Wine Tasting Party on August 5, 2009, 5:30pm, Bellevue.
A decade or more ago, vineyards slowly began sprouting up among the apple orchards that have long made the Wenatchee-Chelan area famous worldwide. Now this area is emerging as one of the premier wine-growing regions in Washington, producing numerous fine wines from nearly a dozen varietals. In fact, many of our local wineries have won national and international competitions and recognition.
One of the earliest wineries to establish itself in this region was Chateau Faire Le Pont in Wenatchee and has been voted as the #1 winery in North Central Washington. The name "Faire Le Pont", according to the winery's website, is from a French term meaning "bridging the gap" which is used when a holiday falls mid-week and you are having such a great time that you decide to go ahead and extend it through the weekend. Well this coming Wednesday, August 5th, isn't a holiday, but we've decided to celebrate anyway with a fun Wine Tasting Party at the Windermere Bellevue Commons! As a friend of Sun Mesa Preserve, you're invited!
While we're tasting a number of the best wines from Chateau Faire Le Pont (including the superb Tre Amore) paired with just the right cheese and chocolates, we'll have an opportunity to hear from Debe Brazil and learn more about what it was like to "Open a Wine Business in an Area New to the Wine Industry". You'll also have an opportunity to meet the winemaker, Doug Brazil, and ask him how he produces such great wines! (although we can't guarantee he'll divulge his secrets.)
We all know that Sun Mesa is at the "Gateway to Recreation" so we've also invited another very special guest to present at our Party - Osprey Rafting of Leavenworth, Washington will be there sharing tales of rafting adventures down the Wenatchee River. If you've never tried this thrilling sport, then you'll be surprised how fun and easy it is to enjoy. And, of course, if you've rafted before then you already know! The great thing about Sun Mesa is that there are so many nearby outdoor recreation adventures to participate in -- and we think Osprey River Rafting adventures will be one you'll want to do every year!
So please join us on Wednesday, August 5th. You'll need to RSVP as space is limited. A fine wine is a great way to enjoy a pleasant summer evening and what could be more fun than hearing about tales of river rafting? (Well, rafting the river for yourself, but we'll save that adventure for another occasion.)
Great wine, fun people and good conversation. Hope to see you on Wednesday evening for Sun Mesa Preserve's Wine-Tasting Party!
Whether it's the heart-stopping thrill of whitewater rapids that gets you going or the peacefulness of paddling on a quiet lake in the early hours of the morning, you'll find your ideal kayaking adventure lies not far from the small town of Entiat, Washington. This town, long known as the "gateway to recreation", is in the very center of many ideal kayaking lakes and rivers.
Let's start with one of the most wild and adventuresome -- the Chelan River. For decades this four-mile long river bed has been dry, but has now suddenly been thrust into the national kayaking spotlight as the Chelan PUD has agreed to allow kayakers to run it on two separate weekends in July, 2009 and July and September, 2010. Although short, it has more thrills than most of us our willing to endure. Given that the treacherous three-tenths long section through the Chelan Gorge is rated Class VI, this opportunity is only for experts. Me? I hope to be on the banks with my camera as those willing to accept the risks dare to run it.
At the other end of the spectrum -- where I'm at -- are the more peaceful waters of Lake Entiat and Lake Chelan, although it should be noted that even these lakes can be quite a challenge when the wind kicks up. The northern 30 miles of Lake Chelan are particularly ideal for an extended kayaking adventure. Bring your gear and plan on staying overnight along the way at one of several camping spots accessible only by water. One of my favorites is the Domke Falls Campground, located about 10 miles south of Stehekin. If you have extra time, be sure to take the hike up past the falls to Domke Lake. There are many great photo ops along the way.
Lake Entiat also lends itself to extended overnight adventures. The Chelan PUD maintains numerous campgrounds along its shores. With a little advance planning, one could spend a night at each of these parks over a several day period. Alternatively, put-in at the Entiat City Park and take a few hours to explore the local shores of Entiat and the mouth of the Entiat River.
