Trailblazing: Sundance Apartments, Milton (Seattle), WA

“Small-Town Living with Big-City Perks”

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Milton, WA was established in the 1890s as a lumber-based settlement originally called “Mill Town”. Perched on a ridge between the Puyallup and Fife valleys, the town offers scenic views, a peaceful atmosphere and convenient access to nearby Seattle and Tacoma. Early residents built a tight-knit community focused on agriculture, timber and trade and benefited from the gradual expansion of rail lines and transportation routes. This blend of industry, rural charm and accessibility laid the foundation for Milton’s enduring appeal.

More than a century later, Milton has retained its small-town charm while continuing to benefit from its strategic location within the greater Seattle metropolitan area. The City has an average household income of over $110,000 and the median age of its residents is just 38, highlighting its appeal to young professionals seeking affordability, livability and convenience. Milton’s peaceful atmosphere, quality schools and engaged community further enhances its desirability.

Pathfinder acquired Sundance, a 105-unit apartment community in Milton, last November.  The property, built in 2004, offers a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 725 to 1,160 square feet. The apartments feature high ceilings (9´-10´), in-unit washer and dryers, fireplaces, walk-in closets and private decks and patios. The community features a central clubhouse with fitness center, pool, jacuzzi, picnic area, playground and 24 detached garages.

While the property’s exterior has been well maintained, the common areas and apartment interiors have not been updated in over 20 years, offering an opportunity for improvement. Our business plan includes modernizing the unit interiors, upgrading the clubhouse and fitness center and installing a new BBQ area, dog park, package lockers, remote-controlled garage doors and vehicle entry gate.

Since acquiring Sundance, we’ve renovated 11 apartments with new flooring, modern kitchens (shaker cabinet fronts, quartz countertops and tile backsplashes) and updated bathrooms. We’ve also added a resident package locker and dog park and this summer we are renovating the clubhouse and rolling out community-wide Wi-Fi.

With its neighborhood charm and easy access to Seattle and Tacoma, we believe Sundance is an ideal setting for those seeking a quiet community with modern convenience.

Before and After – Renovated Kitchen at Sundance

Milton: Did you know?

  • A City in Two Counties: Milton holds the unique distinction of being situated in both King and Pierce Counties. This dual-county status influences various aspects of governance and public services, offering residents access to resources from both jurisdictions.
  • The Milton Mule Political Prank: In 1938, Milton's Mayor, Kenneth Simmons, orchestrated a unique political stunt by entering a mule named Boston Curtis into a local Republican election. Surprisingly, the mule won. Simmons' intent was to highlight voter apathy and the potential pitfalls of blind party loyalty. This event gained national attention and was featured in Ripley's Believe It or Not.
  • Surprise Lake, Milton’s largest body of water at over 32 acres, is privately owned and known for its scenic beauty and eerie folklore. Local legends tell of a ghostly woman said to haunt the area, adding a supernatural twist to this otherwise peaceful setting.

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