Welcome to Issaquah Condo Buyers Guide
Issaquah, nestled in the Cascade Range foothills, has a history dating back 125 years. Originally the town of Gilman with 500 residents in 1892, it officially became Issaquah in 1899 and gained city status in 1959. Over the years, the area has attracted more residents and businesses.
Surrounded by Cougar, Squak, and Tiger mountains (part of the Issaquah Alps), Lake Sammamish, and the bustling Interstate 90, Issaquah is a unique city. Situated 15 miles east of Seattle along I-90, it's in proximity to Costco headquarters, Microsoft, and Amazon.com. Despite the noise from the highway, Issaquah's local festivities, shopping, and scenic setting make it a popular destination or stopover for visitors heading to the mountains for skiing, hiking, and biking. The city boasts parks, trails, and Lake Sammamish for water activities. It exudes small-town charm amid evergreen mountain ranges. Nearby, wayfarers can explore numerous hiking areas, hopping on trails leading to the mountains. Within minutes, three sprawling state parks await, offering endless outdoor adventures.
Type of Condos You will Find in Issaquah
Issaquah has different kinds of condos and townhomes that show off the city's special charm. The type of home you'll find depends on where you look in the city. If you explore Downtown Issaquah, you'll find older condos and townhomes that might not have all the new amenities, but the streets are nice for walking, and the area has a charming old-style feel.
For a more modern living experience, you can check out the Issaquah Highlands. They have new condos and townhomes, and the buildings are more recent. It's a bit like the Talus neighborhood on Squak Mountain, which also has a mix of modern and natural styles.
Then there's Providence Point , a special community like a small village, made for people aged 55 and older. It's designed as a retirement community with a unique atmosphere. So, Issaquah has different neighborhoods with different kinds of homes, making sure there's something for everyone.
Issaquah Condo Catalog
Pinpoint your search to a specific condo building for the perfect home. Compare prices through past sales or utilize this tool as a resource to thoroughly research what each community has to offer.
Issaquah Townhome Catalog
Pinpoint your search to a specific townhome community for the perfect home. Compare prices through past sales or utilize this tool as a resource to thoroughly research what each community has to offer.
Issaquah Condo Hunting Beware of These Factors
Buyers are often drawn to Issaquah not only for its scenic beauty but also for its convenient commute to Bellevue and Seattle. However, it's crucial for potential buyers to be aware of traffic challenges, particularly on some of the busiest routes. Issaquah is nestled between mountains, leading to bottlenecks on certain roadways. Many buyers might visit homes on weekends, not fully realizing the traffic conditions during weekdays, especially on routes like Front Street. It's important to consider the daily commute and assess how it aligns with your preferences and lifestyle to avoid unexpected challenges and make an informed decision about your new home in Issaquah.
A challenge that can be perplexing for certain buyers arises when they encounter seemingly excellent prices on Issaquah condos that appear too good to be true. Typically, these homes are associated with the ARCH program. Numerous condos in the Issaquah Highlands participate in the ARCH program, a government initiative aimed at providing affordable housing. However, this program comes with various restrictions on property usage, presenting important considerations for potential buyers.
