philadelphia Archives - Solo Real Estate | Philadelphia Real Estate Brokerage

Start Your Home Search for the New Year

Posted on January 4, 2025January 9, 2025 by Stephanie Aviles

Get a head start on finding the home of your dreams in the New Year! January and February are the ideal months to research the market, define your priorities, set a budget, and be ready to spring into action when availability blossoms in the Spring. We want to share insider tips on navigating Philly’s real estate market.

Timing is everything. It’s no surprise that housing prices tend to be lowest in January, as well as inventory availability. Both are at their highest come April. But that doesn’t mean you should wait until Spring to begin researching prices, locations, and availability.

If you are a first-time buyer, you want to focus on your ability to secure a mortgage first. Without that first step, going to open houses is like asking to see the menu in restaurants where you can’t afford the tab! Another reason to line up a mortgage first? You want to know how much house you can afford before you start to look.

According to Realtor.com, the median sale price of a Philly home was $260K and the median listing price was $270K in November 2024. However, Zillow reports that the average home value in the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington area stands at $343,102. When you think about price, think of location. While there are row houses in an affordable price range in Pennsport, Greys Ferry, and West Philly, prices are higher closer to Center City and in trendy neighborhoods such as Fishtown, Kensington, and East Passyunk. If you work remotely, the best values are just outside Center City where you can get more houses (and yards) for your money such as Lansdowne, East Falls, Germantown, Roxborough, etc. For instance, a BelLa Vista 3 bed, 3.5 bath home with a roof deck and yard is asking $739,900 while the median purchase price in Roxborough is $249,267.

A Philly home in the winter. Image: Cara Stapleton for Solo Real Estate.

Once you know how much house you can afford, cast a wide net to start. Look at listings in various neighborhoods. If you are unfamiliar with an area, go there during the day, at night, and also on weekends to get a feel for the community. Is it quiet, noisy, well-lit, or dark? Engage homeowners in conversation.

On the other hand, if you are currently renting in a neighborhood you love and are ready to buy, you’ve saved a lot of time. In Philly, the cost of renting is higher than the cost of buying a home (and building equity).

Knowing what kind of community you prefer is key. Condo owner Stephen Tenner moved here from Brooklyn. “I made my way specifically to West Mt. Airy. It has a progressive, liberal feel just like Park Slope where I lived. I love the old houses, Weavers Way Coop, and that it’s interracial and inclusive. Wissahickon Park is nearby and I walk miles every day.” When he doesn’t want to walk, a SEPTA train station is around the corner.

Howard Silver, on the other hand, has no regrets about his two-bedroom condo at William Penn House. “Everything I want is here. Di Bruno’s is across the street. Rittenhouse Square is a block away. I walk to the Kimmel, Wilma, and Suzanne Roberts. What’s not to like?”

Before you talk to a realtor, make a list of your priorities. What are some musts and what are some things that would be a nice-to-have?

Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
Garage or off-street parking
Roof Deck
Energy-efficient appliances or sustainability features
Yard
Access to Public Transportation
Walkability
Closeness to dog parks, schools, eateries, cafes, etc.
A fixer-upper or in perfect condition?

Remember, not every house will be “staged” like a reality TV show! Unless you are looking only at newly renovated, unfurnished homes, be prepared for furnishings, rugs, and light fixtures that may not be your style. Or a bathroom that reminds you of your grandmother. The ability to re-imagine the house with the changes you require (and their cost) will save you money and time.

The City of Philadelphia’s Philly First Home Program offers a grant of up to $10,000 (or 6% of home price) to help first-time, home buyers with down payments and closing costs. You may also ask your lender about state grant programs.

Rather than chatting with mortgage lenders or Nerd Wallet on your cellphone, start with a financial institution with which you have a relationship. That could be your credit union or bank. They will walk you through your options, including conventional mortgages, VA mortgages, FHA Home Loans, and USDA Mortgages. They will also introduce you to mortgage calculators.
For instance, current mortgage rates in Philadelphia, PA are 6.692% for a 30-year fixed, 5.785% for a 15-year fixed, and 7.164% for a 5-year adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM).

Finally, working with a qualified real estate agent – one who knows the neighborhoods that interest you – will make the process of buying your first or second home easier. Reach out to one our agents to get started!

Mortgage rates are falling. Should you consider refinancing?

Posted on October 25, 2024November 23, 2024 by Stephanie Aviles

It’s Fall and interest rates are dropping with the autumn leaves. So, does this mean you should refinance your mortgage? That depends on several factors. Let’s take a look at them and see how they add up for your particular situation.

Forbes says if your mortgage rate is 7% or above, refinancing makes sense, but if your current rate is 6.5% or lower you should hold on until 2025 when rates are expected to drop even lower. However, the change in interest rate shouldn’t be the only factor to consider, the cost of refinancing includes the following:

Government recording costs.
Appraisal fees
Credit report fees.
Lender origination fees.
Title services.
Tax service fees.
Survey fees.
Attorney fees.
Underwriting fees.

