The Urban Pages, 2008 - by Shawn Filer

South Lake Union

With access to Lake Union, three parks, a new streetcar, and Paul Allen’s deep pockets, South Lake Union offers endless potential. Currently the largest redevelopment in the Country, the South Lake Union area consists of five distinct areas; Lakefront, 8th Avenue, Westlake/Terry, Cascade, and Gateway. With several new condo projects in all price ranges and an estimated 30,000 new jobs, this will be one of the hottest neighborhoods for the next ten years and beyond. If you like short commutes, Kayaking, Whole Foods, Restaurants, and miles of “Green” construction, this could be the neighborhood for you. Current condo projects include the Enso, Rollin Street Flats, and Veer Lofts.

Madison Park

One of Seattle’s original high-end neighborhoods, Madison Park is just as popular now as ever. With a unique blend of million dollar houses and condos alongside many affordable apartments, Madison Park has something to offer everyone. With the highest cost per square foot in Seattle (in the $600 range) people often sacrifice space for amenities and an easy commute to Downtown Seattle. Only ten minutes to Pacific Place and five minutes to Broadway, Madison Park feels more like a small town miles away – a cozy lakeside community with strong social and economic ties. Walk to some of the best restaurants in town, play golf at Broadmoor Country Club, and put your name on the 10 year waitlist for The Seattle Tennis Club… all in one great neighborhood.

View Ridge

Along with its neighboring areas including Hawthorne Hills, and Wedgewood, View Ridge represents one of the hottest areas in Seattle. With consistently high appreciation, great views of Lake Washington, and easy access to University Village and the University of Washington, it’s easy to see why this area has remained so popular. The best part… unlike its luxurious neighbors in Windermere and Laurelhurst, $700,000 still buys a very nice house! With a fun mix of quiet streets, parks, yoga, and mid-century modern architecture, View Ridge is one of the most well rounded neighborhoods in the City. Grab some groceries at Metropolitan Market, take the dogs to Magnusson Park, and work off those Top Pot donuts on the Burke Gilman Trail.

Fremont/Green Lake

Every year Fremont and Green Lake seem to compete to become the trendiest and most popular neighborhood of the year. Both are great neighborhoods with a long history of appreciation, active lifestyles, and fun. With a balanced combination of old and new, including condos, apartments, and houses, both of these neighborhoods provide opportunities for all price ranges and personalities. On one hand Green Lake has the 3 mile loop for jogging and cycling, on the other Fremont has the Burke Gilman Trail. Green Lake has great restaurants and a Whole Foods nearby; Fremont has a PCC Natural Market, Oktoberfest, and enough trendy shops and restaurants to keep you busy for years. Bottom line, both neighborhoods have a distinct feel and edge – perfect for any active lifestyle or person.