Greetings from the Methow Valley
It has been said that “the only thing that is constant nowadays is change.” The Methow Valley is undergoing change at an ever-increasing pace. Like most scenic and desirable areas, the Methow Valley is experiencing ongoing scrutiny that should have positive long-term effects. Our staff are members of local committees that are being asked to help in directing the changes that will shape how we view our rivers, forests, and lands, now and into the future—a very worthwhile effort. The staff at Methow Valley Realty believes that a long-term approach is best if we are to keep the valley a special place. Below we have incorporated information that we hope will be helpful to you in making your real estate purchasing decisions.
Methow Valley Realty, Inc. represents BUYER'S ONLY!
Methow Valley Realty, Inc. Owner Karen Reneau, Broker
The Most Commonly Asked Questions
What is the “average” cost of land in the Methow Valley?
This is a very difficult question to answer. Since each parcel is unique with different amenities, prices vary dramatically. In general properties in the lower valley, Twisp, and there south, are less expensive than properties in the upper valley above Winthrop. In the past 18 months to 2 years prices have increased. For many years, on the average, a nice building site (less than 5 acres) in a community can be purchased for around $25,000. The same parcel today might sell for $85,000 to $120,000. Larger parcels once around $60,000 are selling for $200,000 and more.Waterfront property is limited, and prices continue to increase. Irrigated property is usually more expensive per acre, all other factors being similar. Land used for recreation purposes rather than for farming is more costly. Other factors, that can drive prices either up or down, include CC&R’s (or lack thereof), proximity to trails and government land, topographical characteristics, proximity to power, size, type of views, solar orientation, and access.
What is the minimum acre size?
In the early 1980’s the zoning changed to a 5 acre minimum on the valley floor and a 20 acre minimum in the highlands (roughly above the irrigation canals). Property platted before that time was “grandfathered.” Lots of less than 5 acres are usually in communities like Edelweiss, Pine Forest, Twin Lakes, Rodeo Trails, etc. There are areas and conditions where land can still be divided in lots of less than 5 acres in size.What is the weather like?
Is there a lot of snow? The Methow Valley’s seasons are classic. The summer is hot, spring and fall are cool and colorful. Winter is cold with lots of snow. The snow usually comes in November and melts off in March. Lost River might have four feet on the ground while Mazama has three, Winthrop two and Twisp only a foot or so. At the end of the Twisp River valley you can expect conditions similar to those in the Lost River and Mazama areas.When does Highway 20 close/open?
Every year is different, but you can expect closure anytime from late October to early December. The highway is usually opened by mid March to late April.What do people in the Methow Valley do?
Work and play! There are great areas for riding horses, mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, walking, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, camping, hunting etc. Area lakes, rivers and creeks accommodate fishing, boating, rafting and swimming. Our trail network for cross country skiing is something everyone is very proud of. The second longest system in the nation, it connects Sun Mountain with the valley floor, Winthrop to Mazama and more.There are a myriad of organizations that residents put their creative energies into. Some groups are focused on recreation, other groups concentrate on education. A lively arts community flourishes. Civic groups work in various ways to improve and enhance the valley. Environmental groups and developers alike contribute to land use planning, influencing the decisions that are made. In our small communities budgets are tight and volunteerism is the key to each of these group’s success.
As for work, we have home based businesses, a healthy construction trade, forest service jobs, a variety of professional services, retail, hotel/motel jobs, and some agricultural business. Work revolves around play in the Methow Valley with recreation and community involvement in the center.
Water Issues?
The Methow Valley News is an excellent source of information on this complex subject.