I believe that Maple Valley has an abundance of new homes and newer homes in the area. There is also a mixture of homes on acreage. This keeps up home values and keeps your neighborhoods nicer. A very high percentage of homes are owner occupied. Of course, like everywhere else, there are foreclosures, but due to the homes being newer they do not stick out so badly. Having middle to upper median incomes in the area along with newer stores, quality schools, close recreation and quick eastside access is a mix that makes this area the spot to live! Come visit it~you'll probably stay!

You are correct about the hype of Maple Valley. MV is a growing community that is still in it's infancy as far as building goes. It could possibly be considered a future Snoqualmie with it's proximity to up and coming Covington. Covington boasts many restaurants, stores and a planned Costco which should open up in either late 2008 or early 2009. In addition, MV's is located along Hwy 18, which more and more is becoming a good alternative commute route. Oh yeah, values are much better than than the Issaquah, Snoqualmie area.

I just moved to Maple Valley in August because I wanted to buy my first home and found that I got a lot more for my money and a 2-car garage! There's a lot of privacy and the mountans are beautiful, so the relatively short drive to the Eastside or Seattle is fun; like a road trip. I do find that all of my friends think I live in the middle of nowhere, but it's a 40-45 minute drive to DT Seattle...not bad. I did get that small town feel as Colleen mentioned and I like that - it's very quiet and everyone is SO nice. I remember my first week in my new place and how nice the pizza delivery guys were - it really stood out to me. There is also a lot of new developement, so I bought early. There are not very many restaurants or wine bars yet, but you just drink wine at home and BBQ with friends instead. When I get home it is quiet and I look forward to being home. So, that's the experience I had! I am sure that others that just moved into the area feel the same.

You get a lot more home for the money in Maple Valley compared to the other surrounding areas. It is a newer community that still has some trees left. There are a few golf courses nearby and shopping is close.

I think much of the appeal to Maple Valley is related to a strong sense of Community (it's a one high school town), great schools and relative affordability compared to other Seattle/Bellevue neighborhoods. As a R.E. Broker/Resident in the area, I know many people move here as an alternative to the higher priced homes of the Plateau and Issaquah areas.