Families to empty nesters at home here

Tucked above Lake Washington, the East Renton Highlands is an area of relatively new and affordable homes. Names like The Orchards, Blueberry Lane and Peachtree Lane evoke images of a peaceful, more rural escape, yet the area is in the midst of an urban-style revitalization.

The Orchards has drawn residents from surrounding areas such as Seattle, Bellevue and Issaquah who have discovered they can purchase newer homes and get more house for their money while retaining proximity to Seattle, Bellevue and Issaquah.

"I found I only added about 10 minutes to my commute," says James Ashley who moved from Sammamish 4-½ years ago. "We are centrally located right off I-405 and Highway 900," says Ashley who also points out that Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is only 15 minutes away.

Prices of single-family homes vary from about $400,000 for smaller residences to more than $500,000 for the larger homes.

The Orchards was built in the late 1990s, with the main neighborhood of single-family homes and smaller sub-communities with town houses and condominiums.

"In each of these little communities within The Orchards, there is something for everyone's lifestyle — from large families to empty nesters," says Barbara Lopes, a real-estate agent with RE/MAX who lives in the community.

Homes in the Cherrywood Lanes sub-community are arranged around a park with play equipment and a large grassy area while Peachtree Lanes has a pool and clubhouse.

Janet Johnsen says the design of her town house minimizes noise, adding that "the layout is unbelievable and the finish work is beautiful."

"People take care of their homes," Ashley says.

Additionally, there are homeowner dues and neighborhood codes for paint color, for example, to keep the overall appearance of the neighborhood consistent.

Samantha King moved to the neighborhood for economic and social diversity.

"We have wonderful people on all levels with a good mix from elderly to families to single people," says King, who is the treasurer of The Orchards Master Association.

The Orchards is a spacious community, another draw for King, who moved from a Seattle neighborhood four years ago. With wide, tree-lined streets, sidewalks and large cul-de-sacs, it is ideal for kids' outdoor activities such as riding bikes or playing basketball, residents say. The neighborhood also has greenbelts and ample parking.

"It does not have the mentality of 'Keeping up with the Joneses.' You are part of a community and you really feel that way," adds King.

The East Renton Highlands has grown rapidly in recent years. With new housing developments as well as new retail shopping centers and a post office, the area offers plenty of options for residents.

Grocery stores, coffee shops, restaurants and a variety of services are within walking distance of The Orchards.

"People are no longer running out and going to Bellevue for activities. We are staying and socializing more in Renton because there is so much more to offer the residents," Lopes says.

Signs of change in the area also can be seen on maps, where the traditional street names given by King County, such as 138th Avenue Southeast, also goes by the newer city designation Duvall Avenue Northeast.

The swift development of the East Renton Highlands and the surrounding area are changing the look and image of Renton.

Big changes are occurring in the area near The Orchards, too. The Landing, a 68-acre lakefront urban village with retail space, movie theaters, office space and residential units on former Boeing property is under construction, with some places already open.

The new Seattle Seahawks training facility also is being built nearby.

A number of residents feel that the changes make Renton an up-and-coming suburb.

"Any place you go there are issues, but this community is a really nice little pocket," Johnsen says.

Seattle Times South bureau reporter Karen Johnson contributed

to this story.