Have you noticed the increase of new developments fitting multiple homes on one lot? Here’s why and what it means for you.
As a part of mayor Bruce Harrell’s One Seattle Plan, significant zoning changes are being made in nearly every neighborhood of Seattle. As per House Bill 1110, a bill that mandated that Washington cities grant permission for multiple homes per lot, Seattle has adopted the residential rezone, in addition to mixed use development in some areas. Historically, Seattle’s residential areas have been zoned for single family homes. Meaning: one lot = one home. All single family residence lots are now zoned for 4 homes; one lot = 4 [possible] homes. Nicknamed “pocket communities”, these lots that have been redeveloped typically consist of 2-4 homes varying in size.
Both images from a previous project in Northeast Seattle by BriKat homes.
There’s absolutely no denying that this is the most progressive measure the city has taken in regard to home access. This shift towards higher density can feel disruptive, as it is certainly a change to neighborhoods and local infrastructure. However, density within cities is a sustainable way to account for growth. Instead of a further suburban sprawl, with environmental damages, new infrastructure costs and longer commutes, systematic density allows more people to live comfortably within the city. Community is strengthened by such measures, as walking and access to local businesses and amenities becomes convenient. Overall, the Seattle housing supply has been stretched thin, and this movement for more building flexibility serves as a step in towards more housing availability.
What this means:
As a homeowner: For those who currently own their home, these zoning changes inherently increase property value. Whether you’re actively looking to sell, or interested in exploring the possibilities of building on your lot, we are here to help explore all your options.
As a buyer: As we continue to see these measures carried out by way of developing pocket communities, we see more variety in the market. This opens up possibilities in historically more sought after areas, provides more affordable options, all while keeping you in the city.
Refrences:
Packer, R. (2025, May 27). Seattle just rezoned entire city — That was the easy part. The Urbanist. Retrieved from https://www.theurbanist.org/2025/05/27/seattle-just-rezoned-the-entire-city/
(2025). One Seattle Plan Zoning Implementation. Retrieved from https://one-seattle-plan-zoning-implementation-seattlecitygis.hub.arcgis.com/
Langdon, P. (2023, April 17). When is density good, and when is it harmful to cities? CNU Public Square. Retrieved from https://www.cnu.org/publicsquare/2023/04/17/when-density-good-and-when-it-harmful-cities
