8 Reasons Burien Is a Great Place to Invest In Washington Real Estate

Why Invest in Burien Real Estate?

1. Healthy Real Estate Market

The Burien real estate market remains robust, continuing to attract both residential and commercial investors. As of mid-2024, the median home value in Burien is approximately $647,641, showing a steady but more historically average increase in property values over the last few years. This growth reflects Burien’s emergence as a desirable alternative to nearby urban centers like Seattle, Bellevue, and Tukwila, where property prices are notably higher. The Burien WA housing market offers a unique combination of affordability and long-term investment potential, making it increasingly popular among homebuyers and real estate investors.

2. Affordable Properties Available

One of the key advantages of the Burien market is the availability of relatively affordable commercial and residential properties compared to nearby cities. You can still find a mix of multifamily properties and single-family homes that offer better value per square foot than in Seattle or Bellevue, with Burien’s average home price substantially lower. Businesses relocating from Seattle can expand more cost-effectively in Burien, where office lease rates and retail lease rates are significantly lower. For instance, the current office lease rate in Burien is roughly 50-60% less than in downtown Seattle, while retaining easy access to the city.

As more people seek to settle in Burien and businesses look to expand, the area offers a unique opportunity to capitalize on a growing market that blends big-city convenience with a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere. It's also worth noting that Burien's B&O tax rate is .1%, less than half of Seattle's, further enhancing the area's attractiveness for investors.

3. Thriving Downtown Core

Burien’s downtown core continues to thrive, making it a key draw for both residents and businesses. With its blend of vibrant dining and retail establishments, Burien offers a small-town charm combined with the convenience of a city. The Burien Town Square development remains a centerpiece, but the downtown area has continued to see new investments, further enhancing the quality of life for locals. In fact, Burien boasts one of the highest Walk Scores in Washington, making it easy for residents to enjoy the wide range of amenities, including multimodal transportation options and community spaces.

4. Public Transportation

Public transportation is an important factor when people decide where to live and work. Burien is part of the King County Metro system, which allows you to take the bus, train, or community shuttle to get around. The community shuttle is a local service in Burien that transports riders between the downtown core, Seahurst Park, Highline Medical Center, and Gregory Heights. Several bus routes also connect Burien to Link Light Rail at Tukwila International Boulevard Station or Sea-Tac Airport Link Station, as well as to Sounder Commuter Rail at Tukwila Sounder Station. Public transportation makes it easy and convenient to get around the city, as well as to commute to Seattle or the surrounding suburbs for work.

5. Atmosphere for Creativity and Creators

Arts and culture are not only important economic drivers but also indicators of a community’s overall health and appeal. As the home of such organizations as the Burien Actors Theatre and the Northwest Symphony Orchestra, the Burien community hosts a wide variety of performances, exhibitions, and shows. Burien is filled with a spirit of creativity and innovation, as evidenced by the weekly Farmers' Markets, evolving Art Alley, and other events and activities.

6. Preservation of Natural Beauty

Burien values and invests in preserving its natural resources, such as Seahurst Park, which features about 180 acres of forests, trails, and beaches along Puget Sound. Seahurst Park is also home to the Environmental Science Center, which promotes environmental stewardship and educational experiences. The city’s progressive approach to conserving its natural resources is a promising sign if you’re looking to make a long-term investment in local real estate.

7. Inviting Business Climate

Burien’s business climate is thriving, making it an ideal place for both startups and established companies to grow. The city has fostered a supportive environment for small businesses, prioritizing economic development and providing the infrastructure needed for entrepreneurs to succeed. The Northeast Redevelopment Area (NERA) has been a focal point for job creation and development, positioning Burien as a competitive alternative to more expensive cities like Seattle.

One major advantage for businesses in Burien is the significantly lower business and occupation (B&O) tax rate, set at 0.1%—less than half of Seattle's 0.219%. Additionally, businesses making under $200,000 annually are exempt, further reducing the cost of doing business. This combination of economic incentives, strong community support, and strategic developments makes Burien an increasingly attractive option for investors and entrepreneurs looking to establish or expand their presence in the Burien WA business market​​.

8. Burien Opportunity Zones for Investors

For those seeking long-term gains, Burien offers Opportunity Zones that provide significant tax incentives for real estate investors. These federally designated zones allow investors to defer and potentially reduce capital gains taxes when they reinvest in real estate in Burien WA. As part of Washington State's broader initiative to encourage investment in underserved areas, Burien’s Opportunity Zone includes parts of its downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, making it a prime target for both residential and commercial investment.

Managing Your Real Estate Investment

Burien is making a name for itself in numerous ways: local business incentives, affordable real estate, a thriving downtown core, ample economic opportunities, and easy access to Seattle and other cities in the South Puget Sound region. Collectively, these qualities make Burien a desirable place to work, live, and invest in real estate. Your investment properties in South Sound should benefit from our century of expertise and connections in property management. Reach out to us today to see how our full-service property management can change your life.