A family that moved to San Antonio faced a waiting list when they tried to submit their application. The spots for their desired grade level were already filled until the next semester. Recent market trends show that this is not an uncommon occurrence.

Among the cases I reviewed, many families applied to TMI Episcopal. This school operates on a selective basis and is known for maintaining the highest rating of Honor Unit with Distinction for over ten years in its JROTC program. Maintaining such a rating provides benefits, such as not needing congressional recommendations when applying to military academies like West Point.

Tuition for the 2023-24 school year was $26,312 for middle school students and $29,477 for high school students. If you choose the boarding option, the cost rises to $53,330 for a five-day program and $58,490 for a seven-day program. The latest tuition rates may have changed, so it's best to confirm directly with the school.

This school is located near Alamo Heights in San Antonio. According to 2024 data from City-data.com, the median home value in Alamo Heights is $845,390, and the median rent is $1,797. Expanding to the entire San Antonio area, the median home value drops to $260,900, and the median rent decreases to $1,389.

Even within the same city, circumstances can vary significantly depending on the area. Alamo Heights is considered a well-kept neighborhood close to the school, resulting in property values that exceed the city average by three times. In contrast, areas slightly further away may have lower property values but longer commutes.

I pointed out one important detail to the family surprised by the waiting list. Selective private schools have specific application timelines, so they need to calculate their application date before their moving date. It is often more realistic to submit an application in the spring and then move in the summer.

Texas has no state income tax, but property tax rates are relatively high. Families moving from other states may overlook this aspect, and in areas like Alamo Heights, where property values are high, the property tax burden increases accordingly.

In another case I reviewed, an investor looking for rental income inquired about properties near Alamo Heights. The school district premium is already reflected in the market prices, leading many to focus on remodeling existing properties for re-rental rather than purchasing new ones. However, this approach does not guarantee profits, and outcomes can vary based on market conditions.

JROTC refers to the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program established in high schools. For families considering military-related careers, this is a noteworthy factor, but for others, it may not hold significant importance, so it should be weighed according to individual priorities when choosing a school.

The waiting list for selective schools changes every year. Some years may have openings, while others may see a surge in applicants, leading to longer wait times. Therefore, if you have a preferred school, it's helpful to inquire before the application season starts to check the recent trends in application competitiveness.

San Antonio has fewer private school options compared to other major cities in Texas. If you have a school in mind, it's practical to get on the waiting list while also checking the assigned schools in nearby public school districts as a dual strategy. If your waiting number is low, it's advisable to check with the school about any special criteria, such as sibling priority or staff children priority.

School district boundaries and private school attendance zones can change every year. If you have a specific address in mind, be sure to verify the school assignment before signing a contract. This article does not constitute investment or legal advice, and it is recommended to consult real estate and tax professionals before making any actual agreements.