Suburban Philadelphia Real Estate News

Brookthorpe Hills PA Homes Update in Broomall Marple Township PA

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:21:54 -0600

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

The 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 then 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. Beginning 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, there 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)

Classic Twin - 59 Penn Blvd East Lansdowne PA - Open House Sunday March 7

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 20:12:54 -0600

Thinking of a move in eastern Delaware County PA? Now is the time and this could be the place.

This Sunday, March 7, from 12:00-2:00, we will be holding an Open House at 59 Penn Blvd in East Lansdowne PA. This is easily accessible. From the intersection of Lansdowne Avenue and Baltimore Avenue travel east on Baltimore to a left on Penn. The home is just to the north on the right hand side.

59 Penn is a classic Delaware County straight through twin. Conveniently located in the first block north of Baltimore Avenue, the property is just minutes west of Philadelphia and provides easy access on Baltimore Pike west toward Lansdowne, Clifton Heights and the rest of Delaware County. The R3 SEPTA Regional Rail Line is easily accesible running just south of Baltimore Ave from Philadelphia to Media. Long Lane along the eastern border of the Borough runs north to Upper Darby, 69th Street Terminal, and the trolley lines throughout the region and south towards the Philadelphia International Airport.

Twins are a popular design throughout the area. Originally developed in the UK and Australia, twin homes are side by side units with a common center wall. Although the units are often mirror images when first built, they can be heavily modified over the years since they are separate pieces of property. This allows the owners to customize their units to match their needs. There are various designs employed but the straight through design provides a more open floor plan and efficient use of space.

59 Penn is a great three-story straight through example with a large living room, dining room, heated porch, and newer powder room on the first floor. It has an updated kitchen with built-in dishwasher, beamed ceiling, and lots of counter and cabinet space with an adjacent separate oversized breakfast room with built-in desk, cabinets, and large closet. The full basement has an outside entry and separate powder room. There are three bedrooms and full hall bath on the second floor and a full floor fourth bedroom on third floor. Improvements include updated windows, newer roof, newer water heater, and newer heating system.

Please be sure to check out my blog "East Lansdowne PA History & Homes Market Report" for more detailed information on the Borough. For more pictures check out www.59Penn.com.

As always, if you have any questions or need any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me anytime. I look forward to seeing you Sunday from 12-2 at 59 Penn!

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.

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

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 22:37:07 -0600

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

50 Inexpensive Tips to Dramatically Increase the Value of Your Properties

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 20:53:09 -0600

A great list with many good ideas when you are considering putting your home on the market. Thanks to Tai A Desa for putting it together.

Via Tai DeSa (Significa Corporation):

50 Inexpensive Tips to Dramatically Increase the Value of Your Properties

By Tai A. DeSa, Significa Corporation

Professional landlords and investors involved in property flipping should constantly seek to improve their property value while keeping costs low. Below is a list of 50 tips that we shared with our property investment club (the Lehigh Valley Real Estate Investors Group).

Tip #1: Add a basic alarm system. The number one concern for any resident is security. If a homeowner or tenant does not feel secure, then eventually they will move elsewhere. Many security alarm providers have lucrative introductory offers for equipment and/or installation. If you provide an alarm system for your tenants, raise the rent and offer a "free security system." Or, have your tenants pay the monthly monitoring fee.

Tip #2: Install matching light fixtures and ceiling fans. Consider some track lighting with dimmers to highlight artwork or showcase a particular part of the room. Consider flex track lighting or suspended track lighting. The addition of a dimmer switch makes your lighting more versatile and is a great mood enhancer. Ceiling fans add value, and you may want to consider adding them in place of staid old light fixtures. If you don't want to replace existing ceiling fans, make sure you clean the dust off the blades and update the decorative pulls at the end of the chain.

Tip #3: Do some basic landscaping, particularly in the front yard. The front yard is the first thing that potential buyers see, so don't miss out on your chance to pique their interest. Prospective buyers and tenants make up their minds about your home as they walk the first 10 feet from their car to your front door. A junky yard will make them think that you've neglected maintenance. A pristine yard will reassure them that your home is well kept. Focus on a clean cut, straighten up the lawn edges, freshen the landscaping and add some color spots or striking shrubs for impact. Mulch is inexpensive, so use it. If your yard lacks interest, consider constructing a retaining wall. Use railroad ties, bricks, or stones to construct that wall. The landscape design should complement your home's style and colors.

