Harleysville-Lansdale Real Estate and More: July 2010

******THIS HOUSE IS SOLD, BUT PLEASE CONTACT SCOTT IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO FIND A SIMILAR PROPERTY IN THIS AREA - SCOTT@SCOTTLOPERTEAM.COM OR 215-513-5133******

1436 Markley Street, Norristown, PA 19401

3 BR/ 2 BA twin with central air, a finished basement & 1-car garage & additional off-street parking spaces

Move in ready with NEW SIDING, new front and rear roof, newer windows, and fresh paint

MLS #: 5747946

Asking Price: $144,900

 

 

Click here to see a virtual tour of 1436 Markley Street.

 

Beautifully maintained and stylishly decorated Norristown twin home for sale in a great section of the borough at a very affordable price. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The front entry leads into a reading room with built-in benches and abundant natural light.

Glass French doors give access to the living room with wonderful hardwood floors, a gorgeous brick accent wall, and a wood burning fireplace.

The hardwood floors extend into a spacious dining room with pass-through window into a well appointed, modern kitchen with a gas range and built-in dishwasher.

 

The 2nd floor offers two nicely sized bedrooms, a full bath, and a separate office area.

Another spacious bedroom is located on the third floor. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The finished basement provides a terrific family / recreation room and also has a full bath. 

Cute fenced-in yard with slate patio area.  Off-street parking and a 1-car garage for your convenience.  

Clean and affordable natural gas heat and hot water.

Welcome home to 1436 Markley Street, Norristown!  A wonderful Norristown twin home for sale.

 

Contact Scott Loper, Associate Broker, Realtor®, RE/MAX Realty Group at 215-513-1333 for help buying or selling a home in Lansdale, Harleysville, Hatfield, Souderton, Skippack, Collegeville, North Wales and the surrounding areas of Montgomery County Pennsylvania. To Search for Homes For Sale in Montgomery County Click Here.

Stylish Norristown Borough Twin Home for Sale, Norristown, PA Copyright © 2010, The Scott Loper Team, All rights reserved.

Evidently, a California man purchased a box of glass negatives at a garage sale about ten years ago for $45.  Talk about the phrase, "One man's junk is another man's treasure."  The glass negatives have been deemed to be the work of famous nature photographer Ansel Adams.  The negatives were long thought to be lost during a fire at Adams' studio.  The negatives are considered to be worth approximately $200,000,000!

So if you are selling a home that appears to have a pretty good collection of junk in it, you may want to take a moment to sift through the junk.  You just may find a treasure!

This seems like especially good advice for sellers in our historically rich areas of Montgomery, Bucks, and Philadelphia Counties of Pennsylvania.

~Lisa

 

 

 

Contact Scott Loper, Associate Broker, Realtor®, RE/MAX Realty Group at 215-513-1333 for help buying or selling a home in Lansdale, Harleysville, Hatfield, Souderton, Skippack, Collegeville, North Wales and the surrounding areas of Montgomery County Pennsylvania. To Search for Homes For Sale in Montgomery County Click Here.

A Garage Sale Gem - Ansel Adams Glass Negatives Worth $200M Copyright © 2010, The Scott Loper Team, All rights reserved.

 

Contact Scott Loper, Associate Broker, Realtor®, RE/MAX Realty Group at 215-513-1333 for help buying or selling a home in Lansdale, Harleysville, Hatfield, Souderton, Skippack, Collegeville, North Wales and the surrounding areas of Montgomery County Pennsylvania. To Search for Homes For Sale in Montgomery County Click Here.

Wordless Wednesday - Life Imitating Art Copyright © 2010, The Scott Loper Team, All rights reserved.

For a little fun this summer, check out the Philadelphia Movie Scene.  You can take a Philadelphia Movie Sites Tour which is a fun, fact-filled trip (including actual movie clips) around the city to over 50 filming locations of more than 30 movies and TV shows filmed right here in the greater Philadelphia area.

Philadelphia and the surrounding areas have been the backdrop for many major motion pictures.  A favorite of Hollywood director M. Night Shyamalan (he was born in India but raised in suburban Philadelphia), his first movie set in Philadelphia was Wide Awake in 1998.  He went on to film The Sixth Sense, The Village, Signs and Unbreakable all in the area.  His affinity to greater Philadelphia region was shown recently when he and his wife donated $20,000 to the Lansdale Center for the Performing Arts in early March 2010.