The Entiat River has several excellent runs for different levels of ability and without the crowds of other rivers emptying into the Columbia River. The lower 12-mile stretch from Stelico to the confluence with the Columbia offers a pleasant paddle with fairly consistent Class II rapids and the occasional Class III drop. Scenery along the way includes many small farms and orchards and you can watch how the vegetation changes dramatically from forest to desert as you get closer to the Columbia.
An upper 3-mile section of the Entiat River runs from Lake Creek Campground to the National Forest Boundary. The rapids through the canyon are Class IV+, but it calms down for the final couple of miles to Class II or III. You will likely have the river to yourself as many kayakers opt instead to run the nearby Wenatchee River.
By far the most popular river for both kayaking and rafting in this part of Central Washington is the Wenatchee River. The Wenatchee River Festival is held each year in mid-June and includes a down river race, beer garden, silent auction and kayaking film presentation. Along some 60 miles of the Wenatchee you'll find a range of adventures. Choose the 19-mile run from Lake Wenatchee to Tumwater Canyon for an enjoyable Class II route. Run Tumwater Canyon to Leavenworth for 7 miles for a thrilling Class IV-V outing that won't soon be forgotten. From Leavenworth to Monitor enjoy 18-miles of Class III rapids and from Peshastin Creek to Cashmere is the Class II-III 10-mile run.
Whichever route you choose, be sure to go prepared and research current conditions before you put-in. If you're inexperienced, contact one of the many guiding services in the area. They'll be able to help you get the experience to learn this exciting sport and provide all the equipment you'll need for a safe and thoroughly fun adventure!
Everyone knows that last fall's financial squeeze put a huge damper on real estate sales. In many areas sales have slowed to a trickle. This has been particularly true with recreation properties and in the second-home markets. Interested buyers, sensing a continuing downward pricing trend, simply chose to wait on the sidelines to "see what happens".
Already, though, many market followers and savvy consumers are starting to believe that the bottom in the market may have been reached. Super-low interest rates, discounted prices and great selection may, in fact, make this an excellent time to buy. So now here's the question -- as real estate buyers return to the recreation real estate market, what changes will there be on their wish lists? What new viewpoints will they have as they renew their interests in owning a vacation property?
Here's a look at what we believe second-home and recreational property buyers will be looking for in 2009.
What's IN
| What's OUT
|
| 4-Season Outdoor Adventure | Golf |
| High-Quality, Sensible Homes | Luxury Trophy Homes |
| Health & Fitness Programs | Pampering at Spas |
Hiking & Biking Paths
| Concierge Service
|
| Common Gathering Areas and Parks | Walled or Fenced Enclaves |
| Lifelong Learning & Cultural Offerings | Lounge Chairs |
| A Strong Sense of Community | Exclusive Country Clubs |
| Family Barbecues | Fine Dining |
| Family-Oriented Programming | Child Care Programs |
| Genuine Places with Enduring Value | Contrived, Over-Designed Resorts |
Big is out; Sensible is in
The new buyers are more focused on the enjoyment of owning the second home and spending quality time there with their family and friends. They're less concerned with the investment potential or the status symbol of owning a "trophy" home. This year's home designs will be scaled down and have more of a family and intimate entertaining focus. While luxury trophy homes may be out (for now), buyers will still enjoy high quality -- they'll just want it to be designed more responsibly and environmentally and with greater value per dollar spent.
Another major shift is the increased focus on health and fitness. According to a recent Resort Real Estate Survey*, "Increasing desire for quality time with family and friends and passionate pursuits of good health and wellness remain key drivers of household decisions." These passionate pursuits in Chelan, Washington include ample opportunities for enjoying the outdoors in all four seasons, such as boating, skiing, fishing, hiking, biking, snow mobiling, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, kayaking and many more. Golf is still on the list, of course; it's just that this year it seems it is not an essential requirement for selecting a recreation community.
Back to Basics
Many recreation community buyers in the past have sought out luxury amenities, such as concierge, fine dining opportunities and exclusive clubs. This year, forget "luxury and extravagance" and think "sensible and responsible". These new buyers are looking for vacation homes that provide a strong sense of community where they'll "fit in". Opportunities to walk the dog to a neighborhood park or a liesurely hike to a viewpoint to enjoy an evening sunset are more important than the availability of in-house massage facilities. Outdoor kitchens and patios to entertain gatherings of friends and family are valued more than having fine dining just down the street.
