May 16, 2008
You live where?
Nestled between Capitol Hill, First Hill, and the International District, Squire Park is quietly preparing to reclaim its former glory as one of Seattle’s original go-to neighborhoods. Successfully blending the best of its high-profile neighbors—the old-world architecture of Capitol Hill, the downtown accessibility of First Hill, and the cultural diversity of the International District—Squire Park offers residents the best of all possible urban landscapes.
Technically, Squire Park occupies the NW corner of the Central District (12th Ave to 23rd Ave and Union Street to Jackson Street). The area’s downturn during the ‘70s and ‘80s, and its subsequent renaissance since the mid ‘90s, has provided this often overlooked neighborhood with a range of living choices that will ensure its diversity in the coming years:
Old World Stalwarts—Just like Capitol Hill, Squire Park is one of the few in-city ‘hoods with late 18th- and early 19th-century homes. But unlike Capitol Hill, its inventory includes residences in all conditions and at widely-varying prices. Impeccably renovated homes are significantly less than comps just 10 blocks North; and you can still find the occasional cheap fixer.
New in-fill—For the modernists, brand new, move-in ready townhomes and single-family residences mix among the historical survivors. Stylistically you have a choice of ultra modern or Craftsman-style—both of which include modern conveniences and avoid the maintenance issues of 100-year-old homes.
Mid-rise urbanity—For better or worse, the relaxed height-restrictions have made way for several new mixed-use buildings along the urban corridors.12th Avenue is lined from Jefferson to Pike with six-story buildings combining living above retail, restaurants and services. These help absorb the growing population as well as lend a modern urban taste to several blocks that a decade ago were mostly rundown and derelict. What was formerly unused is now teaming with activity.
Move over Captiol Hill and International District. Squire Park is flexing its new muscles!
flat fee mls said:
Does redfin do flat fee mls? And how much?
May 16, 2008 5:07 PM
rick.williams said:
Redfin does do a flat fee–$4,000. Check this out for more details: http://www.redfin.com/sell-a-home/introduction
(Sorry it took a couple days to reply. I spent the weekend in the woods, camping.)
May 19, 2008 7:37 AM
ken said:
interesting neighborhood - how cheap might the occasional cheap fixer be?
May 21, 2008 6:52 PM