Archive for the ‘Seller Resources’ Category

Some highlights from our Mid-June market report, via Altos Research.  Conditions continue to favor sellers. Demand for homes in Philadelphia remains strong.  Available supply is purchased rapidly, with Philadelphia properties currently averaging a mere 4 months on the market.

However, median price has increased from $189,000 to $192,500 in the past two weeks. We’ll see by early August if a few expensive properties skewed the average, of if prices are beginning to trend upwards.  Only time will tell.

Mid-June Market Report Excerpts, via Altos Research

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Twitter & Instrgram: @TheAtacanGroup

Happy Friday! Let’s usher in the weekend with three can’t miss open house opportunities this Sunday, June 16th in Philadelphia’s Fairmout & Queen Village neighborhoods. We’ll break down all the details on properties, location, and more below. Looking forward to hosting Philadelphia’s future homeowners.

310 Catharine Street, Unit C – Queen Village, Philadelphia

Property #1:  2 BR, 1 BA Queen Village condominium with assigned parking!

Location: 310 Catharine Street [Unit C] Philadelphia, PA 19147 

Time: 11:00 am – 1 pm

Listing Agent: Stephanie Slapin

Showing Agent: Jennifer Nehila

Highlights Include: 

• Kitchen, dining area & spacious living room
• Master bedroom, with separate den & large bathroom
• Exposed brick wall, 12″ high ceilings & hardwood floors
• Wood burning fireplace, patio access & assigned parking!

Walking Distance From: 

• Penn’s Landing, South Street, 9th Street Italian Market & Sacrcone’s Bakery

For additional information, pictures & pricing: http://bit.ly/152U8YK

E-mail stephanie@atacangroup.com with any questions or concerns.

310 Catharine Street, Unit E – Queen Village, Philadelphia

Property #2:  Beautifully Updated 2 BR, 1 BA  condo in South Philadelphia‘s Queen Village neighborhood!

Location: 310 Catharine Street [Unit E] Philadelphia, PA 19147 

Time: 11:00 am – 1 pm

Listing Agent: Stephanie Slapin

Showing Agent: Jennifer Nehila

Highlights Include :

• Gorgeous kitchen opens up to separate dining area.
• Living room includes wood-burning fireplace, exposed brick wall & hardwood floors.
• Includes attic & basement storage units.
• Pet friendly.
• Minutes from South Street, Penn’s Landing & Philadelphia’s historic 9th Street Italian Market!

For additional information, pictures & pricing: http://bit.ly/10EZR6D

E-mail stephanie@atacangroup.com with any questions or concerns.

1625 North Street – Fairmount, Philadelphia

Property #3: Very spacious 3 BR, 3 BA Fairmount area townhouse with Garage Parking!

Location: 1625 North Street Philadelphia, PA 19130

Time: 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Listing Agent: Karoline Kelsen

Showing Agent: Guillaume Lantoine

Highlights:

• Open concept living room/dining with fireplace, perfect for entertaining!
• Kitchen features wooden cabinets, black granite counter tops & stainless steel appliances.
• Slate patio with landscaping.
• Roof top deck with amazing [south facing] city views!
• Located on a fantastic block just steps from award winning restaurants, coffee shops & parks.
• Recent price improvement!

For additional information, pictures & pricing: http://bit.ly/12ToniO

E-mail karoline@atacangroup.com with any questions or concerns.

Have a great weekend fellow Philadelphians!

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Twitter & Instrgram: @TheAtacanGroup

309 S. American St. – Society Hill, Philadelphia 

Historic Society Hill townhouse rental on picturesque cobblestone block! 

Highlights Include: 

• 2 bedrooms & 2 full bathrooms.
• Finished basement.
• Kitchen overlooks patio garden.
• Three fireplaces.

Additionally offers:

• Original wide plank pine floors throughout.
• Convenient street parking.
• Walking distance to Head House Square, South Street & Penn’s Landing.
• Entire property professionally cleaned & painted!

See all listing details for 309 S. American Street, along with additional properties we offer.

For further information on this property, contact David Darami.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog.

