Our research indicates that there is significant demand nationally for detached homes in beautiful natural settings such as beside the ocean. Low interest rates and the promise of meaningful price appreciation are attracting both regular vacationers and investors to buying second homes in places like Grayland. Such vacation property appears to be appealing to individuals across the age spectrum from “empty nesters” to young families. An article in the June 13, 2005 Wall Street Journal mentions that the trend toward shorter mini-vacations rather than two week breaks has made the second home market especially strong in slightly faded resort towns that are an easy drive from major cities. Grayland is an easy 1 ¾-hour drive from Tacoma, a 2 ½-hour drive from Seattle, and a 3 ½-hour drive from Portland. Grayland’s relatively undisturbed natural beauty, combined with its small town charm, makes it an ideal short getaway destination. Its charm stems from its unusually friendly locals (typically fishermen and cranberry bog farmers), an array of inviting antique shops and restaurants, and picturesque cranberry bogs. According to the National Association of Realtors, a record 2.82 million vacation homes were purchased nationally in 2004, which is a 16% increase over 2003. According to a survey done for the Wall Street Journal by the market research firm Fiserv/CSW, the price of vacation homes nationally has increased 21% over the last year. For many years Grayland and Westport have been unrecognized gems along the Washington coast. This appears to be changing. Westport will soon have a premier Scottish Links golf course and spa, which should increase the attractiveness of the area to affluent vacationers and real estate investors.