Suburban Philadelphia Real Estate News

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Brookthorpe Hills PA Homes Update in Broomall Marple Township PA

Brookthorpe Hills, located in eastern Marple Township Broomall PA, continues to be a popular and stable housing choice in Delaware County. 

Brookthorpe Hills  HomesThe community itself was built and expanded over many decades so it now encompasses several areas just west of the Blue Route along the West Chester Pike.  The tax records list over 400 homes in the community with the bulk of them being located in the eastern portion of the triangle formed by the Blue Route (I-476) , West Chester Pike, and Marple Road.  Further west, there is a second section located south of West Chester Pike adjacent to Sproul Rd.

Brookthorpe Hills includes a wide range of building styles, sizes, and construction due to its long period of growth.  The first real wave of construction began in 1930 along Sterner with some twins and colonials and Brookthorpe Hills Ranch Broomall PAthen expanded in 1938 with new construction along Ferguson, Lindbergh, and New Ardmore to the north of West Chester Pike with mostly single family colonials.  This continued into the 1940s as new construction also developed along Franklin and Harding Avenue to the south of West Chester Pike near Sproul Rd.

Building then continued sporadically through the war years until a second wave took hold in the fifties.  More traditional construction continued north on many of the existing streets progressing toward Anthony Ave and development spread northeast with predominately ranch style homes along Brookthorpe Circle, Mather, and Thomas.  Brookthorpe Hills Colonial Marple PABeginning in 1960, more new construction was started north of Anthony Ave along Lindbergh progressing from split levels to large 2 story colonials.  In the 1970s, there was an additional building spurt as homes were developed along Brookthorpe Terrace and Darlene Circle.  Throughout the entire period continuing until today, homes of varying styles and sizes were constructed on infill lots on already largely built out streets.

Brookthorpe Hills today is a diverse and very stable community with homeowners remaining in their properties for years as they enjoy the convenience and opportunities offered throughout the area.  This has resulted in a very low turnover of homes while maintaining strong pricing.

Currently, Brookthorpe Hills PA Homesthere are six properties on the market with an average asking price of $395,000 with no homes now under contract, and only 1 sale year-to-date for $265,000.  In 2009 there were 11 sales at an average final sales price of $330,000.  This compares to 10 sales in 2008 averaging $390,000, 15 in 2007 for $361,000, 12 in 2006 for $381,000, and 10 in 2005 for $319,000.  The average price first rose above $300,000 in 2004.

If you are looking for a convenient stable neighborhood with immediate access to the Blue Route or West Chester Pike and relatively stable pricing, Brookthorpe Hills in Broomall PA, Marple Township, should definitely be included in your search.

As always, should you be considering a move in the area, have any questions, or need ay additional information, do not hesitate to contact me anytime.

David Henke
Long & Foster Real Estate Inc - Newtown Square,PA/Bear, DE
Office: 610-353-1199/Direct: 610-359-3853/Cell: 610-618-0808
www.DelawareCountyPennsylvaniaHomes.com

(All statistics per the TrendMLS System and believed accurate but not guaranteed)

Drexeline Station of the SEPTA Route 101 Trolley Line Drexel Hill PA

Welcome to the Drexeline Station stop on the SEPTA Route 101 Trolley Line in Drexel Hill PA.

The Drexeline Station is another small on-demand stop on the SEPTA Route 101 Trolley line running from the 69th Street Terminal to Media PA.  It is a small station with a shelter on the south (eastbound) side of the trolley tracks.  It is directly adjacent to the Drexeline Shopping Center and just across from the Drexelbrook Apartments.  The stop is just east of the Springfield Scenic Rd stop and west of the Drexelbrook Station.

The Drexeline Shopping Center is located near the intersection of State Rd and Township Line Rd (Route 1) in Upper Darby Township PA.  It is the last stop as the Trolley travels west in Upper Darby Township and is the closest stop to Route 1.  The station is just to the south of the Pilgrim Gardens and Aronimink sections of Drexel Hill PA.  Drexelbrook is just to the east and Springfield Township is just over Darby creek to the south.  The video should provide a better feel for the area:

This stop is within walking distance of several residential areas as well as the entire Drexeline Shopping center retail and commercial businesses.  There is some parking located in the adjacent shopping center.  The real estate market activity in the area is covered under the Aronimink, Drexel Hill, Pilgrim Gardens, and Springfield market reports.

