Mercer Island residents know—our city is a very wonderful, unique place to live. As a seasoned real estate agent who has lived and worked on the island for almost 20 years and watched the real estate market fluctuate, I can safely say that this community is, and always has been, a friendly, stable and welcoming place to live. With a top-rated school district, proximity to Seattle and surrounded by Lake Washington, Mercer Island offers the perfect locale for a wide range of buyers—from the young commuter to the expanding family.
Measuring in at six square miles, the island is currently home to about 22,000 residents, many of whom are families and professionals. Even though it is located between Seattle and the Eastside, Mercer Island retains a "small-town" feeling, and residents are very involved in community life, including elections, fundraisers and annual festivals. And while the views from the waterfront enclaves on the island are truly breathtaking, the interior contains more than 475 acres of parks and open space, fostering trails for bike-riders, beaches for families and parks for canine companions. There are more than 50 miles of marked walking trails. Luther Burbank a standout park with 77acres along a ¾ mile stretch of waterfront at the northeast end of the island. Aside from water sports and public fishing, there are tennis courts, picnic areas with barbeques and children’s play structure.
Many "Islanders", commute to work either in Seattle or the Eastside. On the north end of the island, an expanded park-and-ride provides commuters with an option for travelling to and from work. New development on the north end of the island, has created a vibrant business district, is also known as the Town Center. New projects surrounding the Town Center will add more retail and office space to the area, as well as new apartments, condominiums and senior living units. This neighborhood is great for young couples looking to start a life on the island. With restaurants, bars and shops, it’s a great place for those who like to socialize.
Families seeking the best education for their children will find it on Mercer Island. Last month I wrote an article for this website about the relationship between home value and highly ranked school districts. The Mercer Island School District is highly ranked within the state, as well as nationally standardized test scores. This not only ensures Islander students a strong educational foundation, but also proves a worthy investment when buying a home in the area.
Aside from the varied architecture, fantastic views and potential for waterfront property, owning a home on Mercer Island offers the chance to live in a spirited community full of intelligent, creative individuals who care about their community. Mercer Island is already a special place to live. As it grows and develops in years to come, a property in this city will not only provide a family home, it can also be an investment in the future.
