Historic homes are part of the unique charm of Phildelphia's neighborhoods. Fishtown, just north east of Northern Liberties on the banks of the Delaware River, has a distinct history. The name "Fishtown" is derived from the area's former role as the center of the shad fishing industry. Today it's a diverse neighborhood with artists' lofts and historic homes side-by-side.
1132 Marlborough Street offers a unique opportunity to mix history with new development. The 3-bedroom townhome built circa 1750 with modern upgrades fronts the property, but in the rear of the large lot you'll see the location of a former trinity that provides the opportunity for development.
Fishtown offers a variety of restaurants and bars such as Johnny Brenda's, and is a dog-friendly neighborhood with easy access to Center City nightlife, public transportation and the freeway.
For more information about living in Fishtown, or to view this unique opportunity at 1132 Marlborough Street, contact Maria Quattrone at (267) 238-1048.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Old World Charm with Modern Luxury in Avenue of the Arts
Love theater, music and live performances? Avenue of the Arts living offers the convenience of easy access to the best restaurants and performances Philadelphia has to offer.
Until now, condos were your only option for luxury living along Avenue of the Arts. 1424 Christian Street offers luxury, grace and style - mixing the details of the original "Old World" mansion with modern design. A luxurious 3-story home for the price of a condo - with NO maintenance fees! Plus a 10-Year Tax Abatement!
Ideal for entertaining before or after the theater, you have 3,700 square feet of living space including a finished basement that's perfect for a media room. The gracious floor plan allows your guests to flow from the living room, through the dining, eat-in kitchen and out to the patio (in warm weather). Upstairs, enjoy two additional decks and the roof-top deck has amazing Center City skyline views!
Imagine being able to walk to:
To stay in touch with upcoming performances, become a member of Friends of Avenue of the Arts.
Come by our OPEN HOUSE today Dec. 4th, from 1-3pm! For more information about this gorgeous home, or how to buy or sell real estate in Philadelphia, contact Maria Quattrone at (267) 238-1048.
Until now, condos were your only option for luxury living along Avenue of the Arts. 1424 Christian Street offers luxury, grace and style - mixing the details of the original "Old World" mansion with modern design. A luxurious 3-story home for the price of a condo - with NO maintenance fees! Plus a 10-Year Tax Abatement!
Ideal for entertaining before or after the theater, you have 3,700 square feet of living space including a finished basement that's perfect for a media room. The gracious floor plan allows your guests to flow from the living room, through the dining, eat-in kitchen and out to the patio (in warm weather). Upstairs, enjoy two additional decks and the roof-top deck has amazing Center City skyline views!
Imagine being able to walk to:
To stay in touch with upcoming performances, become a member of Friends of Avenue of the Arts.
Come by our OPEN HOUSE today Dec. 4th, from 1-3pm! For more information about this gorgeous home, or how to buy or sell real estate in Philadelphia, contact Maria Quattrone at (267) 238-1048.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Graduate Hospital Open House Walking Tour
One of Philadelphia's favorite neighborhoods - Graduate Hospital, or sometimes called 'Center City South' or 'Southwest Center City', is adjacent to Rittenhouse Square, Fitler Square on the North and Point Breeze to the South. With a variety of shops and restaurants, and walking distance to Center City this neighborhood provides a warm sense of community and convenience to all that Philly has to offer.
This Sunday, join us for a walking tour of our featured Open Houses in Graduate Hospital:
Noon to 1:00 pm - 1930 Kimball Street. Superb new construction with Center City Views.
This Sunday, join us for a walking tour of our featured Open Houses in Graduate Hospital:
Noon to 1:00 pm - 1930 Kimball Street. Superb new construction with Center City Views.
Noon to 1:00 pm - 1916 Christian Street, Unit B. Gorgeous 3 bd / 2 ba luxury living.
1:30 - 2:30 pm - 1728 Kater Street, close to South Street restaurants and shops.
3:00 - 4:00 pm - 747 S 19th Street, 4 bd home with fenced yard & full basement
Graduate Hospital is one of Philly's most dog friendly neighborhoods. The fenced yard at 747 S 19th is a dog lover's delight.
Walk down the street to the new Doggie Style location at 21st and South Street in the old Graduate Hospital building. Then be sure to stop for coffee at LaVa Cafe or enjoy a meal at Ten Stone on 21st and South.
- For easy reference, Walking Map of the Graduate Hospital Open House Tour.
For more information about buying a home in Graduate Hospital or how to buy or sell a home in Philadelphia, contact Maria Quattrone at 267-238-1048.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
How your home can pay for itself!
In today's challenging economy, what better way to build financial growth and security than to have your home pay for itself! Whether as an investor, or first-time home buyer, this charming duplex offers the opportunity to live in the one unit and have the 2nd unit's rent cover your mortgage!