Here are a few other well-known movies filmed in and around Philadelphia.  How many of these have you seen? 

Everything You've Got starring Reese Witherspoon, Jack Nicholson, Owen Wilson and Paul Rudd - Tentative release date of Dec. 2010 (Downtown Philly)

Dark Fields starring Bradley Cooper and Robert De Niro - 2010-2011 (Downtown Philly)

Law Abiding Citizen - 2009 (Downtown Philadelphia)

The Lovely Bones - 2009 (Norristown, Hatfield)

Transformers 2 - 2009 (Downtown Philadelphia, Bethlehem)

Baby Mama - 2008 (LOVE Park, Downtown Philadelphia)

Marley & Me - 2007 (Downtown Philadelphia, Chester County)

Invincible - 2006 (South Philly)

Jersey Girl - 2004 (Philadelphia)

National Treasure - 2004 (Historic Philadelphia, Society Hill)

Fallen - 1998 (Philadelphia)

12 Monkeys - 1996 (Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia)

Philadelphia - 1993 (Philadelphia)

Mannequin - 1987 (Macy's in Philadelphia)

Witness - 1985 (30th Street Station, Philadelphia, Lancaster County)

Trading Places - 1983 (Philadelphia)

Taps - 1981 (Valley Forge Military Academy)

Rocky - 1976 (Most famously the Philadelphia Art Museum steps, South Philly)

 

Contact Scott Loper, Associate Broker, Realtor®, RE/MAX Realty Group at 215-513-1333 for help buying or selling a home in Lansdale, Harleysville, Hatfield, Souderton, Skippack, Collegeville, North Wales and the surrounding areas of Montgomery County Pennsylvania. To Search for Homes For Sale in Montgomery County Click Here.

Forget Hollywood! Check Out Philadelphia's Movie Scene Copyright © 2010, The Scott Loper Team, All rights reserved.

We recently had a condo for sale.  It had trouble selling.  The owner was a chain smoker and had numerous health problems.  As a result, she often had to deny showings when she wasn't feeling well.  But even when buyers were able to get in, many complained of the smoke smell in the home.  Finally the seller moved to warmer climates with some help from her family and we were able to get new carpets, fresh paint and a few kitchen upgrades done in her condo.

While we were there taking new photos of the now vacant, transformed condo, I noticed the ceiling fans...  There were three in the unit; all three had a thick layer of dust along the edges of the blades (in some cases, the dust was hanging).  Everything else was beautiful except these last tell-tale signs of the former condition.

What's an agent to do?  I got a ladder, spray cleaner and a whole roll of paper towels and painstakingly cleaned off every blade on each ceiling fan.  It was not a job I enjoyed, in fact I almost threw up as I realized how yellow the towels were becoming from also removing years of nicotine residue.  The whole job took about 20 long minutes.

The result?  A condo we couldn't sell previously at $240,000 now sold in a few weeks at $270,000.  The owner had put in about $15,000 in paint, carpet, and kitchen upgrades (appliances, countertops, and a new floor).  This is a story for another blog about the difference condition can make to a seller's bottom line.

Would the condo still have sold if we left the ceiling fans alone?  Maybe.  Probably.  Maybe not.

Are we glad we took the time to wipe down the ceiling fans?  Absolutely.

Scott and I often find that we have to perform duties outside of our "normal" job descriptions.  Maybe some agents would refuse to do the tasks we have done...  But sometimes a seller simply does not have the means or capability to get some things done.  And while we could bring in a handyman or housekeeper (and in many/most cases we have), sometimes it is just easier, faster, and cheaper to do it ourselves. 

A few examples of services we have occasionally performed for sellers over the years:

• Trimmed tree branches (all for the sake of a good photo)
• Installed smoke detectors and/or handrails for a Use & Occupancy inspection.
• Replaced a broken garbage disposal.
• Washed a window or two.
• Vacuumed up after new carpeting was installed.
• Restored a kitchen and connected faucets after new countertops were installed.
• Swept patios and kitchen floors.
• Shoveled snow.
• Pulled a few weeds.
• Oiled a squeak.
• Cleared all the magnets and papers off a refrigerator.
• Shop vacuumed a wet basement.
• Played general contractor and have arranged for everything from electicians, plumbers, carpet installers, painters, roofers, house cleaners, landscapers, appliance repair, damage restoration, masons... the list is endless.

