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The Ferry House at Ebey’s Landing
If Whidbey Island had a heartbeat, it would echo across the open prairie at Ebey’s Landing. Few places capture that steady rhythm quite like the Ferry House. This enduring landmark reflects the island’s history, character, and quiet sense of place. Whidbey’s story lives on through the Ferry House at Ebey’s Landing.
The Ferry House at Ebey’s Landing History
Built in the early 1860s atop the Ebey family’s original 640-acre land claim, the Ferry House sits high above Puget Sound, overlooking Ebey Prairie and the waters that have long connected Whidbey Island to the mainland. Long before “water views” or “heritage homes” became real estate buzzwords, this home served a practical and welcoming purpose. Travelers arriving by boat found warmth, rest, and a sense of arrival here. It was the first impression of Whidbey that was as gracious then, as it feels today.
The Ferry House at Ebey’s Landing Today
What makes the Ferry House especially compelling is how beautifully intact it remains. The home stands not only as a preserved structure, but as a living reminder that some properties are more than addresses. They are storytellers! They have borne witness to generations of change while remaining deeply rooted in their surroundings. In a world where newness often takes center stage, the Ferry House represents the enduring value of authenticity.
Magic of The Ferry House at Ebey’s Landing
In winter, the property takes on an added layer of magic. A light snowfall softens the prairie grasses, the roofline gathers a quiet dusting of white, and ferries move almost silently across the sound below. It’s peaceful and grounding, a scene that feels both cinematic and deeply familiar. Moments like this capture what so many are seeking today: calm, connection, and a lifestyle that elevates everyday life.
The Community
This is the essence of Ebey’s Landing and the surrounding communities. Protected open space, unobstructed views, and a commitment to preservation define the landscape. Here, history isn’t confined to just commemoration plaques or museums, it’s woven into daily life. Morning walks trace the same paths settlers once traveled. Seasonal changes unfold across the same horizons that have framed the island for more than a century.
Homes near Ebey’s Landing offer something increasingly rare. Beyond square footage, finishes, or amenities, they provide a connection…to the land, to the water, and to a story that continues to evolve. Living here means sharing space with history while enjoying the comforts and rhythms of modern island life.
In that sense, the true luxury of Whidbey Island isn’t found in excess, but in meaning. It’s found in places like the Ferry House, where past and present coexist, and where home is defined not just by walls and views, but by the life that unfolds around them.
If you have experienced the magic of the Ferry House at Ebey’s Landing and wish to make a move to Whidbey to enjoy the experience all year long, lets connect!
Photo taken by: Cynthia Woerner Photography
6 Reasons to Attend Open Houses
Some people wonder whether or not they should attend open houses. We believe open houses can be incredibly advantageous for both buyers and sellers. Follow along for 6 reasons why you should be attending open houses whether you are planning to buy or sell.
Get an idea of how your home compares:
If you plan to sell your home, visiting open houses in your neighborhood can give you a good idea of how your home compares to your neighbors. By visiting several homes, you can gauge the pulse on the neighborhood’s market by watching what the homes sold for, how quickly they sold, and how they compared to yours. This information can prepare you for what you can expect your home to sell for and give you a to-do list of things to get done before you list your home. If you have not connected with a real estate professional and would like to, connect with us here so we can recommend some.
Get a clear idea of what you want in a home:
If you are preparing to buy a home, it is a good idea to have a wish list of things you want in a home when you buy. Download our Wishlist Form Here. Fill it out before visiting Open Houses, then fill it out again after you have visited a few. Compare how your desires changed. Attending several Open Houses can give you a clear idea of what you want in a home. Perhaps you thought 1100 sq feet was enough room for you, but after experiencing it in person, you decided 1500 was more realistic for your needs. Or vice versa. Maybe you wanted 2300 sq ft, but after spending time in homes that size, you realized 1900 would be a better fit. You might have strong opinions about specific floor plans, garage sizes, number of bedrooms, or heating options. Find open houses in your area by clicking here.
Get a realistic idea of how much you will spend on a home:
You might have your heart set on a specific neighborhood or features in a home. Attending several Open Houses gives you a realistic idea of how much you will spend on what you want. You might find that you cannot afford everything you want in a home. It is best to first connect with a lender to determine how much you can qualify for with your circumstances. If you need help finding a suitable lender, contact us for recommendations. If you cannot afford everything on your wish list, you either need to refine your wish list or keep saving. A trusted lender can also help you determine which type of loan best fits your needs and help you develop a financial plan. So, connect with a lender as early as possible. You can find a few local to Whidbey listed here.
Imagine your life inside the home:
A recent study determined that roughly half of all home buyers experience buyer’s remorse when purchasing their home. Can you imagine feeling buyer’s remorse after making the biggest purchase of your life? You can avoid this by doing your research ahead of time. Attend Open Houses and refine your wish list till you know precisely what you want and need in a home. Visit several different-sized homes to have a realistic idea of what each square footage looks and feels like. Consider the different layouts and which ones feel most comfortable to you. When you are confident you know exactly what you want in a home, you can quickly and confidently make that decision. Therefore you can communicate effectively to your agent exactly what you are looking for in a home. A good agent will help you finetune your wants and needs and make sure you don’t buy something you don’t truly love. Don’t have an agent? Connect with us and we will pair you with a great one. When you find the perfect home you will know it is the right one for you and will feel confident in the purchase because you have done your research.
Get familiar with the neighborhood:
If your children have grown up and gone off to college, you might not like having a noisy community park up against your property. On the other hand, if you have small children, don’t wait till you have moved in to discover your kids are the only ones on the block. While visiting open houses in the neighborhood, ask the realtors about the neighborhood. Some good questions to ask are:
a. Is there an HOA?
b. What kind of amenities does the neighborhood have to offer?
c. Is there a school nearby?
Find an agent that is a good fit for you:
Whether buying or selling, attending open houses can also allow you to get to know agents in your area for when you are ready. If you don’t already have an agent and would prefer to connect with one, email us here: WhidbeyCommunications@Windermere.com.
We strongly urge you to check out homes in various price points, locations, and styles during this time. You might surprise yourself with what you imagined liking versus what you discover you want and don’t want.
Attending several Open Houses before you get serious about buying might be one of the best pieces of advice. Once you know you are serious about buying and what you are looking for, or if you prefer a more personal experience tour homes that meet your wish list criteria with your Realtor. Don’t have a Realtor? Let us connect you with one. Call us at 360.675.5953.
Click here to find our interactive Open House list for your area. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to connect with us.
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Fort Casey Forts
Standing tall along the western coast of Whidbey Island, these 10” barrel guns tell the story of a relationship to the United States Department of Defense that began long before any plane took flight. At the time of its construction in the late 1800s, Fort Casey was a military marvel. Part of the “Triangle of Fire,” this military outpost was one of many strategically placed along the Puget Sound as the first line of defense against aquatic attack. Unfortunately, this magnificent fort’s usefulness was short-lived. By the 1920s Fort Casey’s impressive disappearing guns had already become obsolete and in 1956 the property was purchased by Washington State Parks and Recreation. Today, this fort is one of the most frequented state parks in Washington and a deeply embedded part of Whidbey Island culture.
Check out the rest of Whidbey’s beautiful destinations from this series here.
