“Living in Philly” interview series where realtor Cherise Wynne (“Agent Lady”) highlights interesting people & organizations in the civic, real estate, restaurant and lifestyle space that help first time home buyers navigate our great city of Philadelphia.
Executive Director @ Old City District
Agent Lady: When people ask that famous question “what do you do”, how do you typically answer?
Job: I am the Executive Director of the Old City District, which is a business improvement district established pursuant to state law. Like most BIDs, our role is to supplement city services. At its core, that means cleaning the streets (we provide street cleaning every day) and working to keep the neighborhood safe (we employ a security patrol and hire additional police details as necessary). Over time, BIDs begin to supplement additional city services. For OCD, that has meant developing marketing and economic development plans and working to implement them.
Agent Lady: What does Old City District do, what neighborhood(s) does it provide products/services in, and what do you find special about those Philly areas?
Job: Old City District works in the primary commercial area of the Old City neighborhood. There are so many special things about the area. The history always comes to mind first for many, but for me it’s the spirit of that history that is pervasive. In the place where the United States declared its independence, our commercial businesses are almost entirely comprised of independent owners; whether its galleries, design showrooms, restaurants, or retailers, our community continues to be Independent By Design (which is conveniently our tagline.)
Agent Lady: How do you believe Old City District is making Philadelphia better?
Job: Philadelphia is a city of neighborhoods and many neighborhoods have similar organizations performing similar services. Collectively, we all work to keep our communities clean and safe. Old City is different, perhaps, because many people have memories of the neighborhood from their childhood, and there is a sense of ownership that extends beyond those who live and work here, but also citywide or even nationally. By working to keep this particular neighborhood, which is also one of the City’s biggest tourist destinations, clean and safe, we enhance the experience of visiting for both locals and tourists alike.
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Agent Lady: If you had to choose between a Philly cheesesteak or a Philly pretzel, which would you choose?
Job: Can my wife answer this question? She is trying to keep me in shape. (Actually I would have plugged the Pizza Pretzel at “The Store” in Grays Ferry, which recently closed after many years.)
Agent Lady: What’s the biggest misconception people have about your industry or type of organization?
Job: There is not necessarily a single misconception as much as there is a lack of awareness about what our organizations do. For example, we frequently receive calls seeking enforcement of a city law or regulation. We cannot perform any such enforcement; rather, in such situations, we are best utilized as a liaison between community members and appropriate authorities.
Agent Lady: What is the nerdiest thing you do in your spare time?
I’m a political junkie. While a moderate dose of political awareness (and cynicism) is probably healthy, following political horse-races incessantly may not be.
Agent Lady: What is your favorite word?
Job: The first word that came to mind is “surplus”—that usually brings a smile to people’s faces.
Agent Lady: If you had to pick another career what would it be?
Job: This is arguably my second career; I was previously an attorney. Though I love working in the public sector, if I returned to the private sector I would consider real estate development. But, I would like to develop real estate in such a way that it has a positive impact on the City.
Agent Lady: For anyone looking to buy their first home in Philly or move to the Philly area, what do you have to say to them?
Job: Do it! I’m a lifelong Philadelphian and I thought it was an incredible city even when Philadelphia was losing population. Now that people are staying and more people are moving here, the city has become an even more interesting and enjoyable place to live.
Agent Lady: If someone wanted to learn more about you or Old City District, where could they go?
Job: Visit www.oldcitydistrict.org or, if you’re in the neighborhood, swing by 231 Market St.
I’m a huge fan of Job and he’s making a lot moves, so I truly appreciate him stopping by in his busy schedule and sharing with the Agent Lady audience. Also big shout out to Old City District for helping attract, retain, and empower citizens of Philadelphia. If this article inspired you, please support and spread the word to all of the people in your network. If you never want to miss another interview or helpful home buying blog post we also hope you signed up for the newsletter. Until next time, stay awesome people!
About Agent Lady: Cherise Wynne is a leading real estate agent in Philadelphia, helping home buyers and sellers navigate the City of Brotherly Love, with a special focus on first time home buyers. To chat about getting started with your first time home buying experience, click here.