Because of all these costs and fees, many mortgage experts say refinancing only makes sense if you can get a rate that’s at least 1% lower than your current rate. Not just half a percent. A recent article in the Washington Post agrees. “In most cases, it doesn’t make sense to refinance a mortgage until the rate has dropped a full percentage point below your current rate. Once that happens, you can compare the amount your mortgage payment will drop against the closing costs you’ll have to pay to refinance.”

Here are some steps you can take to lower your refinance rate:

Get rate quote estimates from three to five lenders
Ask lenders about waiving or reducing closing costs
Negotiate with your lender to match the best deal
Take steps to strengthen your credit score
Save for a larger down payment
Choose a shorter-term loan

However, if you got your mortgage during the pandemic when rates dropped to a historic low of 2.65% in 2021, consider yourself lucky and stay put. But if your current rate is over 6%, you need to consider how much time it will take for your savings to outweigh the refinancing costs. If your monthly payments cover those costs for two years or less, it’s probably worth it. On the other hand, if you’re thinking about moving in a year or two, it might not be worth it.

Another consideration is the increase in home values. For example, if your home’s value increases, you may qualify for a better rate. If your credit score has improved since your original mortgage, you might qualify for more favorable terms. Even a small boost in your score could translate to big savings over your loan’s lifetime.

“If rates continue to come down there could be a lot of additional buyer competition in the market, which could drive up prices,” said Solo agent, Alejandro Franqui. “That suggests that there is a sweet spot where rates are now more manageable, but prices haven’t started to accelerate yet.”

_{Solo agent Alejandro Franqui suggests it could be a good time to refinance while mortgage rates are down and before home prices increase. Image: Happy Hour Headshot.}

No one has a crystal ball, but economic forecasters predict we’re in the early stages of a rate-dropping cycle. The Federal Reserve could continue to drop rates for the next 12 months or longer. On the other hand, waiting comes with risks. If you bought at peak rates and have a sizable loan, refinancing now could start saving you money. Waiting may lead to better rates — but future market conditions are uncertain so we recommend weighing your options to make an informed decision based on what makes sense for you now.

Cultural Histories: The Puerto Rican Diaspora and Latinx Heritage Month in Philadelphia

Posted on September 10, 2024February 28, 2025 by Stephanie Aviles

Philadelphia has long been home to a strong and vibrant Latin American population. With Latinx Heritage Month on the horizon, starting Sunday, September 15, 2024, and ending on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, now is the perfect time to consider how deeply intertwined the history of Philadelphia and the history of Latin Americans in Philadelphia are, as well as considering how you might celebrate that history and thriving contemporary communities by engaging with some of the many events celebrating both over the coming weeks.

Many people in Philadelphia come from various parts of Latin America. However, the largest community with the oldest association in the city is the Puerto Rican community.. Puerto Ricans began to settle in Philadelphia in the 1800s, coming to work as merchants, cigar makers, laborers, students, professionals, and even for political reasons as Revolutionaries supporting the Puerto Rican Independence movement. By 1900, there were an estimated 1,500-2,000 Latin Americans in Philadelphia, many of which were Puerto Rican, and the majority of them settled around Spring Garden, Northern Liberties, and Southwark because it allowed dockworkers, cigar factory workers, and employees at the Baldwin Locomotive Works, located at Broad and Spring Garden at the time, easy access to their places of employment.

The first massive influx of Puerto Ricans to Philadelphia, and the United States as a whole, came after the passing of the 1917 Jones-Shafrod Act, which declared all Puerto Ricans United States citizens. The ease of migration, coupled with recruiters who visited Puerto Rico encouraging migration to supply US labor needs, caused significant population growth in Philadelphia. Puerto Rican migrants settled in joining family members and friends in the existing Puerto Rican neighborhoods and nearby in Camden, NJ. By the 1950s, Philadelphia had the third largest Puerto Rican population in the United States, many of whom worked in Philadelphia’s once-thriving garment industry, settling around Spring Garden to access the dockyards and the Campbell’s Soup Factory in Camden, or moving up 5^th Street towards the garment factories and mills in Kensington and North Philadelphia.

Centro Musical is a neighborhood staple and music store located in El Bloque de Oro. Image: Stephanie Aviles.

It is from this Northward movement that El Bloque de Oro was first born. Beginning as a concentration of Puerto Rican-owned businesses at 5^th and Lehigh, the block became a center of Puerto Rican community and culture, and by 1963 Philadelphia had established its own Puerto Rican Day Parade, just five years after the very first Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York. But life was not always easy for this community, which faced friction with non-Puerto Rican residents, economic and social discrimination, and violence and police brutality. Organizations like El Concilio, or The Council of Spanish Speaking Associations, Taller Puertorriqueño, and Aspira, and the Norris Square Neighborhood Project, among many others, have served as community advocacy organizations and centers of culture as Philadelphia’s garment and dockyard industries faded and Puerto Rican Philadelphians sought other opportunities and industries. Despite economic instability and countless challenges, Puerto Rican Philadelphians remain the most visible and populous Latin American community in Philadelphia. Joined by growing numbers of Mexican, Dominican, Central, and South American communities, Latin American Philadelphians make up a culturally rich demographic, without which Philadelphia, would be infinitely poorer. Moreover, the physical neighborhoods of Fairhill, Spring Garden, and Northern Liberties would be drastically different without these historic residents.

