Island living between two of Washington’s largest cities? It’s hard to believe that residents of Mercer Island, located in Lake Washington, can escape the hustle and bustle of Bellevue and Seattle in just a few minutes and enjoy waterfront living at its finest. With over 473 acres of parkland and green spaces, walking trails, three public beaches, and stunning views, living on Mercer Island feels like a lakefront vacation. And there are plenty of home styles to choose from.

“The Island’s architectural landscape is a journey through time and styles,” Lori Holden Scott, a John L. Scott Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International broker, explained. “Mercer Island was originally a vacation island, so there are cozy vintage cottages dating way back to the 1900s. The ‘50s and ‘60s introduced mid-century aesthetics, while the ‘70s saw a surge of Northwest Contemporary or the ‘tree house’ style residences. The ‘80s brought forth traditional two-story designs with brick touches, followed by a ‘90s emphasis on Craftsman elements.”

The only downside is that available homes sell quickly and often above the asking price, which is around the $2 million mark on average.