Having grown up in Burien, taught elementary school, and now active in local real estate, I have experienced firsthand all the wonderful changes and growth in the community, especially loving the SW 152nd “Olde Burien” corridor, filled with darling shops and restaurants.
I have also heard the less-than-enthusiastic comments about Burien and have always thought to myself “Excellent, we will keep this town of ours a little secret”. Over the years, however, the secret is getting out.
The exceptional Puget Sound and mountain views, parks, and community “feel” in our fabulous city have been discovered and real estate is experiencing the impact. Just 5 years ago the median price in Burien was $450K; that has now increased to $665K…. an incredible 48% increase in values!
Covid has especially turned eyes our way as life migrated away from city-dwelling to more peaceful, sprawling properties and multi-use home life. Burien offers a wide variety of fabulous architecture: mid-century modern, new construction, beach cottages, classic ramblers, and luxury estates…a flavor for all.
Selling real estate locally, we have seen a definite flow of buyers from Eastside communities where sales prices are going through the roof; Burien offers beauty and comforts of living west of I90; California buyers looking for quick access to airport and views at more affordable prices, East Coast families changing pace of life while finding amenities with small-town vibe here.
Why are buyers choosing Burien? Let’s look at what your $1,000,000 buys you here locally vs. greater Seattle/Eastside:
| Neighborhood | Home Sqft | Bed | Bath | Parking | Views | Lot Size | Sales Price |
| Seahurst | 3,200 | 3 | 1.75 | 4 car garage | Territorial | 11904 | $1,040,000 |
| Columbia City | 1,465 | 3 | 1 | street | None | 4950 | $1,025,000 |
| First Hill (condo) | 1,259 | 2 | 2.5 | 1 | City | 0 | $1,010,000 |
| Bellevue (condo) | 1,640 | 3 | 1.75 | 2 | Territorial | 0 | $1,000,000 |
| Redmond (townhome) | 1,666 | 3 | 2 | 1 | Mountain | 0 | $1,030,000 |
| Kirkland | 1,150 | 3 | 2 | 2 | None | 7200 | $1,040,000 |
| West Seattle | 1,880 | 3 | 2 | 1 | Territorial | 4200 | $1,040,000 |
Each month I am very excited to track the market with you, provide insider tips on buying and selling real estate, while highlighting why our community is truly so special!
Until next time: shop local and continue to support our awesome small businesses!