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Twitter & Instrgram: @TheAtacanGroup

1625 North Street – Fairmount, Philadelphia

429 N. 13th Street, Unit 5C – Loft Distrcit, Philadelphia

Property #1: 1625 North Street Philadelphia, PA 19130

Gorgeous townhouse in North Philadelphia’s Art Museum area with garage parking!

Date/Time: Sunday June 9, 11:00 am – 1:30 pm

Listing Agent: Karoline Kelsen

On-Site Representative: David Brown

Highlights Include:

• 3 Bedrooms & 3 Full Bathrooms.
• Open concept living room/dining with fireplace, perfect for entertaining!
• Kitchen features wooden cabinets, black granite counter tops & stainless steel appliances.
• Slate patio with landscaping.
• Roof top deck with amazing [south facing] city views!
• Located on a fantastic block just steps from award winning restaurants, coffee shops & parks.
• Recent price improvement!

For additional information, pictures & pricing: http://bit.ly/12ToniO

E-mail karoline@atacangroup.com with any questions or concerns.

Property #2: 429 N 13th Street #5C Philadelphia, PA 19123

Spacey Loft District condo featuring 1 BR, 1 BA & walk-in vault!

Date/Time: Sunday June 9, 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Listing Agent: Adam Atacan

On-Site Representative: Josh Howe

Highlights Include:

• Private bedroom & full bathroom
• Indoor garage parking
• Custom u-shaped kitchen with stainless steel appliances
• Large bathroom features deep Jacuzzi, hardwood floors & subway tile
• Versatile, bi-level vault unit perfect for storage, office space, den or guest room
• Convenient location between Callowhill & Spring Garden, just one block from Broad Street
• Minutes from Reading Terminal Market, Union Transfer & Chinatown!

For additional information, pictures & pricing: http://bit.ly/11ichgz

E-mail adam@atacangroup.com with any questions or concerns.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Twitter & Instrgram: @TheAtacanGroup

429 N 13th Street, Unit 5C – Loft District, Philadelphia

Gorgeous Loft District condo featuring 1 BR, 1 BA & walk-in vault!

Highlights Include: 

• Private bedroom & full bathroom
• Indoor garage parking
• Custom u-shaped kitchen with stainless steel appliances
• Large bathroom features deep Jacuzzi, hardwood floors & subway tile

Additionally offers:

• Versatile, bi-level vault unit perfect for storage, office space, den or guest room
• Convenient location between Callowhill & Spring Garden, just one block from Broad Street
• Minutes from Reading Terminal Market, Union Transfer & Chinatown!

Open House Details: 

• This Sunday [June 9th], 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

See all listing details for 429 N 13th Street #5C, along with additional properties we offer.

For further information on this property, contact Adam Atacan.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Twitter & Instrgram: @TheAtacanGroup

Some highlights from our June 2nd market update. Conditions indicate a seller’s market in the Philadelphia area. For further details, head over to our Market Activity homepage.

Market Update Excerpt [June 2, 2013, via Altos Research]

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Happy Friday! We have two can’t miss open house opportunities this Sunday June 2nd. We’ll break down all the details on properties, location, and more below. We look forward to hosting Philadelphia’s future homeowners this weekend.

310 Catharine Street [Unit E] Queen Village, Philadelphia

Location: 310 Catharine Street [Unit E] Philadelphia, PA 19147 

Time: 11:00 am – 1 pm

Listing Agent: Stephanie Slapin

Highlights:

• Beautifully updated, spacious condominium in the heart of South Philadelphia‘s Queen Village neighborhood!
• 2 Bedrooms &  1.0 Bathrooms.
• Gorgeous kitchen opens up to separate dining area.
• Living room includes wood-burning fireplace, exposed brick wall & hardwood floors.
• Includes attic & basement storage units.
• Pet friendly.
• Minutes from South Street, Penn’s Landing & Philadelphia’s historic 9th Street Italian Market!

For additional information, pictures & pricing: http://bit.ly/10EZR6D

E-mail stephanie@atacangroup.com with any questions or concerns.

