We’ve all grown up hearing the virtues of setting up home in the burbs where family-friendly amenities are plentiful including good school systems, houses with lawns and backyards, low crime rates and safety, and peace and quiet. On the other hand, raising children in a vibrant metropolis, like Philadelphia, has some real advantages. Not only are there a wide range of private and charter schools, Continue Reading
Millennial Homeowners & Student Loans
It's no secret that student loans can make buying a home a challenge for millennials. With debt repayment plans extending as far out as 10-30 years, it’s an obligation that can follow you around for a long time and discourage you from thinking home ownership is possible. According to the non-profit organization, American Student Assistance, their 2015 survey revealed that more than half of student Continue Reading
What First Time Buyers Should Know About Deed Restrictions
One big reason people want to buy their own home instead of continually renting is because they can do whatever they want with the property! Paint the walls dark purple, turn the dining room into a tiki bar, keep a fish tank in your bathtub - the choice is yours, not your landlord’s. Not so fast. Many properties actually do have rules about what you can do with your home, and first time Continue Reading
What Affects Your Home Value the Most?
Real estate faces an age old struggle - sellers want to get the most money possible for their home, while buyers are usually looking to feel like they scored a deal. It seems like it’s impossible for both parties to have their way. The best you can usually hope for? That everyone gets a fair deal. Especially in a busy real estate market, there are always multiple buyers and sellers at different Continue Reading
Why retirees and empty nesters should consider a center city neighborhood
According to the most recent National Association of Realtors’ annual profile of buyers and sellers, 51% of baby boomers who buy a home are looking to downsize. For those looking for amenities and walkability in retirement, look no further than a center city, Philadelphia neighborhood! 17% of all first-time buyers are buying in urban areas. This is usually due to younger buyers wanting smaller Continue Reading
Neighborhood Amenities: Bringing Fresh Food to Philadelphia
Living in a city has a TON of benefits. Access to large grocery stores with tons of parking, though, is not usually one of them. Recently, many Philadelphia neighborhoods have seen a development of desirable grocery stores, like Trader Joes or Whole Foods, that offer residents fresh product and lots of choice. Residents of other neighborhoods, though, including those outside of Center City, may Continue Reading
Is Philadelphia a Seller’s Market?
Most real estate sources seem to confirm one thing: the real estate market in Philadelphia is heating up. This means homes are increasing in value and selling for more than they would have a year or even a few months ago. Basically, it may be become what we call a seller's market. But what does that mean for someone trying to buy a home, really? Here are 5 things to keep in mind if you’re looking Continue Reading
Why Buying a House in Philly is Better Than Renting
With more than ¼ of all adult millennials in Philadelphia living with their parents due to the cost of rent, many ask the question: “Will I EVER be able to afford to buy a house?” Thankfully, the answer is YES. Although rent may seem unaffordable, buying a home in Philly can actually be a cheaper option. Nationwide, about 21% of millennials are living at home, while the number in Philly is at 27% Continue Reading
Philadelphia Row Houses: Classic Styles Anyone Can Love
One thing that distinguishes Philadelphia from any other city, and makes you realize you’re really in Philadelphia, is the residential architecture. Loft conversions, contemporary town homes, high rises: Philadelphia definitely has it all, but the one style that seems to maintain popularity throughout the ages is the classic Philly row house. From two stories to four stories, stone to stucco, Continue Reading
Neighborhood Spotlight: Graduate Hospital
Graduate Hospital, a neighborhood west of Broad Street and South of South Street, bordering Center City, is often considered a great location for first time home buyers. Why consider Graduate Hospital? It has a lot of desirable features of the other bustling neighborhoods in the middle of Philadelphia, but with its own unique vibe. Here’s what you need to know! Graduate Hospital’s Continue Reading
