04-26-10
Development Compromises
Washington State is ahead of the curve when it comes to realizing the potential negative impacts of growing development. In an article published in mid-2008, the Seattle Times reports that farmers can be paid to remain on their farms while the developers are paid to limit their development in these areas. The state, it appears, it serious about protecting their land and wildlife.
As developers move in to claim fertile soil and pristine lands to put on the market, local officials are countering by working with farmers to ensure they stay put and continue to do what they do best: provide local, sustainable produce, dairy, and hay to their community.
“[Andrew Albert's] 90 acres of green hay fields and barns near Arlington hug the Stillaguamish River, which, with some restoration, could be home to abundant salmon and clean water running into Puget Sound. The fields are a picturesque contrast to the sprawl of houses rising nearby. Horse owners line up to buy hay fresh from Albert’s fields.
So a few years ago, local politicians hit on an idea to keep Albert’s farm and others in this valley from turning into subdivisions: Get developers to pay Albert money to never build on his land. In return, the developers would get to build more houses elsewhere.” (Please click the above link to read more.)
The Puget Sound, while still very much alive, is threatened by increasing development and unconscientious developers. It is our duty as land sellers and buyers to be aware of these issues and to not use toxic chemicals that may leach into the waters of the Puget Sound. Talk to your contractor about how best to manage your land and assist in the protection and respect of the area.
04-21-10
Respect the Space
Washington State has an uncommonly large number of protected lands. Of the some 80 protected forests, wildernesses, park, monuments and wildlife refuges, it is a wonder that the great state has any room left over for residential and commercial development. This staggeringly large number says one thing (and loudly): Washingtonians are serious about protecting and respecting their land.
Before you decide in which region to purchase your little slice of heaven, look into the history of the surrounding area. Is your future property close to a protected area? Will there be zoning restrictions? Noise limitations? Issues with aesthetics? It is not uncommon for land to be purchased and for the owner to begin to build only to discover that certain rules and regulations are being broken. For example, always check with your contractor (who should be up to date on the laws of regional development) to determine if it is appropriate to dig. There may be regulations on how best to access water and road building restrictions. These are all important questions to be discussing during this process.
While the state’s many protected areas may appear to be a hindrance in terms of managing your land with ease, it’s actually fairly routine. It is true that because there are so many lands under state protection, there is less land available for development, but this just serves to provide you with more privacy and incredible natural views. Let’s be honest—you’re interested in Washington because you have a passion for the outdoors. Well, the outdoors awaits.
04-17-10
Economically Advantaged
We’ve discussed the agricultural scene of Washington, but it’s important to elaborate on all the other commodities and products that keep this state in business. If you’re planning to purchase land here and perhaps start an operation such as farming, ranching, or another form of production, it can be beneficial to know what else is going on around you. Being aware of your new surroundings and keeping up with the economy is the first step to successful investment and beneficial returns.
First and foremost, one cannot talk about Washington’s economy without mentioning the large presence of the Boeing Company. Specializing in the manufacturing of aircraft products, Boeing employs roughly 73,000 people in Washington alone and generates approximately 60 billion in revenue annually. The state also leads the nation in shipbuilding—the Puget Sound being the epicenter for both these industries.
Close behind, in terms of annual revenue, are the following: food processing, farming and livestock, mining, and fishing. Washington is also a leader in the real estate, personal finance, and insurance markets. The state is the unlikely hero behind such international giants such as Starbucks, Microsoft, REI, Nordstrom, and Amazon.com.
One wouldn’t think it when looking at the many towns, small urban centers, and coastal villages sprinkled all over the state, but the region is a true economic powerhouse, creating and owning many of our countries most successful businesses. Production and creativity is never lacking, with new ideas buzzing around all the time—also, cash flow never seems to be an issue. Rich in more ways than one, Washington is the perfect balance of serenity and productivity.
04-15-10
The Washington Coast
One of the joys of living in a state with such varied wildlife and scenery is the access to the coast. Sure, the mountains, rivers, rolling hills, vineyards, gorges and plains are all well and good, but one hasn’t fully experienced the awesome beauty of Washington until they’ve taken a trip to the coast.