1625 North Street Fairmount, Philadelphia

Location: 1625 North Street Philadelphia, PA 19130

Time: 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Listing Agent: Karoline Kelsen

On-Site Representative: Adam Atacan

Highlights:

• Gorgeous townhouse in North Philadelphia’s Art Museum area with garage parking!
• 3 Bedrooms & 3 Full Bathrooms.
• Open concept living room/dining with fireplace, perfect for entertaining!
• Kitchen features wooden cabinets, black granite counter tops & stainless steel appliances.
• Slate patio with landscaping.
• Roof top deck with amazing [south facing] city views!
• Located on a fantastic block just steps from award winning restaurants, coffee shops & parks.
• Recent price improvement!

For additional information, pictures & pricing: http://bit.ly/12ToniO

E-mail karoline@atacangroup.com with any questions or concerns.

Have a great weekend fellow Philadelphians!

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Twitter & Instrgram: @TheAtacanGroup

620-28 Christian St. #2C Philadelphia, PA 19147

Bella Vista

 Dramatic 2 Bed / 1 Bath New York style loft in the heart of Bella Vista!! 

Other great features:

• Comes with DEEDED PARKING. 
• Bi-level unit featuring 15ft.-22ft. ceilings
• Original exposed beams, new Acacia hardwood main floors, and new carpeting in Master bedroom/ stairs.
• Kitchen comes equipped with all new stainless steel appliances.
• Nestled in a secluded courtyard, were there is a garden, BBQ, and dining set for outdoor entertaining.
• Located in fantastic area just steps from award winning restaurants, retail stores, coffee shops, and parks.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

1425 Locust St. Unit 6B Philadelphia, PA 19102

Rittenhouse Square

Stunning corner unit 1 Bed, 1.5 Bath Condo in the beautiful Aria Building!

Other great features:

• Gourmet cooks kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counter-tops.
• Hardwood floors throughout.
• Large master bedroom with an upgraded marble master bathroom.
• Custom California closets and Custom window shades.
• Building amenities include fitness center with yoga room, owner’s lounge, residential guest suite, pet spa & 24 hour concierge.
• Located in the heart of the city just steps from award winning restaurants, retail stores, coffee shops, and parks.

      

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Check out the Market Update for Philadelphia Real Estate as of May 1, 2013.  All areas of the housing market are showing extremely high levels of demand!

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

1827 S. 16th St. Philadelphia, PA 19145

Newbold

 Classic 3 bedroom / 1 bath  South Philadelphia brick front home in the red hot Newbold area! 

Other great features:

• Refinished original hardwood floors throughout
• 10 foot ceilings
• Both original details and also modern updates.
• All major systems are new within the past 5 years.
• Walking distance to Broad St. Septa Line, bus routes, and many great restaurants like South Philly Tap Room and Ultimo Cafe.
• This home comes move-in ready and plenty of character.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

The Philadelphia area as well as many places throughout the United States will be contributing to this years national weekend of Open Houses.  Falling on the 21st and 22nd of April this year gives many potential home buyers the opportunity to come in first hand and really see what kind of  homes are on the market. According to NAR (National Association of Realtors), in 2012 they found that 45 percent of all buyers used open houses as a source when making their final home decision. That’s a pretty impressive number living in the internet era where properties are available at your fingertips. That being said whether your looking to buy/sell, just starting, or well into the process, this weekend is a perfect opportunity to hit your favorite Philadelphia  neighborhood!

727 S. Jessup St. Philadelphia, PA 19147

Bella Vista

One of a kind 3 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath  townhouse in the gorgeous Bella Vista area!

Other great features:

• Open floor plan layout with incredible hardwood floors and top of the line finishes throughout.
• Modern Chef’s Kitchen equipped with Sub Zero Fridge, Wolf Range, Bosch appliances, upgraded granite counter tops and additional kitchen cabinets offer unusually expansive storage.
• Gas fireplace, 2 Juliet balconies, and a finished basement perfect for a playroom / media room / exercise room.
• 3rd floor Master suite has large walk-in closet and is very spacious allowing for additional room for quiet reading or private office.
• 4th floor has 2 very nicely sized bedrooms, it’s own Full Bath, and full-sized laundry.
• Roof top deck with an amazing 360 Cityscape views .
• Located in a great area, blocks from the Italian Market, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks!

