Seattle is one of America’s most beautiful cities and the powerhouse of the Pacific Northwest, which has long attracted many immigrants, plus many Americans who have relocated from other states. The entire Elliot Bay and Puget Sound area surrounding Seattle, plus the proximity of the Olympic National Park, make this an outdoor paradise with mild winters and pleasant summers, resulting in little need for air conditioning.
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The historic neighborhoods near downtown Seattle, such as Queen Ann, are preferred by many people desiring convenient public transportation. A good place for real estate investors to find bargain rental property is the North Seattle neighborhoods of Fremont, Mountlake, and the University District. West Seattle is a favorite area with green parkland in such neighborhoods as Fauntleroy and Youngstown, offering great views of the harbor.
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For real estate investors who take a hands-off approach, there are several property management companies in Seattle which will deal with maintenance, tenant, and financial issues.
The Boeing Airplane Company has long had a big presence in the Seattle area, and remains one of the top employers. Seattle is the gateway to Alaska and the Pacific Rim countries, with a busy seaport and airport. Starbucks and Amazon are based in Seattle, making for a diversified economy with brighter employment prospects than many other cities.