THE INSIDE scoop

WHENWILL I KNOW I’M AN ISLANDER?

When do I become an “ISLANDER” is a question asked by many who make the decision to relocate to our beautiful islands and permanently change their zip code to call the San Juan Islands home. For many it’s the day they unpack their last box, for some it’s their first OPALCO bill and for others it’s when they begin saying “I’M HEADED TO AMERICA” when going to the mainland.

Jan Jameson and Jeanie Rouleau’s book entitled, YOU KNOW YOU’RE AN ISLANDER WHEN suggests a few key signs to look for when asking yourself if you’re an islander.

LOOK FOR THESE SIGNS :

YOU INVITE 23 TO A PARTY . .

5 RSVP & 31 SHOW FOUR CARS AT A STOP SIGN CONSTITUTES A TRAFFIC JAM

YOU AFFECTIONALLY CALL YOUR ISLAND “THE ROCK”

THE BEST PART OF ANY TRIP IS THE FERRY RIDE HOME

WHO LIVES HERE FULLTIME?

According to a December 2018 Census Bureau survey, San Juan Island has a population of 7,810 which is 1.9% greater than it was in 2017. The median age is 52 years and female to male ratio is 53% to 47%. From the 2017 American Community Survey, the percentage of owner households to total households is 72% (28% are renters). Sixty-two percent of homeowners have moved here since the year 2000. San Juan Island had a median home value of $437,900 and average monthly rent of $1,045 (US average is $949). The average household size is 2.1 and 95% of the homes here were built before 2009 (source Towncharts.com).

WHERE DOES ISLAND DRINKING WATER COME FROM?

Water is a precious commodity everywhere, but especially on solid rock formations surrounded by salt water, like San Juan Island. Consumable water is at a real premium. While many private residences on San Juan Island have private or community wells, all the water piped through Friday Harbor comes from the Trout Lake watershed on San Juan Island’s pristine westside. A single Friday Harbor household pays a minimum of $125/month for water, sewer and garbage.

WHAT ABOUT ELECTRICITY?

Many island residents would love to live “off the grid,” and some do. However, San Juan Island lacks the winter daylight necessary for a good solar power system, does not have large enough streams to support small hydroelectric systems and doesn’t have consistent enough wind for efficient wind power generation. So, most of us buy power from OPALCO, our local power and light cooperative, which delivers it to us via three separate submarine cables. During winter storms, power outages are just something we accept as part of the wonder of island living.

GARBAGE GOES WHERE?

San Juan Island residents are very conscientious about reducing, reusing and recycling, partly because we’re all protective of our island and partly because garbage is so expensive to ship offisland. We have a transfer station just outside of town where we recycle, dump garbage and pay by weight. Everything disposed of is then shipped back to the mainland.

IS GOOD HELP HARD TO FIND?

Our Realtor® team at Windermere is the largest and most productive in the County and over the years, we’ve had the opportunity to work with many different contractors and vendors. We also have a professional property management department that has contributed to a useful Directory of Vendors. Even so, there are some contractors who have such a busy schedule, you might have to look off-island for someone to do the job you want. It’s wise to ask around and get references for any work you want done. Feel free to give us a call and speak with any of our Realtors; you might find we’ve been through a similar experience and can share some valuable insights.

WHY IS ISLAND LIVING SO EXPENSIVE?

Visitors are often surprised by the higher prices for island goods and services relative to mainland expectations. In some cases, island prices run 50% higher than mainland equivalents. We’re not exactly on the edge of the world yet being as remote as we are does take its toll on prices. Consider that nearly all the goods consumed here must be brought over on the Washington State Ferry system, by private barge or by plane and it starts to make a little more sense. The island experience, be it here, Hawaii, the Caymans or anywhere, is just a little more costly.

IS IT HARD TO BE SO RELIANT ON THE FERRIES?

