Ferry Served Island verses non-Ferry Served Islands

I am often asked about the small out islands that seem to have such great deals. What is it like to live there/ vacation there? Often people don't realize that there is NO ferry to Crane and the other small Islands. Some don't realize that there isn't a bridge. We are an archipelago of 172 Islands, but only four are ferry served.

Why choose a ferry served Island? I know you're looking for solitude, for quiet, to be far from the maddening crowd. I understand! But how far do you want to be from buying butter for your baked potatoes? And how do you feel about carrrying everything from your small boat to your island home, perhaps a half mile or more? Have you considered that EVERYTHING you need to do a project, or furnish your home will have to be barged in? Waldron has a school, but only one road, and no commercial establishments. Lots of organic gardening and a small shuttle from Deer Harbor. On Crane you'd need your own boat, no school, no store.  Most people find Island living with the ferries gives them enough privacy.Yes, we have a moat!

If resale is a concern to you at all I would suggest sticking to the 3 major islands; Orcas, San Juan and Lopez.  My husband Ken has worked (built houses) on Decatur and Blakely, both non-ferry served islands. The resale out there takes at least 4 times as long as ANYTHING on Orcas. Development costs are so high on the out islands the cost savings on the land is largely eaten up. Shaw is just as expensive as Orcas and has a VERY slow selling market, though not as bad as the out islands.

  

If you too have been hearing that we have hit the bottom, in fact hit the bottom last summer, and you are thinking of a new lifestyle - check out the San Juan Islands.

To see what is currently available go to: www.orcasdreams.com

Or Email kate@orcasdreams.com