Lake Washington Waterfront
Lake Washington is a large freshwater lake spanning nearly 34 square miles between Seattle and Bellevue. It stretches from Kenmore in the north to Renton in the south, bordering communities like Mercer Island and Kirkland. Three floating bridges provide easy access, including the record-breaking Governor Albert D. Rosellini Bridge on State Route 520, which is the longest floating bridge in the world at just under 7,500 feet.
Waterfront properties around Lake Washington range from quaint cottages to luxurious mansions, offering stunning views and recreational opportunities. Parks like Genesee Park in Seattle and Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park in Renton provide amenities such as:
- Boat launches
- Volleyball courts
- Fishing piers
- Swimming beaches
- Picnic areas
Popular activities include kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The lake is home to coastal cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and various bass species, with year-round fishing available.
The area combines natural beauty with urban convenience, making it an attractive location for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Key Events and Activities
Seafair is a major annual event on Lake Washington, starting with community events in early July and culminating in Seafair Weekend in late July or early August. The highlight is the hydroplane races, which draw large crowds to the shoreline and boats on the lake.
Seafair also features:
- Parades
- Air shows with the Blue Angels
- Various entertainment options
Year-round, the area offers diverse attractions including:
- Parks for sports and leisure
- Waterfront restaurants
- Art festivals
- Outdoor concerts
- Farmers markets
These activities blend metropolitan life with natural beauty, providing residents and visitors with rich recreational and cultural experiences.
Comparative Market Analysis
Waterfront real estate markets vary significantly across the United States. Florida's Gulf Coast, from Clearwater Beach to Siesta Key, has a median listing price of $2,069,500 for waterfront homes. Properties range from modest homes under $500,000 to luxurious mansions over $5 million, often featuring private docks and ocean views.
In contrast, Lake Washington's waterfront properties have a higher average price per square foot at $1,685.31, with a median listing price of $3,999,000. This premium reflects the area's economic growth and proximity to tech hubs like Seattle and Bellevue.
Other notable waterfront markets include:
- New Hampshire's lakes
- South Carolina's deepwater estates
Each offers unique local characteristics and investment potential.
Factors influencing waterfront property values include:
- Location desirability
- Proximity to commercial centers
- Local economic conditions
- Waterfront accessibility
- Recreational opportunities
Buyers must consider these factors alongside their preferences and investment goals when evaluating waterfront properties.
Iconic Property Sales
A recent notable sale was the waterfront estate on 21 Vista Drive in Greenwich, formerly owned by Donald Trump and Ivana Trump. The Georgian colonial-style mansion sold for $31.5 million, marking the largest real estate deal in Greenwich this year.
Built in 1939, the property features:
- A deep-water dock
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
- A tennis court
- A home movie theater
Its historical ownership and extensive amenities contribute to its value and appeal.
Iconic properties often resist broader market fluctuations, attracting global buyers interested in their unique histories and exclusive settings. These sales can set benchmarks in the luxury real estate market, with buyers willing to pay premiums for residences that offer more than just architectural beauty.
Such properties represent more than real estate transactions; they embody investment strategies that combine opulence, prestige, and appreciation potential, making them highly sought after in the real estate world.
Lake Washington offers a balance of urban life and natural beauty, with diverse recreational opportunities and a vibrant community. Its appeal lies in the combination of tranquility and convenience, making it an attractive option for both residents and investors.
- Redfin. Waterfront Homes ALL Tampa Bay Area. October 16, 2024.
- Waterfront Properties. Lake Washington Waterfront Real Estate. October 16, 2024.
- Greenwich Historical Society Archives. Haroldyn House. 2024.