The Drexeline Station is a convenient commuter and general shopping SEPTA Route 101 Station.  It could also be useful if one needs to connect to buses or people traveling the Route 1/ State Rd/ Township Line Road/City Avenue Corridor.

As always, please feel free to contact me anytime, should you have any questions or need any additional information.

David Henke
Long & Foster Real Estate Inc - Newtown Square,PA/Bear, DE
Office: 610-353-1199/Direct: 610-359-3853/Cell: 610-618-0808
www.DelawareCountyPennsylvaniaHomes.com

Edgmont PA Delaware County Homes Market Update

In recent years, Edgmont PA has been one of the more relatively stable real estate areas of Delaware County.

Edgmont PA Delaware CountySituated just to the west of Newtown Township in north-western Delaware County, Edgmont township is the last township in the county as you travel west along West Chester Pike.  Although not strictly oriented north - south, generally Thornbury Township borders Edgemont to the west, Middletown Township to the south, Newtown & Upper Providence to the east, and Willistown Township Chester County to the north.

It is a largely semi-rural suburban area with only the one small village of Gradyville within its boundaries.   It has quite a bit of commercial activity along Route 3 - West Chester Pike and some limited activity on Route 352 - Middletown Rd.  These routes also offer quick access to West Chester to the west, Broomall and the Blue Route to the east, and Brookhaven/ Chester/ I-95 to the south.  It is within easy commuting distance of much of Delaware and Chester Counties.

Summerhill Edgmont PA HomesThere is a wide range of home styles and real estate values throughout Edgmont Township.  These range from the condos in Runnymeade Farms to the smaller eclectic mix of homes in Castle Rock on to the large new single family homes found in Brickhouse Farms and Summerhill.  With this diversity, the area appeals to a broad cross-section of potential buyers.  Today, there are listings ranging from condos beginning at $209,000 to large estate homes currently listed up to $2,599,900.  It continues to be an active market with 59 homes currently on the market with an average asking rice of $839,000 and 6 properties currently under contract averaging $597,000.

Runnymeade Farms Edgmont PA HomesSince 2001, the average sales prices in the area have ranged from a low of $460,000 in 2001 to a high (excepting 2007) of $584,000.  In 2007, prices averaged $720,000 as several higher end developments settled quite a few properties and there were 61 properties sold during the year.  Since then, 45 properties sold in 2008 with an average price of $530,000, 34 properties settled in 2009 averaging $550,000, and in 2010 year to date 2 properties have sold with an average price of $410,000.  There continues to be quite a bit of new construction activity in the area which will continue to affect average pricing as these settle.

Edgemont PA HomesWith its wide range of pricing, convenient location, and relatively stable values, Edgmont should continue to be a popular housing choice in the area.  The township should continue to grow as new construction progresses and there is additional development in the adjacent areas.  It is an ideal location for those commuting locally or needing reasonable access to Philadelphia, West Chester, and Wilmington DE.

As always should you be thinking of a move in the area, please feel free to contact me anytime.

David Henke
Long & Foster Real Estate Inc - Newtown Square,PA/Bear, DE
Office: 610-353-1199/Direct: 610-359-3853/Cell: 610-618-0808
www.DelawareCountyPennsylvaniaHomes.com

7 days and 33" Later

For those that happened to see the pictures from the first storm, I went back Saturday morning to take the same pictures.  I know this is not that unusual for other parts of the country, but it was record breaking for this area.  A bit of a difference after a week and 33" of snow:

View of Downtown Swarthmore - Sat Feb 13


Saturday's View from the Warmth of Hobbs Coffee

The Swarthmore PA SEPTA R3 Regional Rail Station

Well - I was standing underneath this pile for the original so
this is the best I could do for now - you get the drift.

Not quite that calming atmosphere as seen last week (and actually a bit dreary), but this much snow is still quite extraordinary for this area.

Looking forward to Spring!


Snow Parking Reminder from Folcroft Borough PA

Folcroft Borough PA Snow CleanupI just wanted to pass along a reminder emailed from The Borough of Folcroft concerning parking during snow storms.

Unlike other areas, Folcroft Borough does not allow you to "reserve" your spots by placing chairs in the street.  The Borough does plow all streets and any chairs will be removed so that they can plow all areas.  If they can remove all the snow, there should be plenty of parking for everyone.