Tip #4: Get a new front door, or give the existing one a facelift. Paint the front door a complementary but bold color. Choose a color that says, "Look at me!" Once you're finished painting the door, install a new doorknob that emphasizes sturdiness and class. Also install a new kick-plate that matches your lockset finish. Remember, while your prospective homebuyer or tenant is waiting for you or the real estate agent to let them in, they are observing your front door. If you have an old storm door, get rid of it. If you really feel the need for a storm door, install one of those with a lot of window space to highlight the bold color of your front door.

Tip #5: Install some blinds and window shades. Certain rooms could really use blinds or shades to emphasize style. The best places to start are the living room, kitchen, master bedroom, and master bathroom. These are the four rooms that prospective buyers and tenants will study most when evaluating your property. Pick window shades that complement existing furniture or your paint color. If you want to stick with inexpensive vinyl blinds, then make sure all the blinds in the room are a matching color. When showing a home during the day, you should always have your blinds and shades open to let in abundant light (unless you've got a clear view of the mess in your neighbor's backyard).

Tip #6: Get rid of photographs of people. You may love Aunt Matilda, but you don't need to have her portrait posted all over the home you're showing! Prospective buyers and tenants need to imagine themselves living in the home, not you and your family. If you are going to put up photos, display pictures of nature.

Tip #7: Clean off the tops of the water heater, furnace, oil tank, washing machines, and any other mechanical fixture. Most homeowners don't bother to do this at all. Clean the dust and grime off the top of your furnace, water heater, oil tank, washing machines, and so on. This makes these devices look newer, well-maintained, and clean. If you have a dirty-looking furnace, don't be surprised if your buyer demands a concession for a new furnace. Don't say I didn't warn you!

Tip #8: Make sure every light bulb in the house works. Always make sure that every light bulb in your home works. If the prospective homebuyer or tenant can't see your place, then you can't expect them to like your place. When people see lamps with one good bulb but three burned-out ones, they think that you don't maintain the residence and they worry about other deferred maintenance. Where it's safe, use higher wattage light bulbs in your lamps for a bright, warm atmosphere. Also consider slightly pink-tinted or full spectrum "natural" light bulbs to create a warm glow for your home. Don't forget about the bulbs in your basement and in your exterior lamps.

Tip #9: Place decorative flowers and candles throughout the home. Fake (or real if you can water them regularly) flowers work wonders. You can often buy fake flowers at yard sales or in the clearance section of stores. Candles give the home a romantic or warm feel. Scented candles are best. Some scents are so strong that homebuyers can smell them even when the candle isn't burning. Once you've sold or rented the home, pack the flowers and candles in a box and stage your next property.

Tip #10: Place magazines about luxury homes around the house. Magazines about elegant homes or sophisticated styles can put prospective homebuyers and tenants into the mood. When they see that bright, shiny issue on your nightstand or coffee table, they envision your property as the stylistic new home that they wish to live in. Grab some copies of Our House®, Elegant Homes, Beautiful Homes^TM, and Better Homes and Gardens^TM.

Tip #11: Refinish your hardwood floors. Most people like hardwood floors, particularly if the floor has a luster to it. If your hardwood floors are stained, you still may able to sand them and apply a darker finish that hides stains. If your hardwood floors don't need to be sanded but have dull spots or cracks, try some off-the-shelf refinishing agents or cleansers. Murphy's® Oil Soap or Rejuvenate polish are personal favorites to restore that classic wood look.

Tip #12: Get rid of clutter. Space sells. If you have clutter, don't stuff it in your closets, or your basement, or your garage. Throw it out or rent some storage space. Prospective buyers and tenants should not feel hemmed in because of all the boxes you have laying around or those old rickety chairs you can't seem to discard.

Tip #13: Shampoo your carpet. Yes, many people like new carpet for obvious reasons. However, we can't always afford to buy new carpet, for obvious reasons. Rent a carpet cleaning vacuum or hire a shampoo service. The proper detergent and equipment can get rid of old stains and make odors disappear.

Tip #14: Place air fresheners throughout the home. You'd be amazed at how easy this one is but how many people don't actually do it. Potpourri and air fresheners set the mood. People tend to associate fresh scents with cleanliness and purity. Be careful not to overdo it with the air fresheners, or people will think you're trying to hide an odor.

