In select cities across the state of Washington, including Spokane, Vancouver and Tacoma, local Realtors are reporting seller's markets.
Spokane
"Spokane is the largest metropolitan area in the Inland Northwest," says Realtor Bruce Hardie. "In August, the traditional "take it easy" month, it was anything but as home sales continued to be hot. Year-to-date sales are ahead of 2002 by 543 homes. New construction sales for the year are 185 ahead of the same period a year ago. The slight rise in mortgage rates did not seem to have much effect on sales. Some consider the percentage rise in mortgages move some buyers to take advantage of the rates that are still the best in four decades move any higher."
Vancouver
"Vancouver is the gateway to Clark County," says Realtor Stan Callan. " It is situated along the Columbia River just north of Portland, Oregon and in the heart of the Pacific N.W. and "Recreation Heaven."
Callan explains, "Vancouver is the oldest city in the state, currently the 4th largest, and growing at a rapid pace due to the emergence of high-tech and manufacturing industries along with thousands of service-oriented businesses. The education systems are strong and well supported by the voters. The current sales tax is 7.7 percent and there is no state income tax. Vancouver has cultural richness along with a progressive, people-oriented government. Currently, about 140,000 people make Vancouver their home and the numbers of new residents are growing daily. The current median prices of homes sold in the Cascade Park / Fisher's Landing area (Vancouver's newest area) are approximately $156,000."
Tacoma
"Close to freeways, Puget Sound, Universities, Tacoma lets you walk to parks, shops, restaurants and downtown," suggests Realtor Tracey Kosenski. "The housing market remains strong in Pierce County,with average market times on homes being sold around 64 days. Homes sales are being driven by the lowest interest rates in years, and the growth and revitalization of Tacoma's downtown core doesn't hurt either. This is an exciting place to be right now. The proximity of our area to freeways, commerce and recreation areas rivals any of our big city counterparts and you can simply afford more home for your money here, with the average price of single family homes in the $190,000. range. Pierce county also offers a wide variety of housing choices, whether you are looking for new construction in single family or condominiums or the warmth and charm of older homes and condominiums you'll find it here."
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Published: September 24, 2003
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