Recreation property buyers do want, though, to be close to culturally interesting places with opportunities to enjoy music, theater and wine-tasting and to continue their educational pursuits. It's not just about relaxing by the pool in the sun; today's buyers are looking for new ways to extend themselves, increase their social circles and enjoy their family time.
Along with this "back to basics" attitude comes a new interest in authenticity. To appeal to this new view, successful recreation communities will have genuine qualities with enduring value. These will be the places which will never lose their appeal and as children or grand-children grow up, the family will still enjoy the purchase made today long into the future.
* Resort Real Estate Survey, Christopher Kelsey & David Norden, April 21, 2009.
Remember the old adage "buy low, sell high"? For many, this seemingly simple strategy has failed to deliver on its promise of profits, particularly over the past year. Why? It isn't because it's bad advice; it has more to do with the fact that for most of us we tend to make our decisions based on emotion. Our confidence tends to build right along with steadily rising prices and trends. Thus, we tend to make our buying decisions while investment opportunities appear to be rising seemingly ever upward. And we tend to sell while prices are plummeting downward in an effort to "get out while we can" and stave off further losses.
Herd Mentality.
All markets, whether real estate, commodities or the stock market, tend to run in cycles. Our tendency to believe that markets will continue ever upward (or ever downward!) lead to what is often called the "herd mentality" (or what I sometimes think of as the "lemming approach to investment") where we see the largest influx of investment funds at market peaks and the largest withdrawals at market bottoms. In fact, the amount of funds withdrawn from mutual funds in 4Q, 2008 was at record levels. This, of course, results in "buy high, sell low" -- the opposite of most investment strategy goals!
Early Bird.
Most of us are familiar with Benjamin Franklin's quote regarding the "early bird" (you remember... something about getting the worm?). Well, recently Warren Buffet was quoted as saying, "I can't predict the short-term movements of the stock market... What is likely, however, is that the market will move higher... well before either sentiment or the economy turns up. So if you wait for the robins, spring will be over."
Bulls Are Back?
Given that short-term predictions are extremely difficult to forecast, it can be safely said that in the long-term they will again move upward. In fact, after nearly two years of downward trends in the stock market, there are now a few cautious bulls at the gate. In the past seven weeks, the Dow-Jones average has risen over 23%, perhaps signaling what just may well be the start of the next upward bull market cycle. There are also signs that the real estate market has officially "bottomed" as well. Last month, in many parts of the country, both sales rates and prices moved upward for the first time in over a year.
Rational, Consistent Investments.
What investment strategy, then, tends to work the best over the long-term? According to many financial advisors, the effects of emotion can be taken out of the equation through an investment strategy of purchasing at regular intervals over a longer time frame. Real estate in particular has proven to be a consistent long-term wealth-builder. Consider a median-home purchased ten years ago, nationally on average, would have increased in value by over 50% -- that's even when you include the price drops experienced in many parts of the country this past year! The Seattle metropolitan market faired even better, experiencing a 73% rise even after adjusting for recent price drops.
Market cycles, market corrections and market trends will always be with us. Whether you believe in lemmings or robins, bulls or bears, now is the time to implement a new, successful long-term market and real estate investment strategy.
Or maybe they just look younger?
Well, actually, we don't have the scientific data to answer these intriguing questions, but we do believe that the community that you choose to live in can have a big effect on your health, longevity and happiness. To be sure, many studies have shown that people who stay physically active, eat well and have strong social circles are much more likely to live longer, healthier and happier lives.
My own experience is that wellness starts with the community and builds from there. In the Chelan area there are so many recreational opportunities to enjoy the outdoor living lifestyle, that good fitness tends to come naturally. The many hiking trails, biking trails, golf courses, lakes and streams provide outdoor recreation literally at your doorstep. The region, too, now has many organic growers offering high quality fruit and produce. And, though the towns of Chelan, Wenatchee and Entiat are all fairly small, they do support a wide variety of cultural activities and events that the communities are involved in.
But off course, there's also a bit of the "chicken or the egg" principle at work here in that the area's natural beauty, recreation and great weather also just naturally attract healthy, younger-than-their-age people to come live here.