Luckily Scott is extremely handy and I am extremely easy going and make a good assistant (kind of like the operating room nurse).

"Screwdriver" - "Yes, Scott"

"1/8" drill bit" - "Right here Scott"

"Can you plug this in for me?" - "Absolutely Scott"

We work well together and when we have had to step out of the norm for a client, we usually have been fast and efficient in getting a job done.  But I have to admit, we have never painted or cut the grass for a client - there is no urgency there and we have to draw the line somewhere!

How far will you go for a client?  Do you have a toolbox in your trunk?

~Lisa

 

Contact Scott Loper, Associate Broker, Realtor®, RE/MAX Realty Group at 215-513-1333 for help buying or selling a home in Lansdale, Harleysville, Hatfield, Souderton, Skippack, Collegeville, North Wales and the surrounding areas of Montgomery County Pennsylvania. To Search for Homes For Sale in Montgomery County Click Here.

Copyright © 2010, The Scott Loper Team, All rights reserved.

This seemed like good information to pass on.  The emails going around are very inflammatory.  It is better to know the facts.  Thanks Tim for putting this information out there. 

We are thankful that NAR is keeping an eye on the details of this legislation.

~Lisa

 Winter is only five months away!

 

Contact Scott Loper, Associate Broker, Realtor®, RE/MAX Realty Group at 215-513-1333 for help buying or selling a home in Lansdale, Harleysville, Hatfield, Souderton, Skippack, Collegeville, North Wales and the surrounding areas of Montgomery County Pennsylvania. To Search for Homes For Sale in Montgomery County Click Here.

Copyright © 2010, The Scott Loper Team, All rights reserved.

 

Scott and I have been on vacation.  Taking a vacation is very difficult when you sell houses because it seems like a 24/7 job most weeks.  The only time clients or other agents don't seem to call or make requests is from 11pm to about 7am - any other time is fair game.

We find that it is vital to get away from work occasionally.  It is a time to recharge, relax and spend uninterrupted time with important people in our lives.  In our case, that would be each other and our two teenage kids - who thankfully still seem to enjoy being with us the most.  And they are a ton of fun too!

There are several other great reasons to take a vacation:

1)  All sorts of clients come out of the woodwork just as you are preparing to leave.  How else would you get that buyer who has been waffling for two years to buy a house?

2)  It forces you to evaluate each and every client on exactly where they stand in the buying or selling process as you prepare for what will go on in your absence.

3)  It reminds you how thankful you are to have an assistant or reinforces one of the many reasons you should get one (if you don't already have an assistant).

4)  It reminds your clients that you are human and have a family, friends and a life outside of real estate.

So if you feel like you are overwhlemed or burned out, plan a vacation.  It doesn't have to be far or expensive, you'd be amazed at how many beautiful places there are within a few hours drive of your own home.  BUT don't stay home.  We find that if we don't leave town, we will just keep on working.

I have to admit, I did have these grandiose ideas that I would keep up with our Active Rain blogging while we were gone....  Well all I can say is we're feeling good and happy to be back!

Got any vacation plans this summer?

~Lisa

 

Contact Scott Loper, Associate Broker, Realtor®, RE/MAX Realty Group at 215-513-1333 for help buying or selling a home in Lansdale, Harleysville, Hatfield, Souderton, Skippack, Collegeville, North Wales and the surrounding areas of Montgomery County Pennsylvania. To Search for Homes For Sale in Montgomery County Click Here.

Copyright © 2010, The Scott Loper Team, All rights reserved.

******THIS HOUSE IS SOLD, BUT PLEASE CONTACT SCOTT IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO FIND A SIMILAR PROPERTY IN THIS AREA - SCOTT@SCOTTLOPERTEAM.COM OR 215-513-5133******

A Must See!  Beautiful Home for sale in the North Penn School District!

3+ BR, 1.5 BA, 1/3 Acre, Central Air, Gas Heat/Hot Water, Public Water/Sewer, Low Property Taxes

 

 

209 Woodlawn Drive, Lansdale, PA 19446

MLS #:  5735196

Asking Price:  $284,900

To see a virtual tour of this Home for Sale in North Penn School District

One SWEET deal - Excellent combination of space, features, & visual appeal.

A decorative glass entry leads to the warmth & welcome of a living room w/ wood stove, stone surround, and bay window.

