Realty Times Feature Article by Blanche Evans
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is a model of urban cleanup and has almost completely turned itself around in the last ten years to become one of the most desirable places to live on the East Coast. The home of the "Liberty Bell" offers a rich sense of history, as well as modern-day triumphs as exhibited by the famous "Rocky" statue, of movie fame.
A quick train ride takes you into New York City, for business or pleasure. Outside the city, winding two-lane roads spirit you to romantic roadside towns, many with historical bed and breakfasts and inns that date back to the Revolutionary War.
But don't think Philadelphia has both boots planted in the American independence past. Only a block from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell (both now carefully guarded from mischief-doers) is the Federal Reserve, where the nation's monetary system and policies are controlled.
One reason why the area is growing rapidly is its amazing beauty. The city boasts one of the largest city parks in the world, which winds along the river where you may jog, bicycle or walk and see rowers gliding their sleek boats along in the water.
"There are seven state parks surrounding the city," says Realtor Kathleen Chiras. "Philadelphia, PA is a town that combines culture and affordability. In addition to the 'arts district,' there are many other areas of the city that have premier restaurants and galleries."
Realtors report that Philadelphia is in a rising sellers' market, which may be confusing to buyers unfamiliar with the city's distinctive neighborhoods.
"Like many world-class cities, Philadelphia is also a conglomeration of distinct neighborhoods," says Realtor Marilou Buffum. "Because Philadelphia covers a large geographic area and because the city is composed of numerous distinct neighborhoods, overall characterizations tend to be somewhat misleading. In particular, they can obscure wide differences between neighborhoods. As a result, we recommend that prospective buyers and sellers contact local Realtors who have specific knowledge of individual neighborhoods."
"The Philadelphia market is on the rise in general," agrees Realtor J.P.Devlin. "Philadelphia is where we've lived our entire lives... we know it well," says Devlin. "From Northeast Philly to South Philly and in between. It's the City of Brotherly Love, andexpanding suburbs."
Blanche Evans is the publisher of Agent News and the associate editor of Realty Times, the Internet's largest independent real estate news service. She is the author of two best-selling real estate books: The Hottest e-Careers In Real Estate, Real Estate Education Company, an Internet marketing primer for real estate professionals, and homesurfing.net: The Insider's Guide To Buying And Selling Your Home Using The Internet, Dearborn, a consumer homebuying and selling guide. In 2000, she was recognized by the editors of REALTOR(r) Magazines as one of the 25 Most Influential People In Real Estate.
Published: May 13, 2002
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