434 Van Der Vanter Ave
SCENIC HILL | KENT
OFFERED AT
$550,000
This home delivers something rare. A classic bungalow feel with the updates buyers care about most. From the moment you walk in, it feels grounded, warm, and easy to live in. Outside, a private backyard creates space to relax, host, and enjoy your summers.
MLS #2501193
Bedrooms 3 + Bonus Room
Bathrooms 1
Sq.Ft. 1,220
Lot Sq.Ft. 6,600
Neighborhood Scenic Hill
2025 Taxes $4,709
Detached 1-Car Garage
Forced Air
Major System Updates
The Home
• Bright living room anchored by a fireplace and built-in storage
• Unique pull-out desk feature integrated into the bookcase
• Flexible layout with easy movement between spaces
• Strong natural light throughout the day
• Fully fenced backyard
• Two rear rooms add function for work, guests, or hobbies
• Detached oversized garage adds storage and utility
• Quiet street with limited through traffic
The Story
The seller was drawn to this home because it felt like the neighborhoods they loved in Seattle. A classic bungalow with character, warmth, and presence. Over time, it became more than a place to live. It became a place to gather, to garden, and to slow down.
Summer evenings meant watching Fourth of July fireworks stretch across the valley. Each winter brought the tradition of picking out a Christmas tree from Carpinito Bros. Spring and summer filled the yard with blooms, creating a vibrant and ever-changing backdrop.
Some of life’s most meaningful moments happened here. She got engaged in the kitchen, and many of the flowers grown in the garden were used in her wedding bouquet and arrangements.
The backyard became the heart of it all. BBQs with colleagues, dinners with friends, and “backyard beverages” with neighbors. A tradition that started during the pandemic and carried on because it brought people together.
UPGRADES & FEATURES
Major Systems
• Roof replaced (2026)
• Water heater replaced (2026)
• Furnace installed (2021)
• Sewer line replaced (2021)
• Plumbing system updates (2020)
• Fireplace and chimney rebuilt (2020)
Structural & Exterior
• Windows replaced (2018) with warranty
• Garage roof replaced (2018)
• Gutters replaced (2019)
• Crawl space vapor barrier installed
• Walkway and patio improvements
Interior Upgrades
• Bathroom remodel (2023)
• Vanity countertop (2022)
• Kitchen flooring (2025)
• Updated appliances (2019)
• Asbestos removed with air testing clearance
Functional & Lifestyle Features
• Built-in bookcase with pull-out desk
• Oversized garage with storage
• Fully fenced backyard with dog door
• Garden beds and established landscaping
• Private patio retreat
Recent Maintenance
• Furnace filter replaced
• Batteries updated in remotes and systems
• Exterior paint matched (2025 touch-up supply included)
Why Buyers Choose This Area
• Established neighborhood with strong sense of community
• Neighbors who stay connected and look out for each other
• Quiet streets with minimal traffic
Convenience
• Easy freeway access
• Close to SeaTac Airport
• Near Kent Station, Transit Center, Target, Home Depot, and QFC
• Equidistant between Tukwila & Covington's Costco
Utility Snapshot
• Electricity approx. $70 monthly
• Water & sewer approx. $141 monthly
• Garbage & Recycling approx. $70 monthly
Parks & Recreation
• Clark Lake Park
• YMCA at Morrill Meadows
• Walking routes with Mt. Rainier views
Local Favorites
• Carpinito Bros.
• East Hill Nursery
• Agave and Mama Stortini’s
• La Huerta Latino store Community Feel
• Neighborhood events and seasonal gatherings
• Active local communication and support network
Lifestyle:
For Adults
• Dining and shopping at Kent Station
• Local nurseries and garden centers
• YMCA fitness and recreation
With Children
• Parks and open green spaces
• Seasonal markets and events
• Community-driven neighborhood activities
Dog-Friendly
• Local parks and walking routes
• Neighborhood support for lost pets
Walking Routes
• Scenic walks with valley and mountain views
• Quiet residential streets
Community Events
• Summer food trucks on W. Seattle St.
• Farmers market, downtown Kent
• Neighborhood-organized events and gatherings
• Summer Pickleball & tennis games at Scenic Hill Park
• Kent Swim & Tennis Club