Luanne Highlander

CNN Money magazine Business 2.0 Seattleone of five best bets to invest in part to lack of available property to expand new homes.

Realtors in the Northwest agree that this region is immune from for the 6-9 month National housing value decrease. Many home tract builders, while leaving future phases in other areas of the nation are actively looking for land in the Northwest for future developments.

Seattle and cities to its North and South are enjoying rapidly expanding business, usually in the private small business sector. In addition, the Northwest is considered the top place to retire. Bellingham, Washington receives many accolades for retirement, small business startup, and outdoor activities.

Many new buyers are relocating boomers, who enjoy sailing, hiking, skiing and kayaking-all what the Northwest is know for. They have raised the kids, and are now looking for a suitable spot to stay active. They mostly come from other areas where home values are at par or below Northwest values, making a water or mountain view home comparatively affordable. Over half of the new members of the area are from California.

So now, finally is a clear message from a source people value and trust saying buy in the Northwest...it's OK. Thanks Business 2.0. We realtors needed someone else to say what we knew all along.