Seattle's Madrona and Leschi neighborhoods overlook Lake Washington on the eastern edge of the city. Madrona is named for the park lined by the trees that share its name. Only after City Council hired the Olmestead Brothers to create a system of parks and boulevards did Madrona real estate begin to flourish. A series of “Great Homes” began to be constructed along the hilltop in the early 1900s. The nearby community of Leschi was named for a Nisqually tribe chief. Leschi is characterized by sloping hills and massive sequoia trees, originally planted by a gardener hired by the Seattle Railway Company. Today, Leschi real estate has a large array of homes varying in size, age and style. Otherwise, Madrona homes for sale and Leschi real estate feature mountain and lake views as well as a surrounding of lush green gardens. Lakeside parks, marinas, two small but flourishing business districts, a central playground and convenient access to Seattle's downtown add to the appeal. With a lively waterfront and many places to go biking, rollerblading, walking and running, the neighborhoods are a wonderful distraction from the hustle and bustle of downtown Seattle. Seattle's Madrona and Leschi are wonderful neighborhoods with a an abundance of unique qualities if you are seeking a home for sale, or a waterfront condo.