The adjacent kitchen has been expanded and boasts updated cabinets, stainless appliances, and a spacious breakfast area w/ its own bay window and glass French door leading to a backyard paradise.

One of the largest lots in Inglewood Gardens, this home for sale accommodates a gorgeous stamped concrete patio, beautifully landscaped gardens & plenty of remaining open level yard space with perimeter fencing, mature shade trees, horseshoe pits and two large storage sheds. 

Downstairs, the family room has been expanded offering a comfortable media area, another wood stove, and a bar; a great area for relaxing or entertaining.

Upstairs, this Home for Sale in North Penn School District has a master bedroom that has been expanded into what was once the 4th bedroom (and could easily be converted back). The master suite features a rich décor, sitting area, & ample closet space.

Two other nicely sized bedrooms and an updated hall bath complete the upper levels. 

This home for sale in Inglewood Gardens is within walking distance of Inglewood Elementary in the North Penn School District. 

Homes for sale in North Penn School District also provide easy access to the PA Turnpike, Septa's R-5, major area employers, excellent schools and health care.  Close to great shopping, parks, and recreation.

For more information on North Penn School District

For a complete list of Homes for Sale in North Penn School District

 

 

Contact Scott Loper, Associate Broker, Realtor®, RE/MAX Realty Group at 215-513-1333 for help buying or selling a home in Lansdale, Harleysville, Hatfield, Souderton, Skippack, Collegeville, North Wales and the surrounding areas of Montgomery County Pennsylvania. To Search for Homes For Sale in Montgomery County Click Here.

Home Sweet Home! North Penn Home for Sale in Lansdale, PA Copyright © 2010, The Scott Loper Team, All rights reserved.

 

 

 

******THIS HOUSE IS SOLD, BUT PLEASE CONTACT SCOTT IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO FIND A SIMILAR PROPERTY IN THIS AREA - SCOTT@SCOTTLOPERTEAM.COM OR 215-513-5133******

A Must See!  Beautiful home for sale in the Inglewood Gardens section of Lansdale, PA!

3+ BR, 1.5 BA, 1/3 Acre, Central Air, Gas Heat/Hot Water, Public Water/Sewer, Low Property Taxes

209 Woodlawn Drive, Lansdale, PA (Towamencin Township)

MLS #:  5735196

Asking Price:  $284,900

To see a virtual tour of this Home for Sale in Inglewood Gardens

Everything is SWEET about this home - An excellent combination of space, features, & visual appeal - A solid house that has been wonderfully maintained and updated with newer appliances, windows and doors. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The adjacent kitchen has been expanded and boasts updated cabinets, stainless appliances, and a spacious breakfast area w/ its own bay window and glass French door leading to a backyard paradise.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

One of the largest lots in Inglewood Gardens, this home for sale accommodates a gorgeous stamped concrete patio, beautifully landscaped gardens & plenty of remaining open level yard space with perimeter fencing, mature shade trees, horseshoe pits and two large storage sheds. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Downstairs, the family room with new carpeting has been expanded offering a comfortable media area, another wood stove, and a bar; a great area for relaxing or entertaining.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Upstairs, this Home for Sale in Inglewood Gardens has a master bedroom that has been expanded into what was once the 4th bedroom (and could easily be converted back). The master suite features a rich décor, sitting area, & ample closet space.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two other nicely sized bedrooms and an updated hall bath complete the upper levels.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Welcome to Home Sweet Home!

Homes for sale in Inglewood Gardens are within walking distance of Inglewood Elementary in the North Penn School District.  Homes for sale in Inglewood Gardens also provide easy access to the PA Turnpike, Septa's R-5, major area employers, excellent schools and health care.  Close to great shopping, parks, and recreation.

 

For more information on Inglewood Gardens

For a complete list of Homes for Sale in Inglewood Gardens

 

Contact Scott Loper, Associate Broker, Realtor®, RE/MAX Realty Group at 215-513-1333 for help buying or selling a home in Lansdale, Harleysville, Hatfield, Souderton, Skippack, Collegeville, North Wales and the surrounding areas of Montgomery County Pennsylvania. To Search for Homes For Sale in Montgomery County Click Here.

Home Sweet Home! Inglewood Gardens Home for Sale in Lansdale, PA Copyright © 2010, The Scott Loper Team, All rights reserved.