The Seattle-area waterfront homes we typically feature tend toward the spectacular—think soaring walls of windows and heated, wrap-around porches on every story,  each purpose-built to catch the sun setting behind the Olympics. As if sipping coffee while a sailboat glides by wasn't glamorous enough on its own. 

This quaint Camano Island home might not feel quite so opulent as some of its beachfront neighbors. For one thing, it precedes them: According to the century-old nonprofit community group Utsalady Ladies Aid, the 1921 home is the oldest on this stretch of Camano waterfront.

That kind of originality comes with perks, like the 71 feet of west-facing waterfront and the grandfathered boathouse that extends all the way to the Sound. It also imbues the space with historic character.

Thought to be the product of Seattle architect and entrepreneur Jud Yoho, who helped refine and popularize the bungalow in the early twentieth century, the home was built at a time when Utsalady had aspirations of becoming the region’s big city. Today, the unincorporated town of about 1,500 residents saves most of its excitement for the annual Fourth of July parade—or the occasional gray whale sighting.

The home has changed a bit, too, since those early days. At some point, the front porch was enclosed to create a stunning, all-weather sunroom, ideal for evenings spent watching the sunset.

Still, the home’s more modern owners have kept the home as charming, and nearly as era-appropriate, as ever. Wainscoting, exposed brick, and coffered ceilings lend era authenticity—so much so that, from certain vantage points, it looks a bit like a living museum. Original and reclaimed fir floors, made even more charming by their imperfections, carry warmth throughout the home. Built-ins on built-ins, including a coveted breakfast nook, make the space feel snug, despite its large, 4,000-square-foot footprint.

In addition, 1920s schoolhouse pendants, a stunning farmhouse sink, and a refurbished 1950s Wedgewood stove, all sourced from local salvage shops, complete the vintage look.

Potential buyers with an eye toward historic restoration still have plenty of work to do, though. The bathrooms look nice but, to varying degrees, dated—pink tile, anyone?

And lest that $1,950,000 price tag look a little less than charming, a detached studio helps rake in a bit of extra money as a successful Airbnb. 

Listing Fast Facts

167 Utsalady Road Camano Island, WA 98282
Size: 4,056 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
List Price: $1,950,000
List Date: 9/25/2024
Listing Agent: Julie Love, Windermere Real Estate/Camano Island