Seattle is the largest city, population-wise, in the state of Washington, and even the whole Pacific Northwest region of the United States of America. Seattle is a port city, in the western part of the state of Washington between Puget Sound and an arm of the Pacific Ocean. It is very close to Canada,–approximately 96 miles south of the border. Seattle is a major economic, cultural and educational center for the region.

Seattle’s climate is mild; it is wet in winter and dry in summer, not unlike the Mediterranean. Temperature extremes are moderated by the adjacent Puget Sound, the Pacific Ocean, and nearby Lake Washington. The region is partially shielded from Pacific storms by the Olympic Mountains and from Arctic air by the Cascade Range. The only downside climate-wise is the city’s reputation for frequent rain.

Seattle is really a city of neighborhoods; it grew together out of a lot of smaller communities. Thus as cities go, it can provide the best of both worlds—small town living and big city living. It is a great city to build a home in. Once you’ve decided to build your home, you must find the right home site. Having done that, you have to cost it out, and don’t forget to include the cost of the land prepping the lot (grading, utilities, etc.), the cost of a building permit, school fees and, of course, the house itself.