‘Mega Block’ in Amazon’s backyard will become a life sciences campus, Seattle ranked one of the best places for a ‘Staycation,” here’s where and how you can get hired for a tech job in Seattle, and more in this week’s Seattle in the Spotlight.

‘Mega Block’ in Amazon’s Backyard Will Become a Life Sciences Campus Following $143.5M Deal; Proceeds to Fund Affordable Housing

GeekWire | Nat Levy | August 7

“One of the last big chunks of land in the booming Seattle neighborhood of South Lake Union will turn into a life sciences hub — with proceeds of the sale helping fund affordable housing and homelessness issues. The City of Seattle announced today that it will sell the so-called Mercer Mega Block to Alexandria Real Estate Equities, a developer of biotech and life sciences spaces. The landmark deal clears the way for Alexandria to build out a campus surrounded by fast-growing tech giants that will boost Seattle’s life sciences cred while arming the city with more resources to tackle pressing issues.”

Seattle was Ranked One of the Best Places for a ‘Staycation.” Here are Some Things to Do if You Take One

Seattle Times | Christine Clarridge | August 7

“With the days getting shorter and fall looming around the corner, it could feel like it’s time to take a break before the rain returns. But if time, money and other factors keep you from getting away, as they do for so many Americans these days, take heart: Seattle is one of the best cities in the nation for a “staycation,” according to an analysis by WalletHub. “There are certain places that offer plenty of options for entertainment and relaxation at the right price point, making those cities the perfect spots for staying local,” WalletHub said in its report, which ranked Seattle as the seventh-best staycation site.”

Looking for a Tech Job in Seattle? Here’s Where and How You Can Get Hired

Seattle PI | Madeline Wells | August 6

“Mesmerized by the Amazon spheres? Looking to break into the most bustling sector of Seattle’s economy? Clearly, tech is where the money is at, so if you’re not already in the industry, it can be tempting to jump ship. According to a new report from Indeed, you might be in luck if you’ve had your eyes on Facebook, Amazon, and more. “

As Condo Prices Fall and Inventory Rises, King County Shoppers Enjoy Summer of Plenty

Seattle Times | Katherine Khashimova Long | August 5

“King County condo shoppers who tentatively reentered the market when it began to slacken in the spring have more reason to celebrate: A trend of falling prices and rising inventory solidified as spring turned into summer, according to monthly real-estate data released Monday. Median condo prices across the county are down 3.4% year over year, to $400,000 in July. Condos are staying on the market for almost a month. And active listings are up by 39% over last year. That means buyers can afford to cool their heels before making an offer, said Windermere condo broker Jeff Reynolds, who runs the urbancondospaces.com blog.”