For centuries, Washington’s livelihood has been focused on fishing. The harbors are home to numerous fishing villages, largely unchanged for decades. These villages and towns rest atop jagged cliffs where the waves crash and carve out the coastline. The fisherman haul in catches of Tuna, Sturgeon, and Salmon, among many others. And let’s never forget the bounty of fresh Razor Clams that come from the region. The freshness and availability of the seafood is only a tiny part of what makes Washington’s western region so special.
The native peoples of this region were settled, which means that were able to create a rich history rooted in the place. This culture is still alive and vibrant today, with Washingtonians fiercely proud of their heritage and traditions.
If you interested in the investing in land in Washington’s western half, take a visit up the coast. Talk to the local merchants and fishermen, and see what they have to say about what makes Washington a special and beautiful place to call home.
04-14-10
Two Vancouvers?
This author firmly believes, as it has been adequately expressed, that Washington is special. Nestled into the top left-hand corner of our country, it has a unique culture and a community vibe. It’s largest city, Seattle, has a municipal population of just 602,000 according to an April, 2009 estimate. Where ever you land in Washington will surely feel like home.
What helps to make this state so special is its balance of rural and urban culture. The Puget Sound region is largely metropolitan, while the outskirts and surrounding areas are forest and farm lands. A good example of this juxtaposition are the two Vancouvers.
Okay, so yes, the northern most Vancouver is in Canada. But hey, it’s a stone’s throw from the boarder and many Washingtonians make it a habit to visit this vibrant and multicultural city regularly. Winter snow? You got it. Delicious local catches and cuisine? Most definitely. Shopping, spas, parks, and beautiful old homes? Plenty. The southern Vancouver, however, sings a different tune. Right across the bridge from Portland, Oregon, this tiny town is host to farms, livestock, and acres of fertile land. In the summers, the Columbia River tempts residents to cool off and explore the Gorge’s many trails and views.
With so much to offer visitors and residents, it is no wonder that Washington’s tourism has been steadily increasing over the past few decades. As the state’s popularity increases, land becomes more and more valuable. Grab your piece of the pie today!
04-11-10
The Puget Sound
A jewel of Washington, the Puget Sound region is dotted with major cities such as Seattle, Bellingham, Tacoma, Everett, and Port Townsend. Vashon, Bainbridge, and Whidbey Islands, along with many others, are home to diverse populations and outstanding views.
Having lived in Tacoma for four years, I speak from first hand experience when I say that the Puget Sound region is truly like no other. The sense of community is palpable, and the access to water, snow, and mountain sports is unrivaled. One can hike in the Olympic National Forest, kayak in the Sound, and climb Mt. Vernon all in the same day if desired. The area is an outdoor-lover’s paradise. Densely populated around the coastline but sparse inland, Washington has something to offer the adventurer in each of us.
Is your idea of a great day shopping and navigating the maze of Pike’s Place Market in Seattle, or would you rather rent a boat and speed around the San Juan Islands to the north? Snow shoe, or dine on fresh crab, halibut, and sablefish with a glass of local Riesling? One has to ask oneself, why not do it all?
If you’re considering purchasing land in the Pacific Northwest, explore all the Puget Sound region has to offer. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
04-09-10
It’s Best to Invest
Well, I’ve hyped Washington quite enough for one week. I think it’s pretty clear that this state is one of the nation’s very best in terms of beautiful land, kind, smart people, and quality of life. So now would be the time to talk about the rewards of your decision to invest in the land of this great state.
First: high return. At the moment (as you may have noticed), the market is hurtin’. Foreclosed plots are at record highs and folks are looking to sell land as laughably low prices. As you also may have noticed, this are getting—albeit, slowly—better. Now would be the very best time to snap up land. If you’re looking to resell later on, buying at these prices is a sure deal. If you’re interested in building, land value will only increase and property tax is, at the moment, still quite low.
Second: growth. Washington’s economy is growing rapidly, as is its population. Cities like Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Bellingham, and more are experiencing new waves of development. You would be moving onto land that will be soon in high demand.