The Highway Department concentrates on the snow emergency routes first and then covers the remaining streets.  It is also the residents' responsiblity to clear the back driveways and front sidewalks .

No Chairs on StreetBorough Ordinance:

§15-704. Reserving Parking Spaces During Period of Snow.
It is hereby declared to be unlawful for any person at any time to
place or cause to be placed any item, whatsoever, for the purpose
of reserving parking spaces on any street in the Borough during
any periods of precipitation, whether or not a snow emergency
has been declared.
(Ord. 835, 12/10/1990; as added by Ord. 882, 3/13/1995, §4; and
As amended by Ord.990, 11/21/2006)

The Borough thanks you for your attention, and thanks to the Borough of Folcroft for doing a great job.

Huey Avenue Station Drexel Hill PA on the SEPTA 101 Trolley Line

Welcome to the Huey Avenue Station of the SEPTA 101 Trolley in Drexel Hill PA.

Huey Av Station SEPTA 101 Trolley Drexel Hill PAHuey Avenue is a small on demand station along the SEPTA 101 Trolley located in southwestern Upper Darby Township.  It is located on Huey Avenue between Edmonds and Mason Ave just 2 blocks north of Garrett Rd.  This location is just a few blocks west of Drexel Park and east of Aronimink.  The line continues directly west to Media and east to the 69th Street Terminal.

This station is the first station located west of Drexel Hill Junction where the 101 and 102 Trolleys split their lines.  It has a small station on the eastbound side and a bench westbound.  There is no dedicated parking for this station, but it is within easy walking of a large mostly residential district.  The station also would be convenient for dropping off or picking up passengers.  The video should provide a good overview of the location:

 

This station is nicely located to several residential areas and is within walking distance to the commercial area along Garret Rd.  Please check out the blogs on the listings and market updates for Drexel Hill for more detailed information on the area.

As always, should you have any questions or need any additional information, please do not hesitate to let me know.

David Henke
Long & Foster Real Estate Inc - Newtown Square,PA/Bear, DE
Office: 610-353-1199/Direct: 610-359-3853/Cell: 610-618-0808
www.DelawareCountyPennsylvaniaHomes.com

 

 

Local Finds: Nifty Fifty's Folsom Ridley Township PA

I finally made it to Nifty Fifty's In Folsom Ridley Township PA.

I've heard about it for years.  I've passed it while driving.  Nifty Fifty's Folsom PAI've seen that it's won the Best of Philly 10 times. I know everyone seems to have tried them, but ... I somehow hadn't.  Now I have and I understand what everyone has been talking about.

Nifty Fifty's channels all that 50's feeling from the time you glance at the neon bedecked exterior.  This is only heightened as you enter through the gleaming stainless steel and glass front doors to a classic fifty's diner: lots of neon, red vinyl bar stools, black & white tile work, cool soda fountain, vinyl covered booths, 100% fresh food, and over 100 flavors at the World's Largest Soda Fountain.

This is not a franchise but a family owned enterprise committed to the communities they serve.  Nifty Fifty's Soda Fountain Folsom PAThey are open 7 days a week from 6AM until 11PM Sunday - Thursday and until 1AM on Friday and Saturday.  Today, they have restaurants throughout the area (3 in PA & 2 in NJ).  They also support the community through their School Scrip Program, Fun-Raising Nights, and Shake Days.  It is even a great place for parties.

If you haven't had a chance to visit, it's about time.  If you already enjoy, it's probably about time for another visit.  Grab some friends, get some food, and enjoy more that this area has to offer.

Visit Nifty Fifty's In Delaware County - Ridley Township at
1900 MacDade Blvd at Route 420
Folsom PA 19033   Phone: 610-583-1950 (of course)

David Henke
Long & Foster Real Estate Inc - Newtown Square,PA/Bear, DE
Office: 610-353-1199/Direct: 610-359-3853/Cell: 610-618-0808
www.DelawareCountyPennsylvaniaHomes.com

Delaware County PA Luxury Home Market Update for February 2010

The Luxury Home Market continues its slow pace as we head into the traditional 2010 sales season.

HarrisonThere have been many changes in the market since our last update in June but most of those have impacted the market at lower price points.  The primary sales activity continues to be first time buyers or lower move up buyers as people continue to take advantage of the 2009 and now 2010 Homebuyer Tax Credits.  At the higher price points, activity is still constrained by the availability of loans with prices remaining fairly flat or trending lower.