Mural Arts project titled: “Semilla de Patria” by Betsy Z. Casañas. Image: Stephanie Aviles

In celebration of the Puerto Rican community of Philadelphia, Taller Puertorriqueño currently has an exhibit specifically focused on the Fairhill neighborhood this Latinx Heritage Month, entitled Estamos Aqui, a collaboration between The Historical Society of Pennsylvania and José Ortiz Pagán documenting the intersection of community and geography in Philadelphia’s Puerto Rican community. In honor of the 50^th anniversary of Taller Puertorriqueño and The Historical Society of Pennsylvania, an exhibit is opening this month at the Historical Society revisiting Batiendo La Olla, an oral history project produced by Taller Puertorriqueño in the 1970s.

Outside of these educational opportunities, there are countless chances to celebrate the many facets and communities honored through Latinx Heritage Month in the coming days and weeks.

Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month Events in Philadelphia

On the 15^th of September, join Philadelphia’s growing Mexican population, among many others, celebrating Mexican Independence Day down at the Delaware River Waterfront. Then, for the rest of the month, dine out at local Latin American restaurants during Dine Latino Restaurant week (September 15, 2024-September 21, 2024) exploring these rich culinary traditions one dish at a time.

On the 16^th of September, enjoy El Mercado Cultural, the last of a series of events sponsored by Fleisher at the Cherry Street Pier, a family-friendly event celebrating art and Latin American arts and crafts.

Then, on the 29^th of September, head down to the Parkway to attend or witness the Puerto Rican Day Parade, a joyous explosion of dance, music, and celebration.

There are many reasons to visit Taller Puertorriqueño this month, but consider attending a poetry workshop they are hosting with the Free Library: Echoes of Heritage: Unveiling the Latin American Poetic Voice in Philadelphia. This workshop exploring Latin American poetry in Philadelphia will be held Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 2:00 P.M. at Taller Puertorriqueño, 2600 N 5th St.

All through the month, check out events in honor of this month of celebration at The Philadelphia Museum of Art, which is running programming honoring Latinx Artists throughout Latinx and Hispanic Heritage Month.

Fall Foliage: Leaf Peeping in Philly

Posted on October 17, 2023March 4, 2025 by Stephanie Aviles

Philly is at its best in the Fall. From parks within the City limits to scenic destinations in adjacent counties, trees are ablaze with color, along with hiking, biking, and dining options. Peak foliage runs from mid-October through early November, but if you want to hit the sweet spot, we recommend hitting the foliage trail on the third week in October.

Where to See Fall Colors in Philadelphia

Photo by Cory J Popp. Philly Fall — Center City fall foliage. Image: Cory J Popp.

Center City

Make it a point to have lunch in Rittenhouse Square when the Maple, Elm, and Oak trees will be in their full glory turning hues of red and orange before they start fluttering down. Pick up a picnic lunch at Di Bruno’s or dine at one of the Square’s sidewalk restaurants while admiring the fall colors. In nearby Washington Square, the leaves on Poplar, Black Locust, Maple, Redwood, and Birch trees are just starting to change color. For a nice stroll in the area, we recommend grabbing a tasty wrap or salad at Talula’s Daily and visiting the breathtaking Maxfield Parrish class mosaic “Dream Garden” in the Curtis Building at 6^th and Walnut.

Bikers and hikers can take to the Schuylkill River Trail, Benjamin Franklin Parkway, and go down Kelly Drive for a veritable kaleidoscope of Fall color. Pack a lunch and make a day of it to enjoy the scenery and cool weather.

fallen leaves in philadelphia rowhome — Golden yellow fall leaves on Philadelphia’s streets. Image: Cory J Popp.

South Philly

Another great place for leaf-peeping in the city is South Philly, where you can visit FDR Park‘s 40 acres of kayaking, fishing, and canoeing. Take a leisurely hike in the South Philly Meadow Trails and bring a camera to capture the landscape.

Southwest Philadelphia

Bartram’s Garden, part of the Schuylkill River Trail in southwest Philly is yet another local foliage paradise within the City limits. The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia is hosting free biking days through November!

Also, in southwest Philly, you’ll find The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum with 10 miles of trails and binoculars and fishing rods available for loan, free of charge. The refuge supports a diversity of habitats, including freshwater tidal marsh, open waters, mudflats, and woodlands that hundreds of species call home.