See all the listing details for 727 S. Jessup St. Philadelphia, PA 19147 and check out all the other Bella Vista Area Real Estate Listings.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

- Sunday, 4/14/2013: - 

12:00-4:00 PM:

 MLS#: 6186262 -  2801 Pennsylvania Ave. #A206 Philadelphia, PA 19130 - Art Museum Area- $247,000 

12:00-2:00 PM:

MLS#: 6200568 - 727 S. Jessup St.  Philadelphia, PA 19147 –Bella Vista - $719,000

1:00-3:00 PM: 

MLS#: 6183726 - 2630 Brown St. Philadelphia, PA 19130 - Art Museum Area- $629,000

MLS#: 6184979 - 1625 North St. Philadelphia, PA 19130 - Art Museum Area- $719,000

 This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

405 Brown St. R Philadelphia, PA 19123

Northern Liberties

Beautiful end unit townhouse, perfectly tucked away in the thriving Northern Liberties Area with Parking!

Other great features:

• 1st Floor: Gorgeous open floor plan with stunning kitchen, modern island and remarkable cabinetry.
• Awesome patio area perfect for entertaining
• 2nd Floor offers two spacious bedrooms and a half bath that has just been recently renovated.
• 3rd Floor en-suite Master Bedroom features tons of light, 2 large closets, and a small deck offering beautiful skyline views.
• Lower level offers great hangout space with storage and bathroom.
• This home is an absolute must see!

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

With Spring in the air, this is the time home-sales season has officially begun. 2012 showed incredibly low mortgage rates, many believed wouldn’t last. According to Freddi Mac, the current average rate on a 30 year mortgage stood fast at 3.54%. This should a slight improvement compared to last week when rates were at 3.57%. With historically low mortgage rates still active, many believe this will transform into a tremendous amount of buying/selling active in the Philadelphia market this coming Spring and Summer. So if you are thinking of buying or selling your home, now is the time!

 This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

- Sunday, 4/7/2013: - 

10:30-12:30 PM

MLS#: 6192625 - 2921 W. Harper Philadelphia, PA 19130 - Art Museum Area- $207,500

12:00-1:30 PM

MLS#: 6184979 - 1625 North St. Philadelphia, PA 19130 - Art Museum Area- $719,000

1:00-3:00 PM: 

MLS#: 6184399 - 405 Brown St. Philadelphia, PA 19123 – Northern Liberties - $499,900

MLS#: 6183726 - 2630 Brown St. Philadelphia, PA 19130 - Art Museum Area- $629,000

MLS#: 6186262 -  2801 Pennsylvania Ave. #A206 Philadelphia, PA 19130 - Art Museum Area- $247,000

1:30-3:00 PM

MLS#:6185542 - 2531 Swain St. Philadelphia, PA 19130 - Art Museum Area- $519,000

 This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Just Listed!

2630 Brown St. Philadelphia, PA 19130

Art Museum Area

Magnificent 4 Bedroom / 2.5 Bath Victorian townhouse in the Art Museum area!

Other great features:

• Beautiful combination of modern updates and original details.
• Open concept living room/dining room perfect for entertaining.
• Completely renovated eat in kitchen with 42” cabinets, granite counter-tops, stainless appliances, exposed brick, and a breakfast bar.
• Stunning library/study with glass doors to Juliet balcony.
• Lovely deck for all fresco dining
• Large 3rd floor bathroom equipped with  Jacuzzi tub and shower combination.
• Located in a fantastic area, just steps from award winning restaurants, coffee shops, and parks.

See all the listing details for 2630 Brown St. Philadelphia, PA 19130 and check out all the other Art Museum Area Real Estate Listings.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Just Listed in the Metro Club!

202 N. 8th St. Philadelphia, PA 19106

 Old City

Gorgeous 2 Bedroom / 2 Bath bi-level condo in the desirable Metro Club Condominiums with PARKING!