In the neighborhoods that I've had an opportunity to help design, we've always looked for ways to increase opportunities to know your neighbors and enjoy outdoor recreation within your own community. This can be as simple as providing trails, view point parks or barbeque pits. Or more elaborate clubhouses, swimming pools, golf courses or equestrian centers. Either way, sustainable communities with these extra amenities tend to have people who are healthier and happier.
Take the REAL AGE Test!
So to get back to the original question... do people living in Chelan Washington live longer? I'd like to invite you to take the "Real Age" test and help us find out. If you live in the Chelan or Wenatchee area (or wish that you did!), go to Real Age Free Test to find out if your biological age (the age of your body based on how well you've maintained it) is older or younger than your actual age. Then with the results in hand, return to the Sun Mesa Blog home page and provide your answer in the form provided. We'll tabulate all of the answers and share the results with our readers!
So what's my real age, you're asking? I'll never tell, but I will say that I do support my own theory!
Nutshell:
Entiat, Wa: The recreational community of Sun Mesa Preserve located near Lake Chelan, Washington offers owners a four season "resort like" feeling, yet with hundreds of acres of natural wildlife habitat and open space, owners experience the seclusion and privacy of a living in a nature preserve. Conceived as a "green community", this timeless landscape has 90% of its land set within permanent open space and is nearly surrounded by another 100,000+ acres of public lands. With only a very limited number of homesites, the natural beauty and wildlife of the Preserve will be protected for generations to come.
Sun Mesa Preserve has been conceived and developed with a primary focus on the preservation of its original natural and open feeling, as well as a focus on utilizing environmentally sustainable design concepts and construction techniques and materials. A set of Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CCRs) has been developed to help regulate and conserve the Preserve's particular private silence amid its panoramic, magnificent scenic vistas of Lake Entiat, the Columbia River Valley and the surrounding mountains.
Location:
Just a few miles from Lake Chelan in sunny Central Washington, Sun Mesa overlooks the small town of Entiat and the Columbia River, and is located at the "gateway to recreation". Just up the hill off Highway 97A: take the Shearson Street exit in Entiat, right onto Entiat Way, left at Auvil Avenue and follow the road to Sun Mesa Drive. Located midway between Lake Chelan and Wenatchee, it's just a 2½ hour drive from Seattle.
The Homesites:
A limited selection of home sites is available in the first release, Redstone Canyon (7 available). All home sites are in parcels of at least 20 acres in size and are carefully sited to maximize views and protect homeowner privacy. The second phase, Entiaqua, will be released in August 2009 and will include just 7 additional home sites with spectacular 360-degree views of Lake Entiat and the surrounding mountains.
Community Features:
Spectacular mountain setting on the edge of the high desert landscape. Deep canyons plunge 1000 feet below the homesites; then rises to an elevation of 3300 feet reaching a broad, flat mesa top -- a very exceptional feature within the Cascade Mountains. The mesa is ideal for all kinds of recreation from mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing or just a leisurely stroll.
• The extensive trail system provides adventures throughout the Preserve for all abilities with numerous viewpoints and gathering areas along the trails.
• Nearly 90% of the land is permanently preserved in open space and wildlife habitat.
• Green community with all homes required to meet a minimum 2-star Builtgreen rating.
A wonderful feeling of remoteness and seclusion, yet located only minutes from the community hubs of Chelan and Entiat with available city services, groceries, restaurants and over a mile of public waterfront and parks.
Future Amenities:
• The Clubhouse featuring pools, spa, fitness center, meeting rooms and grill
• Equestrian & Mountain Bike Center with access to miles of trails within the nature preserve; horse boarding
• Community viewpoint park
Project Team:
Designed by Robert Yount Associates, the same planning firm behind the acclaimed communities of Bear Mountain Ranch, Clos CheValle, Hawk's Meadow and Grandview Village all located at nearby Lake Chelan, Washington.
