“Inside Bellevue”, the Bellevue neighborhood spotlight series, is a unique collaboration between The Brazen’s at Windermere Real Estate/Bellevue Commons and Downtown Bellevue Network. Drawing upon their over 30 years of experience living, working, and selling homes in Bellevue, the esteemed Brazen family provides an exclusive insider’s perspective on living in Bellevue and the real estate market.
The suburban neighborhood of Vuecrest in Bellevue, Washington, is known for its scenic views and serene atmosphere. Situated north of downtown Bellevue, the area is close to exceptional parks, retail stores, and dining options within walking distance, making it a desirable place to live. Additionally, its location near Bellevue Way Northeast and Interstate 405 easily connects residents to the greater Washington area.
The community is made up of 204 single-family homes spread across 80 acres, offering residents ample space. The neighborhood is well-lit with 99 streetlights, ensuring safety and security, and it has three entrances for convenient access. Vuecrest is known for its strong sense of community, with residents enjoying a peaceful and friendly atmosphere. This combination of features makes Vuecrest an attractive place to live for those seeking a suburban, opulent lifestyle.
Real Estate by the Numbers
| Average Price of Home Sold* | Average Price Per Sq Ft* | Average Days on the Market* | Number of Homes Sold in the Last 12 Months | Highest Priced Home Sold in the Last 12 Months | Lowest Priced Home Sold in the Last 12 Months |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,900,000 | $1,466 | 4 | 3 | $6,350,000 | $2,588,500 |
* NWMLS Data from April 1, 2023 – March 31, 2024
Vuecrest Amenities
Vuecrest is a well-located neighborhood in Bellevue, offering residents easy access to a range of amenities. Just a short walk away from Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square, as well as downtown’s diverse shops and restaurants, the neighborhood provides the convenience of urban living while maintaining a serene, residential ambiance. Residents can also enjoy nearby Bellevue Downtown Park, perfect for leisurely strolls and outdoor recreation. The neighborhood features wide streets that are ideal for walking.
The Vuecrest Community Association, a Homeowner’s Association for the neighborhood’s 204 single-family homes, is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of six members serving staggered three-year terms. These directors are elected by members in good standing at the annual association meeting, ensuring effective representation and community engagement.
History of Vuecrest Neighborhood
Vuecrest is a Bellevue neighborhood that is rich with history dating back to the 19th century. The area was originally the 160-acre homestead of Patrick Downey, who built a cabin there in 1882 and cultivated strawberries and dairy cattle. The property was later leased to Japanese American farmers until their internment during World War II. In 1946, the land was platted, and the Vuecrest subdivision was established as one of the first modern developments in Bellevue. Developers W.E. Rogers and James H. Barber were instrumental in forming the community, with original deeds recorded in 1947.
Vuecrest was designed with winding streets to maximize views, and the street names reflected the area’s historical and natural character. Deed restrictions were put in place to maintain the neighborhood’s charm and integrity, such as prohibiting lot splitting and imposing a height limit of 20 feet on structures. The community was informally organized in 1947 and later incorporated as the Vuecrest Community Association in 1952.
The association played an active role in planning and maintaining the neighborhood, installing “Thundercloud” plum trees in the 1950s and “Mt. Fuji” cherry trees on the Park Road esplanades in the 1970s to enhance the area’s aesthetics. Today, Vuecrest remains a quiet, safe residential neighborhood with deep historical roots and a strong sense of community.
Style of Homes in Vuecrest
Vuecrest is known for its blend of traditional and modern architectural styles, featuring single-story homes and daylight ramblers. The neighborhood’s average lot size is around 12,000 square feet, providing residents with ample space and privacy. To maintain the community’s charm and open feel, there are restrictions against splitting lots and a 20-foot height limit on structures, with few exceptions.
Protected view covenants ensure many homes in Vuecrest have stunning vistas of Lake Washington, the Olympic Mountains, and the skylines of Seattle or Bellevue. While some original homes from the 1950s and 1960s remain, many have been replaced with new construction, creating a dynamic and transitional neighborhood that balances historical roots with contemporary design. This combination of classic and modern aesthetics contributes to Vuecrest’s unique residential character.
Additional Fact about Vuecrest
Living in Vuecrest comes with the advantage of access to an award-winning and highly sought-after school system. The neighborhood is served by top-rated schools, including Medina Elementary, Chinook Middle School, and Bellevue High School. These schools are renowned for their academic excellence, diverse programs, and commitment to student success.
My grandmother bought a home there in the 60’s and lived there until around 2002 after my grandfather passed. She sold her home to a couple from California that renovated it. That neighborhood was special, unique and peaceful. I remember walking from my grandmother’s house to Bellevue Square, QFC or the University Book Store. I have such fond memories
Nice in-depth article. So cozy with only 204 homes.