Home on (or off) the beach

Ocean Shores rates consideration

By J.M. Simpson on March 8, 2018

Imagine a community in which there are no traffic lights that offers a quiet, laid-back lifestyle. With that thought in mind, now imagine purchasing real estate in Ocean Shores, Washington, and retiring to that community.

"It's a community that is affordable both in terms of home values and cost of ownership," Jim Donahoe, manager of the Ocean Shores Windermere Real Estate office, wrote in an email. "If you love the outdoors and nature, you will fall in love with Ocean Shores, the North Beach and the Olympic Peninsula."

Having lived all over the United States and Mexico in urban, rural and resort communities, Donahoe has the experience to guide those thinking of retiring to Ocean Shores.

When it comes to working with retired military members, Windermere can be of assistance.

"In my 15 years of experience, I have worked with numerous military home buyers," added Rick LaShance, an agent in the Windermere office, "in selling new and used homes in Ocean Shores.  It's always a pleasure to work with them."

The city of about 6,000 features six miles of ocean frontage, five miles of bay frontage, 23 miles of interlaced freshwater lakes and canals, a golf course and an old forest preserve. There is also an Ocean Shores Community Club with exercise and club facilities at the cost of $145 per year.

Donahoe pointed out that while Ocean Shores has adequate services (medical, groceries and clothing), many people head to Aberdeen (30 minutes away), Olympia (1.5 hours away) or Seattle (2.5 hours away ... in light traffic) for more intensive shopping.

And then there is the weather factor.

"Some folks don't like the weather ... never too cold or too hot, but we do get rain ... which by the way keeps things very green," he said.

As to the residential housing market, it looks good.

According to Donahoe, an average home on the beach sells from $300,000 and up. Homes back from the beach, on average, sell from between $150,000 to $200,000 and up.

"We have a variety of areas to choose from in Ocean Shores, from the oceanfront, canals and lakes, the bay, golf course frontage to very affordable interior lots in the sand dunes or trees," he explained.

He went on to say that the residential housing market is strong and pointed out that four years ago, there were more than 300 homes for sale. Today there are 150 homes for sale.

"Supply is having a hard time keeping up with demand, even with new builders coming to the area," Donahoe said.

He advises potential homebuyers to choose their agent well and find one who will take the time to answer your questions and listen to your needs.

"Take the time to drive around and learn the neighborhoods," he said. "It's a great time to buy with prices being extremely affordable."

For more information, visit osgov.com or windermere.com.