Check out these other great features:

• Over 1,800 Sq. Ft.
• Open floor plan concept with 12 ft ceilings
• Main level has kitchen featuring all granite counter tops, large breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and upgraded European cabinetry.
• Central Air/Heat with finished hardwood, tile, and marble flooring throughout.
• 24Hr door man, state of the art fitness center, outdoor heated pool with spa and cabanas.
• Conveniently located across the street from Franklin Square Park and near subway, train, and all major highways.

This Condo is an absolute must see!

See all the listing details for 202 N. 8th St. #110 Philadelphia, PA 19106 and check out all the other  Old City Real Estate Listings.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Rounding off the end of February 2013, shows again the Philadelphia real estate market looking strong. According to the Altos market update, both price and inventory levels are beginning to even off. This indicates a great time to watch the market’s activity which will help identify key times for price changes.  For a full overview on Philadelphia’s real estate market as of February 25, 2013 please visit our market update report.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

It has recently became finalized from Brandywine Realty Trust, that they are on the verge of building a 33 story tower at Cira Center South that will sleep more than 850 students from both University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. This gorgeous high-rise, dubbed the Grove, is set to cost around $158.5 million dollars with location at 2930 Chestnut St. They hope this will draw students closer to the campuses and away from West Philadelphia and Center City housing. The plan is set to have its very own health club, swimming pool, and rents staring out around $1,300/month for a single room (offering suites up to 3 bedrooms).  This is great news for both the City of Philadelphia and the many students looking for more options for affordable housing in the area.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

 Amazing 1850′s firehouse on the National Register has been lovingly restored to a single family home.

733 S. 6th St., Philadelphia, PA 19147

Bella Vista

Check out these other features:

• One of a kind poly-chrome caste iron facade
• Over 3200 Square of versatile living space
• Hardwood floors throughout the spacious 4 floor home
• Breathtaking 360 degree roof top deck
• Equipped with a dumbwaiter for groceries/luggage, Viking stove, Wine bar, and Granite counter tops
• Walking distance to amazing shoppes and restaurants in the beautiful Bella Vista neighborhood

    

See all the listing details for 733 S. 6th St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 and check out all the other Bella Vista Real Estate Listings

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

The real estate market in the country is looking stronger and showing promising signs of price recovery!  Out of the top 100 largest metropolitan areas, 86 of them are seeing that the asking price for their home sale is up as much as 5.9% from a year ago. According to the graphs below from Truila.com, During the month of January 2013, asking price showed the highest monthly gain on record at 0.9% since the price recovery began. The rise in asking price, shows strong signals of home price recovery. With the Philadelphia real estate market getting stronger and interest rates still low (but slowly on the  rise),  its not just a great time to buy a home but also an ample opportunity to list your home and get what your asking.  Click here to see a full list of Philadelphia’s newest and most recent listings.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

The Fishtown area of Philadelphia is showing a very strong market for buyers and a must stop for any investor.  The average listing price at the moment is $225,000, but continuing to show a strong trend upwards.  According to the Altos market update, properties in this area have been available for an average of 171 days, but half of the new listings coming within the past 120 days or so.  With a tremendous amount of new construction going on and a demand in location, this is a key area for both buyers and sellers.  Many first time home buyers are migrating to this area and also just individuals falling in love with the scene. If you happen to be in the process of looking for a property in the area, please be sure to check out one of the hottest growing areas in the city.  To see a list of all available places, please visit us at our Fishtown listing page.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Are you thinking about selling your Philadelphia home in the near future? Remember, it’s a buyers market, so it’s important for you to have your home stand out from the crowd. Here are five tricks for staging your home, no matter what your budget may be.

Make a Great First Impression

When it comes to selling your home, curb appeal is everything. A buyer will decide in the first eight seconds whether or not they want to purchase your house.

Make sure the paint on the door and trim is fresh and bright. Fix the stairs, doorbell or anything else that needs to be fixed. Adding a garden and some potted plants will beautify your property and make it look more appealing.

Let the Sun In

After location and appearance, light in the second most important reason why a buyer chooses to buy a Philadelphia home.