On Saturday, October 21st Laurel Hill Cemetery East is hosting a Fall Fun Day from 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm. This family-friendly day of outdoor autumn festivities includes crafts, live children’s music performances, games, prizes, story times, mini cemetery tours, and more. Pre-Halloween costumes are encouraged. RSVP to attend this free event. Or take a ticketed Fall Foliage Tour of the cemetery led by its arboretum manager on Sunday, October 22, 10 am-12 pm.

Northwest Philadelphia

If you want to experience New England foliage without leaving town, head to the 1,800 wooded acres of Wissahickon Trail in the Northwest section of Fairmount Park. There, you will find 40,000 miles of trails for all levels of biking, hiking, dog walking (on leash only) or simply strolling along a pathway under a lush canopy of trees. Popular with artists and photographers, you can stroll through covered bridges, fish in Wissahickon Creek, and enjoy brunch, lunch, or dinner at Valley Green Inn or the more casual Cedars House. Nearby attractions include Morris Arboretum and Woodmere Museum.

Hit the Road: Buck’s County, Kennett Square, Media, and More

A short drive from Philadelphia is New Hope in Bucks County, a charming town on the Delaware River filled with shops, art galleries, and cafes. Experience an autumn journey by hopping on a historic train at the New Hope Railroad or walk across the river to Lambertville, an equally alluring little town lined with antique shops. On the way home, drive along Route 32 from New Hope to Washington Crossing for magnificent fall foliage. Or make it a weekend and stay in one of the area’s historic BnBs such as the Inn at Bowman’s Hill. For a scenic view of the county’s fall colors, climb to the top of Bowman’s Hill Tower.

Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square is one of the best places in the region to view fall foliage with over 1,000 acres of woodlands, meadows, and formal gardens. Nearby is the Brandywine River Museum containing works by local artist Andrew Wyeth. Birdwatchers will want to head to the John James Audubon Center in Audubon, PA for nature walks and a visit to their museum.

Just 16 miles from Center City, Ridley Creek State Park in Media offers over 2,000 acres of lawn and forest including several formal gardens, horse stables, and trails, plus the historic 1789 Hunting Hill Mansion. Tyler State Park, located 33 miles from Center City in Newtown, PA offers nature fans hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. Just a forty-minute drive from Philly, Valley Forge State Park provides 3,500 acres of rolling hills steeped in American history.

As we head into the fall season, it’s the perfect time of year to check out our stories on how to be more sustainable this fall and Fall in Love with Philadelphia. If like us you’re also getting ready to prepare your home or urban garden for the winter ahead, we also have some Philly fall gardening tips for you.

Ray’s Reusables Brings Sustainable Shopping to Northern Liberties

Posted on May 4, 2022November 14, 2024 by Solo Team

In March, Ray Daly opened her first brick and mortar store, Ray’s Reusables, at 935 N. 2^nd St in Northern Liberties after running her business on the road as Philadelphia’s first mobile refill shop.

“In 2020, I turned a cargo van into a traveling eco-store, bringing reusable, low-waste products to farmers’ markets in East Falls and Fairmount,” said Daly. In her white van, decorated with Ginko leaves, Ray’s Reusables was well received.

“With the flexibility and mobility of the van, I was able to go into different neighborhoods around the city, making sustainable shopping easier for eco-conscious Philadelphians,” she said.

“But there were neighborhoods I could not reach due to many farmers’ markets limiting vendors to producers and also the narrowness of streets in certain sections of the City,” she said. Meanwhile, residents of Northern Liberties and Fishtown sought her out via Instagram.

**_{Refill station at Ray’s Reusables in Northern Liberties}**

“As soon as I opened the shop in Northern Liberties, they came,” said Daly. “Among the most popular products are UNpaper towels made out of cotton flannel in fun patterns,” she said. “The other products that are in demand are refills: organic hand soap, dish soap, laundry detergent, and body wash.” Other products include a cast iron conditioner, beeswax wrap, rosewater face cream, bamboo cutlery and brushes, natural toothpaste, and an all-purpose cleaner.

Why sustainability?

“Plastic production has increased dramatically since it first came on the scene. Between 1950 and 2019, approximately, 8.3 billion pounds of plastic were created. Only 9% of that total has been recycled. 79% is in landfills and, worse yet, in our oceans and other ecosystems,” said Daly. “I believe that as consumers we have the power to effect change. By investing in quality reusable and refillable solutions we also invest in the health of the environment.”

How it all started

A self-described “Air Force brat” who grew up in Maryland, Daly has traveled all over the world but, before moving to Philly in 2018, she had never lived in a large American city.

“I came here with my husband whose family lives across the bridge in Jersey,” she said. “I had been teaching high school English in Maryland and working at Whole Foods when I decided to go in another direction.“

**_{Ray’s Reusables Van – Image: Ray’s Reusables}**

“I started by turning the pockets from my old jeans into something useful and beautiful – cutlery holders! But as I watched the pandemic unfold and saw the waste that was being created as a result, I realized I wanted to do even more to support the sustainable community. That’s why I decided to open up Philadelphia’s first mobile refill shop.”