Real Estate Sales:
Rica Insley, Laura Mounter Real Estate. Co, 509-630-6482
Media Contact:
Robert Yount, Sun Mesa Preserve, 800-959-7654
###
Well, you knew that with our logo and all, it was only a matter of time ‘till we did a blog on all the adorable mule deer that have been making the Preserve their home this past winter. So, knowing that the wildlife habitat at the Preserve is ideal winter range, I packed up my camera a few weeks ago and took a hike in the hills above Entiat, Washington to see if I could get a few shots to share with you. As it happened, good photos weren't too hard to find -- there were mule deer almost everywhere I looked. In fact, from one particular vantage point I was able to count over 100 deer! I'm quite certain there were yet another hundred or more hiding within the various gullies and draws just out of my line of sight.
Personally, I find mule deer to be incredibly cute, what with their large ears that move independently -- like the "rabbit ears" of your grandfather's television set -- constantly resetting to pick up the best reception. They're similar in appearance to the ears of a mule, which is from where, of course, they get their name.
Mule deer usually hear you coming long before you've spotted them, which was pretty much the case for me. They gave me the "eye" for a bit, to see if I was a threat, then went back to grazing, albeit just a bit farther away. But try to get a little closer and they'll quickly move on over the next ridge with the largest buck taking one last look over his shoulder to make sure you're not following.
As I rounded one corner, though, I startled a group of about a dozen. They took off in their characteristic, yet highly unusual gait, moving in a series of stiff-legged jumps and hops with all four feet hitting the ground together, their small white rumps and black-tipped, white drooping tails receding quickly over the next hill. Amazingly, mule deer can reach distances of over 8 yards with each "hop" using this peculiar, bounding leap and for a short while, they can reach speeds of up to 45 mph. These are definitely not the leisurely, graceful leaps of their close cousin, the white tail deer.
Wildlife Preservation
Late winter is actually a great time for mule deer watching. While in the summer they tend to "stay low" during the hot daylight hours, during the winter they come down from the higher elevations to escape the colder temperatures and deeper snow, where there is a better chance of finding food in their traditional "winter range" areas. During this time they seem to have a preference for the open hillsides and rocky slopes where they graze, which makes them easier to spot (although they do tend to blend in to the hillside rather well as you can see -- or can you? -- in the video). As the winter snow melts, they begin to move back to higher ground, thus most of the photos in the video were taken above the 2000' level.
I hope you enjoy these photos... the mule deer video's about 2 minutes long, and don't forget to turn your speakers on, there's a nice soundtrack, to boot.
Many years ago, when I first started working on the resort master plan for Bear Mountain Ranch in Chelan, Washington, we looked to the recreation-oriented projects surrounding Bend, Oregon as our models. At that time, there simply weren't many significant recreational communities anywhere in Washington and we couldn't help but notice the similarities that the Chelan-Wenatchee area had with Central Oregon - friendly small towns, high desert arid climate, surrounding mountains, deep rivers and beautiful scenery pretty much everywhere you looked. It seemed fairly obvious then, that North Central Washington had all the same things going for it that was making Bend, Oregon so successful. It was just a matter of time.
Now, 20 years later, I can see how Central Washington is finally showing the signs of that huge potential. In particular, the area stretching along the Columbia River from Vantage to Pateros has seen numerous quality projects created during the past decade or so. More are undoubtedly on the way. In fact, the Wenatchee area is one of the very few spots in the country that has been minimally affected by the recent downturn in the real estate market. Prices have not tumbled here, but have remained steady. Why this is so is the subject of another blog, but I will point out that it's partly due to the high desirability of the area and that it wasn't overbuilt like many other parts of the country.
So let's take a look at a "baker's dozen" of these recreational communities. Undoubtedly I've left some good projects off the list (not intentional, just let me know and we'll update this map later this summer), but this is a good start for those of you heading over this way to look for recreational real estate and to help you make an informed decision before you buy. You might even bring the "Top Ten Questions to Ask Before Buying Recreational Property in Central Washington" with you while you visit these communities: check off the characteristics that you're looking for as you tour each of them.
What I find interesting is that each of these is distinctly different from the others, catering to different tastes, needs and recreational pursuits. Whether its golf, water sports, hiking trails, fabulous views, location, clubhouse or other amenities, one of these developments is bound to meet your desires and fit your pocket book.