Be sure to clean the windows so the sunlight can pour through, put white slipcovers over dark furniture, replace light bulbs with stronger wattages and trim back shrubs or branches that are blocking the windows.

Clean

A messy house is an unwelcoming house. Before you show potential buyers your home, vacuum, dust and take out the trash. Send your dog or your cat to a relative’s or friend’s house so that you can get rid of any unpleasant odors. Wax the floors, re-grout the tile, and open up all of the windows so you can air the house out.

Add a Touch of Color

Adding splashes of color can really liven up a Philadelphia house. Buy new throw pillows, add fresh flowers and brighten up other areas with colorful rugs.

Don’t Empty Out the House

An empty house can make a seller look desperate, plus it can make rooms look smaller. Keep furniture in your home while showing it. You can rent or borrow furniture if necessary.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Starting the 2013 year off on a good note for Philadelphia real estate. According to the Altos market update it’s shows a very strong market for buyers and that inventory should stay fast at current sales prices. This should be a huge advantage for buyers giving them ample choice to find the right property for themselves. For a full overview on Philadelphia’s real estate market as of January 14, 2013 please visit our market update report.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

If you want to add beauty and value to your home, you need to have a Philadelphia house with high curb appeal. This can command a higher prices or at least sell a lot faster. The way your home looks from the street can add thousands of dollars to its value instantaneously. But what projects pump up curb appeal? Here’re our top four picks.

A Spick and Span Façade

Washing your house can instantly make the value of your home instantly jump by $10,000 to $15,000. Use a bucket of soapy water and a long handled brush to get rid of the dust and dirt on your vinyl, wood or brick. You can also  hire someone to power-wash your house’s face to make it look spotless.

Be sure to wash your windows too.

Update the Paint Job

Nobody likes a house with a dull paint job. Your best bet is to select a paint that matches the color you already have. Painting your home can run anywhere from  about $375 to $600o.

Straighten Up the Yard, Add a Garden

Nothing adds beauty to your Philadelphia townhouse like an immaculate yard and lovely garden. Plant shrubs, bushes and green up your grass using lawn food and water.

Remember the Importance of Maintenance

Maintenance is a must, and not because homebuyers hate a leaky roof. Missing bricks from front steps, peeling paint and other imperfections can drastically lower your home’s value.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

 2132 E. Huntingdon St. Philadelphia, PA 19125 – $169,900 – Fishtown - Sunday, 1/13/13 from 12:00-2:00 PM

 The Facts: 3 Bedroom 1.5 Bath

• Amazing Turn-key Fishtown charmer with a blend of architectural details and modern updates  .
• Walk in vestibule to open living room with plantation shutters
• Original hardwood floors
• Dining Room/Reading nook
• Eat-in Kitchen
• Back door entrance to beautifully paved patio perfect for fresco dining
• Updated bathroom with window, subway tile, and granite basin
• Upstairs you will find three bright bedrooms
• Home is move-in ready

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

According to Truila.com, they believe that moving into 2013 consumers are optimistic about the housing market and are more ready to buy . They explain that in a survey conducted in November 2012, 31%  of renters are planning to buy within the next two years up from below 22% a year prier. To read the full article from Truila: “Renter Nation”

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Check out the market update for Philadelphia Real Estate ending out the year of 2012:

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

According to Fels Institute of Government at the University of Pennsylvania, the number of Philadelphia home sales greater than $1 million is the strongest it’s been since 2008 at 44 properties sold. With the average over the past 16 years rounding out around 9 properties, this year’s market shows great improvement and strong surge in the right direction for Philadelphia Real Estate.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

All info courtesy Trend MLS

Market History

With 7,849 units of Total Inventory available, Philadelphia County saw a decrease of 9% in August 2012 compared to August 2011. Pending units did see a slight increase of 1.3%, totaling 769.

Year-to-Date Market Snapshot

Through August 2012, Philadelphia County has settled 6,301 units at an average price of $173,000.

