FAQ
Relocation Questions, Answered Honestly
These are the questions I get most often from tech professionals relocating to the Eastside. I've answered them the way I'd answer a friend, not with marketing copy.
What's the best neighborhood in Redmond for Microsoft employees?
Education Hill is my top recommendation for Microsoft employees with families. It offers 10–15 minute commute to campus, excellent LWSD elementary schools (Redmond Elementary is one of the best in the district), and a genuine neighborhood feel. Overlake is better if you want the absolute shortest commute and don't mind paying a premium for proximity. North Redmond is the value play.
How is the Lake Washington School District compared to Bellevue School District?
LWSD is A-rated and top 5 in Washington state. Bellevue SD is A+ and #1 in the state. The practical difference: Bellevue SD is more competitive and internationally-focused with strong IB programs. LWSD is excellent but slightly less intense, with strong STEM alignment. For most families, LWSD is the better fit — you get outstanding schools without the pressure-cooker environment.
Is Redmond walkable? Do I need a car?
Redmond Town Center area is walkable for daily errands. Overlake has good walkability near the light rail station. Education Hill and North Redmond are car-dependent for most daily activities. If you're coming from a walkable city like San Francisco or NYC, adjust your expectations — Redmond is a suburban environment and a car is essential for most residents.
What are home prices like in Redmond right now (2026)?
Median home price in Redmond is approximately $1.37M in 2026. Education Hill ranges from $1.1M–$1.6M. Overlake ranges from $1.2M–$1.8M. North Redmond ranges from $900K–$1.3M. Redmond Ridge ranges from $1.1M–$1.8M. These are for single-family homes in good condition. Condos and townhomes are available at lower price points.
What's the commute like from Redmond to downtown Seattle?
Redmond to downtown Seattle is typically 30–50 minutes by car on SR-520 (toll road). The East Link light rail now connects Overlake to downtown Seattle in approximately 45 minutes with no traffic concerns. If you work in downtown Seattle, light rail from Overlake is a viable option. If you work at Microsoft's main campus, you're already in Redmond.
Should I rent first in Redmond or buy immediately?
If you're new to the area, renting in Redmond for 6–12 months is a reasonable approach to learn the neighborhoods. However, if you know you want Education Hill or Overlake and have a clear budget, buying immediately locks in your costs and builds equity. The rental market in Redmond is tight and expensive — you're not saving much by renting vs. buying in most scenarios.
What's the Microsoft campus expansion status and how does it affect Redmond?
Microsoft's $5B campus expansion is 12 of 17 buildings complete as of April 2026. The expansion has added thousands of jobs and increased housing demand in Redmond. The new buildings are modern, LEED-certified, and include significant green space. The expansion has also improved the Overlake area with new retail and dining options near campus.
Is Redmond safe? What are the crime rates like?
Redmond is one of the safest cities in Washington state. Crime rates are well below national averages. Education Hill, Overlake, and Redmond Ridge are all very safe neighborhoods. North Redmond is also safe but has slightly higher property crime rates than the other neighborhoods. Redmond consistently ranks in the top 10 safest cities in Washington.
What's the difference between Redmond Ridge and the rest of Redmond?
Redmond Ridge is a master-planned HOA community on the eastern edge of Redmond, bordering Sammamish. It has newer construction (2000s–2010s), HOA amenities (pools, trails), and a more suburban feel than the rest of Redmond. The commute to Microsoft is longer (20–30 minutes). It's zoned for Eastlake High School, which is one of the strongest in LWSD. Good fit for buyers who want newer homes and HOA amenities.
Can I use my RSUs to buy a home in Redmond? How does that work?
Yes. Vested RSUs can be used as down payment funds after they're received and documented. For mortgage qualification, lenders can count RSU income if you have a 2-year history of receiving them and can show continued vesting schedule. I work with mortgage brokers who specialize in tech employee compensation and can guide you through this process.
What's the tax situation for Microsoft employees relocating from California?
Washington has no personal state income tax. A Microsoft employee earning $300K in California pays approximately $30K+ in state income tax. In Washington, that's $0. This is a significant financial benefit. Washington does have a capital gains tax on gains over $270,000, a B&O tax for self-employed individuals, and relatively high sales and property taxes. Net-net, most California relocators come out significantly ahead.
How does Redmond compare to Kirkland for Microsoft employees?
Redmond: shorter commute (5–15 min), slightly lower prices, more tech-focused community, less waterfront access. Kirkland: longer commute (15–25 min), slightly higher prices, waterfront lifestyle on Lake Washington, more diverse dining and nightlife, Justin's current home city. Both are excellent. Redmond is better if commute minimization is your top priority. Kirkland is better if lifestyle and walkability matter more.
Is it worth buying in Redmond now with interest rates where they are in 2026?
Interest rates have moderated from their 2023 peaks but remain elevated compared to 2020–2021. The case for buying now: (1) Eastside inventory remains tight and prices are unlikely to drop significantly. (2) Waiting for lower rates means competing with more buyers when rates drop. (3) You can refinance when rates improve. (4) The Microsoft RTO policy is driving sustained demand. My honest advice: if you're planning to stay 5+ years, buy now. If less than 3 years, consider renting.