This weekend we went looking for an apartment in Seattle
So much has happened since Scott and I went looking for an apartment this past weekend! We had our floors refinished last Thursday – Saturday, so we spent the weekend in Bellevue.
Friday, we toured seven apartments, all mostly on Queen Anne and Belltown. Apartments aren’t what they used to be anymore. As we looked at each one, we considered the location, the view, the amenities, the price, the size and the configuration. Friday we looked at some really unique units, but unfortunately none of them fit our exact needs.
Looking at Lake Union Apartments
Saturday, we decided to change tactics and look at apartments in the Amazon district and overlooking Lake Union. While we prefer a western view, we have that view from our marina at Elliott Bay. Two of the apartment complexes we looked at were at South Lake Union and were very nice. But they overlooked the base of the Space Needle and all of the cranes. One of the units, had a gourmet kitchen including a wine fridge.
One thing I do recommend when looking at so many apartments, is to not only take a lot of photos, but take a walk thru video slowly! Unfortunately the video of our apartment was too fast. This way you can revisit all of the units you looked at later.
We found our new home!
Scott and I hadn’t really planned on finding our new home this weekend, but we did. Just like when we bought our boat, we knew it was the right one. Ironically, the complex is called Leeward. It’s ironic, because we love the Leeward Islands.
The complex is brand new and barely occupied, so we are the first tenants in our unit. We looked at about seven units, until we picked this particular one. There were a few that had better views, but we didn’t like the kitchen set up. It’s very common in Seattle to feature a kitchen along one wall and have one big open space. That’s just not for us. Here’s an example:
Finally, we found a corner unit, with a balcony and a fantastic kitchen! We need to take better photos, so more will come later.
Yes, our unit has a nice view of the city and lake, but the best views are from their roof top deck, which we will be sure to utilize often! I can already see us enjoying a glass of wine and lounging by the fire pit.
Fantastic Amenities
Most of the apartment communities in Seattle have great amenities AND they love dogs! At our complex, their doggy run is actually on the rooftop.
Half of the entire second floor is one huge amenity room that is over 100 yards long. Here they have created an “outdoor feel” space for tenants to enjoy during the winter. They have bocce ball, ping pong, full kitchen, darts, picnic tables, stage, kegerator and much more. We’re excited to meet new friends and mingle!
Why did we sign so fast you’re wondering? Well, they had some awesome move-in deals, that we just couldn’t pass up. They are holding our unit for the next 60 days, with no price increase – that’s unusual in Seattle!
What’s next?
Well, now that the house is completely updated and ready, it goes on the market this Thursday! We have listed it with the Brazen Group Luxury Real Estate and our open house is this weekend! Everything is happening so fast and we are really excited.
Also, we hauled the boat out last week, but we have not yet heard back from the boat yard regarding any mechanical work estimates. So we will keep you posted there too. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube to stay updated!
Thanks for following us! Cheers, Scott and Ally