Nestled between Lake Sammamish and Lake Washington, Bellevue is known for having some of the best views of Seattle and Mount Rainier. The young city — it was incorporated in the 1950s — is a favorite among families for its many parks (2,700 acres of them) and top-notch schools.

“Our city council designed Bellevue’s skyline as a ‘tiered wedding cake’ design with the larger skyscrapers in the heart of the city and the building heights slowly cascading down as you pan out. This offers everybody ample sunlight, beautiful views, and amazing amenities,” Joseph Brazen, an agent at Windermere Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International, said.

The city’s real estate market is sizzling hot, though, with 45 percent of homes pending within a week of listing, according to broker Eric Dang of John L. Scott Real Estate. He recommends looking in Eastgate, a hub for new-construction homes with “excellent schools, easy access to downtown, and great value for the price.”