Local Realtors are reporting that buyers are still flocking to scenic Vancouver, Washington, one of the most beautiful places along the Pacific Coast.
"We are growing quickly," says Realtor Cyndy Hansen. "With careful planning by our building permit department we are making sure the comfort and convenience for commuting and enjoying our beautiful scenery will continue into the future."
"The Clark County Washington area is still one of the most desirable markets on the West Coast," says Hansen. "Compared to Seattle, Portland Oregon, or even California's market we are still enticing buyers into this area. The appreciation of the value on homes has been close to 10 percent in most cases. Yet we still have some of the best prices in desirable neighborhoods. Our communities are well planned, and our schools are thriving.
She offers, "It's a great place to retire and enjoy the tax benefits! You're only two hours at most from most anything you can want. We have many scenic areas, The Columbia River Gorge, beaches, mountains, and lots of beautiful parks with plentiful wild life. There are cultural exhibits and clubs to enjoy. You can participate in many outdoor festivals from BBQ cook off contests to the biggest Blues Festival on the West Coast. Come for a visit and see for yourself."
"Vancouver is the gateway to Clark County," says Realtor Stan Callan. "It is situated along the Columbia River just north of Portland, Oregon in the heart of the Pacific N.W. and 'Recreation Heaven.' It is the oldest city in the state, currently the fourth 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 7.8 percent and there is no state income tax. Vancouver has cultural richness along with a progressive, people-oriented government. Currently, about 153,000 people make Vancouver their home and the numbers of new residents are growing daily. The current median price of homes sold in the Cascade Park and Fisher's Landing areas of Vancouver is $186,800."
"Most areas of Clark County are within 30 minutes of Interstate bridges to Oregon (I-5 or I-205)," says Realtor Donna Wells, "Clark County is home to an International Port, the Vancouver Campus of Washington State University, a number of high-tech manufacturers including Hewlett Packard and Wafer Tech, and gateway to the Columbia Gorge, Mt. St. Helen's Visitors Center and tremendous natural beauty for pursuit of fishing, hiking, mountain climbing, hunting and water sports."
Wells explains, "Clark County has enjoyed unsurpassed growth and appreciation over the past decade. Average price of a home in Clark County in May 2004 was $235,900, up from $218,000 in May 2003. A shortage of inventory (2.7 months supply) means homes sell quickly (average market time 48 days). Average sales price has reached double-digit appreciation. The last 12 months show an average price 11.2 percent higher than for the 12 months prior. Generally, although the market is active throughout the year, the annual appreciation peaks between February and June."
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Published: July 2, 2004
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