Why is Sudden Valley (in Bellingham) so cheap?

[Doula Dani]

I currently live in Mt Vernon, but we're really thinking about moving to Bellingham. I love the look of Sudden Valley, but I'm a little put off on the prices. You can rent a gorgeous house for around $1200, which seems low...

Am I missing something?

[fruitie]

Well, have you been there? Sure, it's close to lake whatcom but most of the places that are in that price range are on the mountain side, the roads are super steep and windy and a lot of places never get any sun. There are a lot of rules, property owners pretty much can't cut down any trees which is nice in theory but does tend to keep everyone in the dark. Down by the lake around the golf course there are some beautiful homes with nice views and good sun, but in the 1200 price range you are probably going to be up on the hill. Its about 20 minutes from bellingham and probably about the same to alger (freeway access if you are heading south) on a fairly narrow & windy road, in the winter especially it can be a pretty trecherous drive. Keeping all that in mind, I have a number of friends who live there and are very happy with it, both renting and owning. But for me, not getting any sun - on those few precious winter days when it actually shines - would be too much to bear.

[Doula Dani]

How do they feel about pruning? My dh is an arborist/logger, so I guess we wont be finding any clients around there, eh? :lol


I actually like the idea of the seclusion of the woods. Are the houses close together? I've been up in the area and don't mind the windy road anyways. Dh works in the mountains so he's used to it, and I'm going to be staying home with my kids and wont be out as much any old way. :joy:

[mamainmotion]

I live in Sudden Valley.
1200 sounds like a great deal! It is more affordable out here and that is why lots of families live out here. It is outside city limits with limited services. But we like our quiet neighborhood in the trees.
Yes, of course there are some negative things too, but all in all we like it.
If you are not currently a home owner you may want to look into the Kulshan Land Trust housing too which helps keep Bellingham an affordable option. Between KLT and the city you get about 60,000 towards a home.
Anyway, yes SV is AFFORDABLE!!! That is why I own a home out here!

[AmyMay]

I lived on Lost Lake Lane out in Sudden Valley years ago, and we lived in a pretty flat street, it was really wonderful, had a park with a playground. I loved that the sense of community, there were kids activities always going on, and different community potlucks, parties, dances, etc. Plus it's so gorgeous out there!!!

[Doula Dani]

I'm so glad to hear the positive responses! I have a feeling this is where we'll end up. We're actually getting rid of our house and renting to I can afford to be a sahm, so if anyone knows of any rentals or has a rental in that area, I'd love to know!! :joy:

[janaya]

that's really exciting news, dani! i really love whatcom county, i hope that works out for you.

[Doula Dani]

that's really exciting news, dani! i really love whatcom county, i hope that works out for you.

Thank's Janaya!!!! :hug

It was good seeing you at wwow, are you coming back? :shy