you are (selling) in the new school boundaries," he said.

Lindhardt said he has spoken to a half-dozen families who are moving just so their children can attend Syracuse High.

Others have tried to put earnest money on homes within the new school boundaries before the subdivision has been approved, said Colleen Huntsaker, agent for ALLPRO Realty.

"I've got a list of people waiting to buy out those lots," she said.

Some parents are so passionate about the issue that cost takes a back seat, said Celia Hall, service manager at Davis County builder Castle Creek Homes.

One customer was willing to pay a premium for land in Syracuse so his children could attend the new school.

"(He) was 100 percent dead-set on building in Syracuse, even though we had some lots in Clearfield that were $20,000 to $30,000 less," she said.

The customer settled for a cheaper lot in Clearfield after he learned that the neighborhood was also within Syracuse High School boundaries.

Finding good schools is a top priority for home buyers everywhere, said Mary Hurlburt, 2007 president of the Weber/North Davis Association of Realtors. Parents often compare test results at schools before choosing a home, she said, and home prices in high-scoring school districts are typically higher than in other places.

"It is a passionate item across the United States," Hurlburt said.

The new high school is only one reason Syracuse is a popular spot for home buyers, she said. Prices there are generally lower than in many other Davis County cities, she said. The area is ideal for families who want to be near Hill Air Force Base or Interstate 15, Lindhardt said.

Davis School District spokesman Chris Williams has a word of caution for parents who move so their children can attend a certain school.

Existing boundaries often shift when a new school is built or if population density changes, he said.

"People have to be careful," Williams said. "Just because a Realtor says their kids will go to Syracuse High does not mean those boundaries are going to be there forever."

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