Market Update

August was another strong month, with Year-to-Date Closed Sales up 14% and Year-to-Date Pending Sales up 18%. Join Dave Davis as he takes us through the rest of our market and check out stats for your individual county.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visitwww.CenterCityRealEstate.com

With summer winding down it’s easy to get discouraged that your house hasn’t sold yet.  Keep in mind that serious house hunters are becoming more anxious about closing a deal this time of year as well.   Check out these tips that might just get your listing sold before the kids go back to school!

1. Keep marketing the property. The bargain hunter is a species that tends to pray on dropping demand during this time of year.  It’s time to highlight the value of your property!
2. Keep it shining. Keep the listing clean! Touch up paint, little home improvements, and a good deep cleaning are all things that can give your home the boost it needs this time of year.  Summer months get hectic, the kids are home, the house becomes messy, so take advantage now.
3. Allow it to show. It’s important for listings to be available for viewings as much as possible to avoid missing out on a potential buyer who also has a busy schedule!
4. Communicate with all parties. If you’re lucky enough to get an agreement put together, make sure you keep everyone in the loop regarding deadline changes.  People often have busy schedules this time of year and things get hectic!
5. Don’t procrastinate. Labor day and the end of summer vacation getaways makes it hard to stay on top of things for a lot of people.  Keep in mind that there are a lot of moving parts in a real estate deal.  Try to meet YOUR deadlines as far in advance as possible to leave some slack in case someone else involved in the deal drops the ball! It’s no fun scrambling the day before closing.

Hope this advice helps… I can almost smell that crisp autumn air.  If you are looking to sell your home, you’ve come to the right place.  Check out our testimonials and give us a call today! 215-592-9522

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Check out the KCM blog for more on this topic.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Philadelphia Real Estate Market Conditions for Philadelphia real estate market, trends in pricing, current level of supply & demand and home price value metrics.

The median list price in PHILADELPHIA, PA this week is $222,250. The 1576 properties have been on the market for an average of 167 days.

The market has settled in at a relative stasis in inventory and sales conditions. It’s a Buyer’s market that has seen prices trend lower. Expect that consistent up trends in demand will be required before price trends change significantly.

The Market Action Index answers the question “How’s the Market?” by measuring the current rate of sale versus the amount of the inventory. Index above 30 implies Seller’s Market conditions. Below 30, conditions favor the buyer.

This week’s bump in median price bucks the recent downward trend. The Market Action Index is a good leading indicator for whether this change establishes a trend.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Pricing problems: Try to find out which 5 houses in your area you will be competing with and price your home 10-15% lower than those listings.

Insulted by low offer: Realize that most low bidders will come up to a reasonable price.  So swallow your pride and don’t get angry, then make a counteroffer.  Remember that 4 out of 5 times the first bid is the highest you’ll see.

Hanging out at Open House: Get out of your house during showings and open houses.  Buyers have trouble psychologically picturing themselves living in the house when the current owners are present.

Refusing to make needed home repairs early: It’s hard for people mentally to put money into a house when they are trying to get money out.  But in reality if you wait until after the home inspection, the buyers will likely make you pay $3 for every $1 in repairs.

Haggling over Broker’s Commission: The first houses shown are usually the houses with the high commission.

Not doing a home inspection: A home inspection only costs $300 dollars.  That’s money well spent to potentially avoid thousands of dollars in future costs down the road.

Not doing your homework: Visit potential new home on a Saturday night and during rush hour. That’s the best way to find out about noise makers. Search your home and neighborhood on Google maps.  Visit town’s clerk’s office for property tax info.

Negotiation blow-ups: A great starting offer is roughly 10-15% less than actual value of the home.  Put your offer in writing and do not let negotiations go beyond three days.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

For-sale housing inventory drops 22%, near a 2-year low

Data courtesy Inman News.

Median list prices jumped 1 percent or more on a year-over-year basis in February for about 73 percent of the 146 markets tracked in a report released this week by Realtor.com.

On a national basis, the median list price rose about 7 percent year over year in February.

Among the top 10 markets for the highest year-over-year hike in list prices in February, seven were in Florida — Miami topped the chart with a 26.2 percent increase, according to the report.

The median list price of homes tracked by Realtor.com rose $2,500 between January and February 2012, to $188,000, which is 6.82 percent higher than the median list price was a year ago when it was at a two-year low. February 2012′s median list price is on par to what it was in February 2010.

