Why water is the best neighbor in the world

, , , ,

Have you noticed that simply being by the water induces a sense of calm and well-being over you? Is this all placebo or is there actually some science going on here? People say living next to a lake, river, sea or ocean actually improves their happiness – and according to Dr. W. Christopher Winter, author of The Sleep Solution, living by water can increase creativity and help you sleep more soundly which is intriguing – but not enough evidence to pick up everything and move towards the water!

However, biologist Dr. Wallace J. Nichols actually decided to explore this phenomena even further, and wrote a book called Blue Mind discussing the effects a body of water can have on a person’s overall mental health. In his studies, Nichols states water actually “lowers stress and anxiety, increasing an overall sense of well-being and happiness, a lower heart and breathing rate, and safe, better workouts. Aquatic therapists are increasingly looking to the water to help treat and manage PTSD, addiction, anxiety disorders, autism and more.” And if the research leading Nichols to this conclusion isn’t convincing enough, Hawaii is ranked the #1 happiest and healthiest state in America according to the annual Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index. Coincidence? I think not!

So, this calming aura, or the “water effect”, does seem to be real, but does it sound like it could help you? Well it certainly sounds like the perfect cure for the chaos of today – with people constantly driven towards technology, working more hours, working more hours from home, and forgoing that vacation you planned 6 months ago… I mean no wonder we’re feeling a bit more stressed and anxious! So maybe it’s time to change your mentality, bring the water to you, and have that new vacation-like lifestyle you’ve been day dreaming about for years!

What are some of the lifestyle changes that specifically come with living near water?

  1. Walk or bike along the lake whenever you want for safer, more beautiful trips, with better places to stop along the way – especially in Seattle which offers a plethora of walking/biking paths stretching for miles. What better way to spend an afternoon and get some exercise?
  2. Sailing, boating and other water sports are now at your fingertips. If walking and biking aren’t enough to keep us entertained well now you have the opportunity for boating, surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding and more. Even if you don’t your own boat many shops along the lake offer paddle boats or canoe rentals for a small fee! Plus, if you buy a home now, you get a $2,000 credit to Urban Surf (electric surfboard anyone?).
  3. If nothing else, you can’t beat the natural beauty. This may be dipping back into the mental health benefits, but water truly is one of the most beautiful natural features on earth bringing along with it aquatic plants, birds, fish and water dwelling mammals, which for nature lovers, is quite a picturesque scene. Can you imagine working a few hours on your rooftop deck with your laptop out and this as your backdrop? Feel more relaxed just thinking about it? Well stop thinking about it and do something!

Still have some reservations about living one the water? Let me guess… is it the price? Well that’s why living by the water is key – you get basically all the added benefits, without all the extra upkeep, and for a much better price!

Take for example our Baymont project with Isola Homes. These beauties are located just off the shores of lake Washington with great access to all the lake amenities including the giant Montlake Community Center (which is great for land activities but is also a favorite launch point for kayakers and paddle boarders). Plus are aren’t multi-million-dollar homes like all other water-front properties in Seattle! Even better – they are brand new!

Want to tour these homes or are looking for something similar? Contact us now!

Why Buy New Construction?

Why Buy New Construction?

,

1. Low-Cost Maintenance

One of the most significant financial benefits of a new construction home is the low maintenance costs. With modern appliances, efficient heating/cooling, and freshly placed plumbing, new construction homes are designed to be worry-free for years.
In addition, as building codes and safety regulations have evolved over the years, so has the overall quality of construction, resulting in healthier, longer lasting homes. With brand new features throughout each home (most still under warranty) there are fewer unexpected out-of-pocket expenses after the move-in, so you can save your money properly and use your time wisely instead of working on repairs for the home you just bought!

2. The Convenience of Move-In Ready

You’ll notice that “worry-free” living is something developers have been focusing on over the past decade. As technology has advanced, hassles or wait times have become the bane of existence – especially for younger generations. So, whether you’re on a tight schedule, a strict budget, or your maybe just a little lazy, new construction homes are the way to go for care-free moving – all you need is your suitcase!
You can now trust that everything is up to date, fully functioning, and ready for your enjoyment. Here are some of the appliances included in most new construction homes:

  • Refrigerator
  • Microwave
  • Stove and oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Washer and dryer

3. Built Green with High-Rated Energy Efficiency

With the progression of technology also comes the progression of society. Seattle being known as more of a “PC” city, it is no surprise we have adopted fantastic new practices for sustainable building, incorporating cutting edge technology and innovative ideas that bring a healthier home to both you and the environment. Just look at companies like green canopy homes who have been leading the industry in this field, setting the new standard for building green while still delivering an elevated and comfortable home.
These homes are then surveyed by independent, third parties who ensures the home meets all requirements for a high energy rating and built green certification. An example of one of these requirements would be blown in insulation for walls and ceilings which eliminates cold spot and allows for easier climate control year-round (meaning you save money year-round). On top of efficient heating and cooling, the appliances and fixtures throughout the home are also extremely energy efficient. Now your home works for you!

4. The Protection of a New Home Warranty

Just like when you purchase a phone or a new car– along with everything inside – it often comes with a warranty. This is also true for new construction, meaning issues like a leaky roof or broken water heater are paid for by the builder – now you can buy with confidence! With resales, there are often hidden defects or unforeseen blemishes that sellers are aware of, but buyers won’t know until it’s too late. This protects you from any annoyances and extra expenditures, once again, just adding to the “worry-free” home buying process.

5. Modern Floor Plans and Designs for How You Live

Older more traditional homes can be a bit cramped and gloomy with tight rooms and an excess number of walls, often connected by narrow winding passages that your pretty sure is the setting for every horror movie ever.
At the other end of the spectrum are new construction homes. Enjoy bright opulent spaces from the moment you walk in the front door. Wide-open floorplans welcome all and maximize the sense of space while also making it more convenient to entertain and travel from one room to the next. Living spaces are oriented for conversation, while all bedrooms and bathrooms are thoughtfully positioned for optimal guest living – these are the things modern buyers are looking for and how they want to live!

6. A New Community With Top Amenities

Developers simply don’t build homes in undesirable locations. So, when purchasing a new construction home, you get a package deal of both a great house and a great community. The neighborhoods boast a plethora of amenities, parks, and public transportation, all the necessary components for easy city living and a community you’ll want to call home. Now your local gym, coffee shop, favorite restaurant, and grocery store are all sub 1 mile from your front door. Looking for the right neighborhood for you? Come check out what Seattle has to offer!

7. High Resale Value

This is arguably one the most impactful features of new construction homes. A high resale value means a sounder investment, and that’s really what buying a house is all about. Simply put, new construction homes are NEWER with a higher initial quality of construction (plus warranty protection) meaning they re-enter the market with little to no wear and tear! All the added benefits you saw when first purchasing the home are still there. That means you save money during your stay AND when it’s time to leave! No remodeling expenses, no maintenance costs, and a higher return on your investment – any questions?