There's only room for brief descriptions here, but links to websites are provided to help you continue your research of these recreation-oriented communities:
- Sun Mesa Preserve: Gorgeous sustainable design community overlooking Lake Entiat with 90% open space, miles of walking and biking trails, stunning views, future clubhouse and equestrian center. Twenty-acre parcels priced from $129,000 and up.
- Saska Hills: New community nestled into a valley on the edge of Entiat. 35 acres of open space and trails. Quarter-acre lots from $75,000 to $145,000.
- Bear Mountain Ranch: Master-planned community featuring a beautiful championship 18-hole golf course, trails, future clubhouse, quarter-acre lots and fractional-ownership homes with views of Lake Chelan. Lot & custom homes from around $900,000 up; reservations for 1/8 fractional-ownership homes.
- Clos CheValle: One-half acre Lake Chelan view lots surrounded by 100 acres of vineyards and open space. Miles of walking trails and a community park. Lots from $265,000 to $319,000.
- Beebe Ranch: ¾ acre riverfront lots from $200,000 to $400,000. Nearly sold-out, but there are future plans for a marina and master planned resort.
- Ridge at the Haystack: Gated community of two- and five-acre view lots located on east side of the Columbia River. From $90,000 up.
- Silver Spur Resort: A 2700-acre private resort community of 5+ acre properties overlooking Lake Pateros. Clubhouse, lake access and equestrian facility. Priced from $84,000.
- Desert Canyon: Acclaimed 18-hole golf course near Orondo. Limited real estate opportunities from $350,000.
- Ravenwing Ranch: A 10,000-acre private community featuring river front access and miles of private walking and equestrian trails. View lots of 2- to 10-acres from $475,000 to $790,000.
- Spanish Castle Resort & Spa: Proposed resort community along the Columbia River offering condominiums, townhomes and custom homes adjacent to future 18-hole golf course.
- Sunserra: Condominiums at Crescent Bar overlooking the Columbia River and a 9-hole par-3 golf course. Sold out, but resales available.
- Sagecliffe: A 700-acre culturally-based master planned resort community overlooking the dramatic Columbia River Gorge and future links-style golf course. Limited to 49 homesites priced from $495,000 to over $1,000,000.
- Canyon River Ranch: Co-ownership Yakima riverfront lodge suites available from $159,000 and up. Renowned fly-fishing and other outdoor activities.
Enjoy your tour!
So. You've been thinking about it for some time now... making that move over to the sunny side of the mountains. Finding that special place to enjoy now with the family — and perhaps to move to when the kids are off to college — can be an enjoyable challenge. Here's how to decide for all the right reasons.
Buying Recreational Property:
Consider these ten points when choosing the right recreational property in Central Washington for you and your family.
- Views — Everyone has their own opinion of what makes the best view. Is it views of water rippling on a nearby lake? Snow capped mountain peaks in the distance? Huge 360-degree vistas that make you think time has stood still? (Or maybe you won't settle for less than all three?) Be sure to visit each potential homesite to make sure you get the view you're looking for.
- Early Opportunity — It's often the case that new communities offer better pricing with the first phase. Remember what the price of a lot at Suncadia was when it was first offered!? If you're looking to make a purchase that will grow in value, look especially at communities that are in their first or second phase of construction - you will see quicker return on your real estate investment.
- Value — Consider what is being offered compared to the price: How large is the lot? Will you be getting the privacy and seclusion that you are seeking? What sort of recreational amenities are included? Clubhouse? Spa? Trails? Biking or equestrian center? What is the long-term potential for appreciation? Keep in mind that "bargains" don't always translate to the best value.
- Healthy Homes & Healthy Living — More and more, people are interested in living a healthy lifestyle. Check to be sure that the community shares your passion for health and longevity. Do they offer health and fitness programs? Will the homes and facilities be constructed of healthy materials that will increase your well-being? Is it a sustainable community?
- Easy Access — How easy is it to get to the community that you are considering? Can you drive there conveniently? If it's too far away from where you currently live, you may not have the extra time available to enjoy it.
- Services & Shopping — Sure, you may be looking for your special "hide-a-way", but you probably still want convenient access to shopping, services, groceries, restaurants and emergency care.