Daly seized the moment, realizing that during the pandemic people preferred to shop outdoors rather than entering a shop. Farmers’ markets created the perfect opportunity. “My mission was to make plastic-free options accessible and affordable to people regardless of where they live in the City.”

“Now that I have a storefront, it gives me a lot more flexibility in what I can carry. I just expanded to face care refills and curly hair gel,” said Daly. Besides basing her business in Northern Liberties, Daly is looking forward to becoming a neighborhood resident in the near future.

The new brick-and-mortar location shop allows Ray to stock a wider array of products, and reach a new audience but on Saturdays and First Fridays, Daly will continue to take the shop on the road. Her goal? To make sustainable options more accessible for all.

Stop by 935 N. 2^nd St to support this sustainable small business during their store hours Mon, Wed, Fri: 11am – 7pm; Saturday: 3pm – 6pm; and Sunday: 10am – 4 pm, or check out their calendar to see where the van will pop up next.

Featured Tenant: Dope Botanicals

Posted on November 22, 2021September 12, 2024 by Solo Team

Solo Real Estate welcomes our new tenant, wellness warriors, Dope Botanicals at 257 S. 20th. Here you will find herbal lattes, teas, tonics, smoothies, and elixirs that will put you on the road to plant-based wellness.

Catch the vibe

“We are curating a vibe here,” said Nakia Stith who launched Dope Botanicals in Rittenhouse Square with her sister Taahirah. “When you walk in, we want you to have a good experience. You can grab a drink and browse our hand-blended herbal products.”

_{Image: Cory J. Popp for Solo Real Estate.}

Unlike national herbal and vitamin chains that cater to people seeking weight loss or muscle-building products, Dope Botanicals takes a holistic approach. “We want to help people use herbs for everyday nutrition, in addition to medicinal needs,” said Nakia.

“We have created an intimate store that is more welcoming than the usual health shop and less intimidating than a Chinatown apothecary which customers often find confusing and overwhelming. Sometimes the staff in those stores are not well versed in identifying what you need,” she said.

“Everything we stock comes from organic farms and wild-crafters who forage for herbs in the woods,” said Nakia who believes that the number one health issue these days is stress. “It comes from everywhere. What you see on social media or TV. From juggling work and parenting. From the pace of City life. From the economy and the pandemic.”

All in the family

While herbal medicine is currently enjoying a resurgence, it is not new to the Stith sisters. “We grew up in a family where plant-based remedies were valued. I was encouraged to read about herbal medicine by my father from the time I was ten years old,” she said. As a result, people were always asking the sisters how to use herbs to cure their health issues.

For Nakia and Taahirah, turning their healthy lifestyle into a business was a logical progression. “People were always asking us for health advice,” said Nakia who also runs her family’s security and protection agency. Previously, Taahirah was a Montessori teacher who taught plant-based cooking for children. She also taught healthy cooking classes at the Free Library.

“We have both single herbs and herbal formulas that we blend and handcraft to address insomnia, stress, fatigue, and many common issues,” said Nakia. “For insomnia, we have herbs like California poppy, catnip (it’s not just for cats), and more. We also have a blend called Ease that incorporates hops and passionflower. The blend is very relaxing, and many people have had great success with it.”

“For folks who are used to caffeine and want to feel physically energized quickly, we have caffeinated herbs like Guayusa, Yerba Mate, and Matcha all of which have caffeine without the crash.,” she said. “We have a great energizing blend called “3M” that incorporates Matcha, Moringa, and Maca, it is both nutritious and energizing.”

Herbal Medicine History

Herbal medicine has been a respected and trusted tradition for thousands of years. In fact, it is the precursor of the modern-day pharmaceutical industry. The American medicinal herb industry started in 1799 when the Shakers gathered and cultivated 248 varieties of herbs and sold them to physicians worldwide. In 1821, the first pharmacy school in the nation, Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, opened here.

If you had entered a Philadelphia pharmacy in the 1950s and asked for something for stomach pain, you would not be handed Tums. The pharmacist would have ground up anise in a mortar and pestle. Now, a renewed interest in alternative medicine, including herbal remedies, is sparking interest again.

Personalized Service

Confused by the variety of herbs? Both Nakia and Taahirah are certified health coaches who offer one-on-one advice. “People who are new to herbal medicine can get to know us and our products while enjoying a healthy smoothie,” said Taahirah. This isn’t the kale and strawberry smoothie found all over. It is blended to address your specific health issues.

One of the intriguing drinks, you’ll find on Dope Botanical’s menus is Dark Magic. “It’s a blend of organic cacao and seven mushrooms to enhance memory,” said Nakia.

Besides herbal brews, Dope Botanicals will offer consultations on herbal health, small group classes in plant-based health, and videos.

“We offer a more holistic approach to better health,” said Nakia.