Tip #15: Powerwash the exterior of the home. Road dust builds up under overhangs and coverings. Mold, moss, or insects may accumulate on your siding. By powerwashing your place, you'll make your house that much more inviting from the street. Even though there's a For Sale sign in the front yard, be advised that many passersby will not call the phone number if the house looks dirty or old. If they do call the number, they may be looking to give you a lowball offer because they think you can't afford the upkeep.

Tip #16: Install brushed-nickel or brass switch plate and wall outlet covers in the master bedroom, the kitchen, and the dining room. Many places I've seen for sale or rent do not have matching switch plates and outlet covers. Some are ivory, some are brown, some are white, and most are dirty. New outlet covers and switch plates can cost anywhere from a few cents to several dollars. You may want to consider installing brushed-nickel or brass covers in your most heavily trafficked rooms. These covers give the room a look of elegance and style.

Tip #17: Replace those old, worn-out doorknobs. I've seen doorknobs that are over 80 years old and have been painted over several times. Ugh! Doorknobs can be some of the most dirty, bacteria-infested items in the house, and don't your prospective buyers know it! Replace those old doorknobs with new ones. If you have a brass theme in the room, go with brass. If it's brushed-nickel you like (and that's "in" nowadays), then go with that look.

Tip #18: If you have a paved driveway, reseal it. If your driveway is already paved but is cracked or otherwise in bad shape, repair it and/or use a driveway sealer. A sharp-looking driveway is the first thing a prospective buyer or tenant sees because that's what they're driving toward. Besides, the sealer prevents existing cracks from becoming worse.

Tip #19: Compile a full list of the warranties on the appliances and fixtures, and leave that list on the kitchen counter. If your home has been repaired in recent years, such as a new roof, or if you've replaced major appliances, be sure to have the receipts on hand to show interested buyers. Better yet, type up a list of the warranties and leave copies of that list on the kitchen counter. Many homebuyers need to feel secure that items in the house are in good working order. If your house is the only one with warranty information, these buyers may be more likely to make an offer (and a good one at that).

Tip #20: Run an air purifier to get rid of those lingering odors. You're used to the odors in your house, but trust me, no one else is. If a thorough cleaning and some well-placed potpourri don't do the trick, then it's time for an air purifier. I have an EcoQuest air purifier, and it eliminates the bacteria that can cause odors. There are less expensive purifiers on the market, so take your pick. A good place to run an air purifier is the basement.

Tip #21: Refinish your vinyl or tile floors. Clean your vinyl and tile floors. If that isn't enough, then it's time to find the right chemicals, solutions, or polymers to make those floors look like new. Tile floors may need new grout. Perhaps you need to replace a cracked tile (I should hope you bought one or two extra tiles way back when for just such a need). Regarding vinyl floors, I am a fan of Rejuvenate polish. You can use a flat mop to apply it, and it fills in cracks and shines the floor.

Tip #22: Spend a day looking at Open Houses held by property sellers. After observing what other people do with their homes, you'll view your property with a fresh perspective. Plus you'll get a feel for what the market values are in your neighborhood. Top athletes check out the competition. Top businesspersons check out the competition. You should too.

Tip #23: Oil your door hinges so they don't squeak. You may not notice the squeaking hinge because you've heard it so many times, but buyers will wonder what else needs maintenance. Oil those hinges. Also make sure that every door opens and shuts with ease. Sometimes doors get misaligned and they don't shut unless you apply lots of pressure.

Tip #24: Replace your doorbell if it is old or worn. One of the first things a prospective homebuyer notices is the doorbell. Is it old? Does it work? Does anyone in the house hear the bell? Imagine if you're home, waiting for a prospective homebuyer to stop by, and you can't hear them ringing the bell. Doorbells are inexpensive items, and a new one (at least a new button) will impress your visitors.

Tip #25: Clean, clean, clean. Once the potential buyer walks through your front door, they should be wowed by the cleanliness. A sparkling home just screams that it's been properly maintained. Even if you clean regularly, chances are, there are things you don't notice because you live there. Consider spending a couple hundred dollars and bring in the professionals for a thorough cleaning. With a window cleaning, your house will surprise you with a new look.

Tip #26: Modernize that kitchen. As the hub of family interaction, the kitchen is the heart of the home. Brighten the cabinets with a fresh coat of paint or some updated hardware. Add a new faucet or light fixtures to rejuvenate the space or change the window coverings for a more modern feel. Buyers are always interested in the kitchen, so try a quick facelift that will turn up the heat on your bottom line.