2715 N 16th Street offers just that solution. Listed at only $113,000 mortgage payments could be as low as $462.94 per month. There are many programs available for first-time home buyers at great rates, too! See the financing details below for FHA rates as low as 3.81%
For more information about investment properties, call 267-238-1048 for your complimentary consultation.
2715 N 16th Street offers just that solution. Listed at only $113,000 mortgage payments could be as low as $462.94 per month. There are many programs available for first-time home buyers at great rates, too! See the financing details below for FHA rates as low as 3.81%
Thursday, September 15, 2011
What will $239,000 buy in Philadelphia?
The unique neighborhoods of Philadelphia add to its charm and diversity. This Sunday you can preview 3 delightful homes in 3 different areas offered at the same price - $239,000!
Open House Schedule - Sunday, Sept 18th
2) Art Museum - A part of Center City, Art Museum residents enjoy close access to all the City has to offer, but enjoy living in a residential area. There are many, many attractions - from the Rodin Museum to favorite restaurants, in addition to easy access to Center City nightlife. 792 N Pennock St is a delightful bi-level condo offering a quiet Art Museum retreat. Hardwood floors gleam as you enter.
The open reverse floor plan is very creative and well suited for an artist's easel. Also offered at $239,000 - it's ready to move in.
3) East Falls - A unique area that has direct access to the Schuylkill River and Fairmount Park. Lots of open space, parks and a pet friendly neighborhood. For those that want the advantages of more space and parking that the suburbs offer, but still want easy access to Center City, 3670 Calumet is walking distance to the train for a short commute to Center City. The best of both worlds!
With 3 stories, 3 bd / 3 ba, plus bonus room, full basement, 3-car garage and fenced yard you have all that suburban living offers, but still part of the city lifestyle. You'll find lots of extra living space and storage. Be sure to check out the master suite on the 2nd floor. Also offered for $239,000 and ready to move in.
Open House Schedule - Sunday, Sept 18th
- 3670 Calumet St, East Falls - 12:00 - 3:00 pm
- 792 N Pennock St #1, Art Museum - 1:30 - 2:30 pm
- 525 Fitzwater, Queen Village - 1:30 - 4:00 pm
1) Queen Village - Philadelphia's first neighborhood, a rich past, restaurants, shopping and easy access to Center City make it one of the city's most interesting spots. Abbott's Court offers convenient living with completely renovated homes in a courtyard community.
Price Reduced on all 5 units! Ranging from $225,000 to $252,900. Completely renovated with luxurious finishes and central air. 10 Year Tax Abatement. No condo fees ever! Move in without worries of maintenance and repairs! Seller motivated!
Price Reduced on all 5 units! Ranging from $225,000 to $252,900. Completely renovated with luxurious finishes and central air. 10 Year Tax Abatement. No condo fees ever! Move in without worries of maintenance and repairs! Seller motivated!
2) Art Museum - A part of Center City, Art Museum residents enjoy close access to all the City has to offer, but enjoy living in a residential area. There are many, many attractions - from the Rodin Museum to favorite restaurants, in addition to easy access to Center City nightlife. 792 N Pennock St is a delightful bi-level condo offering a quiet Art Museum retreat. Hardwood floors gleam as you enter.
The open reverse floor plan is very creative and well suited for an artist's easel. Also offered at $239,000 - it's ready to move in.
3) East Falls - A unique area that has direct access to the Schuylkill River and Fairmount Park. Lots of open space, parks and a pet friendly neighborhood. For those that want the advantages of more space and parking that the suburbs offer, but still want easy access to Center City, 3670 Calumet is walking distance to the train for a short commute to Center City. The best of both worlds!
With 3 stories, 3 bd / 3 ba, plus bonus room, full basement, 3-car garage and fenced yard you have all that suburban living offers, but still part of the city lifestyle. You'll find lots of extra living space and storage. Be sure to check out the master suite on the 2nd floor. Also offered for $239,000 and ready to move in.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Who Determines the Value of Your Home?
It's the job of the real estate appraiser. His or her job is to evaluate a property and tell you, the buyer, what condition it is in and the value. Of course, as a seller, you can also have your home appraised so you get an objective "third party" view of your property.
Real estate appraisers are licensed by the state. Regulations vary, however, so I recommend you contact either me or a bank for information on qualified and ethical appraisers (more on this later). Often, they are independent contractors associated with appraisal firms headed by a Certified Appraiser or the equivalent.
What are the Benefits of Using an Appraiser's Services?
When you are a buyer, appraisers can provide you with two great benefits:
First of all, they can uncover hidden problems that could end up costing you a lot of money down the line. Their appraisal can help you to either avoid the property all together or negotiate a lower price to compensate for future costs.
Second, appraisers can do the opposite -- uncover hidden opportunities for you! For example, you might be considering a home that doesn't look all that wonderful on the outside, but is actually in solid shape as far as its structure is concerned. So, through an appraiser's efforts, you may end up with an outstanding bargain.