Dope Botanicals is one of many commercial tenants we are proud to work with and have in our community. If you are seeking office or studio space, reach out to us to see how we can support your business goals.

Philadelphia’s Community Gardens

Posted on August 23, 2021April 21, 2025 by Solo Team

This is the time of year when neighbors harvest organically grown vegetables in over 400 community gardens throughout the city. They feast on sun-ripened strawberries, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, and fresh-picked herbs. If you are already involved in your local community garden, great! If not, we would like to introduce you to a few of the many community gardens in our city’s diverse neighborhoods.

Liberty Lands

This two-acre park in Northern Liberties has special significance for Deborah Solo, owner of Solo Real Estate. Deborah helped establish Liberty Lands Park, the only large public greenspace in Northern Liberties. Currently, Liberty Lands has an entry arbor, 37 designated plots, benches, a Native American herb garden, a butterfly garden, 183 trees, a children’s playground, a composting area, sculptures by neighborhood artists, and a colorful mural.

Liberty Lands is one of a series of community gardens formed from reclaimed urban land in a former industrial area. Previously, it was the site of the American Street Tannery. When plans to convert the vacant factory to loft housing did not materialize, the developer donated it to the Northern Liberties Neighbors Association in 1995.

In addition to educational workshops, the park hosts community events, including Halloween Hayrides, Welcome America Neighborhood Festival, Annual Garden Tour, Birdhouse Silent Auction, and summer outdoor movie series.

Crease St. Garden

Originally, fourteen houses stood in the area now occupied by the Crease Street Garden in Fishtown. In the mid-seventies the City demolished the houses, leaving the land vacant. For approximately 40 years, the lots were completely overgrown with bushes, weeds, and vines, and served as a dumping ground for household trash and abandoned vehicles.

In 2009 – through 2010, residents organized to clean up the lots and obtained a garden lease agreement with the City. Railroad ties from SEPTA were converted into benches and 250 feet of flower beds and raised vegetable beds turned the former eyesore into a source of communal pride. This year the Crease Street Garden has joined in partnership with the Neighborhood Gardens Trust, a recognized leader in Urban Land Preservation, to secure grants and raise funds to purchase the land the garden is on. NGT will be supporting us in securing government grants for the bulk of the purchase price, but the group needs to raise $100,000 by the end of 2021 to buy and permanently secure the future of the garden. Visit their website to learn more and donate.

Emerald Street Community Farm

Located in Kensington the Emerald Street Community Farm is a communal farming project on the corner of Emerald St and Dauphin St. Started by a group of neighbors in the Spring of 2008, they grow organic vegetables which they share with neighbors. They also have weekly kids activities: Cooking Classes, Kids Gardening and Craftivity Hour.

Emerald Street Wildflower Garden

Across the street from the Emerald Street Community Farm, you’ll also find the Emerald Wildflower Garden, a garden focused on the ecological repair of habitat for plants, ants, birds, bees, butterflies, and the humans who are their guests. Jeff Carpineta, Realtor at Solo Real Estate, has played a key role in protecting and redesigning the garden, with coaching from his mentors at Mt. Cuba Center where he studies ecological gardening.

Home to the largest concentration of trees and bird habitat in the neighborhood, the garden features over 50 species of native plants, a mural by legacy Muralist Ras Malik, a gnome house by Ed Guion, and the salvaged stoop from the beloved Rocket Cat Cafe. Volunteers receive free training in ecological gardening as well as tools, books, plants, passes to horticulture workshops, lectures, and regional botanical gardens. The garden is available for special events upon request. Contact emeraldwildflowergarden@gmail.com for more info.

Las Parcelas

Located a 2248 Palethorp Street in Kensington, Las Parcelas community garden began with murals that recall the landscape of Puerto Rico, honor community leaders, and commemorate the passing of traditions on to a younger generation. Las Parcelas is a collection of garden spaces, founded by women in a dedicated neighborhood organization, Grupo Motivos, in collaboration with the Norris Square Neighborhood Project and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s Philadelphia LandCare program.

Las Parcelas tells a story of Puerto Rican heritage as a part of American history. Economic decline and urban policies created a landscape seemingly devoid of nature and culture, and rife with racial tensions. Through gardening, Las Parcelas attempts to make a positive story of heritage and identity tangible, by displaying culture in a landscape where it was all too frequently made invisible.

A small structure known as “La Casita” (the little house) contains objects donated by older residents that are used as educational tools. There are areas for gatherings, cookouts, dancing, and crafts. It is also a place to invent new traditions for the future.

In addition to Las Parcelas, the Norris Square Neighborhood project maintains half an acre of community gardens in the area, including The Butterfly Garden, El Batey, Jardin de Paz, Raices, and Villa Africána Colobó.

East Passyunk Community Garden

East Passyunk Crossing Community Garden is a mixed-use community garden located on the campus of Neumann-Goretti High School on 10^th Street between Mifflin and Morris. One of the garden’s missions is to foster partnerships with refugees who live in the neighborhood.

