What's a View Worth on Mercer Island?

I’ve seen a lot of view homes lately. Some with FANTASTIC views that make you feel like you’re on top of the world. Or at least a mountain. Sweeping visas of Lake Washington, the Olympic Mountains, and the Seattle skyline. When you can see forever from the bathtub, it’s easy to fall in love with a house.

But of course, that view comes at a price, both in dollars and in other features that may be compromised. For instance, the homes with the best views tend to be up high, right? Hello, steep driveway! And with that driveway comes (most likely) a very small area at the top for guests to park and turn around.

It’s also very likely you’ll be compromising on yard space. There’s not usually much room for a yard on a hillside. This tends to be a big turn-off for families with kids since there’s nowhere for the kids to play outside.

Floor plan is another factor that may be sacrificed to take full advantage of the best views. You’d be hard-pressed to find a home with great views from every room that doesn’t also have a lot of stairs and a–shall we say, creative–layout.

Of course, everyone’s real estate wishes and dreams are different. If a view is high on your list, go for it! You’ll be able to spend your evenings relaxing on the deck off your master suite, enjoying a glass of wine while watching the sunset over the Olympics and the Seattle skyline. Every time you look out the window, you’ll be glad you did.