From the seller's viewpoint... an appraisal can uncover items that need to be fixed before you put your home on the market. This ensures that your property is in the best shape possible before prospective buyers ever look at it.
What Kind of Report Will I Receive from an Appraiser?
A certified appraiser should provide you with a written report. These reports generally consist of the following nine items:
Second, appraisers can do the opposite -- uncover hidden opportunities for you! For example, you might be considering a home that doesn't look all that wonderful on the outside, but is actually in solid shape as far as its structure is concerned. So, through an appraiser's efforts, you may end up with an outstanding bargain.
From the seller's viewpoint... an appraisal can uncover items that need to be fixed before you put your home on the market. This ensures that your property is in the best shape possible before prospective buyers ever look at it.
What Kind of Report Will I Receive from an Appraiser?
A certified appraiser should provide you with a written report. These reports generally consist of the following nine items:
2. An evaluation of the “highest and best use” of the land; that is, the use for a piece of land, or property in general, that maximizes its net present value.
3. An evaluation of sales of comparable properties (usually three) as similar to the appraised property as possible.
4. Information regarding current real estate activity and/or market area trends.
5. An evaluation of the overall real estate market in the area.
6. Statements about items the appraiser feels are detrimental to the property's value, such as poor access to the property.
7. Notations about seriously flawed items, such as a crumbling foundation, leaking roof, etc.
8. An estimate of the average sales time for the property.
9. What type of area the home is in (a development, stand alone acreage, etc.).
How Do I Find a Certified Real Estate Appraiser?
I can direct you to very qualified appraisers, or you can find one through your bank, as it too should have a list of approved appraisers. If you decide to find an appraiser on your own, check his or her background carefully. As with any profession, there are always a few scam artists who inflate appraisal amounts in order to make more money.Check with the Better Business Bureau and the Pennsylvania State Appraisal Board. You can also check with your bank to make sure an appraiser is not blacklisted.
How Much Does An Appraisal Cost?
Generally speaking, an appraisal runs from $300 to $500. However, fees do vary with location.
If you need more information on real estate appraisers or any other real estate topic, be sure to call me. I would love to discuss these matters with you!
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Top 3 Tips for Buying an REO in Philadelphia
Buying a foreclosure is a "horse of a different color" and requires some expertise, knowledge and old fashioned negotiation skills! Maria is a Certified Negotiation Expert and shares her knowledge, tips and tools with the Buyer Specialist team. In addition, at a recent REO conference Maria and I learned some inside tips on how to buy an REO and what asset managers are looking for in an offer.
Top 3 Tips for buying a foreclosure:
1. Buying "As-Is" When you're buying a foreclosure, there is no sellers disclosure. Usually the asset manager responsible for the sale has never seen the property. Although in some situations, lenders may pay for some repairs or offer some concessions - it's best to plan on an "As-Is" contract and do your due diligence before making your offer. We have invested in technology & training that allow our Buyer Specialists to submit a repair estimate with your offer, using software that is recognized by lenders and appraisers. By doing this up-front, we increase the probability of your offer being accepted.
2. Be prepared for a 29 day close. Most lenders require a 30 day closing, but some national lenders have a 29 timeframe with no exceptions. We'll work with you to prepare for a smooth closing - on time!
3. Proof of Cash Funds. Lenders will require documentation of your funds as well as qualification information from your lender. We will want to thoroughly discuss what loan you plan to use. For instance, if it's a FHA or VA loan the property condition has to be at certain standards to qualify. We'll want to review options and problem solve before submitting the offer, reducing the risk of delays or unpleasant surprises.
For more information about how to buy a foreclosure, please contact us for a confidential Buyer Consultation. 267-238-1048 or SKunkel@CBPREF.com
Top 3 Tips for buying a foreclosure:
1. Buying "As-Is" When you're buying a foreclosure, there is no sellers disclosure. Usually the asset manager responsible for the sale has never seen the property. Although in some situations, lenders may pay for some repairs or offer some concessions - it's best to plan on an "As-Is" contract and do your due diligence before making your offer. We have invested in technology & training that allow our Buyer Specialists to submit a repair estimate with your offer, using software that is recognized by lenders and appraisers. By doing this up-front, we increase the probability of your offer being accepted.
2. Be prepared for a 29 day close. Most lenders require a 30 day closing, but some national lenders have a 29 timeframe with no exceptions. We'll work with you to prepare for a smooth closing - on time!
3. Proof of Cash Funds. Lenders will require documentation of your funds as well as qualification information from your lender. We will want to thoroughly discuss what loan you plan to use. For instance, if it's a FHA or VA loan the property condition has to be at certain standards to qualify. We'll want to review options and problem solve before submitting the offer, reducing the risk of delays or unpleasant surprises.
For more information about how to buy a foreclosure, please contact us for a confidential Buyer Consultation. 267-238-1048 or SKunkel@CBPREF.com
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