In the luxury market, sales have continued to drift.  In 2009 for the year, there were 67 completed home sales in the $1,000,000+ market down from 93 in 2008 and the peak of 132 in 2007.  The average sales price dropped again to $1,481,000 in 2009 from $1,585,000 in 2008.  The average days on the market rose from 93 days in 2008 to 117 days in 2009.  The most expensive home did rise a bit to $2,500,000.  WorthingNew Homes continued to take a large share with 33 of the 67 completed sales.

Today there are an additional 129 homes currently on the market with an average asking price of $1,984,000.  This includes 57 new construction homes and properties ranging up to a list price of $13,500,000.  There are also 18 properties under contract at an average price of $1,647,000 including 9 new homes.

Bottom Line: So, as we last found in June, the luxury home market continues to be working against the economy and financing issues as it waits for confidence to return to the market.  As before, new homes enjoy a large share of the market as home buyers still appreciate the flexibility that new construction affords.

As always, should you have any questions or are considering a move in the area, please do not hesitate to contact me anytime.

David Henke
Long & Foster Real Estate Inc - Newtown Square,PA/Bear, DE
Office: 610-353-1199/Direct: 610-359-3853/Cell: 610-618-0808
www.DelawareCountyPennsylvaniaHomes.com

(All statistics per the TrendMLS System and believed accurate but not guaranteed)

Swarthmore PA in Winter - The Great February 2010 Snowstorm

Yes - We have snow here...

Downtown Swarthmore PA

View of Downtown Swarthmore

The view from the warmth of Hobbs Coffee.

The Swarthmore PA SEPTA R3 Regional Rail Station

Drifting in the Swarthmore PA Station

We don't usually see drifts blowing through the station.

Just a few additional snow facts compliments of CBS 3:

- Every snow flake has 6 points
- There are 6 basic shapes
- Dry snow piles up faster
- Every State has had snow

Finally just one more thought:  The most snow produced in a single snowstorm was 15.75 ft/ 189" at the Mt Shasta Skibowl in California between February 13-19, 1959.  No problems here.

Enjoy and be safe!   And it continues to snow.......

David Henke
Long & Foster Real Estate Inc - Newtown Square,PA/Bear, DE
Office: 610-353-1199/Direct: 610-359-3853/Cell: 610-618-0808
www.DelawareCountyPennsylvaniaHomes.com

SEPTA R3 Rail Line Fernwood-Yeadon Station Serving Yeadon, Upper Darby, and East Lansdowne PA

Welcome to the Fernwood - Yeadon Station on the SEPTA R3 Regional Rail Line.

Fernwood - Yeadon SEPTA R3 Station Yeadon PAThe Fernwood - Yeadon Station of the SEPTA R3 Regional Rail Line serves the adjacent communties of Yeadon, Upper Darby, and East Lansdowne PA.  The station itself is located on the border between Yeadon and Upper Darby and is just one block south of East Lansdowne.  This location provides easy access to Church Lane heading north and south and to Baltimore Pike heading east or west.  This is the first rail stop in Delaware County as you head west from Philadelphia.

The platforms are located just below the Church Lane bridge as it passes over the R3 Tracks.  There is no dedicated SEPTA parking per-se but there are limited long-term parking meters on the east bound(south side) of the tracks. (and they come with friendly but attentive Yeadon Police supervision - feed the meters).  There are stairs going up to Church Lane from both sides of the stop and a direct cross walk between platforms at track level.  The video will provide a better overview:

 

This station does serve the three separate communities of Yeadon, a small part of southern Upper Darby, and East Lansdowne.  In general, the real estate activity throughout the immediate area has been similar to that seen throughout Delaware County with activity peaking in 2004/2005 and prices topping out in 2007.  Complete details will be covered in separate posts for each area.

59 Penn Blvd East Lansdowne PAOPEN HOUSE Sunday March 7 12-2.  If you are currently considering moving in the area, be sure to take the time to visit 59 Penn Blvd in East Lansdowne.  This is a great 4 BR/1.2BA Straight-Through Twin including many updates.

As always if you have any questions or need any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me anytime.

David Henke
Long & Foster Real Estate Inc - Newtown Square,PA/Bear, DE
Office: 610-353-1199/Direct: 610-359-3853/Cell: 610-618-0808
www.DelawareCountyPennsylvaniaHomes.com