Planning all your trips to the mainland around the ferries does take some thought, and we won’t lie and say we don’t complain. In fact, the San Juan Islands have the highest number of pilots per capita of any US county, and it’s gotta be because so many of us overreact to the ferry-driven economy. Still, dealing with the ferries really just requires a small amount of advance planning. Get your car in line with time to spare, bring a book or a pair of running shoes and enjoy the fantastic scenery. In our fast-paced modern world, it’s good to be forced to slow down from time to time, and that’s how we teach ourselves to love the trip. The constant crisis in ferry funding is a little different. The ferries are part of the Washington State Highway system. We need them to get around just like Seattle needs 1-5 or Spokane needs 1-90. Yet somehow ferry funding is treated a little differently than highway funding. Wouldn’t it be great if riding the ferry cost the same amount as a 60-minute drive down the freeway?

Want to know about more about island life or real estate in the San Juans? Please visit us at our new office at 55 Spring Street or call us (360) 378-3600, we’re here to help!

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UNPARALLELED WESTSIDE PRIVACY & WATERVIEWS

Emerging from the western hillside on 15+ acres in 2 tax parcels is breathtaking perfection embracing views over Haro Straits to Canada and the Olympic Mountains. This epic 3627 sf, 2BD/2BA Olsen-Sundberg design boasts innovative layout, flexible spaces and vibrant Artisan details to create a balance of flow, form and function enhanced by an enchanting, tiered waterfall and koi pond. Attached 2-car garage with shop. Architectural drawings available for 1BD/1BA guest house. The epitome of elegant island living. #2041166

Offered at $4,500,000 by Greg King & Company

Jewel Of The Pacific Northwest

This legendary oceanfront compound shares almost 1000 feet of enchanting coastline with migrating whales, bald eagles and abundant wildlife. Guided through this remarkable property you will see unmatched attention to detail and quality of build. Nearly 10,000 sf of living space inclusive of main house, guest house, studio, covered decks, and garages. With 15+ acres of lush gardens, forests and meandering pathways to explore, this extraordinary property provides an escape and home to enjoy for generations. #1951624

Offered at $14,500,000 by Greg King & Company

LUSH OPEN WATERFRONT ALONG NORTH BAY - This honored landmark property is timeless, inspirational and diverse. Enchanting level and open 1.5-acre parcel with 190’+/- of low bank waterfront and tidelands. Amazing sunrises and dazzling water views over San Juan Channel to Lopez and the Cascade Mountains. The 1248sf, 2BD/2BA home and barn could be a temporary solution to ponder your vision. Peace and quiet, yet minutes to town amenities. #2020169

Offered at $995,000 by Greg King & Company

WESTSIDE WATERFRONT WITH AMAZING BEACH - Fall under the spell of this enchanting 4.26+/- acre parcel with 268+/-‘of stunning shoreline along Andrews Bay on San Juan’s coveted westside. As you pass through the gated entry approaching a lush setting with dazzling views over Haro Straits to Canada, be drawn to the tranquility. Take stairs to the amazing pebble walking beach or launch your kayak. Paved road access, water/power available. Begin a new story. #1921121

Offered at $1,950,000 by Greg King & Company

Experience The Pinnacle Of Luxury Island Living

MID CENTURY NESTLED ON SUNNY ACREAGE - Enveloped in an abundance of natural beauty overlooking fields, meadows and peaceful pond on 5+acres surrounded by 30+ conservation acres is an everyday oasis. This distinctive 3440 sf 3BD/4BA home with a delightful multi-level floor plan offers flexible spaces that are comforting in their casual elegance. Large shop with studio, barn, garden, orchard, chicken coop and multiple garages. The possibilities are endless. #2056747

Offered at $1,385,000 by Greg King & Company

With end of road privacy, this enticing estate offers 98+acres in 3 tax parcels embracing 750+’ low bank waterfront overlooking San Juan Channel to Mt Baker and the Cascades. The welcoming 8674 sf home celebrates local color and opens to elegant interior spaces, opulent textures and refined finishes with 6 bedrooms/6 baths flowing gracefully to al fresco areas complemented by orchard, garden, ponds, indoor pool, gym, garage and barn. FAA certified airstrip and helipad afford effortless mainland access. #2056898

Offered at $28,800,000 by Greg King & Company