The community garden brings together people of different experiences and skills to contribute towards a common purpose. It promotes better physical and mental health through physical exercise and the satisfaction of work, dedication, and perseverance, and contributes to the health and well-being of local wildlife and insects.

Get Involved

Solo Real Estate proudly sponsors the efforts of numerous like-minded community gardens and public spaces, including McMichael Playspace, Emerald Wildflower Garden, and Hancock Park. We believe Philadelphia’s urban gardens are an important resource for the community. They increase access to fresh produce, promote biodiversity, and provide recreational areas that help strengthen social connections between neighbors. To find a community garden near you, click on the community garden map compiled by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.

A New Renter’s Guide To Philly

Posted on June 25, 2021September 26, 2024 by Solo Team

Philly is a city of neighborhoods. Each one with its unique housing, cultural offerings, and personality. Renting offers an opportunity to test-drive a particular neighborhood without a long-term commitment. And, just maybe, fall in love. If you’re looking to move to Philly, there are many things to consider so we’ve created this renter’s guide to introduce you to the city’s diverse neighborhoods and give you some tips on leasing in Philadelphia.

A City of Neighborhoods

Society Hill

This is the oldest part of the City located on its easternmost sector, between Market and South Streets. This charming district features cobblestone streets and brick houses in Federal and Georgian styles, as well as contemporary high rises, with no shortage of fine dining, movie theaters, and culture.

Washington Square West

Adjacent to Society Hill, from 6^th Street to Broad, this historic neighborhood is centered around one of William Penn’s original parks. It offers a mix of townhouses subdivided into apartments, hi-rise options and adorable Trinities with access to trendy restaurants, theaters, and shops.

Rittenhouse Square

Considered the most desirable real estate in the City, the neighborhood extends well beyond the park for which it is named, extending from Broad Street to the Schuylkill and from Chestnut to Pine Street. It boasts the Kimmel Center and several great restaurants and designer shops in town. While an apartment on the Square is typically in a higher price range, there are also affordable options just a block away.

Bella Vista

Wedged between South Street and Washington Ave, Broad and 6^th Street, the focal point of this neighborhood is known as the Italian Market to tourists and 9^th Street to locals. This is where you’ll find a population as diverse as the architecture with an abundance of bakeries, markets, and ethnic restaurants. Choose from 19th-century properties to new construction.

Queen Village

East of Bella Vista, historic Queen Village runs from the Delaware River to 6th Street and from South Street to Washington Avenue. It includes a mix of colonial homes and new townhouses with charming side streets, lively shopping, restaurants, and cafes. Plus access to Spruce St. Harbor Park and Penn’s Landing.

East Passyunk

This former Italian neighborhood is sandwiched between Washington Avenue and Tasker Street to the west of Broad. Here, young professionals and artists seeking affordable housing mix with old-timers. Over the years, East Passyunk has become filled with trendy boutiques and has become a hub of nightlife and world-class restaurants. Here, the row house is king and the local community is strong.

University City

Home to the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, and Saint Joseph’s University, the housing choices here are varied. From stately Queen Anne homes of Clark Park to the Victorian charm of leafy Powelton Village and new construction in Mantua. Formerly inhabited by primarily students and professors, the area is now a thriving community for young professionals and families.

Identify Your Requirements

Property Manager and Solo agent Sean Rapp offers potential renters some advice on where to start your search. First, “tenants should start by identifying what they are looking for in terms of space, amenities, location, and price range to help narrow their search.”

When looking at potential neighborhoods, consider what’s important to you. Do you want to be within walking distance of restaurants? Or perhaps, having a small green space to entertain or a community garden nearby is something you prioritize. Make a list of wants but be flexible.

“Once you know what you are looking for and identify a property that interests you, the process really starts by booking a tour of the property,” said Rapp. “They can look through our website on the rentals page for options and reach out to set up a time to view the space in person.”

Love Where You Live

“I’ve rented all across the Philadelphia area over the last 20 years, and experienced all kinds of landlords and management companies,” said Solo tenant Gillian Neff. “Without a doubt, Solo is the best I’ve had. They’re not just responsive, they’re actually proactive in maintaining the property. And the staff are all friendly and pleasant to deal with. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone looking for a new home in town.”

Solo Real Estate has been renting Philadelphia apartments in Center City and surrounding neighborhoods since 1951. We’re a family-owned company and we are committed to providing exceptional service with a personal touch to all our owners and tenants. Our property managers want you to love where you live, and that means finding the right fit.

Interested in renting one of the rentals we manage or want to learn more about our property management services? Reach out to us!

Pets That Rescue Us

Posted on April 11, 2021August 26, 2024 by Solo Team

During the pandemic, many of us found substitutes for our normal routines. Instead of meeting up with friends, we Zoomed. Instead of dining out, we learned how to make bread from scratch. And instead of going to concerts, theater or sporting events, we spent more time with our furry friends. In retrospect, you have to wonder. Did we rescue them? Or did they rescue us?