Tip #27: Brighten up rooms with new paint. This one is obvious but many people still don't do it (or do it properly). New paint may be one of the most effective dollar-for-dollar value enhancers. You can hire a professional or do it yourself. Choose neutral colors for most rooms, but don't be afraid to use a bold color (red? black? violet?) on a wall or two to create contrast or style. Just don't go crazy with the bold colors. Also consider painting the walls and trim complementary colors.

Tip #28: Give the master bedroom a bold and romantic look. People associate the master bedroom with romance, authority, comfort, and style. Give the people what they want! Buy some new bed sheets or throw pillows. Consider a new comforter. Set up candles and flowers. Get rid of junk. Don't leave any clothes laying around.

Tip #29: Add crown moulding. It is available in countless colors, widths, and styles - from simple to elegant; classic to contemporary. Moulding can give an ordinary looking room the special touch needed to make it really stand out.

Tip #30: Add landscape lights or a decorative street lamp. A classy street lamp gets attention, even during the daytime. Landscape lights can really establish security and elegance at the same time. I've seen prospective homebuyers view a home during the day, and then insist on coming back at night to see how the place looks. You don't have to overspend, but consider adding or updating your exterior lamps.

Tip #31: Install a new mailbox. Mailboxes can be relatively inexpensive. Install a new one so your prospective buyers and their prospective houseguests don't have to look at that dingy old thing on the front of the house.

Tip #32: Remove weeds from between concrete slabs and walkways. This is a sure sign of property neglect and a big turn off for potential buyers. Nowadays, you can buy weed-killing chemicals that destroy unwanted plant life in hours. Or you can try a solution of 20 percent bleach and 80 percent water.

Tip #33: Build a new garage or add a carport. Every homeowner knows the advantages afforded by a garage, and every prospective buyer will see a garage as a big plus. A new home garage is a great property enhancer that increases the market value of the home. Carports are a less expensive option. Many basic carports retail for $795 to $995. I've seen people fall in love with the interior of a home but fail to put in an offer because they complained about the lack of a garage.

Tip #34: Install an automatic garage door opener. Another fine way to increase property value is to install a garage door opener. Select a model with a multi-code garage door opener remote that routinely changes the code for additional security.

Tip #35: Enhance your porch or doorstep with pots or baskets of blooming annuals. This is an inviting and fragrant way to boost visual appeal and add eye popping color. You can find flower pots at dollar stores, and a bag of topsoil may cost only slightly more than a dollar. I like to keep flower pots at many of my properties for sale, and once they've sold I take the pots (flowers and all) and plant them on the doorstep of the next property I want to sell. A tip to keep the flower pots light is to place some empty water bottles in the base and cover them with soil. Sometimes the flowers won't need a lot of dirt, and the empty bottles create space but not added weight. Make sure you water the plants often enough, because dead plants will have the opposite effect of what you intend.

Tip #36: Give your old BBQ grill a makeover. Degrease it first, rinse well; repeat if necessary. Once totally clean and dry, refinish it using a bright fireproof/high-temperature paint. Select a color that complements your home's exterior look. Or try something fun that will really stand out, such as orange, yellow, or blue.

Tip #37: Install shutter and window box sets that match. Shutters and window boxes add charm and character to a home. Some people prefer to place fake flowers in the window boxes, while others prefer the real thing.

Tip #38: Install a skylight dome or roof skylight. People like natural light, especially light from above. Skylight installation also increases natural lighting in rooms; making them more inviting and cheerful.

Tip #39: Build a mini herb pantry. Many homes are sold based upon the setup of the kitchen. An herb pantry can be something as simple as a cubby hole built into the wall between studs. Or it may be a closet area converted into an herb pantry with a glass door.

Tip #40: Add something "green," like solar panels. Green is good these days (or any day). Many homebuyers need to feel like they are doing something good for the planet, while saving money at the same time. Solar panels are en vogue again. Consider installing some of them. Another green activity that enhances value is to add insulation where it's needed.

Tip #41: Empty out that cluttered basement. Many basements can be downright scary. You certainly don't want that impression. When selling your property, I suggest you empty out the basement as much as possible. Take your junk to the trash dump or place it in storage. Homebuyers need to sense that they have lots of open space (to store the junk they have in storage).

