Well-kept Secret: Ferry County Real Estate

Article by Colleen Randle

Ever thought about living in an off-the-main-road, rural community? Ever dreamed of living in a place with trees, lakes, rivers and high mountains? Ever wanted to see deer in your front yard or even in town?

Ferry County is located in the foothills of the Kettle Mountain Range in north central Washington. Republic, which is the county seat, has an elevation of about 2,500', an average rain fall of 16.8" and average temperatures of 55.6 degrees (high) and 31.2 degrees (low). The county also has the highest mountain pass in the state, Sherman Pass, with an elevation of 5,510 feet and much of the longest man-made lake in the State, Lake Roosevelt, over 150 miles long.

"It seems surprising that Republic and Ferry County are such well-kept secrets in Washington State."

Ferry County encompasses 2202 square miles and has a population of only 7,260. It is the 9th largest county in the State and ranks 36 out of the 39 counties in population. This is an area that has definite seasond and outdoor activities for all of them. Many people have come here for years for the fishing, hunting, hiking, boating and rafting, horseback riding, cross-county skiing, and just to enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Ferry County also has a world-famous fossil quarry and a restored 100-year-old carousel, the historic Ansorage Hotel and an antique car and truck museum.

It seems surprising that Republic and Ferry County are such well-kept secrets in Washington State. The County borders Canada on the north, Lake Roosevelt on the east and south, and Okanogan County on the west. Only 20% of the land is privately owned and with such a small population opportunity abounds.

Modern amenities in Republic include a county hospital, three medical clinics, education from preschool through college, and a public library. There are 13 churches, 8 restaurants, 2 banks, 2 grocery stores, 2 clothing stores, 2 building supply stores, and a 3,500' airplane landing strip just ten minutes from town. Canada is just 45 minutes away.

Land in Ferry County is still relatively inexpensive. As you browse the listing links on the real estate page, you will notice this is a buyer's market. If you see something you are interested in hearing more about, please contact the Realtors listed there.

More Information

Coleen Randle
Brown Bear Real Estate
1015 South Clark Avenue
PO Box 913
Republic, Washington 99166
(509) 775-2323
www.laquintarealtor.com/washington.htm

Acknowledgement

Article reprinted with the permission of Colleen Randle. Photo by Sarah Lawrence, copyright 2003.