Only two markets showed a year-over-year increase in for-sale inventory, according to the data: Philadelphia and Springfield, Ill.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Boost your Home’s Value:

• Appraisals can be a make or break issue
• More skilled appraisers have been leaving the industry
• In some cases you will be able to request a skilled appraiser but usually it will be strictly 3rd party
• Know your Comps! (Recent home sales in past 6 months, similar location, size, age, additions… start at Zillow)
• Some appraisers will use outdated comps.
• Make sure you know what makes your home different from the comps.
• Point out any home improvements to the appraiser.
• Takes a few weeks to get the appraisal back
• If you are going to try to appeal the appraisal than you better have evidence to back it up!

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

March 2012 Philadelphia Real Estate Market Conditions for Philadelphia real estate market, trends in pricing, current level of supply & demand and home price value metrics.

The median list price in PHILADELPHIA, PA this week is $214,900. The 1469 properties have been on the market for an average of 170 days.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Home Sales

Housing activity has increased 1.7% in 2011.  Latest home sales pattern offers signs of finding bottom.  Home sales by state decreased in every state in the third quarter of 2010 but they have fortunately increased in every state in the third quarter o 2011.

Home Prices

Home Prices are currently at the lowest level since 2003.  The median home price contracted 3.9% in 2011. If home prices had followed the 4% historical appreciation rate, the median price would be $219,372 – 24% above today’s prices.

Inventory (month’s supply)

Number of months it would take to sell all the homes on the market at the current rate of sales.  Stronger demand and fewer new listings brought inventory of existing homes down to the lowest level since 2007 at 8.3 months in 2011. In December, months supply stood at 6.2 months, pushing the market closer to the balanced market threshold.

Mortgage Rates (30 year Fixed)

Mortgage rates averaged 4.45% in 2011, an all-time low since Freddie Mac started tracking in 1971. In 2011, mortgage rates ranged as high as 4.95% and ended in December at a low of
3.96%. During the week ending February 9, 30-year fixed rate averaged 3.87%.

Construction Costs

The average construction cost of a single-family home in 2011 is $184,125. This average
is significantly lower than the 2009 average construction cost of $222,511.

Affordability (% OF INCOME)

Percent of mean family’s income required to make mortgage payments on a median-priced home.  Housing affordability was the most favorable on record in 2011.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

• Increasing prices for 3 months in a row… has never happened before.
• Many people think bottom has passed us.
• Don’t want to own 2 houses, don’t buy second before getting rid of 1st.
• People are actually making money by trading up because you get a discount on the house your buying as well.
• Short Sale- ruins credit for 3 years but it gets the house sold. Get a broker who specializes in short sales.
• You always save money if you can refinance to a lower term.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

Market History

Philadelphia County experienced an increase of Settled units, 5.1%, in January 2012 as compared to January 2011. Pending units also increased in the same peiod by 5.4%.

Year-to-Date Market Snapshot

Through January 2012, Philadelphia County has settled 581 units at an average price of $148,000.

Market Update

Sales activity in TREND increased nearly 10% in January 2012 compared to January 2011.

All information courtesy of TReND MLS.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

• 95% of metro areas expecting to see increase in home prices this year
• Not going back to bubble prices
• Buyers- act quickly before rates go up.  Avg under 4%, historic lows! Rates will only stay at this level and higher.  Have good credit score 760+. Focus on smaller homes – think about resale value.
• Sellers- Price it right! 75% of homeowners think their home is worth 10% more than it actually is! Higher an appraiser if you can.

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com

January 2012 Philadelphia Real Estate Market Conditions for Philadelphia real estate market, trends in pricing, current level of supply & demand and home price value metrics.

The median list price in PHILADELPHIA, PA this week is $199,000. The 1466 properties have been on the market for an average of 179 days.

Check out the entire January 2012 Philadelphia Real Estate Market Conditions!

This is brought to you by Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

To view every Philadelphia Real Estate Listing, including Philadelphia Condos visit www.CenterCityRealEstate.com