Tip #42: Trade in those old, leaky faucets for shiny new ones. We all know that kitchens and bathrooms can attract buyers, or repel them. The centerpiece of any kitchen or bathroom is the sink, and the centerpiece of any sink is the faucet. Replace them yourself or hire a handyman. You'll often find perfectly good faucets on the clearance shelf at home improvement stores.

Tip #43: Change the filter in your air conditioner. You want to avoid that musty, stale smell when it is operating. Whether it's a window air conditioner or a central air system with ductwork, change the filter.

Tip #44: Hang a large mirror in the living room. It creates virtual space and the illusion of greater size. Buyers and renters love open space. Give it to them!

Tip #45: Make sure the colors of your kitchen appliances match. A kitchen with a yellow refrigerator, a stainless steel range, and a white microwave may look okay to you, but it doesn't look right to buyers. Make sure you match the colors. This may not require purchasing all new appliances. Sometimes it's a matter of ordering the right color panels.

Tip #46: Hang new towel bars and toilet paper holders. Once you've replaced the bathroom faucet, you'll want to change the towel rack and toilet paper holder to match it. Always make sure that you have a roll of toilet paper on the holder. I suggest you hang a decorative towel on the bar too. That makes the bathroom look complete.

Tip #47: Run a dehumidifier. A perpetually damp basement or bathroom can be the breeding ground for mold, odors, and insects. Neither mold nor odor nor insect helps your cause. Run a dehumidifier to dry out the air and cut down on the musty smell.

Tip #48: Paint the fence or railings surrounding your home. A freshly painted fence creates a tremendous Wow! factor. Prospective homebuyers often observe the exterior of a property before even considering whether to view the interior. If your exterior is old and decrepit, then you simply won't have many showings. By repainting the fence, you may even inspire your neighbors to paint their fences and railings to keep up with you. Spray paint works well on metal or cast-iron railings. Be sure to use primer first.

Tip #49: Install new street numbers on the front of your home. When prospective buyers or tenants are driving around the neighborhood trying to find your address, their eyes will gravitate toward bright, shiny, new street numbers. I should hope that those shiny numbers are affixed to your house. It only costs a few dollars to buy new brass or brushed-nickel numbers to boldly identify the front of your property. This is money well spent.

Tip #50: Use throws in colors that match the room to cover up worn sofa and chair upholstery. You could attempt to buy all new furniture to spruce up a room in the place you want to sell or rent. Or if all new furniture is not in your budget, buy some throws and pillows to place on your furniture.

Thank you for taking the time to read our blog on how to increase the value of your properties. We hope that these tips will aid you in your property investment buying and selling. We at Significa are grateful to be aligned with people like you.

________________________________________________________________________________

About the Author: Tai A. DeSa is Chief Executive Officer of Significa Corporation, a professional real estate investment company based in Pennsylvania (www.significacorp.com and www.significadeals.com). DeSa is a graduate of The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Prior to entering the real estate investment business, he served as an officer in the U.S. Navy. He is the oldest in a family of 11 children and was valedictorian of his high school class. DeSa is also an Associate Broker with Keller Williams Real Estate (www.thetaidesateam.com). He is an organizer of the Lehigh Valley Real Estate Investors Group (www.lvrig.com) and an Area Director with Business Network International (www.bnidvr.com).

Edgmont PA Delaware County Homes Market Update

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 06:48:53 -0600

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

Situated 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.

There 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.

Since 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.

With 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

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 21:24:29 -0600

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!

Happy Valentines Day!

Sun, 14 Feb 2010 22:25:57 -0600

Happy Valentines Day!

Relax and Take Time with Your Family and Your Loved Ones.

(and hope for the end of the snows!)

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

Improving curb appeal in a Wisconsin (and now Wilmington and Philadelphia area) winter

Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:51:51 -0600

Brenda has put together an impressive list of ideas which are now ideal for the homes in this area.

Thank you for the tips!

Via Brenda Carus (Towne Square Realty):

The days are growing longer, but we are still in the depths of winter here in Green County. Helping a home to have some curb appeal this time of year is a bit harder than in the summer months with gardens blooming, but it is still possible to do things to help.

Clear your driveway, sidewalks and porches of all snow and ice. Get out there right away after a snow storm to clean them off. If you do get a buildup in ice in spots from driving into the garage or people walking on the sidewalk, pick up a scraper at Farm & Fleet or Ace Hardware to clean that off. If buyers worry about slipping as they approach a home, it alters how they see the inside.