“Oscar, our tuxedo cat lives in the office,” said Solo Real Estate president Deborah Solo. “He wandered into my backyard when I lived in Northern Liberties and found his forever home.” Deborah has three more cats living in her apartment above the office. “They are all named after detectives: Morse, Hercule Poirot, and Falco named after a Roman detective series.”

Two of Deborah’s cats came from a neighbor who rescues animals and two from sheer chance. They wandered into her yard. She contributes to Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) the City’s largest rescue partner and low-cost wellness clinic that is leading Philly to become a no-kill city. The pandemic is helping PAWS reach that goal. “For the first time ever, PAWS has more people interested in adopting and fostering dogs than it has actual dogs,” said Melissa Levy, executive director of PAWS.

Pet adoption is on-trend. According to Rover.com, 49% of Americans adopted a new dog during the Covid-19 pandemic. 93% said that their pet improved their mental and/or physical wellbeing and made working from home more enjoyable. This recent increase in pet ownership has had an impact on the real estate market. “Not all rental properties are pet friendly,” cautioned Deborah. “Whether or not tenants can have a pet is determined by the individual owner whose properties we manage. Some of them don’t allow pets.”

Fortunately for the Solo Real Estate team, their office is pet-friendly. Bookkeeper, Denise Piechoski, used to bring her “doodle” Hobey to the office just one day a week. “Now, since Covid, he comes each time I go there,” she said. “He is very curious about Oscar and wants to be friends but he is afraid. His favorite thing to do is look for squirrels in Rittenhouse Square.”

Hobey, Denise’s doodle, visits the Solo office regularly.

If every Solo team member were to bring their pets to work all the time, they would need to hire a zookeeper. Julian Chiti Makarechi, Solo Office Coordinator, adopted two kittens – Basil and Tarragon – ten months ago, just as the pandemic was starting. Solo Property Manager, Cameron Johnson, has a dog named Django.

Julian’s cats Basil and Tarragon cuddling together.

Alejandro Franqui and Becca have a frisky pup named Hansi and a cat named Spicy, who was rescued by Deborah Solo from the lot they later built Kensington Yards on. Spicy was found with four kitten siblings, who were also rescued and placed in loving homes.

Adoption Centers

Philadelphia has many animal shelters, including the city owned Animal Care and Control (ACCT Philly) Shelter, but we want to give a shout out to some of our favorites.

First up is PAWS (Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society), the city’s largest rescue partner. They have three no-kill shelters and provide affordable basic veterinary care for pet owners and rescue organizations that cannot otherwise access it. Check out the adorable pups and kitties seeking foster care and adoption, as well as opportunities to volunteer, at the PAWS Adoption site.

Morris Animal Refuge is America’s oldest Animal rescue. Created when founder Elizabeth Morris began housing and caring for animals in Philadelphia in 1858 and the rescue was founded in 1874. They are the only privately funded open admission shelter in Philadelphia (one of the few remaining in the country), and maintain a 97% save rate. You can look at the pets available for adoption, and learn more about their programs on Morris Animal Rescue’s website.

Brenda’s Cat Rescue is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to the rescue of stray and abandoned cats. You may view their adorable kitties online and see them in person at the PetSmart in Plymouth Meeting.

Coffee, tea or meow? Make a date to meet the kitty of your dreams at Le Cat Café in Brewerytown. Operated by Green Street Rescue, a no-kill shelter, Le Cat Café is like speed dating, but instead of conversing for ten minutes, you can get down on all fours and get to know the personalities of a dozen lovable cats. If you find one you like, you can fill out an application for adoption or foster care. FYI – Le Cat Café is not a shelter, but a meet-and-greet for adoptable cats. While you are there, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, along with a feline snuggle. Reservations strongly recommended.

Dog Parks

Philly’s dog parks are not just places to let your pup get some exercise. They are true community centers that add value to our neighborhoods. In many cases, they are membership organizations where enhancements are made for the well-being of dogs and their owners. Here are three standouts.

Seger Dog Park at 11^th and Rodman started a clean-up initiative to keep litter off the streets and out of the waterways. They partner with small businesses and local musicians to offer services and entertainment to park members. Seger Dog Park hosts community events and encourages neighbors – and their pets – to get to know each other.

Schuylkill River Park Dog Run at 25^th and Spruce is the fanciest of all Philly’s dog parks with stunning river views. It is equipped with a nice drinking fountain and separate sections for big and little dogs. The synthetic grass courtyard keeps puppy paws clean.

Dog Park at Bok in South Philly is a small gravel lot but on Sundays, you can take Fido up the elevator to Bok Bar for food, drink and sky-high views of the City.

Solo Real Estate understands the attachment you have with your pets and will help you find a rental or forever home where you and your menagerie will thrive. Whether your priority is a big yard for your dog or a place where your cats can lounge, we’d love to help! Contact us at info@solorealty.com to get in touch with an agent.