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Western Washington is renowned for its stunning coastlines and lush landscapes, offering some of the most desirable waterfront properties in the Pacific Northwest. With a coastline defined by majestic mountains and quiet bays, Western WA offers more than a home, but a unique lifestyle.
Whether you dream of owning a luxury retreat on Bainbridge Island, a cottage on Whidbey Island, or a private dock on Lake Washington, there’s no shortage of amazing spots to choose from. This guide covers everything you need to know about buying, owning, and living in a waterfront property in Western WA.
Western Washington offers unique geographical features that make waterfront real estate particularly desirable:
Western Washington offers a wide variety of waterfront real estate and settings:
| Oceanfront Homes | Found along the Pacific Coast and Puget Sound, these properties offer expansive views, access to beaches, and saltwater activities. |
| Lakefront Homes | Popular lakes include Lake Washington, Lake Sammamish, Lake Union, and Lake Chelan. These homes are perfect for those who enjoy swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. |
| Riverfront Properties | The Skagit, Snoqualmie, and Cedar Rivers offer serene settings and fishing opportunities. |
| Island Properties | Whidbey Island and San Juan Islands feature secluded waterfront homes in Washington with ferry access. |
Here are some of the most sought-after waterfront communities in Western WA:
Enjoy urban waterfront living with access to marinas, parks, and cultural amenities. Seattle neighborhoods like Laurelhurst, Madison Park, and Leschi feature high-end homes with lake views and private docks.
Bellevue offers stunning views of Lake Washington, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for daily life. Residents enjoy easy access to boating, kayaking, and outdoor recreation, all just moments from the vibrant city amenities.
Known for luxury estates and proximity to tech hubs, Mercer Island offers the perfect blend of privacy and convenience, with top-rated schools and stunning lakefront homes.
Accessible by ferry, Bainbridge Island offer a peaceful retreat with property types including charming cottages and luxury estate with private beaches. Residents can enjoy boutique shopping and restaurants, and waterfront hiking trails and marinas.
Whidbey Island features waterfront properties with scenic views, historic towns, and a relaxed rural lifestyle. Mutiny Bay is especially known for its sandy beaches and sunset views.
Popular for water sports and family-friendly communities, Lake Sammamish is the perfect location for those looking for a high quality of life while maintaining proximity to work centers like Sammamish. Homes here often include private docks and access to trails and parks.
Known for its picturesque harbor and maritime history, Gig Harbor offers waterfront properties with deep-water frontages and stunning views of Mount Rainier.
The San Juan archipelago is known for its unspoiled beauty, diverse wildlife, and quiet pace of life. Waterfront properties here often include lots of acreage, privacy, and access to boating, kayaking, and whale watching.
Currently, mortgage rates in Western WA are as follows*:
*The above rates are based on a $600,000 loan, 800+ credit score, and single-family primary residence.
Mortgage rates change frequently. Please check back to our rate quote page regularly to get the most current rates and APRs.
Buying a waterfront property comes with unique challenges. Here are a few important things to keep in mind:
Washington’s Shoreline Management Act (SMA) regulates what can be built or modified near water. This can affect things like docks and piers, retaining walls, landscaping, tree removal, and new construction or additions.
Be sure to check with the local municipality for guidelines.
Some waterfront properties are in designated floodplains or coastal erosion zones. If buying a waterfront property in this type of location, you may need FEMA flood insurance, additional private insurance, and a survey or elevation certificate
Make sure to check the flood zone before making an offer.
Many waterfront homes in Washington outside city limits rely on private wells for water and septic systems for wastewater. These components should be thoroughly inspected during the home buying process before finalizing a deal, as replacement or repair can be costly and heavily regulated near water bodies.
Properties on the ocean or bluffs may be more vulnerable to landslides or cliff erosion, with sea walls that may require regular maintenance.
Ask to see engineering reports or historical erosion data before making an offer on a home.
Verify if the water access is private, public, or shared. Further, be sure to confirm whether there are any easements or legal rights to the shoreline or dock from the property.
To make a smart purchase of a waterfront property in Western Washington, consider the following tips:
Buying a waterfront property comes with additional costs that the average home may not require. Before making an offer on a waterfront property, be sure to budget for the following additional expenses:
Consider access to water, shoreline stability, environmental restrictions, and potential flood or erosion risks.
Yes, many waterfront areas are protected by environmental laws that may restrict development, shoreline modifications, or dock construction.
Compare similar properties, consider water access, view quality, shoreline condition, and recent sales in the area.
It depends on local zoning, environmental regulations, and shoreline permits. Consult local agencies before planning construction.
Expect additional costs for higher insurance, shoreline maintenance, seawalls, and docks.
Traditional mortgages are available, but lenders may have stricter requirements due to higher risks associated with waterfront real estate.
Look for a seasoned mortgage company, like Sammamish Mortgage, with experience in providing loans for these unique types of homes.
Waterfront living in Western Washington is just as much a real estate choice as it is a lifestyle investment. Whether you’re looking for the serenity of a lake or the rugged beauty of the Pacific coast, there’s a property for you.
If you’re looking to buy a waterfront property in Western Washington, we can help. At Sammamish Mortgage, we offer various mortgage home loan programs in WA, OR, ID, CO, and CA. Visit our website to get an instant rate quote, or get in touch with us today to have your mortgage questions answered!
Whether you’re buying a home or ready to refinance, our professionals can help.
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No Obligation and transparency 24/7. Instantly compare live rates and costs from our network of lenders across the country. Real-time accurate rates and closing costs for a variety of loan programs custom to your specific situation.