If you still have any holiday decorations or lights up, remove them immediately. By now, these are stale decor and they give the impression of a home that is not maintained as quickly as it ought to be.

Look up. Do you have huge icicles hanging down from your eaves or other issues on the roof or gutters? This isn't the best time of year to get up there to take care of an ice dam, but you can at least get out there with a roof rake if needed.

Store away that garden equipment and patio furniture. Having the chaise lounge sitting under a mound of snow on the deck doesn't remind people of summer entertaining. It can, however, make some people think you don't maintain your possessions.

Make sure all your exterior lights have working bulbs. This helps make your property more inviting for evening showings and helps people see the back yard.

Take advantage of whatever winter greenery you do have in your garden. If your evergreens are bowing low under the weight of snow and ice, get out there and shake them free. People are drawn to natural beauty, and while a dusting of snow on everything is lovely, it isn't so attractive to see bushes looking like they will collapse.

Throw some greens, ribbons or holly into your porch planters. These decorations look fresh all winter and help add some interest outdoors. Consider a decorative basket of pinecones next to your front door or create a small still-life decoration using those old snowshoes. Don't go overboard. Toss out the worn out welcome mats and get some neutral mats in modern styles.

Don't keep the snow shovels and bucket of salt right by the door. Put these into the garage or basement after use. It might not be as handy, but these things are not appealing.

Make sure your windows are sparklingly clean. It will show if they aren't. Also check your blinds and curtains. These are visible from outside, so make sure they are lined up in a nicely symmetrical manner. Symmetry makes things more attractive to the human eye, so don't have the blinds in one bedroom half open and fully open in the room next door. From the outside, it is a dissonant chord.

Encourage the kids to play in the back yard. The unbroken blanket of snow on the front grass is more appealing than one that has been crisscrossed with tracks, snow angels and half-created snowmen. As a mom, I know this is a party-pooper thing to say, but these things are visually distracting.

It is possible to make a home appealing even in these cold months. Go outside and take a good, honest look at your home. Try to see it as a buyer might, and you will likely see at least a couple of spots for improvement.

Brenda Carus
Towne Square Realty
Certified EcoBroker, Re/Max Green Agent
Monroe Area Real Estate

Looking for a place to live a real life? Know your neighbors, eat local, abandon your commute, be part of a community - come to Green County. Whatever your preference is, we have it all from surprisingly urban to truly rural and everything in between.

Snow Parking Reminder from Folcroft Borough PA

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 21:31:00 -0600

I 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 .

Borough 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

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 22:58:56 -0600

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

Huey 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

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:11:58 -0600

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. I'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. They 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

Sun, 07 Feb 2010 23:01:09 -0600

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

There 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. New 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)

Delaware County PA Sheriff's Office Foreclosure Information

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 22:15:29 -0600

The Delaware County PA Sheriff's office has produced a brochure on "How to Save Your Home from Foreclosure" which provides excellent background information on the foreclosure process.

This foreclosure information was put together by Sheriff Joseph F McGinn and the Delaware County Sheriff's Office and is a nice concise explanation of the process, the options, and the contacts for anyone who may find themselves having a problem with affording their home payments. It is by no means all-inclusive but affords a quick overview of what is available in the area for Delaware County PA residents. It is not yet on their website so I have reproduced the information here - see attached.

The key point to remember for anyone facing the possibility of foreclosure is to not ignore it but reach out, learn, and obtain as much information as possible as soon as you realize there may be a problem. There are many resources and options available and they are being expanded and changed on a daily basis. The key is to learn what is available and take advantage of them before a small problem gets worse.

I would like to thank the Sheriff's Office for permission to reprint the information. For questions, please contact Sheriff Joe McGinn or the Delaware County Sheriff's Office located at 201 West Front St, Media PA 19063 - Phone: 610-891-4296 or on the web at www.co.delaware.pa.us/sheriff .

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

Swarthmore PA in Winter - The Great February 2010 Snowstorm

Sat, 06 Feb 2010 08:52:30 -0600

Yes - We have snow here...

View of Downtown Swarthmore

The view from the warmth of Hobbs Coffee.

The Swarthmore PA SEPTA R3 Regional Rail 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

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 23:42:38 -0600

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

The 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.

OPEN 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