Moving to SEATTLE , need advise
HI my family and i are planning a move to Seattle in the next 3-4 months as my husband has a job opportunity , we would be looking to rent for a few months as we are unfamiliar with the state, in the long term we plan on owning a home, in the suburbs, as we would like a small wooded lot, ( nothing huge) . We would like to be located near a light rail or ferry access to the city . Other important things to us would be close proximity to parks , as we enjoy nature and hiking with our dog and toddler, a good school system, families, need a community, would love a little town square setting with shops and dinners that we could walk around, side walks in the neighborhood, looking to buy in the 450k area. guess its the american dream , but worth a try. any advise on where to rent to places to call home would be very appreciated . Thanks in advance .
Parent Replies
Congratulations! Seattle is lovely, but as I'm sure you have heard, getting very pricey. The median home price in King County is now over $725,000, up 15% from last year, so it is rising quite rapidly. Rents are generally high, so you'll probably want to buy sooner rather than later.
https://www.seattletimes.com/business/real-estate/seattle-area-home-pri…
Seattle is also very congested, so you really need good transit. My niece in Seattle lives in the Beacon Hill/Southeast Seattle region, commutes on the Metro downtown, and is super happy. I visited the area for the first time 2 years ago and found it charming and more laid-back than the central part of Seattle, and I'm told it's more "affordable." That being said, I don't know neighborhood specifics (where the good schools are, what's wooded, in your price range, etc.).
It wouldn't hurt to contact some realtors, tell them your price range, and see what neighborhoods they suggest you look at. I can refer you to someone familiar with the Beacon Hill/Southeast area if you want a local perspective from a native; you can contact me through BPN.
Seattle is really lovely in summer. If you are able to fly up now (rather than in 3-4 months) to scout out neighborhoods, I'd really recommend it. You will also want to allow extra time to find a rental that will let you have a dog.
Good luck! Contact me if you want that local referral.