- Gateway to Recreation — If you are looking for a new community from which you can stage your outdoor recreation adventures, check a map to see what is available within 30 minutes or so of the community. Are there nearby hiking trails? Golf courses? How about lakes or streams for boating and fishing outings? Skiing and other winter sports? Check out Lake Chelan and Entiat which have long been known as the "gateway to recreation".
- Experienced Development Team — Check to see who is behind the development of the project. What other projects have they done? What is their track record?
- Ideal Timing! — While at first glance it may not seem so, but now is a great time to make a real estate purchase in North Central Washington. Real estate values in the Wenatchee, Washington area have held firm over the past 12 months and should continue to do so. However, the number of sales is markedly lower, which may be signaling an opportunity to get preferred selection or to obtain special incentives from the seller. Ask if they'll waive the annual homeowner's fee for a few years or waive the fee for water hookup. How about a free perc test for your septic system? Check to see if they are able to provide financing on favorable terms or even a price discount.
- Great People — Let's face it, even the best views and great outdoor recreation spots won't be fully appreciated if you don't have great neighbors and people within the community that you enjoy socializing with. Check to be sure that you are buying into a community of people who share your values, interests and lifestyle.
A little research before you buy will make your decision to invest in recreational property a rewarding one for a long time to come.
About the Author: Robert Yount is the master planner, designer and developer of Sun Mesa Preserve, located near Entiat, Washington.
Small Central Washington Community at Center of Outdoor Recreation
Entiat, Washington has long been known as the "gateway to recreation". And there's a very good reason for this moniker... there are so many nearby places to go to enjoy the outdoors, wildlife and recreation. And with the region's great climate of sunny days and starry nights, there are ample opportunities to enjoy it.
For many, though, Entiat has always been "that place you drive through on your way to Lake Chelan". But surprisingly, Entiat is at the center of the very best the area has to offer. Draw a circle on a map and you'll be amazed at all the recreation options available within a 15 to 45 minute drive from Entiat.
But let's start with the town itself. Great people, many drawn here for the beauty and recreation opportunities, and some whose families settled here 50 (or even 100+) years ago to plant the apple orchards which the area is now famous for. Years ago there was a nice little town center of shops and restaurants, but the creation of Lake Entiat (behind the Rocky Reach dam) forced the re-location of the central business area into the more "spread out" assortment of shops and businesses that you see now. But this is changing. New businesses have been springing up in recent years including Entiat Valley Pastry, Coaster's Seafood Market and Café, and Trader John's Lake Entiat Fruit Stand each of which provide a bit of character and charm to the area and are likely spots where you'll meet your neighbors.
Transformations
But the big buzz is the City's recent acquisition of a mile long stretch of undeveloped waterfront along Lake Entiat. While some cities might have been interested in expanding their park system, Entiat is taking the long-term approach of developing their new waterfront into a vibrant mixed-use district of shops, marinas and hotels all connected by a continuous trail system with extensive greenway links to the existing downtown areas.
The trail system will also link to the existing waterfront park with its dock, boat launching and camping facilities. In fact, the Chelan PUD is now developing plans for a multi-million dollar facelift of this waterfront park and its facilities which will also contribute to the town's "livability index". These two projects will help transform this "sleepy" town into a major recreation center and truly a great place to live.
Ideal Location
But the one thing that also makes this small, quiet, rural community such an ideal place to live is its central location. You're right on 31-mile long Lake Entiat with all it has to offer in the way of fishing, water skiing, boating, sailing and jet-skiing. You're just 15 minutes from all the shopping, restaurants and entertainment in Wenatchee. Just 15 minutes up to Lake Chelan and its many recreation opportunities and its walking town center. Just 15 minutes up to the new golf course at Bear Mountain Ranch. And in just 15 minutes you can be up into the heart of the Entiat River Valley, flanked on one side by the Entiat Mountains and on the other side by the Chelan Mountains with peaks reaching 9000 feet and above. Here there are plenty of places to go hiking, fly-fishing, hunting, bird watching, snow mobiling, bike riding and much more.
In future blogs, we'll explore each of these recreation opportunities in more detail. If you have some favorite recreation spots of your own, please share!