Finally: access. I’ve already stated the fact that Washington residents will likely never have trouble accessing water, but the access I’m referring to now is expansion. If one were to buy now, they would likely have room to grow on their own land. Land Central has many options for sparsely populated rural lands. And if one so wished, they would be able to grow without having to move.
So many choices! So little time…
04-07-10
An Intelligent State of Mind
Washington has some darn good ideas. Like this one, published by Cooler Planet:
Called zHomes, the 10 units, scheduled for completion in the spring of 2011, will feature townhomes that generate as much energy as they use, first by using cutting-edge construction technologies to reduce each unit’s energy use by almost two-thirds (or 5,255 kilowatt-hours per year, as compared to an average 13,989). These technologies also take advantage of large amounts of recycled material, as well as materials with lower VOCs (volatile organic compounds) for healthy indoor air.
But the crowning achievement is the installation of solar photovoltaic panels to provide for the entire reduced energy footprint, energy-efficient appliances to keep that footprint small, and water conservation policies that mean residents also use 60 percent less water than similarly-sized homes by recycling rainwater and using all water-efficient appliances.
These homes will also be affordable, demonstrating to builders, buyers, and policymakers that this is possible and that even “average wage earners can live sustainably.”
If you are considering purchasing land in Washington, please consider implementing these water saving techniques. With the area’s rainfall, utilizing rain barrels and other systems, water use could be dramatically reduced. Washington residents are increasingly hopping on board with these progressive and effective ideas. Come see what change looks like!
04-04-10
WA Agriculture: Variety is the Spice of Life
Because of the variety of climate zones in the state, Washington has the ability to produce a range of varied crops. The rain shadow, courtesy of the Cascades, splits the state in terms of rainfall, with the eastern steppe receiving often less than 18” annually, while west of the mountains, rain fall is abundant, averaging roughly 40” per year. What makes Washington stand out in terms of soil is the fact that much of the area has been formed, albeit 6-17 million years ago, by a series of powerful volcanic eruptions. This means that the soil is still today rich and loamy in the valleys. As farmers will tell you, the chemical content of volcanic soils is some of the best in the world (see: plants love nitrogen).
As explained by the Washington Agricultural Department, over 10,00 years ago receding glaciers across the state scraped the topsoil, creating valleys, rivers and streams, washing many tons of fertile soil into the flood plains. Known as the Columbia River Valley today, the region is famed for its vineyards and capabilities to produce some of the world’s best Pinots and Cabernets.
Farmland covers roughly 35% of the state and comes in second only to California is terms of variety of crops produced (about 230). Perhaps not surprisingly, Washington’s highest cash crop is apples. Each year, 57% of the nation’s apples are shipped from the state.
If you’re interested in purchasing farmlands to begin your own agricultural endeavors, Washington offers a myriad of options. From flood plains, to fertile valleys, dry deserts, to the steep eastern steppe, the state’ economy is fixed firmly to the land. A characteristic that means that the population is highly aware of it’s value, and works to protect it.
04-03-10
Buying Washington Land: Brrrr….
Washington is cold. Often. I’d say from experience, Washington isn’t what most people would call “warm” for about eight or nine months out of the year. The temperature begins to drop in around mid-September, hovers around the 30s from late October through around March, then picks up to the 50s until mid-May. June through Auguest, though—wow. Worth every penny. The joy of the climate shift in the Pacific Northwest is the shift in the people. When the sun comes out, even if it’s not particularly strong, everyone is outside. The joy and excitement in the seasonal shift is palpable. This phenomenon is unique to the region. Late spring, summer and early fall Washington truly comes alive. Gardens are sown, parks are restored, and outdoors games such as Ultimate Frisbee (popular in the region), baseball, and weekend football are commonplace in public spaces. Artists take their canvases outside. Writers pen in the parks. Farmers markets abound and the land’s rich and delicious produce is sold to hungry and eager communities. Every drop of sun must be absorbed, for it is indeed fleeting.
One must be prepared for the grey months ahead. But don’t let this discourage you. These are times for preserving the summer’s bounty: canning, making jams from cascade berries (Reiner cherries, anyone?) and making stocks. It is an exciting time in a Washingtonian’s life, and there is real camaraderie shared within the region. Enjoy the Washington summers—they are gorgeous, not to mention precious.
