Housing dilemma

[isitjustme2017]

So, I've sold the family home after separation and looking to rent somewhere for a while. I have a dilemma as there are very few houses available in the areas I want. I have 2 kids so ideally need a 3 bed house and would like to be in school catchment (so youngest gets into same school as oldest)
Option 1
Take a 3 bed house that is a bit more than I hoped to pay (but affordable). Its not that nice inside decor wise but is big enough, has nice garden and is in the catchment area.
Option 2
Take a 2 bed house that is very cheap (and would allow me to save) and is lovely inside. Its just outside the catchment area and is obviously lacking a bedroom.
I'm torn between the 2 options. There is a chance my youngest may not get into the school if its over-subscribed next year and this is a concern.
However, I had hoped to save money to clear debts so I could buy somewhere in 1-2 years time. I couldn't really do this as easily with Option 1.
I need to make up my mind and its driving me nuts.

Are you sure that being in catchment is vital, and your DC won't get a place anyway through having a sibling at the school already?

If so, I would go for the catchment school, because it's a complete PITA to have to ferry children to two separate schools, two uniforms (no hand me downs!), start again with forming parent friendships, have two sports days, open assembles etc etc. It might be possible to economise more when you get into the house - it's harder to find the time to shop around for the best deals on things when you have two school runs to manage

There is a good chance he will. However, this year the school was over-subscribed and 5 children with siblings at the school outside the catchment didn't get a place!!
I'm not sure how it works, if you are outside the catchment is it down to how close you are?
It would still be a risk and although they would only both be at primary school together a year, I don't fancy 2 school runs for a year!
I also didn't think of the school uniform thing!!! I have lots of hand-me-downs waiting.....

I'd go for option 1. You want 3 rooms and in catchment and it's affordable. Option 2 fulfils none of your criteria really. Decor isn't a big deal and it's nice to save but you can afford the first option. Option 2 seems a big risk school wise and gives you a problem with the bedrooms. As you're only renting, you can always have option 1 until the school issue is settled then move to somewhere cheaper.

Thanks pinkdelight I think you're right. I've told the landlord I'm interested in the first house although they have other viewings today so looks like they will pick the most suitable tenant - hopefully its me!!

Option 1. Good luck with your decision!

Option 1 get your child a place at school and then keep your eye out for something smaller that will enable you to save. Kids won't mind sharing. Just don't sign a long lease on the expensive place.

Good luck - hope you get it!